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Authenticity is a buzz word in travel these days. Lots of folks say they want to “live like a local” when they travel — being more of a traveler than a tourist. Where are you traveling this year? But how exactly do you do that? Where you eat, where you stay, and what you do in a new place can make all the difference. We’re taking a look today at our best tips for living like a local when you travel! Stay With the Locals The easiest thing to do when you’re traveling is quickly book a hotel in a familiar chain. But those hotels are often located near the places in cities where tourists visit, and not where the locals live. Staying in Airbnbs can be a great way to immerse yourself in a residential neighborhood when you travel. Booking a locally-owned accomodation, like an Airbnb or VRBO room, apartment, or house, often means you’ll be staying in a neighborhood where the locals live, work, and play, rather than in a city’s center or near a popular tourist trap. Try Famous Local Foods Food IS culture, so if you’re looking to live like a local, you should eat what they eat. That might mean toasted ravioli in St. Louis, brisket in Dallas, goulash in Prague, and tom kha kai in Bangkok. A Chicago Dog is a must-have in (you guessed it) … Chicago! Look up those local foods before your travels, or ask locals you meet for their recommendations on where to get the best of their local dishes. Avoid Chain Restaurants There are plenty of great chain restaurants, and there are plenty of reasons to go to them — namely, you always know what you’re going to get! But try to venture out and try local coffee shops, diners, and restaurants when you can. Cafe Tu Tu Tango is a favorite restaurant for Orlando locals, outside of Disney World. In most cities, the locals can be found eating at the restaurants in their neighborhoods rather than the chains near the big shopping mall across town. Best Restaurants Near Disney World Ask Local People Where They Eat Sure, we’re telling you not to eat at the chain restaurants, but how do you choose local restaurants? Ask! And we’re not necessarily talking about asking your hotel concierge, who is accustomed to making recommendations for tourists. Ask the hotel bell staff where they go after work for a drink. Ask your Airbnb host for recommendations. Strike up a conversation on the subway. And use the oldest trick in the book — take a look at what’s around you: The busy restaurants are probably better than the quiet ones. Make it a goal to find the best of a certain type of food — tacos, pizza, etc. in each city you visit. If you travel frequently, you might even set a goal of finding the best of a certain food (like pizza or tacos) in every city you visit. When you talk to locals, explain that you’re on that quest, and ask for their recommendations. Use Public Transportation If you want to live like a local, try getting around like one! Learning to navigate the local public transportation is part of “living like a local.” Rideshare services and taxis are easy to book, but learning to navigate the buses or trains in a given place are going to get you closer to the local people and culture than an Uber ride in a Toyota Camry ever will. Learn Some Language Basics Now we’re not saying you need to be fluent in the language of every country you visit, but it will serve you well to learn a few of the basics — hello, please, thank you, how much?, and — importantly — where is the bathroom? All of these conversation starters will help you get started talking to locals while you travel. Visit Local Parks In Savannah, GA, there is the gorgeous Forsyth Park in the historic district that tourists visit. And then, there is Daffin Park, where locals go to exercise, play youth sports, let their children play on playgrounds, and swim at the public pool. Forsyth Park in Savannah, GA. An afternoon in Daffin Park will probably yield you a lot more opportunity to talk to local people and get recommendations from people who have lived there a long time. The same can be said of any city — look for the neighborhood parks rather than the city’s showcase. Take in Local Festivals Yes, you probably want to see a Broadway show and visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art at least once on your travels to New York City. But if you want to “live like the locals” there, check out the neighborhood farmer’s markets, flea markets and other events happening every weekend. One good way to find local festivals is by searching online for free events in a particular city, as many outdoor markets and festivals are free. Or look for local media — like a weekly newspaper — that maintains an events calendar online. But Be Careful There’s a fine line between “living like a local” to take in the culture of a place, and impersonating one. We’ve seen many a cringe-worthy pic of people trying to dress in the native costume of a place they don’t have ties to, and we’ve met plenty of folks who have spent 10 days in a place and want to tell you about all the cultural dos and don’ts there. Be respectful of the locals wherever you travel, make friends, collect info and experiences — but don’t be “that guy/gal,” OK? Dopamine Travel is a Hot New Trend. But What Is It? Keep following DFB for the latest travel news! Travel Updates, Tips, and Tricks Complete Guide to Booking the CHEAPEST Flight to Disney World What to Do if Your Flight to Disney World Is Canceled Our Best Tips For Flying Through the Orlando International Airport Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get to Disney World From the Orlando Airport The Ultimate Disney World Packing List for 2022 You’re SLEEPING on These Packing Hacks Air Travel Tips That’ll Change Your Life 8 Catastrophic Travel Mistakes and How to Solve Them The BEST and WORST Airlines in the US, Ranked by Customer Complaints The MOST and LEAST Reliable Airlines in the U.S. This Small Change Will Save You From Lost Luggage The Best Disney Luggage for 2023 21 Things a Former Flight Attendant Needs You To Know 7 Highest-Rated Travel Items on Amazon Join the DFB Newsletter to Get All the Latest Disney News Delivered Right to Your Inbox Click Here to Subscribe The post BEST Ways To Live Like a Local Wherever You Travel! first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

In case you haven’t been traveling or following the news lately, Southwest has been going through it for the last few weeks. Have you flown recently? After massive delays and cancellations at the end of the year, Southwest Airlines’ CEO issued an apology for the turmoil that left holiday travelers scrambling. Now, the company has started to issue refunds and rapid rewards points to those who were affected by all of the delays and cancellations. Earlier this week, select Southwest customers received an email from the company that included an apology as well as bonus Rapid Rewards® points “as a gesture of goodwill.” Southwest issues apology email In the email, Bob Jordan, the CEO, shares that he knows “no amount of apologies can undo your experience,” and reassures that the company is working hard to make it right. Requested returns, reimbursements, and lost baggage processes are “being handled with great urgency.” Lastly, they have issued 25,000 Rapid Rewards® bonus points (per person) to those affected by the disruptions. According to Southwest, “these points equate to a redemption value of over $300.” On December 31st, Southwest shared on their Twitter that they are refunding canceled flights from 12/24/22-1/2/23, refunding select travel arrangements made, and helping you reconnect with displaced luggage, so if you haven’t yet contacted them regarding these issues make sure you do so! We know traveling over the holidays can be stressful, and this season was a doozy! We’ll keep you updated on any new information so stay tuned! Click here to find out what to do if your flight to Disney World is canceled! Travel Updates, Tips, and Tricks Complete Guide to Booking the CHEAPEST Flight to Disney World What to Do if Your Flight to Disney World Is Canceled Our Best Tips For Flying Through the Orlando International Airport Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get to Disney World From the Orlando Airport The Ultimate Disney World Packing List for 2022 You’re SLEEPING on These Packing Hacks Air Travel Tips That’ll Change Your Life 8 Catastrophic Travel Mistakes and How to Solve Them The BEST and WORST Airlines in the US, Ranked by Customer Complaints The MOST and LEAST Reliable Airlines in the U.S. This Small Change Will Save You From Lost Luggage The Best Disney Luggage for 2023 21 Things a Former Flight Attendant Needs You To Know 7 Highest-Rated Travel Items on Amazon Join the DFB Newsletter to Get All the Latest Disney News Delivered Right to Your Inbox Click Here to Subscribe Did you get one of these emails from Southwest? Let us know in the comments! The post Southwest Airlines Issuing Refunds Following Massive Holiday Cancelations first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

When you’re trying to decide which airline to fly, there are a lot of factors to take into consideration. Where will you fly? Your choice may depend on your route and which airports you need to get to, but you might also consider reliability, price, and general guest experience. Well, now it seems as though United Airlines is trying to make its customer experience just a little bit better with some big updates! United shared a series of photos on TikTok of the new design features, coming to every single-aisle aircraft by 2025. Some of these updates will definitely enhance your in-flight experience! ©United Let’s go inside one of these planes now! By 2025, single aisle United Airlines planes will have screens at every seat. ©United They will also have room for everyone’s carry on bag. This new bagging system has been used by other airlines like American, so you may recognize it. Bags are laid on their side and organized like books on a shelf instead of lying flat. ©United These planes will also have bluetooth connectivity. ©United And there will be power at every seat so each passenger can charge their phone or electronics. ©United Some airlines already have these features onboard, so that is something to keep in mind when booking flights. But these are exciting and useful additions for United Airlines planes, for sure. Wondering about traveling to Disney World and have questions about flying? We have you covered. Check out some of our useful posts below. The Two Airlines Guests Recommend When Flying to Disney World The Cheapest Time to Fly to Disney World in 2023 PreCheck vs. Global Entry: What You Should Apply For Before Your Next Vacation The Most and Least Reliable Airlines in the U.S. We will keep our eyes out for more travel updates. And if you have any questions about traveling to Disney World or travel in general, please let us know! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Don't Miss Out on Any Disney Fun! Pre-Order Your Copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining Today! With more than 750 pages, the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining is full of tips and planning tools developed by Disney World experts over 30+ years of visits. We've done the research for you, so you'll know just which spots will uniquely suit your family's needs! With mini-reviews of every single restaurant, bar, lounge, kiosk and more; an entire chapter on the best snacks in Disney World; full Disney Dining Plan analysis (and how to get FREE dining); and a full chapter on discounts and deals; you'll have everything you need to plan your best vacation yet. Click here to pre-order your copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining E-book with code WDW2023 to save 25% off the cover price today! Use code WDW2023 at check-out for 25% off the cover price today! http://www.disneyfoodblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/ready-to-shop-button.png Our guides are backed by a 100% money-back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose. What’s your favorite airline? Let us know in the comments below! The post PHOTOS: Upgraded Features Coming to United Airlines Planes By 2025 first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

If you’ve been in tune with Disney World news in the past few months, then you probably know about the Reedy Creek Improvement District saga. ©WFTV 9 For many years, Disney World has had its own government, known as the Reedy Creek Improvement District (RCID), but in 2022 after a feud with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, the governor made a move to dissolve the district. Since then, we’ve been watching to see what comes next for Disney, and now we’ve got an update. Following the dissolution of the RCID, the plan is for Disney World to be more directly controlled by the local government when it comes to taxes, permits, regulations, and infrastructure. Now, Governor DeSantis has announced his specific plans to seek a legislative change. ©Fox10 News | Florida Governor Ron DeSantis On the Osceola County website, a “Reedy Creek Improvement District Notice” has been posted from the governor, notifying the public of “intent to seek legislation before the Florida Legislature, during a regular, extended, or special session, of an act relating to the Reedy Creek Improvement District, Orange and Osceola Counties.” The note goes into detail about the exact things that DeSantis would like to have changed, some of which are pretty substantial shifts for Disney. Magic Kingdom First of all, the primary goal for DeSantis is to increase “state oversight, accountability, and transparency of the District” while also “revising the selection process, membership qualifications, and compensation for the governing body of the District.” That means there will be a new board of people in charge of governing Disney World’s district, and Disney will have to go through that governing body for any steps they take that require local government approval. ©Spectrum News 13 DeSantis also made sure to note that the issue of taxes and debts would be addressed with this new legislation, stating that the goal is to ensure “debts and bond obligations held by the District remain with the District and are not transferred to other governments by retaining the District’s authority related to indebtedness and taxation.” Reedy Creek Trash Cans The legislation will revise authority when it comes to local permitting and regulation, as well as revise the regulatory framework and structure. DeSantis also intends to review the district’s remaining powers and revise “exceptions to general law and certain special acts.” Other big orders of business will include describing the district boundaries and name, as well as setting a date on which these policies will go into effect. EPCOT We’ll be waiting to hear the results of this legislative session and we’ll bring you any updates. It seems as though some of these changes could make a big difference in the way that Disney World operates, especially when it comes to things like taxes, debt, and new projects. Stay tuned to DFB for any more updates about the RCID dissolution and whatever comes next for Disney World. Click Here to Read the Last Update on the Dissolution of Reedy Creek! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Don't Miss Out on Any Disney Fun! Pre-Order Your Copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining Today! With more than 750 pages, the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining is full of tips and planning tools developed by Disney World experts over 30+ years of visits. We've done the research for you, so you'll know just which spots will uniquely suit your family's needs! With mini-reviews of every single restaurant, bar, lounge, kiosk and more; an entire chapter on the best snacks in Disney World; full Disney Dining Plan analysis (and how to get FREE dining); and a full chapter on discounts and deals; you'll have everything you need to plan your best vacation yet. Click here to pre-order your copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining E-book with code WDW2023 to save 25% off the cover price today! Use code WDW2023 at check-out for 25% off the cover price today! http://www.disneyfoodblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/ready-to-shop-button.png Our guides are backed by a 100% money-back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose. The post Plans Announced for the Dissolution Disney's of Reedy Creek District By Governor Ron DeSantis first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. You have officially made it to the end of the week, which means it’s time to reward yourself! And what better way to do that than with some Disney merch, right?! ©Disney Well, good news! shopDisney is having a MAJOR sale on select Disney merchandise online right now. So not only can you shop ’til your heart is content, but you can also SAVE BIG along the way. Disney’s Twice Upon a Year sale has been happening on shopDisney for a while now. But they just sweetened the deal a bit. Right now, you can save up to 60% on items with the code EXTRA25. Wondering what all is included in the sale? Well, currently the sale include 543 items (!!!). These items include select Minnie Ears like these Denim Bleach Minnie Ears! Bleached Denim Ears These were originally $34.99 but you can get them for $19.98 right now. Get the Denim Bleach Minnie Ears here! We know Christmas has come and gone but that doesn’t mean you can’t take advantage of sales to get ahead for next year or to knock out items for an upcoming birthday. And this markdown might be worth hopping one. The Disney Princess Ultimate Celebration Castle Dollhouse is currently marked down. ©Disney Usually, this item is $149.99 but you can get it for $104.98 right now. That’s a BIG discount, people! Get the Princess Celebration Dollhouse here! Quite a few kitchen items are included in the sale as well. For example, we spotted this Haunted Mansion Cheeseboard. ©Disney It typically costs $59.99 but you can get it now for $32.98. Get your own Haunted Mansion Cheeseboard here! Some Disney games are also included in the sale!! The Marvel Villainous game is typically $44.99. ©Disney But you can get it on shopDisney now for $29.98! Snag the Marvel Villainous game here! And this is just a few items that are a part of the sale. Want to take a look at the 500+ other items? You can shop the ENTIRE sale here! While you’re in the shopping mood…have you checked our DFB exclusive graphic tees and merch? So many shirts! It’s super fun stuff to wear to the parks, or repping your happy place at the grocery store! Click here to visit the DFB Merch Store! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Don't Miss Out on Any Disney Fun! Pre-Order Your Copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining Today! With more than 750 pages, the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining is full of tips and planning tools developed by Disney World experts over 30+ years of visits. We've done the research for you, so you'll know just which spots will uniquely suit your family's needs! With mini-reviews of every single restaurant, bar, lounge, kiosk and more; an entire chapter on the best snacks in Disney World; full Disney Dining Plan analysis (and how to get FREE dining); and a full chapter on discounts and deals; you'll have everything you need to plan your best vacation yet. Click here to pre-order your copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining E-book with code WDW2023 to save 25% off the cover price today! Use code WDW2023 at check-out for 25% off the cover price today! http://www.disneyfoodblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/ready-to-shop-button.png Our guides are backed by a 100% money-back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose. Are you planning to shop this massive sale? Let us know in the comments below! The post Over 500 Disney Items Are ON SALE Online Now! first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Gov. Ron DeSantis wants Florida lawmakers to put the state in control of Disney World’s Reedy Creek Improvement District. View the full article

This weekend, many runners have arrived for the 2023 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend. Racers might be disappointed today Unfortunately, over in Hollywood Studios, a different race isn’t going as planned. Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy is a show featuring the star of Cars that many parents of little kids like to frequent as a welcome indoor break during a long day in Hollywood Studios. This week the attraction hit a road bump, and the Racing Academy has been showing as temporarily closed on the My Disney Experience App. © Disney This morning around 11:30AM we asked a Cast Member if they knew when the ride will be up and running again and they responded that they weren’t sure and just stated maintence. Right now, My Disney Experience is still showing it’s temporarily closed, with no updates on wait times or any other clues. The attraction has been closed for multiple days in a row with no real answer as to why. Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy While we don’t know why the attraction is closed or when it will be up, we are keeping an eye on it and will update our site with any news. Stay tuned! Click here to see the best rides for toddlers in Disney World! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Don't Miss Out on Any Disney Fun! Pre-Order Your Copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining Today! With more than 750 pages, the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining is full of tips and planning tools developed by Disney World experts over 30+ years of visits. We've done the research for you, so you'll know just which spots will uniquely suit your family's needs! With mini-reviews of every single restaurant, bar, lounge, kiosk and more; an entire chapter on the best snacks in Disney World; full Disney Dining Plan analysis (and how to get FREE dining); and a full chapter on discounts and deals; you'll have everything you need to plan your best vacation yet. Click here to pre-order your copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining E-book with code WDW2023 to save 25% off the cover price today! Use code WDW2023 at check-out for 25% off the cover price today! http://www.disneyfoodblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/ready-to-shop-button.png Our guides are backed by a 100% money-back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose. What do you think of Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy? Do you have any kids who love it? Comment below! The post A Disney's Hollywood Studios Attraction Has Been CLOSED ALL WEEK first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

If you know anything about DFB it’s that we LOVE talking about Disney food. Mickey Premium Bar From icons like plastic cheese and Mickey ice cream bars to underrated restaurants hiding in Disney World, we cover it all! But what if you’re looking to escape Disney World for a meal? What if you’ve eaten at every Disney World restaurant and want to try something new? That’s why we’re talking about the best restaurants you can find near Disney World! We’ve compiled a list of some of the DFB team’s favorite restaurants near Disney World and some that were highly rated online. None of these restaurants are actually on Disney World property but they are a quick drive (if you brought a car to Disney World) or Uber/Lyft ride away. So put on your stretchy pants and let’s talk FOOD! Why Eat Outside of Disney World? We cover the good and the bad food of Disney World, but we can tell you that the parks are home to some incredibly tasty food. So why would you leave to eat somewhere else? There are a few reasons that you might find yourself leaving the Most Magical Place on Earth for a meal. Regal Eagle eats If you have a picky eater in your group, you may find that familiar favorites are the way to go. Although Disney World have some plain eats like chicken tenders and grilled cheese, some picky eaters may be used to eating from certain fast food chains. Also, if you visit Disney World all of the time and feel like you’ve already been to every single restaurant, you might be ready to try something new! There are a plethora of restaurants in Disney World, but Orlando has some great restaurants to offer, too. Grilled Cheese with Tomato Soup! So without further ado, let’s dive into the best fast food restaurants in the area, followed by the best sit down restaurants. Fast Food Restaurants White Castle Remember when it was announced that the world’s largest White Castle was coming near Disney World? Well, after that news back in 2021, this White Castle location is open! White Castle For anyone unfamiliar with White Castle, it is a chain restaurant that is famous for its sliders that it has been making since 1921. You can also find breakfast items, chicken rings, onion rings, fries, and milkshakes. Yum! It’s not the most unique restaurant, but it’s an old reliable — plus you can brag to your friends that you’ve been to the world’s largest White Castle location! White Castle This White Castle location is right by Disney World at 11595 Daryl Carter Parkway in Orlando. This is a spot that is open very late if you’re craving something after a long day in the parks when most Disney restaurants are closed. Go Inside the White Castle Near Disney World With Us! Portillo’s Another fast food chain that has recently popped up in the Orlando area is Portillo’s! This is a Chicago-based restaurant that opened up near Disney World in 2021 — it’s famous for serving…any guesses? Chicago dogs, of course! Let’s Go! On top of Chicago dogs, you’ll find Italian beef sandwiches, burgers, pasta, salads, and the famous Chocolate Cake Shake. They stick an entire slice of chocolate cake in a blender with some ice cream and voila! It’s a must-try if you stop by Portillo’s on your next trip. Portillo’s The Portillo’s by Disney World is located at 7715 Palm Parkway in Orlando — this is near the White Castle we mentioned above! Check out the Portillo’s location near Disney World! Twistee Treat Stepping away from major restaurant chains, we’re now headed to the quick service spot called Twistee Treat! Based on the name, you can probably guess that this place serves ice cream, but there’s a surprise here that will entice Disney fans. ©Twistee Treat You can get a DOLE WHIP FLOAT here for much cheaper than at Disney World! Along with the ice cream cones, sundaes, dips, and more on the menu is the Dole Whip float for a shocking $3.75. At Aloha Isle in Magic Kingdom, a Dole Whip float costs $6.99. Disney World does have more flavor options since Twistee Treat only serves pineapple Dole Whip, but it’s a Dole Whip nonetheless! ©Twistee Treat There are a few locations around the Orlando area, so be sure to check it out for a fun and tasty sweet treat. Plus, you can save a few bucks on a Disney staple! RECIPE: Make Pineapple Dole Whip at Home 4 Rivers Smokehouse If you’re looking at the name 4 Rivers Smokehouse and think “that sounds familiar”, you are correct! You can usually find the 4 Rivers Cantina Barbacoa Food Truck in Disney Springs, but now we’re talking about the actual restaurant — 4 Rivers Smokehouse. ©4 Rivers Smokehouse This counter service restaurant serves up Texas-style barbecue with menu items like John’s Big Dog Chili, pulled pork, sliders, brisket, and classic southern sides. If you’re from Texas or love to eat barbecue, this may feel like a taste of home when you’re on vacation! ©4 Rivers Smokehouse There are several locations in the Orlando area, but the closest one to Disney World is at 874 West Osceola Parkway in Kissimmee. Check out our latest review of the 4 Rivers Cantina Food Truck in Disney Springs here! Sit-Down Restaurants U & Me Revolving Hot Pot Have you ever wanted to dine at a restaurant run by robots? If that sounds like your dream, you’ll want to check out U & Me Revolving Hot Pot! ©U & Me Revolving Hot Pot Not only is there a conveyor belt that transports food around the restaurant, but a robot also walks you to your table and cooks Check out a video of the beloved robot named Peanut in action! The menu features an all-you-can-eat hot pot that you can customize with your favorite flavors. Hot pot is a dish that cooks raw ingredients into boiling broth table-side. You’ll get to choose your flavor broth and the ingredients that go inside of it. If you want to visit, set the map up to go to 12384 S Apopka Vineland Road in Orlando. A customizable robot serviced meal? Sign us up! Cafe Tu Tu Tango Looking to try some unique tapas? It’s time to talk about Cafe Tu Tu Tango! This spot is know for its tapas-style small plates menu that are perfect to share during a night out with friends. ©Cafe Tu Tu Tango The menu features things like jalapeño mac and cheese, avocado hummus (is anyone drooling yet?), stuffed peppers, Moroccan lamb meatballs, jerk chicken skewers, and so much more. The restaurant also hosts a happy hour each Monday through Friday from 3PM-6PM if you’re looking for an afternoon break from the parks. Plus, brunch is served here each Saturday and Sunday! ©Cafe Tu Tu Tango Cafe Tu Tu Tango is located at 8625 International Drive in Orlando putting it pretty close to Universal Orlando. It’s worth the trek for the fun atmosphere and delicious eats! Selam Ethiopian & Eritrean Cuisine “A blend of spice, a blaze of color, a burst of flavor.” If that sounds appealing, then Selam Ethiopian & Eritrean Cuisine may be the restaurant outside of Disney World for you! That’s the quote on the front page of the restaurant’s website and the menu seems to support that statement. ©Selam Ethiopian The menu features dishes like samosa, kitfo, beef and lamb tips, and sides like rice, shiro, mushrooms, and more. There are quite a few items for vegetarian and vegan diets and you’ll find a selection of Ethiopian beers and African red wine to go along with your meal. ©Selam Ethiopian Ethiopian food is pretty rare in Disney World, so for some adventurous eats, head to their location on 5494 Central Florida Parkway in Orlando. Giordano’s We’ve already talked about one Chicago chain restaurant in here, but there’s another that has won the hearts of Orlando visitors and the DFB team. It’s Giordano’s which serves up Chicago deep dish pizza! ©Giordano’s Pizza is a very regional dish and you’ll get a different style depending on where you go. There’s the classic New York pizza, the thin crust St. Louis pizza, the innovate California pizza, and so many more. So if you’re not used to Chicago deep dish and want to try something new, give Giordano’s a shot next time you visit Disney World! Don’t worry though — they also offer thin crust pizza, salads, spaghetti, sandwiches, and mozzarella sticks. There are two locations very close to Disney World and many more in the Orlando area. ©Giordano’s Now that you’ve seen some of the best restaurants near Disney World, it’s time to talk about Disney World’s restaurants, and we wrote the book on them! Check out our DFB Guide To Walt Disney World Dining 2023 if you’re heading to Disney World in 2023. DFB Guide to Disney World Dining 2023 Keep following DFB for everything you need to know about Disney food and beyond! The 17 Best Restaurants in Disney World in 2023 Need Disney Restaurant Advice? We’ve Got EVERYTHING You Need to Know The ONLY Disney Dining Planning Tool You’ll Need Is Here – Get the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining! See Our Complete Disney World Restaurants Guide Check Out the 19 Best Restaurants in Disney World in 2022 Our Top 50 All-Time Best Disney Dining Tips These Are the BEST Meals in Disney World for Under $15 Ranking Every Single Magic Kingdom Restaurant Ranking Every Single EPCOT Restaurant Ranking Every Single Restaurant in Disney’s Hollywood Studios Ranking Every Single Restaurant in Disney’s Animal Kingdom Ranking Every Single Restaurant in Disney Springs Ranking Every Single Restaurant in Disney World Hotels – Cheap Eats Edition Check Out Dozens of Disney Dining Tips and Tools Learn All About Tipping at Disney Restaurants How to Use Mobile Order in Disney World Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the latest Disney food news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! What is your favorite restaurant to visit near Disney World? Let us know in the comments! The post Best Restaurants Near Disney World first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Disney puts on some fun shows, y’all. A Celebration of the Festival of the Lion King Last year we saw the return of Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue, Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond, and Fantasmic!! Disney had some big show releases last year, and there’s already a show coming to kick off 2023 — and this time it doesn’t even require a park ticket! That’s right Disney on Ice fans, get excited, because this show combines two of our favorite movies into one fun ice show! Disney on Ice Presents Frozen and Encant0, hosted by Mickie and Minnie is on tour and it might be coming to a city near you. ©Disney According to Disney, this show will feature stories from Encanto, the 2022 Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, and Frozen, the “#1 Animated feature of all time.” Audiences can expect to see Anna, Elsa, Mirabel, and the Madrigal family and sing along to popular tunes from the films while enjoying “world-class ice skating, aerial acrobatics, and more.” Those aren’t all the fun characters you’ll see though. This show is hosted by Mickey and Minnie, and they’re bringing their friends Donald, Goofy, and many more. ©Disney And guess what? There’s even an opportunity for you to enhance your ticket with a pre-show Character Experience! With this add-on, you’ll meet these characters during an interactive meet-and-greet that includes crafts! Make sure you bring you’re phones and cameras for this experience in order to capture the memories. ©Disney Tickets are already on sale for select cities but if you live in Texas, you’re in luck — we’ve got a presale code for you! You can see this show from April 6th – April 9th at Dickies Arena in Forth Worth, Texas, and the presale is happening until January 9th. You just need to use the code 23CDEP to get access! Click here to get your Forth Worth tickets now! If you’re not in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, these shows are part of a national tour. You can find a full list of tour dates here. Click here to buy tickets for this national tour! Stay tuned as we keep you updated on any new Disney show news as it’s announced! Find out all about Disney’s new 100th Anniversary nighttime show here. Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Don't Miss Out on Any Disney Fun! Pre-Order Your Copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining Today! With more than 750 pages, the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining is full of tips and planning tools developed by Disney World experts over 30+ years of visits. We've done the research for you, so you'll know just which spots will uniquely suit your family's needs! With mini-reviews of every single restaurant, bar, lounge, kiosk and more; an entire chapter on the best snacks in Disney World; full Disney Dining Plan analysis (and how to get FREE dining); and a full chapter on discounts and deals; you'll have everything you need to plan your best vacation yet. Click here to pre-order your copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining E-book with code WDW2023 to save 25% off the cover price today! Use code WDW2023 at check-out for 25% off the cover price today! http://www.disneyfoodblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/ready-to-shop-button.png Our guides are backed by a 100% money-back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose. Are you making it to a Disney on Ice show this year? Let us know which one in the comments! The post ACT FAST! This Popular Disney Encanto Show is on Presale Now! first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, Halloween Horror Nights among winners of 2023 Theme Park Insider Awards View the full article

So, you’re planning a trip to Disney World, and you’ve narrowed it down between two of the most ICONIC Disney resorts in existence (you lucky, lucky person!). Disney’s Yacht Club But how do you choose between Disney’s Contemporary Resort and Disney’s Yacht Club Resorts? Well, let’s dive into the deets to see which one is right for you! Choosing between the Contemporary and the Yacht Club is like choosing a favorite child, a favorite Disney cupcake, or between a Dole Whip or a Mickey Pretzel — there’s enough love to go around! But just like cupcakes and classic Disney snacks (and maybe your kids, too… only you know your family dynamic…), there’s a certain flavor that might just hit the spot for what you’re looking for. Disney’s Contemporary Resort There’s no doubt that Disney vacations are expensive, and no one wants buyer’s remorse when it comes to what can usually be the most EXPENSIVE part of your Disney trip. We’re approaching this chaos-agent of a decision with as much logic as possible, so we’re breaking it down into five categories: Common Ground Theme/Rooms Pools Food Transportation We’re putting each resort through these paces to see where they stand and which one may be speaking to you for your Disney trip. Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort Common Ground Before we start down the rabbit hole into the Wonderland of their differences, let’s review the similarities of these resorts. These resorts are both Disney Deluxe Resorts, so they will be at a similar price point, with similar room sizes, and the same perks. They both have close proximity to the Disney Parks, and even within walking distance! And both offer Disney Vacation Club Villas as additional accommodations. Yacht Club pier walkway For the Contemporary, that means that for the cheapest room at the cheapest time to visit, you can expect to pay around $550 per night (not accounting for any tax or current discounts), and it goes up to $5,594 per night (not accounting for any tax or current discounts) for the most expensive rooms at the most expensive time to visit. For the Yacht Club, that means that for the cheapest room at the cheapest time to visit, you can expect to pay around $537 per night (not accounting for any tax or current discounts), and it goes up to $3,877 per night (not accounting for any tax or current discounts) for the most expensive rooms at the most expensive time to visit. Extra Theme Park Hours Benefits for Disney World Resort Hotel Guests Theme/Rooms Just like our ol’ Friend, Chandler Bing, would say, “Could these resorts BE any more different?” Both the Contemporary and the Yacht Club are Deluxe resorts and offer the poshest of Disney’s accommodations and perks, but that doesn’t mean they look the same! The Contemporary As the name suggests, the Contemporary has a very modern theme. It feels a little less immersive and more upscale and sleek. The lobby recently got an upgrade with colorful artwork and more modern furniture, which sets the tone for the resort. Ok, so maybe it is immersive if you’re looking to be immersed into an art museum. Clean and sleek All of the rooms have recently been renovated and updated with an Incredibles-inspired theme. So even though this beauty is 50 years old, she’s gotten some TLC and looks better than ever! Contemporary Resort And the Top of the World Lounge in the neighboring (newer!) Bay Lake Tower, has also recently reopened with a new Villains-themed look and refreshed menu. Since the rooms face in on the hotel, it can be a bit noisy because all of the action is in one spot. From the rooms, you can look down and see Chef Mickey’s (which opens pretty early and gets noisy, so it can be hard to sleep in), and the Monorail runs through the resort. Main area of the resort There’s also a massive mural on the wall created by Mary Blair, a famous Disney artist. This is a super fun touch for Disney history fans. Remember that art museum vibe we mentioned earlier… um, yeah. The Mary Blair mural at the Contemporary Resort Yacht Club Ahoy maties, straighten that ascot and slip on those boat shoes, you’re about to set sail into the Disney resort themed after the grand and sleek yachting clubs of New England. And no, Disney does not require that you own a yacht to stay here (phew, that’s one expense you won’t have to factor into your Disney trip!). Disney’s Yacht Club This resort makes “subtle” look good. It’s sleek, elegant, and streamlined — like, well, a yacht. If you’re visiting Disney World for a business conference, this hotel might just be the right speed for you as it encompasses a rather executive vibe to it. There are some very nice, and perfectly adequate furnishings, but the rooms themselves just don’t scream lavish. ©Disney Our favorite touch in these otherwise “character-less” rooms are the curtains that feature fictional constellations inspired by some of our favorite Disney pals. ©Disney The Yacht Club renovated and updated the rooms in 2017, for the more sophisticated appearance with dark woods, crisp whites and deep navy blues. They definitely don’t have the personality that you can find at the Contemporary and Polynesian. So, if you’re looking for a room with some “character,” the Yacht Club may not be your jam. Results This could boil down to your preference. Are you looking for a sleek, modern vibe in the public spaces? Or do you want a sophisticated resort that feels like you should be sipping a cognac and lighting up a cigar? Both resorts deliver beautifully on their themes, but when it comes down to rooms, the Contemporary has the edge with having the most recently updated rooms with a bit more pizzazz. Why You Should Add Disney’s Yacht Club to Your Resort Hopping List Right NOW Pools Pools, splash pads, hot tubs, and lounge chairs, vacation just doesn’t feel completed without spending some time by the pool. Which of these resorts is the aquatic champion of water lounging? Only one way to find out… The Contemporary There are two pools at the Contemporary: the aptly named Feature Pool and the quieter Bay Lake Pool. There is a waterslide, lounge chairs, and private cabanas to rent, but otherwise, it’s your standard resort pool. So the creativity for the names pretty much sums up any creativity with the pool area. Contemporary Feature Pool If you’re looking for a spot to cool down, these pools deliver, and there’s a splash area for the smaller kiddos. Splash pad at the Contemporary Resort For those post-swim munchies, the Cove Bar and the Sand Bar will provide you with access to some basic quick service vittles and cocktails to enjoy poolside. Yacht Club The Yacht Club may be understated when it comes to its lobby and resort rooms, but it is not to be outdone in the pool category. Disney’s Yacht Club shares a pool complex with its neighboring resort, the Beach Club, Stormalong Bay. Stormalong Bay at Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Stormalong Bay is a destination on all its own. This pool complex is almost like its own mini-water park, with sand at the bottom and even a lazy river! So, your kiddos can take advantage of the ‘shipwrecked’ themed water slide, while you leisurely float around the lazy river, so just relax on of the many lounge chairs. Stormalong Bay Shipwreck Stormalong Bay is also nestled in close to Beaches and Cream, an iconic ice cream shop, providing over-the-top milkshakes, sundaes, and comfort junk food essentials like burgers and grilled cheese sandwiches. Results There’s no real loser in this category if you’ve found relaxation and joy, but our heart leans towards the Yacht Club, because that pool is just epic! Stormalong Bay at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Toes in the sand, relaxing down a lazy river with a shipwreck-themed water slide. We’ll take the Yacht Club’s pool oasis over the Contemporary’s cement pond, any day. 10 Hidden Secrets About Disney World Pools Food Because we are Disney FOOD Blog, we take food seriously. Very. Seriously. And we love it all. We love the cheap, comfort of plastic cheese, and we love the high-brow sophistication of a wine flight or a multi-course pre-fixe meal. We don’t discriminate; we are a lover of all foods. Since food is SO important, let’s see who these resorts stack up against each other in the restaurant category. Contemporary Resort The Contemporary has ten (10!) dining options, including lounges and pool bars (because those count!)! The Sand Bar is a modern poolside counter located in the Contemporary Resort’s marina and pool area. While the food menu is limited (you can grab a burger or hot dog here, or a snack like an ice cream treat), there is a full bar menu along with classic beachy cocktails like Mai Tais and Banana Cabanas up for grabs. A few stools are available right at the bar, or you can grab a seat at an umbrella-covered outdoor table. The Sand Bar is a great place to let the breeze blow on your face as you watch the watercraft move around Bay Lake or just enjoy your time by the pool. Or if you’re visiting the Bay Lake Pool, then the Cove Bar serves a selection of quick service meals (think wraps and salads), snacks, and cocktails. Cove Bar The Contemporary Resort is one of the few resorts to host their own Joffrey’s Coffee bar. Contemporary Grounds is your go-to location. You’ll find coffee, pastries, and specialty coffee drinks. This spot also offers options for Disney-inspired Latte Art! Those early morning dashes to the parks won’t feel so taxing when you have tasty coffee so conveniently located. Contemporary Grounds Contempo Cafe is the main fast food spot here, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. There are some lighter options, including salads and grilled chicken, as well as your typical fast food fare like chicken fingers and burgers. This is also home to one of our favorite treats — the Peanut Butter Pie. It’s a must-try if you love peanut butter as much as we do! Peanut Butter Pie at Contempo Cafe If you need something to wash down your meal or seasonal cupcake from the Contempo Cafe, just a few steps away is the Outer Rim lounge. The Outer Rim is a great place to go for a pre-dinner drink or a relaxing evening right in the middle of all the action of the Contemporary Resort’s 4th Floor Grand Canyon Concourse. Indulge in one of the Outer Rim’s draft beers, wines, bourbons, martinis, or specialty cocktails. Outer Rim Lounge Still considered part of the Contemporary offerings, The Top of the World Lounge, exclusive to Disney Vacation Club members, is perched on the top floor of the Contemporary Resort’s Bay Lake Tower. Top of the World is open daily from 6PM to midnight, with seating available on a first come, first served basis. Disney Vacation Club Members with access to Membership Extras and who are staying in Disney World Resort hotels can enjoy this exclusive spot, and guests staying on Members’ reservations are also eligible! Grab a drink, an appetizer, and the best view of the Magic Kingdom fireworks here! The Contemporary is home to one of the most iconic character meals on property. Chef Mickey’s is one of the most difficult reservations to get on property, and the reason is that at this all-you-care-to-enjoy restaurant, you can meet every single one of The Fab Five character set: Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy, and Pluto. Chef Mickey’s Steakhouse 71 is a NEW restaurant at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. The “71” is a nod to the opening year of Walt Disney World, and the restaurant itself opened on October 1, 2021, which is the 50th Anniversary of the Resort! Steakhouse 71 offers casual dining for breakfast, lunch, and dinner (with varying menus for each meal and a steakhouse focus in the evenings) just steps away from the Magic Kingdom. And if you opt for dessert (which is always a good idea), you may want to try the Steakhouse 71 Chocolate Cake, made with “15 layers of whiskey-infused chocolate cake, chocolate mousse, and raspberries – one layer for every floor at Disney’s Contemporary Resort.” The accompanying Steakhouse 71 Lounge also provides a spot to enjoy a few bites and unique cocktails. 6-oz Filet Mignon The California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort is truly a masterpiece of fine dining, and has been recognized by the Michelin Guide. California Grill is currently presenting a new, special dining experience for a limited time in honor of the 50th Anniversary of Walt Disney World Resort! The 3-course prix fixe menu was created to “evoke the spirit of 1971″ — the opening year of Walt Disney World (and also the opening year of the Top of the World!). Disney has shared that the meal celebrates the past while offering a nod to the incredible future ahead, featuring dishes such as Braised Short Rib Wontons, Florida Coast Black Grouper, and a 50th Anniversary Celebration Dessert Grand Marnier Soufflé. Hello Beautiful With two iconic Disney meal experiences and the rapidly growing popularity of a reasonably priced steakhouse, the Contemporary sure packs a 1-2 punch when it comes to food. Read all about the Contemporary Resort Restaurants here! Yacht Club Hurricane Hanna’s is a pool bar, tucked under the Stormalong Bay waterslide, that provides fixes for your hunger without having to wander too far from the pool. The Yacht Club is home to two lounges, one quick-service market, a table service option, and a Disney Signature dining restaurant. Not to mention its close proximity to Beach Club and all of those dining options. The Market at Ale & Compass An ideal spot to relax with a nightcap while winding down for the evening, or to grab a bite or two from their substantial appetizer menu, head over to Ale & Compass Lounge. The Ale & Compass Lounge is one part of the Ale & Compass dining concept at the Yacht Club, which also includes The Market at Ale & Compass and the Ale & Compass Restaurant. Ale & Compass Lounge Located right next to Yachtsman Steakhouse at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, the Crew’s Cup Lounge is a great place to get a bite and a drink in a relaxing, cozy atmosphere — and it’s a DFB favorite! In addition to specialty cocktails and a full bar, a robust food menu is served during evening hours as well, including a few full meals. During dinner hours at the Yachtsman, you’ll have a direct view through a glass window of steak being butchered for the steakhouse – so cool! Crew’s Cup Lounge Ale & Compass Restaurant is the table service component of the Ale & Market dining concept in Disney’s Yacht Club, which also includes The Market at Ale & Compass along with the refreshed Ale & Compass Lounge. The atmosphere offers a gastropub ambiance while comfort food (New England-inspired) is featured on the menu. A la carte options for breakfast include classic American breakfast fare, with a few twists like the Dark Chocolate Waffle and Salted Caramel-Apple French Toast, and a pastry buffet option may be paired with your choice of entree. Casual lunch options include Fish & Chips, burgers, and more. Dinner offerings feature specialties like the New England Seafood Pot Pie and Pappardelle pasta dishes, among others. Ale and Compass Restaurant The Market at Ale & Compass is a Counter Service location at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort. Simple convenience is the name of the game, with a focus on grab-and-go items. However, hot sandwiches, specialty desserts — and even a coffee bar — round out the options nicely. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, The Market at Ale & Compass is the quick service component of the Ale & Compass dining concept at the Yacht Club, which also includes the Ale & Compass Restaurant and the Ale & Compass Lounge. Visit the Marketplace Yachtsman Steakhouse comes highly recommended by any discerning carnivore. The steaks here are some of the best on property, and the service is often excellent. This craftsman-inspired dining room at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort caters to all tastebuds with a variety of dishes, incredible sides, and amazing, cut-in-house steaks. 8-oz Filet Mignon Is The CHEESIEST Soup in Disney World Hiding at This Forgotten Restaurant? Results It’s so hard to designate a clear winner for food — because we love it all! Both resorts offer a fantastic fine-dining experience at either Yachtsman at the Yacht Club or California Grill at the Contemporary. And for more casual dining, Ale & Compass at Yacht Club and Steakhouse 71 at Contemporary are pretty balanced (though dare we say, Steakhouse 71 is a quickly becoming a favorite of ours!). Kids’ Sushi But the Contemporary also has Chef Mickey’s and several lounges, so the edge in the food category goes to the Contemporary. But it does bare mentioning that what you can’t find directly at the Yacht Club, you might be able to find within walking distance at the Beach Club, Swan & Dolphin, BoardWalk Inn or even EPCOT’s World Showcase. New DFB Video: Join Us For the Monorail Crawl! Transportation Do these resorts offer anything different when it comes to transportation? Let’s see!! The Contemporary The Contemporary is on the Monorail loop. It’s the fourth stop after the Transportation & Ticketing Center (TTC) on the way to the Magic Kingdom. If Magic Kingdom is your destination, guests can also walk a quick 7-10 minute jaunt right up to the front gate. The Monorail INSIDE the Contemporary Resort ©mockonerunning If Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, or Disney Springs is your destination, then you can board one of Disney’s busses to transport you over to these parks. Contemporary Resort’s Bus Stop But if EPCOT is your park for the day, here is where the difference sets in. Because the Contemporary is just one monorail stop away from the Transportation & Ticketing Center, if you don’t mind transferring monorails at the TTC, you can board a Monorail to whiz you off to EPCOT. Yacht Club The Yacht Club is considered an “EPCOT-area” resort. It sits on Crescent Lake, next to Beach Club Resort, and across the lake from Disney’s BoardWalk Inn. This resort is situated in between TWO Disney parks, EPCOT and Hollywood Studios. Yep, that’s right, you can walk or enjoy a relaxing boat ride on a Friendship Cruise boat to both EPCOT and Hollywood Studios. EPCOT Boat If Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, or Disney Springs is your destination, then you can board one of Disney’s busses to transport you over to these parks. Disney buses can get you just about anywhere! And as if walkways, boats, and busses weren’t enough options for you, Yacht Club guests are also within walking distance of the EPCOT Skyliner station. This means you have easy access to the other Skyliner resorts if you want to go exploring other resorts or just have a relaxing cruise through the sky. Walt Disney World Skyliner Results These neighboring resorts are pretty much a tie when it comes to transportation. They both have pretty quick access to TWO Disney parks, and have the options of busses, boats, and even direct walkways to help you get around. EPCOT The Contemporary is right on the Monorail loop, and the Yacht Club gives you access to the Skyliner, so they both have some unique offerings as well. It might just boil down to which parks do you plan to spend more time in, Hollywood Studios or Magic Kingdom? Why You Should Skip the Monorail on Your Next Magic Kingdom Trip The Winner! So, who is the ultimate winner in the Contemporary vs. Yacht Club battle? We hate to say it, but it depends! The Contemporary may seem like a clear choice because of its theming and popularity with Disney fans. If the Yacht Club seemed like the clear choice to you, it is a great hotel, it has an awesome pool and is just a quick walk from EPCOT’s World Showcase. It’s up to you and your group to decide what makes the most sense for you using all that we talked about above. Keep following DFB for more articles like this, and sign up for our newsletter below to get them straight into your inbox! Polynesian Village vs. Contemporary Resort Guide for Disney World in 2023 Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Don't Miss Out on Any Disney Fun! Pre-Order Your Copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining Today! With more than 750 pages, the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining is full of tips and planning tools developed by Disney World experts over 30+ years of visits. We've done the research for you, so you'll know just which spots will uniquely suit your family's needs! With mini-reviews of every single restaurant, bar, lounge, kiosk and more; an entire chapter on the best snacks in Disney World; full Disney Dining Plan analysis (and how to get FREE dining); and a full chapter on discounts and deals; you'll have everything you need to plan your best vacation yet. Click here to pre-order your copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining E-book with code WDW2023 to save 25% off the cover price today! Use code WDW2023 at check-out for 25% off the cover price today! http://www.disneyfoodblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/ready-to-shop-button.png Our guides are backed by a 100% money-back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose. What do you think? Is the Contemporary Resort or Yacht Club Resort better? Let us know in the comments! The post Contemporary vs. Yacht Club Disney World Resort Guide 2023 first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

When you’ve finished a great workout, how do you like to treat yourself? Everglazed Donuts & Cold Brew For those running in the 2023 Walt Disney World Marathon this weekend, Everglazed Donuts & Cold Brew is giving them the option of a pretty sweet treat! The popular donut shop created this Race Day Donut specifically to commemorate runDisney’s 30th anniversary. To go with that theme, they went for a ‘90s vibe with this colorful frosting combination. It’s like a blast from the past! © Everglazed on Instagram This classic glazed donut is topped with a generous amount of vanilla icing in rad purple, green, blue, and pink. It’s finished off with some bright orange sprinkles to seal the deal. Whether you’re a competitor or just looking for a sweet treat for yourself this weekend, you can purchase this donut from Everglazed in Disney Springs. Act fast, though! This special Race Day Donut’s last day in town is January 8th. For more on dining in Disney Springs, check out our Ultimate Guide! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Don't Miss Out on Any Disney Fun! Pre-Order Your Copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining Today! With more than 750 pages, the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining is full of tips and planning tools developed by Disney World experts over 30+ years of visits. We've done the research for you, so you'll know just which spots will uniquely suit your family's needs! With mini-reviews of every single restaurant, bar, lounge, kiosk and more; an entire chapter on the best snacks in Disney World; full Disney Dining Plan analysis (and how to get FREE dining); and a full chapter on discounts and deals; you'll have everything you need to plan your best vacation yet. Click here to pre-order your copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining E-book with code WDW2023 to save 25% off the cover price today! Use code WDW2023 at check-out for 25% off the cover price today! http://www.disneyfoodblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/ready-to-shop-button.png Our guides are backed by a 100% money-back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose. What kind of donut is your favorite? Do you like them plain, or loaded up with toppings? Comment below! The post RUN to Everglazed to Try Their Race Day Donut in Disney World first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Celebrate your Disney style, your way with Disney ily 4EVER fashion dolls, launching today on shopDisney!View the full article

Figuring out where to eat on your Disney World vacation can be confusing, especially if you don’t know about all your options! Disney’s Contemporary Resort Luckily, that’s where we come in — we’ve been to every single restaurant and snack stand in Disney World and we know which ones are worth your time. From the parks to resorts, we’re bringing you our complete guide to eating around Disney World — and it’s time to head to Disney’s Contemporary Resort! We’re taking a look at every single restaurant at the Contemporary, and even mentioning our top eats at each one! This resort is closest to Magic Kingdom, and it’s easier to pop over during a quick park day than you might think — give these restaurants a try if you’re tired of regular park food or just want to take a break from the parks. Disney’s Contemporary Resort We do want to mention that restaurant menus can often change in Disney World, so make sure you double-check what might be available before your trip. And now, onto the good stuff! California Grill California Grill is probably the most well-known restaurant and the Contemporary, boasting unforgettable views of Magic Kingdom and signature Pacific Coast cuisine. You’ll find the restaurant at the top of the hotel. In the past, it has been recognized by the Michelin Guide. California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort California Grill is currently presenting a new, special dining experience for a limited time in honor of the 50th Anniversary of Walt Disney World Resort, but that will most likely change after the 50th anniversary celebrations end in March. California Grill The 3-course prix fixe menu features favorites like the House-made Artisanal-style Duck À L’Orange Pizza — made with Duck Prosciutto and Confit, Pickled Shallots, Orange-Black Mission Fig Jam, Aged Blue Cheese, and Arugula. House-made Artisanal-style Duck À L’Orange Pizza We also love the Braised Beef Short Rib Wontons. They are spicy in the best way and come with SO. MUCH. FLAVOR. TBH, we could eat these daily. We especially loved the garlic chili oil. Braised Beef Short Rib Wontons at California Grill In the past, California Grill has served brunch, and we’re excited to see what might happen when the 50th anniversary ends. Chances are we’ll see a new menu pop up — so stay tuned for updates. See Our Latest Review of California Grill Here Chef Mickey’s PLEASE NOTE: Currently, Chef Mickey’s is serving an all-you-care-to-enjoy Family Feast, featuring a family-style dining experience. The restaurant’s traditional full Buffet service will return on March 1, 2023! Join Mickey and the gang for a character meal at Chef Mickey’s! Located in the atrium of the Contemporary, you’ll be surrounded by bright colors, fun entertainment, plus Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Pluto, and Goofy! Serving breakfast and dinner, this long-standing character restaurant location is a favorite for kids and adults alike. The food is good (and getting better), the close-to-the-Magic-Kingdom location at Disney’s Contemporary Resort is good for a quick respite from the parks, and the celebration songs and parades are fun for everyone. Chef Mickey’s Breakfast favorites include Mickey Waffles, Biscuits and Gravy, and Smoked Bacon. And can we talk about that Potato-Cheese Casserole?! We could eat that stuff every single day. Breakfast at Chef Mickey’s At dinner, savor dishes like a trio of appetizer salads, Roasted Garlic Gratin Potatoes, and the incredible Prime Rib with Mushroom Ragoût and Roasted Onions. The Prime Rib, we’re happy to say, is downright impressive. The meat was wonderfully cooked and well-seasoned, and the mushroom gravy was an awesome complement to the dish. Traditional Roasted Turkey Breast Dinner The menu offerings may change when Chef Mickey’s returns to buffet-style service in March, so stay tuned for updates and a full review. FULL Review of Chef Mickey’s at Disney’s Contemporary Resort Contempo Cafe Our first quick-service spot on the list, Contempo Cafe is a great place to grab something on the go or to sit and savor. You’ll find classic quick service options such as flatbreads, salads, and hot and cold sandwiches, alongside some standouts like a terrific Pot Roast dish for dinner. The bakery case is where you’ll find some of the best desserts in Disney World! Contempo Cafe Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served here — so there’s plenty to choose from. Some breakfast favorites include Mickey Waffles, and for lunch you’ll find classics like Chicken Caesar Salad, a Spicy Chicken Sandwich, a burger, and more. Treats! For dinner, we can’t get enough of the Beef Pot Roast. It’s been one of our favorites ever since we discovered it years ago! Rich Brown Gravy coats a substantial portion of Sunday-dinner-at-Grandma’s-good Pot Roast. It’s not always on the menu but it does pop up now and again — so grab it if you can. Beef Pot Roast at Contempo Cafe Of course, we have to mention our love for the Contempo Cafe Peanut Butter Pie. Right now, it’s a special 50th anniversary edition that isn’t our favorite, but it’s made with a Vanilla Tart Shell filled with Custard and Peanut Butter filling, drizzled with Chocolate Ganache, and topped with Crispy Chocolate Pearls. Peanut Butter Pie at the Contemporary Resort Contempo Cafe is a great spot no matter what time of day you stop by! See Our Latest Review of Contempo Cafe Here Contemporary Grounds Looking for a quick spot to grab a cup of coffee on your way to Magic Kingdom? Contemporary Grounds is your answer! You’ll find coffee, pastries, and specialty coffee drinks. This quick service spot also offers options for Disney-inspired Latte Art! It’s also a pretty decent place for remote working if that’s something that interests you. Contemporary Grounds You’ll find Contemporary Grounds in the lobby of the resort. In the past, we’ve tried fun pastries like the GIANT Unicorn Donut, Lemon Pound Cake, and a Croissant Donut, but you can also get smoothies, brewed coffee, teas, and espresso drinks here too. Unicorn Donut Keep this spot in mind the next time you need a little pick-me-up or sweet treat. Learn More About Contemporary Grounds Here Outer Rim Outer Rim is a casual lounge that offers guests views of the Monorail as it zips through the Contemporary Resort. It’s a great place to go for a pre-dinner drink or a relaxing evening right in the middle of all the action of the Contemporary Resort’s 4th Floor Grand Canyon Concourse. You’ll find this comfortable spot right by Chef Mickey’s and Contempo Cafe — two high-energy eateries. Outer Rim Lounge at Disney’s Contemporary Resort Since this is a lounge, you can expect that it’s not a great place for kiddos since there’s not much other than soda and mocktails for them here. Their “standout” drinks like the Blue Glowtini, Pina CoLAVA, and Moscow Mule are bar staples across Disney World Resort, and you’ll find Outer Rim’s generic “Disney Bar Menu” in TONS of other places. Glowtini Though their menu is typically limited, Outer Rim is a reliable watering hole to stop by to cap off your long day at Disney World. Check Out Our FULL Page on Outer Rim Here The Sand Bar Looking for somewhere to grab a drink and a snack poolside? The Sand Bar is the Contemporary Resort’s pool bar, serving options for a poolside meal in addition to tropical cocktails, beer, and wine. It’s a modern poolside counter located in the Contemporary Resort’s marina and pool area. The Sand Bar While the food menu is limited (you can grab a burger or hot dog here, or a snack like an ice cream treat), there is a full bar menu along with classic beachy cocktails like Mai Tais and Banana Cabanas up for grabs. There are also a few different Margaritas, and the classic poolside favorite: Piña CoLAVA. The Sand Bar Entrees include a 1/3 lb Angus Cheeseburger, Foot-Long All-Beef Hot Dog, and a Garden Salad. For easy snacking, grab some Nachos with Chili and Cheese, French Fries, or a classic Mickey Pretzel. Pina CoLAVA There’s nothing to write home about here, but you’ll leave full and satisfied (whether it’s from food or booze!). See Our FULL Page on The Sand Bar Pool Bar Here Steakhouse 71 Oh, Steakhouse 71. You are quite possibly our favorite new restaurant in Disney World. We’d make the trek from Magic Kingdom just to eat here (especially since the table service spots in Magic Kingdom are notoriously… underwhelming). This restaurant is a new table-service dining option serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Steakhouse 71 The “71” is a nod to the opening year of Walt Disney World and the restaurant itself opened on the 50th Anniversary of the Resort, October 1, 2021! It’s also accompanied by the Steakhouse 71 Lounge. Steakhouse 71 We’ve loved Walt’s Prime Rib Hash and Steakhouse 71 Seasonal Pancakes in the past for breakfast, and at lunch, you can find the incredible French Onion Soup featuring a rich beef broth, crouton, and Gratinée Cheese. Plus, we can’t get enough of the Steakhouse 71 Onion Rings! Walt’s Prime Rib Hash This spot is also home to what might be the best burger on Disney World property…seriously. The Steakhouse 71 Stack Burger is made with a signature blend of beef, American cheese, lemon aïoli, red onion, and house-made pickles. It’s all served on a brioche bun. Also, while it is not listed on the menu, the burger patty is topped with a piece of pork belly. We’re obsessed. Dinner is primarily steak-focused, and we’ve had stellar experiences with the Lump Crab Cakes and the 12-oz Roasted Prime Rib & Classic Yorkshire Pudding. And of course, don’t forget dessert! The Steakhouse 71 Chocolate Cake is made with le monde chocolate (a Disney exclusive chocolate partnership), and a milk chocolate filling. Just LOOK at this cake from Steakhouse 71! Pro-Tip: Even if it’s not listed on the menu, we’ve been able to order the burger at dinner and a petite filet at lunch! Check Out Our Dinner Review of Steakhouse 71 Here Top of the World Lounge Top of the World Lounge is an exclusive bar open to Disney Vacation Club members only, located at the top of Bay Lake Tower at the Contemporary. Like the California Grill, it offers spectacular views of the Magic Kingdom. However, you should be warned… Top of the World was recently taken over by Disney Villains, and it is now known as Top of the World: A Villains Lair! Top of the World — Villains Lair It’s open daily from 6PM to midnight, with seating available on a first-come, first-served basis. Disney Vacation Club Members with access to Membership Extras and who are staying in Disney World Resort hotels can enjoy this exclusive spot, and guests staying on Members’ reservations are also eligible! Magic Kingdom Fireworks You can find Villains-themed eats like The Empress Charcuterie Board, herb-roasted Unfortunate Souls Shrimp, Lair-Made Hummus, and Who’s Afraid of Pork Belly Sliders. We loved the Cosmic Power Flatbread. It’s topped with plant-based za’atar-spiced “beef,” caramelized onion spread, pickled onions, and “tzatziki.” Cosmic (Plant) Power Flatbread For drinks, try The Underworld. This drink is made with handcrafted traditional Spanish Opici, white sangria, peach puree, and blue curacao orange liqueur. Other favorites were The Lion’s Uncle and the Cursed Pirate! Check Out Our Review of the NEW Villains-Theme Lounge Here To learn more about every SINGLE restaurant in Disney World, the most unique dining experiences, and more, check out our DFB Guide to Disney World Dining! We’ve compiled all of our BEST tips and tricks from years of Disney World travel into one eBook that you can download to your tablet or smartphone and take with you! We’re offering our readers 25% off with code WDW2023. It’s time to pre-order your DFB Guide! Be sure to stay tuned to DFB for the latest Disney World dining news and more! Complete Guide to Eating at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort Need Disney Restaurant Advice? We’ve Got EVERYTHING You Need to Know The ONLY Disney Dining Planning Tool You’ll Need Is Here – Get the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining! See Our Complete Disney World Restaurants Guide Check Out the 19 Best Restaurants in Disney World in 2022 Our Top 50 All-Time Best Disney Dining Tips These Are the BEST Meals in Disney World for Under $15 Ranking Every Single Magic Kingdom Restaurant Ranking Every Single EPCOT Restaurant Ranking Every Single Restaurant in Disney’s Hollywood Studios Ranking Every Single Restaurant in Disney’s Animal Kingdom Ranking Every Single Restaurant in Disney Springs Ranking Every Single Restaurant in Disney World Hotels – Cheap Eats Edition Check Out Dozens of Disney Dining Tips and Tools Learn All About Tipping at Disney Restaurants How to Use Mobile Order in Disney World Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the latest Disney food news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! What’s your favorite restaurant in Disney World? Let us know in the comments! The post The Complete Guide to Eating at Disney's Contemporary Resort first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Fifty years after Elvis Presley's final star turn, a trio of top tribute artists from Florida will remember the cultural icon in Fort Lauderdale concerts beginning Friday, Three Kings Day. View the full article

After a record-setting year of shows in 2022, Orlando is poised to host even more great acts in 2023 in venues around the City Beautiful. View the full article

With the return of the “Magic Happens” Parade at Disneyland, guests planning to visit the park now have the chance to book dining packages as well. Plaza Inn Dining packages are a great way to enjoy a meal before heading off to a reserved viewing area to watch a parade, show, or other performance. It kind of makes you feel like a VIP! The dining package that will be available for the “Magic Happens” Parade is for none other than the Plaza Inn! This Main Street spot has been serving guests since opening day in 1955, making it a fitting spot to grab a bite before watching a parade that celebrates the magical moments in Disney film history. It’s also home to one of our Disneyland must-eats: the Plaza Inn Fried Chicken! Tasty tasty fried chicken Each dining package will include an adult or child meal plus a voucher for reserved viewing access to the second “Magic Happens” Parade performance of the day. You can get a dining package for any day except during Disney After Dark Events as well as the blackout dates of April 9, May 13, May 14, May 29, June 18, July 4 and July 8, 2023. © Disney You can select from a few meal options. Adults will receive Short Rib and Fried Chicken with Pesto Mashed Potatoes and Seasonal Vegetables as well as a dessert. You can then pick from either a fountain beverage or Dasani Water (alcoholic beverages are not included). For kids, their meal consists of Chicken Tenders, Mashed Potatoes and Seasonal Vegetables and a dessert. For their beverage they can choose either a Dasani Water or low-fat milk. © Disney Packages are $45 per adult and $25 per child (ages 3 to 9). This price does not include tax or gratuity. To utilize your dining package you will also need a valid theme park reservation and admission for each person. Your dining reservation will need to be made between 1PM and 3:30PM to take advantage of the package. Plaza Inn interior When it’s time to head to your viewing area, bring your voucher to your designated meeting area. Each person in your party will need their own voucher and kids under 18 will need to be accompanied by an adult. Keep in mind that the viewing area will be mainly standing room or ground seating! Advance reservations are highly recommended because this is a great way to get a good view of the parade. You can make your reservations up to 60 days before your visit. Just reserve your arrival time between 1PM and 3:30PM for the “Magic Happens” Parade Dining Package at Plaza Inn. Inside check-in area If you need to cancel, you will need to do so at least 2 hours ahead of your reservation or else a $10 per person cancellation fee will be taken from the credit card on your reservation. Dining packages can help you have peace of mind knowing you will have a guaranteed spot to watch your favorite parades and shows, plus you’ll get a tasty meal out of it too! Stay tuned to our site for more news on Disney dining, entertainment, and more! Before heading to Disneyland, don’t miss this post on 6 groundbreaking changes coming to the resort! Want to Learn More About Disneyland? Check Out the Links Below! See Our DFB Disneyland Restaurants Guide Learn About Disney Genie and How to Use it in Disneyland Check Out What You Need to Know About the Theme Park Reservation System for Disneyland and Disney California Adventure Get All the Info About Closures and Construction at Disneyland Learn All About Disneyland Park See What Marvelous Stuff You’ll Find at Avengers Campus in Disney California Adventure Learn About Pixar Pier in Disney California Adventure Get All the Details About the Disneyland Mobile App Everything You Need to Know About Mobile Order in Disneyland Learn More About Disneyland’s Magic Key Program Full Details About the Holiday Season in Disneyland Full Details About Halloween Time at Disneyland Get Some STRANGE Tips for Disneyland Should You Go to Disneyland in 2022? Click HERE to Check Out Lots of Other DFB Posts About Disneyland Join the DFB Newsletter To Get All the Latest Disney News Delivered Right to Your Inbox Click here to Subscribe What’s your favorite dining spot in Disneyland? Share your picks in the comment section! The post Pricing and Details for Magic Happens Plaza Inn Dining Package in Disneyland first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Have you made the switch to MagicBand+ yet? MagicBand+ They’re actually a lot of fun and we’ve enjoyed playing with them in the parks — the Star Wars bounty hunter game is a blast and we love the lights and haptic feedback we’ve seen on rides, during nighttime shows, and more. Yes, these new MagicBand+ designs are a little pricier than the classic MagicBand, but did you know you may qualify to get one at a discount? If you book a vacation as a Disney World resort guest or if you’re a Disney World Annual Passholder, you’ll be able to buy some MagicBands and MagicBand+ designs at a discount. Today, we noticed a new design available and it’s all about everyone’s favorite purple dragon: it’s a Figment MagicBand+. Disney World resort guests can get it for $34.99. ©Disney We also spotted a new discounted Disney Parks 2023 MagicBand+ for $34.99. ©Disney A huge shout-out to our friend Joe Schreiber (@schreiberjoe on Instagram) for the heads-up on the new designs. If you’re a Disney World hotel guest or Annual Passholder, you should see these designs available on the My Disney Experience part of the Disney World website. The Important Secret About Your MagicBand+ Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Don't Miss Out on Any Disney Fun! Pre-Order Your Copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining Today! With more than 750 pages, the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining is full of tips and planning tools developed by Disney World experts over 30+ years of visits. We've done the research for you, so you'll know just which spots will uniquely suit your family's needs! With mini-reviews of every single restaurant, bar, lounge, kiosk and more; an entire chapter on the best snacks in Disney World; full Disney Dining Plan analysis (and how to get FREE dining); and a full chapter on discounts and deals; you'll have everything you need to plan your best vacation yet. Click here to pre-order your copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining E-book with code WDW2023 to save 25% off the cover price today! Use code WDW2023 at check-out for 25% off the cover price today! http://www.disneyfoodblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/ready-to-shop-button.png Our guides are backed by a 100% money-back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose. Which MagicBand+ is your favorite? Let us know in the comments! The post How to Get Two Exclusive Disney MagicBand+ Designs At a DISCOUNT first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Four additional former Disney employees who refused to be vaccinated for COVID-19 or wear a face mask at work have joined a lawsuit against the company over its previous COVID safety policies. View the full article

It’s the beginning of a new year, and we’re already starting to see a few new snacks popping up in Disney World. Gaston’s Tavern And you know us, we LIVE for new drinks and snacks! We’ll be up to our eyeballs in new ones next week at the 2023 EPCOT Festival of the Arts. But just this week alone we’ve tried a new Haunted Mansion-themed treat, a new Seven Dwarfs cone, and more! Now there’s ANOTHER new snack in Magic Kingdom, so come along with us as we try it! Okay, so we’re headed on over to Gaston’s Tavern (home of our favorite cinnamon roll in Disney World) to try a new dome cake. We’ve had a few here over the past year, including a Mickey Dome Cake, Pluto Dome Cake, a Donald Dome Cake, and a Goofy Dome Cake. Well now, we’re down to the last of the Fab Five. So now we present…the Minnie Dome Cake. It’s even rocking Minnie’s dots and bow! So VERY Minnie! The Minnie Dome Cake is made with a vanilla citrus mousse with a strawberry glaze on top of pistachio cake, and dark chocolate ear coins. Let’s start with the mousse — it’s light and creamy with a citrusy kick. The pistachio cake also had a really good flavor, but it was mild. The chocolate ears are made with dark chocolate, so make a note if you don’t like a more bitter chocolate. Insta-worthy snack In the center was a layer of strawberry jam that isn’t exactly mentioned in the description, but we’re not complaining because it was YUMMY. We even asked a Cast Member and they weren’t sure why it wasn’t in the description. But we loved the nice surprise! It had a good natural strawberry taste, unlike the glaze on top which tasted artificial. This does mean this thing tastes HEAVILY of strawberry, so you’ll need to love strawberry flavors to appreciate it. A peek inside Overall, though, this is a pretty solid dome cake, strawberry overload and all. You can get it now for $8.29. Yes, it’s a little pricey, but the size is decent, so we’ll give it that. We’ll keep trying all the new snacks that arrive in Disney World, so stay tuned to DFB for more reviews. WE KNOW – there are SO many great snacks at Disney World! How do you choose (we don’t want to choose but will blow our budget on Day 1 otherwise)? We’ve got you covered! We have reviewed nearly EVERY snack available at Disney World, and we’ve written a series of DFB Guides about them! DFB Guide to Disney World Dining 2023 Check out our DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining + Snacks Bundle for all the details you need to plan your snackin’ and spending. You can even download them to your smartphone – it’ll be like we’re right there with you in the parks! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Don't Miss Out on Any Disney Fun! Pre-Order Your Copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining Today! With more than 750 pages, the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining is full of tips and planning tools developed by Disney World experts over 30+ years of visits. We've done the research for you, so you'll know just which spots will uniquely suit your family's needs! With mini-reviews of every single restaurant, bar, lounge, kiosk and more; an entire chapter on the best snacks in Disney World; full Disney Dining Plan analysis (and how to get FREE dining); and a full chapter on discounts and deals; you'll have everything you need to plan your best vacation yet. Click here to pre-order your copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining E-book with code WDW2023 to save 25% off the cover price today! Use code WDW2023 at check-out for 25% off the cover price today! http://www.disneyfoodblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/ready-to-shop-button.png Our guides are backed by a 100% money-back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose. Will you be trying the Minnie Dome Cake in Disney World? Let us know in the comments! The post There's a SECRET Hiding Inside the Minnie Mouse Cake in Magic Kingdom first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Should you drive or fly for your next vacation? Do you even have the right ID to travel? Changes in travel trends, new technology, and a looming recession are making planning that 2023 trip all the more complicated, but we’ve got the tips and the in-depth info to help you make the right decisions whether you’re headed to Disney World or somewhere else. Don’t stress! We’ve got you covered. Today, we’re stepping outside the Disney bubble a bit to talk about the MAJOR changes hitting the travel industry. From the rise of low-cost airlines, to hacking those airline and hotel points, shifts in travel trends, and the ever increasing surge pricing. The Rise of the Low-Cost Airline If you’ve been looking at booking flights lately I’m sure you’ve come across some seemingly too-good-to-be-true deals from airlines like Spirit, Frontier, & Breeze. With airline prices having increased 25% over the past year, those low-cost airlines are starting to look more appealing and that’s what they’re betting on! The low-cost airline model is basically built to handle recessions, economic downturns, and periods of significantly reduced travel demand. Frontier Airlines offers deep discounts. All airlines felt the pinch during the initial waves of the COVID pandemic, but low-cost airlines were the first to rebound due to the lower operating costs and more enticing price points These low cost airlines tend to service secondary markets, airports that may only offer connecting flights with long layovers now have access to more direct flights thanks to the expansion of Spirit and Frontier and the introduction of new airlines like Breeze and Avelo. This marriage of underserviced – and less expensive to operate out of – hubs, along with the low entry point price per seat, meant that these low-cost carriers were able to come back to full flights a lot faster than most. Larger airlines like United, American, and Delta weren’t quite able to catch that revenge travel rebound in the same way that lower cost airlines were because it was harder to fill seats at the prices they had to charge to recoup their pandemic losses. What’s the best airport to use for a Disney World trip? Low cost airlines are poised to come out of the pandemic better than many larger airlines, and with an impending recession, they are likely better equipped to handle another downturn in travel demand. And with the potential merger of Spirit and JetBlue, we could see an even stronger low-cost airline that can compete even more with the likes of those larger airline groups by offering more flights between more cities at larger discounts. ©Spirit Airlines We know a lot of you are probably screaming right now about how you’ll NEVER fly Spirit and it’s the WORST airline imaginable, doesn’t matter how cheap they make those tickets…but, there are some upgrades that might have you changing your mind. In 2023, the interiors of Spirits planes will be getting some seating upgrades with an extra half inch of space on the seat and an extra two inches of legroom in each row, plus new headrests and more cushioning. OK, a couple inches here and there isn’t going to make up for all that a la carte pricing we see you complain about in the comments – you’ll still need to pay for that seat, and your bags – but, it’s an improvement. At the end of the day, price may become more important than the most comfortable seat, and there’s no denying that low-cost carriers can come out to be several hundred dollars cheaper when you’re booking seats for the whole family, even with those added bag fees. Flying away But, more people could be ditching airline travel completely in 2023… Car Travel Could Become More Popular Than Flying According to a study in 2019 by Ford, 3 out of 4 Americans would rather drive to their vacation destination than fly. They would rather add up to 6 ½ hours to their travel time if they could avoid a plane. Depending how far you need to travel, driving may quickly become the much more attractive option, even with higher gas prices. Many reports expect gas prices to go down in 2023, and if a recession does hit, gas prices are nearly guaranteed to go down as demand also starts to go down. Regardless of where gas prices will land in the next year, there are few factors that can tip the scale on your decision to drive or fly: Gas prices aren’t the only financial factor when hopping in the car. If you live further from your final destination, you may need to include hotel stays, more meals at restaurants, not to mention the extra time off work and school that might be needed to make the trip, plus the wear and tear on your car. The jury is still out on whether gas prices will be higher in 2023. Flying is undoubtedly expensive, but add on bag fees, rental cars or rideshares at your destination, and potential airport delays that could make your trip take longer than expected. With inflation impacting, well, everything, you may be wondering how much travel expenses are expected to increase if you’re planning a trip for later in 2023. According to the 2023 Annual Global Business Travel Forecast, we can expect to see airfare and hotel rates continue to increase by 8.2% and above, while ground transportation will increase by about 6.8% So driving may still remain the cheaper option, so long as you don’t need to travel a very long distance that adds several days and hotel stays to your overall vacation. Revenge Travel May Have Ended The flying vs driving debate may move to the back burner as many people are deciding whether or not they’re traveling at all in the near future. In case you haven’t heard of this trend before, “revenge travel” is what experts called it when a lot of people went on big vacations after COVID-19 pandemic restrictions began to be lifted around the world. As travel restrictions and mask mandates disappeared, people took “revenge” on the pandemic for delaying their vacation plans by going on even bigger trips. The Washington Post reported that revenge travel began to happen in the late summer of 2020, and it really took off in the summer of 2021. However, the biggest spike in revenge travel seemed to be in the summer of 2022. Since then, travel – outside of the normal holiday travel surges – has started to return to less historical levels. Will you go to Disney World this year? For Disney World, the question won’t be whether or not people go because they’re definitely going, but will we continue to see the same crowds we’ve seen during the very busy Summer and Winter seasons of 2022? We may see fewer people visiting Disney World in 2023 for a number of reasons: Disney Vacation Members who had stocked up points from 2020 during the park closures have likely used them all up, as the extension on using those points only went through 2021. People may be burnt out on Disney World with all the price increases – we see it in comments on our blog posts all the time, that many of you are waiting several years before you travel to Disney again because it’s just not as financial feasible as it was in recent years. Recession talk has people worried. We’re gonna keep coming back to this one because even TALK of a recession is dramatically affecting the travel industry. With a recession seeming more and more likely, many people are cutting expenses and one of the first things to go is big, extravagant, leisure vacations e.g. Disney World. That doesn’t mean we’ll see empty parks though! During the 2008 recession, Disney World attendance did stall, but it was about the same level of crowds as 2007; typically Disney World sees an increase in crowds year over year so it was a marked difference for it to stay the same. Disney World does have some new exciting things on the horizon, most notably the TRON coaster coming to Magic Kingdom, and if the 2012 economic downturn was any indicator, that new stuff will have people coming right back to the parks once things stabilize. TRON: Lightcycle Run is opening this year in Disney World. So, while we may see some periods of lower crowds, Disney World likely won’t have an extremely lengthy slow period. Staycations Might Become More Popular If some people are skipping the expensive Disney World vacation, what are they doing instead? People are definitely still going to vacation, but instead of a several thousand dollar trip to Disney World, that includes expensive flights for the whole family, they may opt for cheaper trips that are closer to home with lower travel expenses and shorter vacations overall. People will be looking for deals and that may mean traveling during traditional off-seasons or opting for destinations that offer discounts and promotions. Disney World is not likely to be one of those places offering major discounts — Disney CFO Christine McCarthy said that Disney “won’t use [discounts] to the extent [they] used during the last recession”, but they may explore “more flexibility” with Annual Passes – presumably because passholders will come to the parks, recession or not. BUT we have seen the introduction of a Disney Dining Card promotion this week. Cruise lines may see a boom in 2023 – cruises have already come back big time in 2022, and that trend may continue into the following year. With the generally all-inclusive model of a cruise, travelers are less likely to have sticker shock when they’re booking their trip. Cruises also offer robust deals and discounts to fill up any unbooked rooms; if you live near a cruise port you can score some amazing last minute deals. Disney Cruise Line may follow the parks model and keep those discounts few and far between, but for cruise lines, it’s a lot more crucial to keep as many cabins full as possible which is good incentive for offering large discounts. We’ll, of course, always let you know about ANY discounts in the Disney sphere so if you are hoping to catch any really good deals on cruises, hotels, or vacation packages, be sure to sign up for our newsletter because we’ll make sure you’re the first to know. The Disney Wish Staycations and vacations close to home may not be the only budget tactic travelers employ. The Exepdia group gathered data from travel bookings and surveys and discovered a new trend they’re dubbing the “no normal” vacation. Expedia Brands president Jon Gieselman said, “we’re seeing a surge in trips to culture capitals, a new wave of interest in wellness retreats and a spike in demand for outdoor destinations beyond just beaches and mountains, not a new normal but people branching out to unexpected trends.” These destinations tend to NOT be in any top 10 vacation destinations list, they’re more out of the way, “unique” places, that also tend to be cheaper. International Travel Predictions Summer 2022 trends saw a LOT of international travel, whether that was the influx of international guests coming to visit Disney World – we’re pretty sure during August and September our reporters heard more British accents in the parks than ever – or Americans traveling abroad in droves. Is your passport ready? With pandemic restrictions ending and borders opening back up, people were once again able to travel nearly anywhere. But, will Rome, Paris, and London continue to be top vacation destinations? Booking.com has some travel predictions based on global booking data: Places like Brazil, Montenegro, India, Mexico, Italy, Malaysia, and Greece top the list of trending destinations for 2023 Some of those more far-flung locations back up that Expedia study on no-normal – has Montenegro been on your top vacations list before? No, probably not. One thing to note if you are planning to travel to Europe, by mid- to late-2023 a new electronic travel authorization will be needed to travel to countries within the Schengen Zone (includes France, Germany, Spain, among many others). Luckily it’s a quick online form that will cost about $7, and it’ll be good for three years That same Booking.com prediction also found that many people are looking for “nostalgic” vacations, with 61% of travelers planning to visit a theme park in 2023. We may continue to see more international visitors in Disney World, but maybe Disneyland Paris or Tokyo Disneyland will start to see more American visitors as well – some nostalgia WITH some culture…not a bad vacation, and a one-day ticket to Tokyo Disneyland is about $55-$65 as opposed to the cheapest one-day ticket at Disney World which is $109 – that flight might cost a whole lot more, but those park tickets are at least half the cost. Cinderella Castle in Tokyo Disneyland Surge Pricing is HERE We’ve been covering the major price jumps with Disney Genie+ – when those parks are super crowded expect to pay $29 for a single day, per person, to skip some ride standby lines. But, Disney World isn’t the only place experiencing surge pricing. If you use rideshares – like Uber & Lyft – frequently enough we’re sure you’ve gotten the little pop up message telling you surge pricing is activated because there’s currently higher demand and fewer drivers. This is actually something you’ll likely encounter at Disney World if you’re attempting to use rideshares to get to and from the airport or to get picked up and dropped off at the parks. Minnie Vans can be booked through the Lyft app, and sometimes have surge pricing. If you have a set time you need to be somewhere, you can schedule your trip in advance in Uber & Lyft apps, which might help you avoid some of that surge pricing since you’ll lock in your price when you book. But, if it’s a busy time for drivers, you may still need to wait a bit for a pickup. And if you’re planning on getting a car from a park right at park close, when everyone else is also leaving the park and trying to get a car, expect longer waits and higher prices. Airlines use a term called dynamic pricing, which is basically the same thing as surge pricing in that prices will rise during times of greater demand. Airlines have always had variable and changing pricing for seats, but this newer model means that two people could see two different prices based on the data that airline has collected about you from frequent flier programs and previous flight search data. Airlines have long used “surge pricing.” This form of surge pricing is a lot more specific and individualized and it’s aimed to determine how much YOU will spend on an airline ticket, along with adjusting for market conditions. This may work in your favor however, since it’s less expensive for airlines to keep a current customer than create new ones you may be more likely to see lower pricing if you are a frequent flier with a specific airline. But also consider using an incognito window or private browser to check out those flight prices ahead of logging into your account to be sure you are getting the lowest price. Surge pricing has kind of always been happening, but new technologies are making it easier to implement price changes faster, which makes it a lot more noticeable. Airlines, hotels, rideshares, vacation rentals, and Disney Genie+, all see price fluctuations based on supply and demand Now, those companies are able to track crowd levels, booking data, and purchase trends in real time and update prices accordingly. Higher prices help to balance out the demand, while lower prices are more enticing to those looking to buy – it all helps to spread out the crowds. How crowded is Disney World? Take Disney Genie+ for instance. That $29 price is what you’ll pay on some of the absolute busiest days in the parks, like Thanksgiving or Christmas weeks. The high price will dissuade a lot of people from buying it, and while those who do purchase it will probably be a higher number than some random weekday in the middle of January, it still won’t be unmanageable, and they’ll still find a benefit in the purchase. If Genie+ was still $15 on those super busy days, a LOT more people would buy it, making for much longer Genie+ lines and a potential sell-out for the day. While no one really likes surge pricing, it can help you to decide when to travel, as higher prices will likely correlate with more crowds, busier airports, and thus more delays and waiting. If you’re flexible, changing your trip by even a day or two can help you make the most of surge pricing. Orlando Airport is Getting Some MAJOR Updates If you’re lucky enough to fly into the brand new Terminal C at Orlando International – servicing mostly JetBlue and international arrivals – then you might want to save some time to just hang out there. 24 new restaurants have opened in the new terminal, including a Wine Bar George outpost and Cask & Larder Public House (operated by the folks at Polite Pig) – so you can try out two Disney World restaurants before you even leave the airport! Orlando International Airport’s new Terminal C If you are looking to fly into Orlando, there are new airlines and new routes that might help you save some money or get a direct flight when you’re used to only connecting flights: Starting in February 2023, Breeze Airlines will begin operating non-stop flights from Orange County, CA to Orlando, FL There are also direct Breeze flights from Charleston, SC and Tulsa, OK Other low-cost airlines have beefed up their routes in recent months with Frontier and Spirit both adding new cities to their lineup. If you’ve always taken the same airline when flying somewhere, it might pay to check out what else is available by doing a broader search. Our team likes using Google Flights, Kayak, or SkyScanner to quickly check multiple airlines and even multiple days of potential travel, you know if you want to beat those surge prices. This Secret App Can Help You Save BIG on Flights Your ID Might Not Be the RIGHT ID If you use your driver’s license as your ID at the airport, we want you to take a look at that real quick; is there a star in the top right corner? If not, you’re gonna want to get yourself to a DMV for an updated license and sometime in the next few months, too. Many DMVs are still operating with appointments rather than the old show up and take a number situation, so it may be a little less painful to get that new ID, but if you want to fly domestically after May 7, 2025, you will need that Real ID update. ©Department of Homeland Security Real ID is basically an added security and identity verification that was passed by Congress way back in 2005 as part of the 9/11 Commission’s recommendation that the Federal Government “set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver’s licenses.” Many states have already shifted to only Real IDs, but if you’re in one of those holdout states that pushed the deadline back several times, you may find yourself coming up to that deadline. State requirements may vary, but at a minimum, you must provide documentation showing: Full Legal Name Date of Birth Social Security Number Two Proofs of Address of Principal Residence Lawful Status If you don’t have a Real ID yet, but you do have a passport, you can use that at airports with no problem. You can expect to see some other changes in TSA security over the next year or so, including some updated security screenings. New x-ray scanners are being introduced at airports across the country that do not require travelers to remove liquids or electronics from their carry-on bags during screening.You will still have to take your shoes & belts off if you don’t have TSA pre-check, even if you do encounter these new scanners. Pre-check vs. Global Entry: What Should You Apply For Before Your Next Vacation? Prepare for the Return of Airline Change Fees Pandemic changes meant you didn’t need to be so concerned about booking a flight you might need to change or cancel later, but now airlines are starting to roll back some of those concessions, and you might be in for some hefty fees if you need to alter your trip. Things are going to vary airline to airline, but if you’re hoping for a flexible ticket beware of “Basic Economy”: These tickets cannot be changed or canceled for free on any airline; only book this ticket type if you know you won’t need to change your trip. Even if you can change or cancel your trip for free, that likely doesn’t mean you’ll see a refund in your bank account. Typically, you’ll get a credit to use for a future flight, which may be good or bad depending on your situation, just make note of expiration dates on those credits or vouchers. If you’re changing a flight, you may need to pay more to make up the difference in price between your original flight and the new one – though sometimes you might end up saving money by switching. Since airlines are trying to fill every single seat, airlines are often oversold and that might mean you could actually cash in big time by changing your flight last minute. This won’t work for most people, it’s a lot easier to deal with if you’re traveling solo, but a lot of airlines offer major credits (like $400+) to change your flight when they’ve overbooked. You will still need to show up to the gate at the time of your original flight, and you may not get your price request met, but if you’re really flexible with your schedule you might get some nice credits for a future flight just by waiting a few more hours at the airport. ©Delta The Way You Earn Airline and Hotel Points is Changing If you’re someone who likes to rack up travel points for airlines and hotels to earn free travel, and especially if you’re someone who likes using credit cards to do that, several companies just made it a little easier to get those points! The last few years, hotels and airlines have made it a bit easier to earn elite status, but things are starting to move back to pre-pandemic point requirements, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make your way to free hotel breakfasts, flight upgrades, and more. United Airlines is updating its MileagePlus program The threshold number of qualifying miles and requirements to get status with United Airlines has gone up, in some categories as much as 60%, but they’ve made it a lot easier to rack up points with United credit card holders getting double the number of points per transaction. Delta Air Lines Medallion Program While many of the higher tiers will be harder to reach staring in 2023, the lowest tier – Silver – won’t see requirements shift until 2024. ©Air Canada Other travel points updates: American Airlines AAdvantage has switched things up so credit card holders are able to rack up more points without even booking flights by offering higher redemption among other categories like restaurants and hotel booking. Southwest is increasing the threshold to qualify for their Companion Pass – an elite status that lets a designated traveler fly with you every time you purchase or use award points for a flight. Starting in January 2023, you’ll need 10,000 more points to earn this perk IHG – Hilton, Hyatt, and Marriott – have all increased the number of points to reach elite status, but if you’ve earned the points when they were easier to attain, these hotels are making it easier to keep that status by offering special promotions and extending status windows. The fastest way to get and keep elite status for airlines and hotel groups is to use their credit cards, or credit cards that partner with those companies. This is not a good strategy for everyone, but if you are interested or already a cardholder, be sure to look up these new changes to how you earn points because it seems to be a trend sweeping the industry If you’re looking for something really unique that will lock in a whole bunch of travel for 2023, check out Frontier’s All You Can Fly Pass. This pass will get you unlimited flights 300+ days out of the year for a full 12 months starting in May 2023. Prices vary right now, they started at just $599, but as of writing & recording they’re up to $799 with a full retail value of $1,999. This is definitely an interesting marketing strategy to help lock in flight purchases and to keep seats filled ahead of a potential recession. Dopamine Travel is a Hot New Trend. But What Is It? We’ll be looking for more dramatic deals and opportunities so stick with us here at DFB! 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The post Nasty Travel Problems You're Not Prepared For in 2023 first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

The 2023 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend is officially here! runDisney can sometimes bring the crowds! Part of the runDisney series of races, from January 4th to the 7th, 2023 runners and their families will descend on the parks to take part and enjoy a nice Disney vacay. If you’re planning an upcoming vacation during a marathon weekend (or just happen to be visiting this weekend) you might be interested in how busy the parks will be. We took a walk around and the crowds are a little unexpected! When we first arrived at Animal Kingdom this morning, the crowds were actually less than usual. Animal Kingdom entrance gates However, by 10AM, we started seeing guests start to fill the park. Maybe the rainy weather or the need for a nap after a long race was holding them back! Crowds starting to appear The rain definitely brought people indoors. Check out how hopping Creature Comforts was! Creature Comforts crowds The line for Kilimanjaro Safari went all the way back to Tusker House. Long lines Animal Kingdom wasn’t the only park with crowds though! Over in EPCOT, guests were braving the weather to head into the World Showcase. Lots of ponchos Here is a look at the area by Joy of Tea! Perfect day for tea! We’re only on the second day of the marathon weekend, so stay tuned to our site for more updates on crowds and traffic! Want to know when runDisney events are taking place in 2023 and 2024? See all the dates here! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Don't Miss Out on Any Disney Fun! Pre-Order Your Copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining Today! With more than 750 pages, the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining is full of tips and planning tools developed by Disney World experts over 30+ years of visits. We've done the research for you, so you'll know just which spots will uniquely suit your family's needs! With mini-reviews of every single restaurant, bar, lounge, kiosk and more; an entire chapter on the best snacks in Disney World; full Disney Dining Plan analysis (and how to get FREE dining); and a full chapter on discounts and deals; you'll have everything you need to plan your best vacation yet. Click here to pre-order your copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining E-book with code WDW2023 to save 25% off the cover price today! Use code WDW2023 at check-out for 25% off the cover price today! http://www.disneyfoodblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/ready-to-shop-button.png Our guides are backed by a 100% money-back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose. What time of year do you prefer to visit Disney to avoid the crowds? Share your tips below! The post PHOTOS: Even the Rain Couldn't Keep the Marathon Weekend CROWDS Away in Disney World first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

There’s a new way to save on dining in Disney World! Eats from Liberty Tree Tavern Thanks to Disney’s new Dining Card Promo, you can get what is essentially a gift card that you can only use at select Disney World restaurants. If you’re staying at a Disney hotel, you might be eligible to receive one! Disney had previously mentioned that you could receive up to $750 in money to spend on food, but it looks like that may not always be the case — here’s what we know. The Dining Promo Card is basically a gift card that you can use at select Disney World restaurants. The card is included with certain hotel reservations, and if you have a qualifying Disney hotel reservation, you’ll receive the promo card in your email once you check into your reservation. The card’s value depends on your vacation arrival date, how long you’re staying at the hotel, and which hotel you choose. Skillet and Bread from ‘Ohana Originally, Disney shared that the offer is good for up to a $750 Dining Promo Card, but a reader tipped us off that they were able to actually get MORE money on a Promo Card after booking! They said they booked a 7-night stay and were told they would have $1,050 to spend on food. Disney’s Grand Floridian We looked into it a bit further, and saw that the Disney World website actually states the following: $750 Disney Dining Promo Card for stays at select Disney Deluxe and Deluxe Villa Resorts. The value of the Disney Dining Promo Card is determined by Disney Resort hotel and length of stay. One Disney Dining Promo Card per room—valid for packages that include up to $1,000 on a Disney Dining Promo Card. If a package includes more than $1,000 on a Disney Dining Promo Card, the value will be distributed across more than one Disney Dining Promo Card. Disney’s BoardWalk Inn So, it looks like you CAN get more than $750 on a Dining Promo Card. If the package includes more than $1,000 on a Promo Card, it will be distributed across more than one card. This makes sense since the card’s value depends on how many nights you’re staying and which resort you’ve booked! The Dining Promo Card offer is valid for stays between June 25th and September 14th, 2023. Guests must book a minimum 4-night stay at a Disney World hotel with at least 4 days of park tickets in order to be eligible to receive the card. Head over to the Disney World website to book if you want to take advantage of this new deal. BoardWalk Deli spread If you’re looking for more information on the Dining Promo Card, check out how to get the MOST out of your Dining Card here and you can see all the restaurants that are a good value here. Stay tuned to DFB for the latest Disney World dining news and more! How To Book and Use Your Disney Dining Promo Card Need Disney Restaurant Advice? We’ve Got EVERYTHING You Need to Know The ONLY Disney Dining Planning Tool You’ll Need Is Here – Get the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining! See Our Complete Disney World Restaurants Guide Check Out the 19 Best Restaurants in Disney World in 2022 Our Top 50 All-Time Best Disney Dining Tips These Are the BEST Meals in Disney World for Under $15 Ranking Every Single Magic Kingdom Restaurant Ranking Every Single EPCOT Restaurant Ranking Every Single Restaurant in Disney’s Hollywood Studios Ranking Every Single Restaurant in Disney’s Animal Kingdom Ranking Every Single Restaurant in Disney Springs Ranking Every Single Restaurant in Disney World Hotels – Cheap Eats Edition Check Out Dozens of Disney Dining Tips and Tools Learn All About Tipping at Disney Restaurants How to Use Mobile Order in Disney World Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the latest Disney food news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Will you be booking the Dining Promo Card? Let us know in the comments! The post How to Get OVER 00 With Disney World's New Dining Offer! first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Okay, so we love Disney World snacks, and yes, we do love them even better when they’re fried. Pinocchio Village Haus Restaurant Fried corndog nuggets? Yes, please! Fried pickles? We want more! Funnel cakes? Give us ALL the fried dough. Speaking of fried dough, though, we had a new Disney World snack today that made us question the whole fried dough situation… Now, you probably read our title and thought this post was going to be about subpar pizza. But alas, today it is about a different kind of dough! Over at Pinocchio’s Village Haus in Magic Kingdom, you can now get Masaladas. In case you don’t know what that is, a Masalada is a Portuguese fried donut made with flat rounds of yeasty dough. So sort of like flat donut holes. Disney’s version features the flavors of Hawaii and is served with a mango-coconut sauce and comes with a white chocolate “Aloha” coin. Masaladas We didn’t think you could go wrong with fried dough, but what we got was dense, tough, and not as warm as we thought it should be. We expected light and fluffy, these are NOT THAT. In fact, we had to do a LOT of chewing just to get that fried dough down. We’re not sure if it was because we waited a little bit to take photos before eating these, but they even seemed a little cold when we first got them. They were…tough However, the sauce was thin, buttery, and super tasty. The coconut flavor is mild — you can taste way more mango here, but it gives it a nice tanginess. The sauce is good, though! If you’d like to try the Masaladas for yourself, they’re available for $6.19. We have had a love/hate relationship with Pinocchio’s in the past. Sometimes their new eats are on point, and other times we are just left disappointed. Sadly, this was one of the disappointed times. We could have gotten a bad batch because the idea and flavors truly are there. Ours just wasn’t fresh enough to be enjoyable, unfortunately. We’ll keep trying ALL the new snacks that arrive in Disney World, so stay tuned to DFB for more reviews! WE KNOW – there are SO many great snacks at Disney World! How do you choose (we don’t want to choose but will blow our budget on Day 1 otherwise)? We’ve got you covered! We have reviewed nearly EVERY snack available at Disney World, and we’ve written a series of DFB Guides about them! DFB Guide and Snacks Bundle Check out our DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining + Snacks Bundle for all the details you need to plan your snackin’ and spending. You can even download them to your smartphone – it’ll be like we’re right there with you in the parks! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Don't Miss Out on Any Disney Fun! Pre-Order Your Copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining Today! With more than 750 pages, the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining is full of tips and planning tools developed by Disney World experts over 30+ years of visits. We've done the research for you, so you'll know just which spots will uniquely suit your family's needs! With mini-reviews of every single restaurant, bar, lounge, kiosk and more; an entire chapter on the best snacks in Disney World; full Disney Dining Plan analysis (and how to get FREE dining); and a full chapter on discounts and deals; you'll have everything you need to plan your best vacation yet. Click here to pre-order your copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining E-book with code WDW2023 to save 25% off the cover price today! Use code WDW2023 at check-out for 25% off the cover price today! http://www.disneyfoodblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/ready-to-shop-button.png Our guides are backed by a 100% money-back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose. Have you ever tried Masaladas? Let us know in the comments! The post Pinocchio Village Haus Let Us Down in Magic Kingdom…But Not for the Reason You Think first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

2023 is going to be a BIG year of changes for Disney World! Beach Club Resort in Disney World We’ll have new additions at EPCOT and Magic Kingdom, but we’re also getting some major updates at the hotels. Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is getting a new Disney Vacation Club building, the BoardWalk is getting a bit of an overhaul, and now, another resort has been added to that list! Disney has announced that the Beach Club Resort will start getting room refurbishments on January 7th. The updates will last through April 2023. Beach Club Resort During this time, amenities will remain available for use at the resort, and while you might hear some construction noise during the daytime, guests shouldn’t hear any disruptions between dusk and 9AM. Disney hasn’t yet revealed what the refurbishment will look like, but we’ll keep watching for any announcements or photos. Beds at Beach Club We can’t wait to see the refreshed hotel rooms! This is just the next in a long line of hotel room updates, including past changes at the Grand Floridian, Polynesian, Contemporary, Wilderness Lodge, and more. We’ve also seen significant room updates at the All-Star Resorts. Stay tuned to DFB for the latest Disney World resort news and all the things you need to know before your next trip to the Most Magical Place on Earth! Click Here to See a Full List of Changes Announced for the Disney World Hotels! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Don't Miss Out on Any Disney Fun! Pre-Order Your Copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining Today! With more than 750 pages, the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining is full of tips and planning tools developed by Disney World experts over 30+ years of visits. We've done the research for you, so you'll know just which spots will uniquely suit your family's needs! With mini-reviews of every single restaurant, bar, lounge, kiosk and more; an entire chapter on the best snacks in Disney World; full Disney Dining Plan analysis (and how to get FREE dining); and a full chapter on discounts and deals; you'll have everything you need to plan your best vacation yet. Click here to pre-order your copy of the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining E-book with code WDW2023 to save 25% off the cover price today! Use code WDW2023 at check-out for 25% off the cover price today! http://www.disneyfoodblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/ready-to-shop-button.png Our guides are backed by a 100% money-back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose. Have you stayed at the Beach Club recently? Tell us in the comments! The post Room CHANGES Announced for Beach Club Resort in Disney World first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article