Day 1
Day 2

Day 3

Another glorious day at sea ahead of you. The jog around the promenade yesterday was nice but today you want to check out the exercise equipment so you quietly get dressed so as to not disturb your snoring family and you head to the Senses Fitness Area on Deck 11. There’s one last treadmill with an unobstructed view of the ocean so you grab it, ipod funneling tunes into your ears, and proceed with having the most serene work out of your life.

After an hour you return to your stateroom to find your family has gotten up and dressed so you hurriedly get ready because by now you are famished and today your family gets to have breakfast with the best of the best Disney characters! Your character breakfast is at Animator’s Palate, so you head there and sit at your table, order your breakfast, and await the parade of characters, autograph books and pens at the ready!

You thought to bring your Navigator to breakfast so as you’re all bemoaning how full you are you look it over to decide how to spend your day (keeping in mind that you have a 2pm massage scheduled at Senses Spa). The pool was pretty busy during yesterday’s at sea day so you decide it’s a good day to explore more of what the inside of the ship has to offer. At 9:45 there’s an activity in D Lounge called “Disney Animation: Cartoon Physics” where you’ll learn how to draw action with simple animation techniques. In the end you all have souvenirs to bring back home and the knowledge that your kids can draw better than you. Humiliation aside, you had a really great time and you know you’ll be remembering that activity for a long time to come.

You stick around in D Lounge and buy your way into $5,000 Mega Jackpot Bingo which turns out to be a rousing good time and before you know it it’s time to eat some lunch. You head back up to Cabanas for a light buffet lunch before heading off in different directions. You escort the kids to the clubs and you adults head off to do the New World Wine Tasting that you signed up (and payed) for earlier in the trip. You head for Ooh La La on Deck 4. You learn about, sniff, and taste multiple fabulous wines and make some grown up friends in the process.

Almost 2pm so you head off to Senses Spa & Salon on Deck 11 for your Elemis Aroma Stone Therapy, where you can expect to harness “the ancient power of Basalt stones to melt away tension and deliver a deep-penetrating therapy for the muscles. The heated volcanic stones are placed on key energy points while warmed oils are worked gently into the body with traditional massage techniques. This holistic approach to relaxation is as sensual as it is effective.” The 75 minutes tick by and you feel amazing, though maybe it’s a good time for a nap. You head back to the stateroom and find it quiet and empty so you lie down to take a nap.

You are awakened an hour later by your family who have returned from their independent adventures. You’ve got a good hour before dinner so you decide it’s a good time to do the Midship Detective Agency, where you are given a game card that brings artwork throughout the ship to life, allowing you to solve a mystery. It’s also a great way to visit spots of the ship you hadn’t been to before now. Just as you are solving the mystery you realize it’s time to head to dinner.

Tonight it’s cruise casual attire and you’re dining in Animator’s Palate, a magical restaurant where Disney animation is celebrated. You’ll experience Pacific Rim dishes as you watch the restaurant come alive around you. While you sip on a Rennaissance (a cocktail mix of Vodka Raspberry, Triple Sec, Raspberry Purée, Lime Juice, Sparkling Wine) you’re having to choose between Ahi Tuna Tartare, Wild Mushroom Risotto and Porcini Twist, Taleggio Cheese Flatbread, and Roma Tomato and Portobello Mushrooms on Polenta Cake for your appetizer (you decide to go with the Ahi Tuna Tartare). For your second choice it’s tough to choose between “Mulan” Chilled Gazpacho, Creamy Butternut Squash Soup, Confetti Tomato Salad, and Smoked Salmon and Trout with Goat Cheese Salad, that last one winning out. There are eight amazing main courses to choose from, but you narrow it down to either the Phyllo-Wrapped Salmon Fillet or the Shere Khans Asian Marinated Beef Short Ribs. Your significant other arrived at the same dilemma and so you decide to each get one and split it. Win win! You really can’t imagine eating another bite but the desserts all sound so incredible you decide to go with Animator’s Sweet Temptations, a Trio of Strawberry Sable, Cranberry and Orange Cheesecake, and Double-Fudge Chocolate Cake. It was the right decision.

Dinner finishes up right in time for you and your family to head over to the Walt Disney Theater also on the 3rd deck after grabbing snacks from Preludes. Tonight’s show is “Wishes”, a story about a trio of friends who take a trip down a wishing well where they discover the connection between children becoming adults and adults who stay in touch with being a kid at heart.

After the show you consult your Navigator and notice there will be characters posing for photos in the lobby atrium (Mickey, Remy, Minnie, and Emile!!!), so you head on over so the kids can get their photos taken and gain some precious character autographs (and you sneak in a complete family photo or two). Time for a family dance party, so you head over to D Lounge for D Tunes, where you’ll get to dance, enter contests, and possibly even win prizes! But mostly you’re just having the best time hanging out with your kids. You stick around after for some family karaoke right here in D Lounge (this D Lounge is a seriously happening place you’ve come to realize).

As you and your family make the journey back to your stateroom you reflect on what a great day you had as you enjoyed equal parts “me” time and family time. Two days at sea were truly magical but you’re excited for a day at St. Maarten tomorrow. You fall asleep with thoughts of paradise running through your head.

Day 2

It’s just about 8am and the family is starting to stir so you get up and peek out the curtains to see the sun is shining on the horizon on this, your first morning on your Disney cruise! It’s an entire day at sea to do with what you like.  Some fun, some relaxing, but first some exercise. While the rest of your family comes to life you don some jogging clothes and head for the 4th deck promenade, where you can jog or walk around the entire ship 2 1/2 times and you’ll have done a mile. It’s peaceful and quiet and by the time you are done you’ve worked up an appetite. Grateful for the split baths you join your family in getting ready for the day and then you head to Cabanas for a buffet breakfast. You had good intentions about starting off with some yogurt and fresh fruit for breakfast but the mounds of eggs, bacon, pancakes, waffles, pastries, and so much more are ruining them. Plate piled high with food you find a table and decide on coffee and orange juice for your beverages and sit down to enjoy.

It’s coming upon 10am so you glance at your Navigator to see what you might like to do next. You see there’s a Family Crafts session in La Piazza in which you’d learn how to make origami flowers. You always wanted to learn so as a family you head all the way down to deck 4.laxing, but first some exercise. While the rest of your family comes to life you don some jogging clothes and head for the 4th deck promenade, where you can jog or walk around the entire ship 2 1/2 times and you’ll have done a mile. It’s peaceful and quiet and by the time you are done you’ve worked up an appetite. Grateful for the split baths you join your family in getting ready for the day and then you head to Cabanas for a buffet breakfast. You had good intentions about starting off with some yogurt and fresh fruit for breakfast but the mounds of eggs, bacon, pancakes, waffles, pastries, and so much more are ruining them. Plate piled high with food you find a table and decide on coffee and orange juice for your beverages and sit down to enjoy.

After Origami you decide it’s time to hit the pools so you head to your stateroom to get changed and head back up to deck 11 where you find some lounge chairs to use as command central and you send your troops off to have a splashing good time. You’ve brought your Kindle but before you settle in for a good read you grab a Yellow Bird (hey, it’s noon somewhere, right?), the drink of the day from a crew member. Between the beverage, the book, and the gentle sea breeze you’re having a pretty perfect morning.

Little people approach complaining of hunger (after that giant buffet breakfast? “Impossible!” you say) but you know you can just saunter over to Flo’s Cafe to get pizza from Luigi’s, grilled items from Tow-Mater’s or other delectable items from Fillmore’s Favorites. You scarf down your finds and then, because you can, you get ice cream from Frozone Treats.

Around 4pm you decide the family should head back to the stateroom for showers and to get ready for dinner at Enchanted Garden, the next restaurant in your dining rotation. Once everyone is cleaned up and in their formal wear (It’s formal night!) you’ve got 30 minutes to spare so you head to the Lobby Atrium for the Captain’s Reception where you can have your photo taken with the captain, meet some of the ship’s officers and enjoy a cocktail. Not a bad way to pass some time.

Dinner tonight at Enchanted Garden is Continental Market so you can expect appetizers like the Ahi Tuna and Avocado Tower and the North Atlantic Lobster ravioli, soups like Curried Carrot and Apple Soup and salads like the baby spinach. For the main course you can look forward to Grilled NY Strip Steak, Pearl-Barley Cakes with Shallots, Leeks, and Rosemary, Pan-seared Sea Bass and so much more. Cap all that off with a Banana Foster Sundae or a “Sacher” Chocolate Torte. Of course this is only a small selection of all that you could choose from. You even discover if you don’t like what you ordered you can get something else. No questions asked.

No time for a food induced coma, it’s time to go see “Disney’s Aladdin: A Musical Spectacular”. You’re ready for some wacky Genie hi-jinx and some Prince Ali and Jasmine romance so you head into the Walt Disney Theater to enjoy the show.

Post show it’s time for the kids to head to their respective clubs while you take in a movie at the Buena Vista theater. You’re still full from dinner and you’re looking forward to some dancing later so you decide a movie should help things settle until then.

After the movie you’re feeling great and ready for some live entertainment! You head to The Tube where you can just catch a juggling act that’ll be going on for the next 30 minutes and then it’s dance party time with “London Rocks!”. By 11 you’ve danced your heart out and your kids have made it an amazing 3 hours in the clubs. You’ve had an amazing first day at sea and so you collect your kids (who, by the way, were busy making flubber, and playing hide and seek and Pictionary, so don’t feel guilty that they were in there so long) and retire to your stateroom to call it a day.

If you have any questions about what to expect on day 2 please feel free to ask by contacting me.

The show begins with the ever familiar Star Wars music as a robed and hooded figure emerges onto the stage.  After pacing back and forth, he throws back his hood to reveal that he is the Jedi Master.  The young Padawans have been outfitted in brown robes,  and are led onto the stage by the Master’s assistant.  The Jedi Master spends a few minutes talking about the importance of what they are about to do and has them repeat the Jedi Oath.  There is a short lesson on how to activate the light saber, followed by the Master teaching them a short light saber routine.

All of a sudden the Jedi Master senses that there is a disturbance in the Force.  The Padawans are ushered over to the side and the doors open.  Out step two Stormtroopers—could Darth Vader himself be far behind?   Smoke billows through the doors, and out steps Darth Vader.  Vader stalks back and forth across the stage, making threats and encouraging the Padawans to join him on the Dark Side.  The Jedi Master tells Vader that the Padawans will never go to the Dark Side.  Then one by one they are given the chance to take the ultimate test to see if they can defeat the Dark Side!  The Jedi Master makes humorous comments through the different match ups and eventually the Padawans send Vader away.  The Jedi Master praises them for their bravery and each Padawan is given a certificate proclaiming that they are true Jedi Knights.

How to Sign up:

Potential Padawans are to report to the queue outside the ABC Sound Studio at park opening. Twelve guests between the ages of 4 and 12 years of age will be selected for each show. The young Jedis-to-be are then instructed to arrive 30 minutes prior to the assigned show so that they can receive further special instructions. Be there early! The Academy has limited capacity, so it’s first come, first sabered.  You must sign up to participate in the shows.

Things to Know:

• Be sure to check the Times Guide at Disney’s Hollywood Studios for the schedule and show times.
• Since this is an outdoor show, it is subject to cancellation due to inclement weather.
• Show times are subject to change.

A PhotoPass Photographer takes a bunch of photos throughout the show and gives each child/parent a special Jedi Photo Pass Card.  You can load these to your Photo Pass account when you get home.  Or stop at a Photo Pass Location to have some printed out.

May the Force be with you!!

written by Jennifer Hart, specialist in Disney Destinations

Welcome to the first post in a series of seven where you’ll get an inside peek at what a 7-night Disney cruise is like. The Disney Cruise Line has four boats and a myriad of itineraries and cruise lengths to choose from. In this series we’ll be experiencing a 7-night Eastern Caribbean cruise on the Fantasy.

Day 1

Today’s the day! You’ve been counting down to your Disney cruise thanks to the widget on your smartphone, a daily reminder that until now, you were not on vacation. You are on vacation now though, that counter says 0 days (try not to think about how the countdown now goes backwards) and you’re wondering what exactly lies in front of you. Every Disney cruise vacation is different for everyone and each cruise you take will have its own batch of memories. Let’s at least try to give you a glimpse at what you can expect! 

Your first task will be to get to the port. You’ve either arranged to take the Disney Cruise Line ground transportation (a fun way to get in the spirit of things), or hired a car or shuttle service to get you to your port. Some of you may even have driven yourselves there. Once you arrive at port there will be Disney cast members / crew members ready to take your bags from you. Make sure you’ve got the luggage tags you should have received with your stateroom number printed on them already on  your luggage. Say goodbye to your bags because the next time you see them they’ll be in your stateroom.

You’ll head through security with your day bags, proper identification, and your signed Disney Cruise Line contract. Proceed through the check-in line. You can also register any kids in the Oceaneer’s Club and Lab while you wait to board during your window.

When your boarding number is finally called you gather up all of the belongings that spilled out when your kids were looking for entertainment and snacks and get in line along with the other people in your boarding group. You’ll have been given a key to the world card already and you’ll give it to a crew member standing at a podium that will then scan your key and grant you passage on to the boat! You are almost there, but first be prepared for the first of MANY photo ops.

After getting your photo taken you’ll be greeted by a crew member dressed all in white who will ask your family name, because the next thing you know there is someone announcing the arrival of your family to the entire lobby atrium. It’s pretty grand.

If you were early birds and you’ve gotten onto the boat right around lunch time the very first thing you might want to do is get your first meal onboard. Your room won’t be ready yet so you might as well go eat! A buffet sounds like a good way to start so you head to the pool deck where you’ll find a buffet restaurant loaded with mounds of delicious food.

After stuffing yourselves silly you decide it’s a good time to hit the pools. After all, you were smart enough to pack your swim suits in your day bags. Grab some towels from the bins on the pool deck and find some pool side chairs to lounge in when you’re not actively in the water. Grab a kid and head for the AquaDuck if there’s not much of a line. Else just enjoy the pools or the hot tub, sounds of the poolside jam with DJ Kurtis (or whomever) in your ear and a Paradise Punch (drink of the day!) in a fun take home cup. Relax, you’re on vacation!

You realize it’s about 3 o’clock and you haven’t gone to see your stateroom yet! You gather your stuff up (again) and kindly put your dirty towels in the dirty towel bin and wind your way to your room. Your bags may have shown up, they may not. Don’t worry, they will! If they have you might just go ahead and unpack. Spread out, you’ll be here 7 nights!

Your Navigator says there’s a mandatory drill at 3:45 so when the alarms sound you head out the door and to your designated area where you’ll be presented with safety information. It’s not a very long drill and before you know it it’s time to head up to the pool deck for the sail away party. Grab another cocktail and some glittery streamers. It’s party time! There’s singing, dancing, yelling, clapping, and when it’s time to push off from the port a magical horn tune is blown and you can just see through the crowd to beyond the boat that land is starting to move away from you.

You’re on a Disney cruise! Sing, dance, yell, and wave those streamers around! It’s ok, your coworkers can’t see you!

The party wraps up around 5:15 and you’ve got dinner at 5:45 so you do a bit of walking around the boat, then head to your room to put on your “cruise casual” (no shorts, no sandals) attire for dinner and head to the first restaurant in your rotation.

Let’s imagine the first restaurant in your rotation is Royal Court. You can expect French food for dinner, how fancy! You are escorted to your table, which has a number on it. You’ll eat at the same number every night. You are introduced to your server and assistant server, who will be with you every evening for dinner. They will know you by name and get to know your dining preferences. If you’re a smaller group you may also be meeting your table mates as well. Don’t be nervous because after 7 days with this crew you’ll have created new friends.

By the time you’ve made it through all 3 courses (you did have a Mickey bar for dessert, right? It’s ok, your coworkers still can’t see you) it’s nearly time for the first show you’ll enjoy in the Walt Disney Theater, A Fantasy Come True. You grab some snacks at Preludes and get your preferred seats. Enjoy the show!  

The show is over but you’ve got all night ahead of you. For now you tour the boat some more, maybe listen to the live piano being played in the lobby atrium, but you’ve got a decision to make between a family friendly game show called Mirror Mirror or a family dance party. Or, throw the kids in the Oceaneer’s Lab or Club and head to La Piazza for some live music. You decide on some grown up time and while away the time until your wave phone buzzes alerting you that the kids are ready to be picked back up. It’s almost 10:15 so you grab the kids and run to Family Superstar Karaoke where you sing your hearts out until 11pm.

It’s the first day of vacation and you’re not quite ready to throw in the towel but it’s time to wind down a bit. You head to your stateroom, where you realize the beds have been turned down, there’s a towel monkey hanging from a clothes hanger, chocolates are on the bed and the next day’s Navigator is waiting for you. You call up room

service (which is complimentary around the clock) and decide on another Mickey bar, bacon, and some chicken wings. I promise your coworkers can’t see you. Go ahead, it’s safe.

Your family gets ready for bed using the split baths and finally snuggle into your beds. The next day you’re at sea so you’ll have all day to enjoy the boat. Do you set an alarm, or just wait for the kids to wake you up? The decision is yours. You’re on vacation!

                            If you have any questions about what to expect on day 1 please feel free to ask by contacting me.  

by Carrielyn Louie, specialist in Disney Destinations
from Des Moines, WA
To learn more hints and tips for your Disney vacation, contact Carrielyn!

A day at a Disney park is like running a marathon. Stay well hydrated and have your feet in appropriate walking shoes or you won’t make it to the finish line!

1. Good shoes
   You need supportive athletic shoes that fit you correctly. If shoes don’t fit they will rub your feet in the wrong way, causing blisters. This is not the time for those cute wedge sandals you bought off Zappos.

2. Moisture wicking  socks
   Blisters are caused by  moist feet so wear moisture wicking socks which will keep your feet dry.

3. Toiletry bag
   A bag big enough to hold the content listed below, which you can then throw in your day bag but easily find should you need it.

4. Foot powder
   In addition to wearing moisture wicking socks you can sprinkle your feet and shoes with foot powder to help absorb extra moisture.

5. Moleskin (with adhesive backing)
   Check your feet on occasion for “hot spots”, potential blisters in the making. If you feel a blister coming on or find a potential hot spot put moleskin over the area to cushion it.

6. Sewing needle & matches/lighter
   If you do find yourself with a blister you’ll want to take care of it right away. First sterilize the sewing needle with either a lit match or a lighter. Allow the needle to cool before draining the blister. Do not attempt to remove any skin from the blister. The skin will act as a protective barrier while it heals.

7. Betadine & Neosporin
   After treating the blister treat the wound with betadine and antibacterial ointment (such as Neosporin) to ward off infection and help the healing process to begin.

8. Blister bandages
   Blister bandages have extra padding to help relieve the discomfort while also protecting the wound from dirt. Also, if you know you tend to get blisters in the same spots you can proactively apply a blister bandage before setting out for the day.

If you find yourself with sore feet and you forgot to pack your foot care kit call on Disney’s medics.
They’ll have everything you need to get back to enjoying the park. 

Don’t forget the good shoes! I forgot my shoes (how, I just do not know!) and wore shoes not meant for a marathon. Next thing I know I’m sporting Disney crocs, which at that point felt like absolute heaven, but I’m not sure how well they would have done in the long run.

Packing for a cruise can be a bit overwhelming and even for a seasoned pro it’s no small feat to pack for what is typically a family of 4 or more. There are items that any cruiser, regardless of cruise line, would want to pack, but with Disney there are some additional considerations. Here are some tips that should make creating your packing list a bit easier! 

1. Light jacket/hoody – Even if it’s a summer cruise in a typically hot and sunny place the boats in the evenings are on the move which results in an often really comfortable breeze that can also at times be rather chilly.Pirate duds – Disney throws a mean pirate party (topped off with fire works at sea!) and kids and adults alike really enjoy getting dressed up like pirates.

2. Shampoo (clarifying) – If you don’t swim regularly in a chlorinated pool you may not have a clarifying shampoo at the ready in your bathroom.

3. Passport and Photo ID – Required for most cruises but double check the requirements by asking your favorite travel agent.

4. Signed cruise contract – can’t get on the boat with out this. You’ll obtain the contract by signing in to the disneycruiseline.com website and looking up your cruise with your reservation number. Print it out, sign it, and bring it with you.

5. Chargers (smart phones, cameras, tablets, game devices)! – imagine the horror of having your beloved electronic device run out of batteries and not having a charger!

6. Power strip for all those chargers! – There are outlets in the state rooms but there aren’t usually enough outlets for all of your chargers.

7. Kindle (or, ok, an actual paper book) – The great thing about a cruise is the opportunity to relax! Make sure you’ve got some reading material for all that down time.

8. Garbage bags – for dirty laundry and wet swim suits.

9. Old hotel key – The Disney Dream and Fantasy state room lights and electronics (tv) are controlled by a key card slot just inside the door. The intention is for you to put your Key to the World card in that slot to turn on (and keep on) the lights but it might not always be the most convenient thing. An old hotel key will work just as well.

10. Luggage scale – If you’re traveling on an airline with a weight limit for checked baggage its really helpful to have a luggage scale available to make sure you’ve not gone over the limit.

11. Air freshener – Disney is an innovator in the cruise industry and as a result you’ll find a split bath in your state room. Even though the toilet is separate from the shower doesn’t mean you woul

    dn’t care for a little fresh scent from time to time.

12. Mesh shower organizer – if you relish in being organized then bringing along a mesh shower organizer will help you keep the bathroom uncluttered.

13. S hooks – These S shaped hooks can be used in so many ways, helping you create new ways to store and organize things.  Just make sure they aren’t metal, or scratch/damage your stateroom doors.

14. Meds (OTC & prescription) – The prescription meds might be a natural thing to think to pack but it helps to think about packing the over the counter meds that you might only use on occasion but which if you needed them you’d really rather not pay inflated prices.

15. Goggles – If you’ve got a kid that’s used to swimming with goggles you won’t want to forget them!

16. White-Noise Maker – For those that are addicted. Nothing worse than finding yourself in a comfy bed but unable to sleep because it’s just too quiet!

17. Alcohol – The Disney Cruise Line is unique in that they allow you to carry on alcohol (just make sure you physically carry it on to the ship rather than pack it in luggage that is being brought on board for you).

18. Sports bottle – use these to either stock up on water (available complimentary through the soda dispensers on the pool decks of the ships) as well as soda. Mix up alcohol beverages and tote them around the boat.

19. GPS – if you’re driving yourself to and from the airport and you’ve got your own GPS unit bring it along and not pay the extra at the rental car place. You may also find yourself with some extra time and with a GPS available you can go off route and make your way safely back.

Bonus Tip: Create a document with your packing lists that you can refine and edit for each trip. Feel free to start with this list.

What little girl doesn’t dream of being a princess?  What little girl doesn’t love tea parties?  My Disney Girl’s Perfectly Princess Tea Party combines them both into a magical event that your little princess will never forget.  At the age of 3, my daughter is all about playing dress up, having tea parties, and meeting the princesses.  So it seemed to be a perfect mother-daughter outing.

My Disney Girl’s Perfectly Princess Tea Party takes place in the Garden View Tea Room at the Grand Floridian.  This tea party is for children ages 3-12.  The little girls are encouraged to come dressed as their favorite princess.  There were several girls in princess costumes, but several also just dressed up instead of taking the princess route.    They all looked beautiful and the smiles on their faces lit up the room.

Upon checking in at the Tea Party, you are given a card with your little princess’ name on it.  The guests all anxiously wait in the lobby until it is time for the party to begin.  After an announcement they introduce Rose Petal who served as the hostess for the remainder of the party. Each girl was called one at a time by name…and that was when the magic began!  Rose Petal welcomed each little girl to the tea party by sprinkling them with rose petals and placing a beautiful tiara upon their head.  Then we were escorted to our table.

At that point my little girl’s eyes began sparkling with excitement as she saw what was waiting for her.  There was a beautiful Disney Girl doll dressed in a princess Aurora dress sitting in her chair.  She immediately picked up her baby doll and gave her the biggest hug you can imagine.  We took our seats and sat looking at the details around the room.  We were seated right next to the piano where Baron Branch sat playing various Disney music.   Baron Branch came to our table and talked to my daughter.  He asked her what her favorite Disney movie was.  She quickly responded Beauty and the Beast.  He told her to listen carefully and at some point he would play her a song from Beauty and the Beast.

Our table was decorated with a beautiful flower arrangement with a place card beside it announcing which princess was to sit at that table.  There were also tea cups with a folded napkin inside them.

After all the girls are seated Rose Petal comes in and begins telling her story.  She tells about how she was once a rose, who is turned human.  She then instructs the girls to unfold their napkins and place them in their laps.  When they do this another surprise awaits them as a pretty little charm bracelet drops out.  It had a pretty little pink heart on it.  This is a special gift from Princess Aurora.

Lunch is served.  The adults were served green tea, while the little princesses were served a special apple tea (AKA apple juice) in their very own tea pot.  The children also receive peanut butter and jelly sandwiches cut in the shape of hearts, turkey and cheese sandwiches, grapes, strawberries and mickey shaped sprinkles.  The adults received an assortment of sandwiches, cheese, and fruit.

The whole time we were eating Rose Petal entertained us with singing and stories.  She even taught the girls how to sing “Hail to the King, hail to the Queen, hail to the Princess Aurora” in sign language.  By this time almost everyone has finished eating and Rose Petal asked about birthday celebrations.  We sang Happy Birthday, and cake was served.  As Rose Petal finished up her part, she called the girls together in the center of the room to greet princess Aurora.  Princess Aurora comes in and the girls showed her the sign language song that they learned.  Then she led them in a parade around the room.

The girls went back to their seats to finish eating while Rose Petal and Aurora make their way around the room signing autograph books and posing for pictures with each little girl.  As Aurora comes around, her Page goes with her carrying a basket of real roses.  Each little girl receives a rose from Aurora as she signs their books, and the back of their place cards.

Aurora says good bye and the girls are told to line up for a Princess Parade through the lobby. As they walk through the lobby the employees all stop what they are doing to say hi to the princesses and to wave at them.  The girls are lead up the huge staircase to the second floor where they get their picture taken with the Aurora Doll.  They are then ushered into the gift shop where they get to name their doll, and receive a best friend certificate and scrapbook page kit.

My Disney Girl’s Perfectly Princess Tea Party is full of surprises and magic from the start until the final moment.  Every little girl there feels like a princess for the day and enjoys getting some royal treatment.  They also receive some amazing gifts that will serve as precious souvenirs of a magical morning spent with Princess Aurora and Rose Petal.  The only problem?  Your little girl is going to want to do it every time you go to Walt Disney World.  I know mine is wanting to do it again!

As you first walk in you are greeted by a Fairy Godmother in Training that will give you a personalized invitation and it is at this time the princess gets to choose her hairstyle and package.  There are three hairstyles, (Fairytale Princess, Disney Diva and Pop Princess) and four packages, (Coach, Crown, Courtyard and Castle) to choose from.  All packages include a hairstyle, makeup, a princess sash and tote.

When it is her turn, the princess is greeted by her very own Fairy Godmother in Training, who will then transform her into a princess while her family watches.  After the transformation is complete, the princess is announced to the whole room and sprinkled with lots of pixie dust.

This is a magical experience for any princess in your life, but if you have a prince they can have their own makeover with the Knight’s Package.  This package includes a hairstyle with gel, sword and shield.

All throughout the experience, Disney PhotoPass photographers are on hand to capture those magical moments and you can even have a photo shoot after the princess makeover is done.  If you have purchased the PhotoPass Plus for your vacation, then you will get these pictures will be included on your CD.

Reservations are highly recommended as the boutiques have a tendency to book up quickly. Let your Wish Upon a Star with Us travel specialist know if you are interested in visiting and we can make those reservations for you, fitting it into your vacation plan on just the right day.

 
by Heather Gallagher, St. Louis,  specialist in Disney vacations

What to do if thieves steal your Luggage!

By Dave L.

Last year my fiancée and I went to Spring Training in Jupiter Florida flying into West Palm Beach Airport on an airline that says “our bags fly free!”   What I didn’t  realize was our bags kept flying free!   I know most of us have no idea what will occur next.   I’ve been on flights dozens of times and nothing has ever happened.   I just couldn’t imagine my bags being misplaced or stolen.    Please read on because this article will make a difference if this ever happens to you.  It will also turn a bad situation into a minor inconvenience instead of ruining your vacation and costing your time and money.   This article may save you hundreds of dollars and headaches!   Believe me when I say the airline/s probably don’t put your inconvenience at the top of their list.  What I learned from this experience will change everything from who I fly with, how I pay for my ticket, how I will handle inconvenience and theft of my baggage. Most of all what I do before I even think about purchasing a ticket and how I pack my bag!  Keep in mind I learned from airline employees who told me they heard stories about employees were stealing bags, disgruntled employees throwing bags away, groups of thieves were targeting certain airports picking up bags as they came off the carousel  and if someone challenged them saying they got the wrong bag and moving on, and people making a living off stolen luggage.  Just Google this and you will be surprised at the number of stories.  More surprising is the lack of airport security at the point of “baggage claim!”

When we landed at West Palm Beach we sat in seats near the wing of the plane and watched as baggage handlers unloaded our bags.  Three bags total;  a golf bag with distinctive black and silver stripes, a Travel Pro suitcase with a bright blue “Velcro aftermarket handle cover” and a large gray bag with a bright “orange Velcro” aftermarket handle cover.  As we watched the baggage handlers unload the bags and stack them my fiancée was more worried about her bag on the bottom of the pile of suitcases and the damage it may do to:  jewelry, electronics, and hair dryer/curling iron…etc…

When we arrived at the baggage claim the carousel was turning and people had already retrieved their bag/s.  I thought, wow this is efficient! I picked up my golf clubs on the second or third turn around the carousel but our suitcases never appeared!   When the carousel stopped our suitcases were nowhere to be found.  We then went to the XXXX   baggage claim center.  The lady there didn’t really seem concerned and assured us we would probably get our bags the next day.   I being honest told her the golf clubs were claimed by me and that wasn’t an issue.   Having said that I asked her about the surveillance cameras in case someone stole our luggage.  Much to my surprise “THERE ARE NO SURVEILLANCE CAMERAS IN THE BAG CLAIM AREA!”   Think about this……we go through several security check points and are screened over and over.  Yet someone can come in the basement of the airport and steal from you, me, the airlines without a thought!

After making out our lost/misplaced baggage report the lady at the counter told us they would allow us $25 a person inconvenience fees per day but we would need receipts.  Receipts that proved we bought toiletries, underwear, socks, t-shirts, pants, etc.    Really, how far does $25 go?  By the way do you know the airlines deducts the $25 per day daily claim from their “Maximum payout” if you luggage is never discovered!  One St Louis Cardinal baseball jersey is approximately $100.   Ok so I’m only allowed to wear a jersey and no underwear…you have to set priorities!

What I would later learn I will share with you so you won’t be so miserable.   First and foremost check out the credit card companies who you use to purchase your airline ticket with.  Did you know some of them allow up to $1,000 a day in inconvenience “purchases” if your luggage is lost.   Then ask them how many days they will allow the inconvenience “purchases.”     If you luggage is misplaced you can immediately go and purchase replacement clothing.    Here is another tip:   check with the airline you  intend to fly.   I learned jewelry  cameras, prescription eyeglasses, and my luggage (expensive bag)  is not covered.  I’m sure  currency and other items are not covered.    Usually what is covered is clothing,  and toiletries, period!   So carry a carry on bag with your valuables because if it is in your possession it won’t be lost.   Add to your one carry on a change of night clothes and cosmetics/medications/toiletries.

Here is what I learned about checked luggage.   When I was at the lost luggage line the lady behind the counter asked me,  “did you take a picture of your articles in the bag before your closed it.”  I told her I thought that when you said my bags fly free… they would fly with me!      Here is the lesson from this discussion.  First keep receipts of all your clothing purchases in case you fly then you have a back up copy of value.  Second, take a picture of those clothes you put in checked baggage.   Even if you have all that information expect about 1/3 to ¼ of the value you claim.  They will pay the claim based on a lump sum so you never know how they value what you put in your bag.  A good rule of thumb, put used clothing in your checked bag, never put new clothing in your checked bag!     Also any clothing that is one of a kind (like a world series jersey) the airline will not pay for one of a kind item.  Never pack jewelry, electronics (cameras, phone charges etc), cash, and don’t use an expensive suitcase.

Here is a GREAT TIP!   Purchase your ticket with the Credit Card Company that gives you the most for inconvenience and replacement.  You may have to shop around but get a good credit card company that will take care of you.  Had I called my credit card company that I purchased the ticket with they would have allowed me $600 for inconvenience.  I would have not had a $25 dollar limit.   Ask your airline what their lost baggage policy is?  Once you know that factor pack accordingly and carry on a full bag of your most valuable and non replaceable items.

Last if not least really get upset with the airlines.  I later learned that my ticket agent should have given me a free bag of toiletries and a shirt/short combo to sleep in.  So lets make a short recap of tips:

Purchase airline tickets with a credit card company that covers lost items immediately!

Second pack only items that are covered by theft.

Third take pictures of clothing and keep clothing receipts so you can claim your lost items ( expect about 1/3 of what you paid for it).

Fourth IMMEDIATELY  make a report of the theft and demand the airlines give you a temporary bag.

Fifth race to the baggage claim (at least one person if more than one of you are travelling).  This prevents thieves grabbing your suitcase and running out the door before you arrive.

Sixth put a distinctive mark on your bag and don’t buy name brand luggage that can be sold at flea markets or pawn shops.  Mark the tags on your clothing.

Seventh  Call your credit card company before you fly and see how much money  is allowed immediately if your luggage is lost.  That allows you to go out and purchase as much replacement clothing as possible.

Eight  Pack as much used and cheaper clothing into your checked bag.   Wear good clothes including shoes on the plane and put easy to replace items in your checked bag.