R. D. G.

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R. D. G. posted an article on - Jan 7, 2012, 4:55 pm
After a prolonged transition away from the class structure featured onboard traditional ocean liners, many cruise lines are once again embracing the segmenting of passengers into different categories, offering a number of special perks to a select group willing to pay the price.  “Clubs,” “Ha...
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Sparkle Mickey

R. D. G. posted an article on - Jan 6, 2012, 8:46 pm
Small, golden Mickeys hidden in the bling of the beautiful lobby chandelier on Disney Dream
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Reflections on a Dream #1

R. D. G. posted an article on - Jan 2, 2012, 1:18 pm
It’s gorgeous!  The Disney Dream may be the most beautiful cruise ship currently sailing.  Disney ships always stand out from the crowd when docked beside other vessels.  With their sleek and elegant lines, they look decidedly different from the floating shoebox shape that defines the more typi...
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Hidden in the Shadows

R. D. G. posted an article on - Nov 21, 2011, 12:41 am

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Mickey-Go-Round

R. D. G. posted an article on - Oct 9, 2011, 2:38 pm
It’s a Walt Disney World treasure, and one that’s often overlooked – the magnificent miniature carousel located in the lobby of Disney’s Boardwalk Inn. Years ago, salesmen carried mini versions of large items as samples so that prospective buyers would not need to purchase sight-unseen.  T...
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It's Festival Time!

R. D. G. posted an article on - Jul 28, 2011, 3:11 pm
Guests visiting Walt Disney World during the 2011 EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival, which runs from September 30 to November 13, 2011, can now begin planning their culinary adventures! Some of the changes this year include the addition of booths in the World Showcase that represent the Ca...
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Candlelight Processional 2011

R. D. G. posted an article on - Jul 24, 2011, 11:41 pm
Beginning July 26, 2011, tickets will be available for the 2011 season of EPCOT’s Candlelight Processional Dinner package.  Performances will begin on November 25th and run through December 30th, with three shows daily at 5:00 p.m., 6:45 p.m., and 8:15 p.m. This annual favorite features a beauti...
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Dialing up Mickey

R. D. G. posted an article on - Jul 6, 2011, 12:24 pm
Our favorite kind of Hidden Mickey – atmospheric and artistic; merged with surrounding themes and waiting for us to find it.  A wonderful capture from a new contributor, Kurt!
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Suite Animation

R. D. G. posted an article on - Jun 18, 2011, 2:57 pm
In response to the demand for more Family Suites, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is now accepting reservations for 2012.  Guests can immerse themselves in classic animated films with a stay at this new Value Resort.  The resort is made up of four wings, three of which have family suites and on...
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Comparatively Speaking

R. D. G. posted an article on - Jun 9, 2011, 2:31 pm
Cunard, a cruise line famed for its “queens,” published a book in the 1930’s celebrating the wonders of the Queen Mary.  Known as the Book of Comparisons, it illustrated different statistics and features of the ship by comparing them to well-known landmarks and concepts, affording the public ...
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Chihulymickey

R. D. G. posted an article on - Jun 8, 2011, 11:35 am
While the term “Hidden Mickey” has come to include almost all incorporations of a Mickey head, the best examples remain those which feature a subtle integration of the iconic shape rather than used as a purely decorative add-on.   We look for the clever arrangement of functional parts, the ar...
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Two Home Runs and a Strikeout

R. D. G. posted an article on - Jun 7, 2011, 4:39 pm
One of the most enjoyable experiences onboard a Disney Cruise Line vessel is certainly a visit to Palo, the wonderful specialty restaurant.  Exclusively for adult guests, this lovely venue serves Northern Italian dishes seasoned with flair and friendliness.  It’s an opportunity to dress up a...
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A Pirate's Life

R. D. G. posted an article on - Apr 24, 2011, 2:34 pm
Dark rides; few experiences have greater power to transport us.  We enter and we are whisked away to another place; another time.  In Adventureland at the Magic Kingdom, we find one of the most well-loved of all the dark rides – Pirates of the Caribbean. Even before we enter, we are entranced b...
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Standing Tall

R. D. G. posted an article on - Apr 9, 2011, 8:38 pm
It’s a rite of passage for many smaller Disney guests – discovering that they are finally tall enough for the attraction of their dreams.  For every adult who’s terrified of Disney’s mountains, there are three fearless young children begging to be allowed boarding privileges.  They’ve st...
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In Command

R. D. G. posted an article on - Mar 28, 2011, 10:32 pm
For the men who shop, or the women who shop for the men who would prefer a root canal treatment, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa features one of the few shops devoted to the Disney male – Commander Porter’s. The shelves are filled with golf apparel and accessories, crisp, button-down ...
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Fire and Water

R. D. G. posted an article on - Mar 27, 2011, 10:28 pm
Water is one of the key elements in Native American culture and it is charmingly represented at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge in the form of Silver Creek.  From its source inside the lobby, the bubbling stream travels under the wooden bridge and outside, flowing over pebbled beds as it makes its way ...
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"He follows his dream, with mind and heart"

R. D. G. posted an article on - Mar 26, 2011, 5:25 pm
Classic \ˈkla-sik\  serving as a standard of excellence;  of recognized value;  traditional, enduring There are the thrill rides.  There are attractions that showcase the latest and greatest technologies.  There are those that exploit modern themes and the newest stories and characters. And ...
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Bear Country

R. D. G. posted an article on - Mar 6, 2011, 1:51 am
Perhaps even more iconic than its enormous 55-foot counterparts in the main lobby, the character totem welcomes shoppers to the Wilderness Lodge Mercantile.  The store features merchandise with a decidedly woodsy flair.  Look for characters in their best “ranger” attire as well as outdoor-them...
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Out of the Blue

R. D. G. posted an article on - Mar 5, 2011, 12:59 pm
It’s difficult to decide if the most amazing “Reflections of China” are found in the movie of that name shown inside this pavilion, or  are best seen in the glowing colors of nature and the exuberant exteriors of the buildings.
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Face the Fun

R. D. G. posted an article on - Mar 3, 2011, 5:38 pm
Walt Disney World visitors looking for a different kind of souvenir might consider posing for a caricature.  Unlike the traditional portraiture available at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, caricature artists showcase their subjects in a truly unique way. One of the most well-known perma...
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Just Around the River Bend

R. D. G. posted an article on - Feb 25, 2011, 9:28 pm
Located at the beautiful Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort, Roaring Fork is definitely one of the better quick-service stops.  Diners will find the usual selection of burgers and pizza as well as the familiar children’s menu items. But Roaring Fork also offers some delicious choices which are u...
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Home Turf

R. D. G. posted an article on - Feb 19, 2011, 6:03 pm
Familiar dishes, simply prepared; pleasant surroundings and prompt, cheerful service; the Turf Club Bar & Grill is another relatively unknown restaurant tucked away in a Disney Vacation Club property. While it’s popular with the guests staying at Disney’s Saratoga Springs and Spa, the Turf Club...
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Pool Views – Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort

R. D. G. posted an article on - Feb 15, 2011, 9:52 pm
It was a theming opportunity too good to miss – Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort has gone pirate!  Not all guests will take advantage of the wonderful Pirate Rooms with their masted headboards, shipping-crate-and-barrel furnishings, and walk-the-plank carpeting.  But, everyone staying at the re...
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Magic by the Month – December

R. D. G. posted an article on - Feb 14, 2011, 7:00 pm
It is a month of contrasts.  The beginning of December is a favorite of Disney veterans who take advantage of the great weather and lower crowds during the first couple of weeks.  The week between Christmas and New Year is the single busiest one of the year.  During this holiday period, it’s no...
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The Cook and the Greengrocer – A Fairytale

R. D. G. posted an article on - Feb 9, 2011, 4:47 pm
Once upon a time, there was a Cook who was known for her skill in the kitchen, her thriftiness, and her appreciation for quality foods.  The Cook decided to prepare a feast for her family.  She wanted to allow plenty of time to make it an unforgettable event, so she selected a date exactly one mon...
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Home for Dinner

R. D. G. posted an article on - Feb 7, 2011, 1:34 pm
Stepping into Olivia’s feels like a warm hug – sunny and bright and, well, just plain homey.  Patrons can expect the friendliest of welcomes and a casual, relaxed atmosphere. Disney’s Old Key West is the original Disney Vacation Club resort and many years ago, the members began bringing thei...
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Luxury Disney – Into the Garden

R. D. G. posted an article on - Feb 6, 2011, 12:33 pm
While the majority of the more than 25,000 Walt Disney World hotel rooms feature the standard floor plan, there remains an astonishing variety of unique accommodations.  Guests can enjoy their own little cabin in the woods; sleep in a tree house, or a turret.  There are extravagant multi-room...
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World of Coloring

R. D. G. posted an article on - Jan 20, 2011, 7:52 pm
The beginning of each new year is traditionally a time to look forward, and many people start dreaming about vacations.  It’s easy to forget that the actual trip is just a small part of the overall vacation experience.  You may only travel for a few days, but the planning process can last for ma...
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Mouse Gear Mickeys

R. D. G. posted an article on - Jan 17, 2011, 7:57 pm

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Where Famous Stars Dine

R. D. G. posted an article on - Jan 16, 2011, 2:11 pm
Fabulous Art Deco design details both inside and out make Hollywood & Vine a visual delight.  Both breakfast and lunch feature the Play ‘n Dine program with Playhouse Disney friends. Along with the Hollywood Brown Derby and Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano, dinner here can also be booked as ...
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Magic by the Month – November

R. D. G. posted an article on - Jan 9, 2011, 1:11 pm
November is a month of transformation as the World dons its gay apparel for the holiday season.  Guests can revisit a park or resort hotel to find it completely changed from the day before.   Working through the nights, cast members perform magic as they bring Christmas to life throughout the Wal...
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Hooked

R. D. G. posted an article on - Jan 8, 2011, 6:04 pm
Walt Disney World has added another symphony of tastes to its repertoire of unique fine-dining experiences with the Chef’s Tasting Wine Dinner at the Flying Fish Café. Many “Chef’s Table” events typically take reservations for a certain number of diners who are treated as a group to some s...
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Cut-rate Cruising

R. D. G. posted an article on - Jan 4, 2011, 6:58 pm
With an announcement today, Disney Cruise Line seems to have joined the mass-market ranks by deciding to offer last-minute deals to the general public.  Facing a huge increase in inventory with the arrival of the new Disney Dream and the upcoming Disney Fantasy in 2012, it would appear that they ar...
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Delicious Discounts

R. D. G. posted an article on - Dec 8, 2010, 4:45 pm
Guests visiting Walt Disney World Resort or Disneyland Resort can take advantage of an early holiday gift this year in the form of special dining discounts at selected locations during specified hours. Coupons are valid before noon or between 3:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.   Click on these links to prin...
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Grand Dining

R. D. G. posted an article on - Dec 5, 2010, 3:05 pm
While many guests focus on restaurants in the parks, a number of the best dining venues, including all but one of the Signature Restaurants, are actually located in the resort hotels.  Along with the wonderful Kona Café in Disney’s Polynesian Resort, the Grand Floridian Café offers quality that...
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Magic by the Month – October

R. D. G. posted an article on - Nov 15, 2010, 2:34 pm
Guests looking for perfect Florida weather should consider a visit in October, when the humidity begins to drop, particularly toward the middle of the month, and is replaced with warm, breezy days, and cooler nights. Over the years, October has become a time of great activity at Walt Disney World w...
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That's Entertainment

R. D. G. posted an article on - Nov 6, 2010, 6:00 pm
During a recent luncheon hosted by Disney executives, one of them made a fascinating comment.  The discussion at the time was about the differences between the Disney Cruise Line and other cruise ship companies.  As we chatted about the current efforts of some to ramp up their shows and add charac...
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Frightful Photos!

R. D. G. posted an article on - Oct 31, 2010, 7:38 pm
A Disney Halloween isn’t only about pumpkins and parties.  It’s about spooky sightings and devilish details.  There are endless ways of capturing that “not so scary” spirit!  Here are just a few of our favorites. It’s the time of year when fireworks wear their autumn colors, Villains ...
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Searchlight: how do I become a Disney Specialist travel agent?

R. D. G. posted an article on - Oct 24, 2010, 3:03 pm
Many people dream about the chance to combine a personal interest with a career opportunity.  If you have a passion for travel and enjoy helping others plan memorable vacations, the role of Whimsical World Travel Concierge may be the perfect fit. While previous experience in the travel industry an...
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The Medium is the Message

R. D. G. posted an article on - Sep 23, 2010, 1:45 pm
With rather extraordinary fanfare, Disney Parks made its latest announcement an hour ago.  I spent a puzzling half-hour on facebook with 10,000 other viewers, watching the live feed.  I have to assume many more were logged in through the Disney Parks Blog site since that was completely unavailable...
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Searchlight: best Candlelight Processional performance to attend?

R. D. G. posted an article on - Sep 18, 2010, 5:36 pm
This is a question asked frequently by our clients and showing up often in searches.  As with so many choices, this one is not completely straightforward, but dependent upon several factors. There are three performances of the Candlelight Processional each evening:  5:00 p.m., 6:45 p.m., and 8:15 ...
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Stretch Room

R. D. G. posted an article on - Sep 14, 2010, 12:50 pm
Announcements today from Euro Disney S.C.A., which owns Disneyland Paris in partnership with the Walt Disney Company, indicate permission has been granted by the French government for a planned expansion and the construction of a new theme park.  This third park would join Disneyland Park and Walt ...
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Under the Big Top

R. D. G. posted an article on - Sep 6, 2010, 5:29 pm
With dazzling colors and dizzying performances, Cirque du Soleil’s La Nouba is a standout for visitors of all ages.  Difficult to describe yet impossible to forget, this extraordinary show combines music, dance, acting, and acrobatics with brilliant costuming, for a production that is breathtakin...
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The Homemaker

R. D. G. posted an article on - Sep 3, 2010, 7:12 pm
Photo by Vanessa Guzan
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Tangierine Dream

R. D. G. posted an article on - Sep 2, 2010, 7:49 pm
Grab a seat for some of the most interesting quick-service fare to be found in EPCOT’s World Showcase.  Offering a more authentic “taste” of the country than many of the other pavilions, Morocco’s Tangierine Café serves up some traditional dishes at reasonable prices. Couscous, lentil sal...
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Starry-eared

R. D. G. posted an article on - Sep 1, 2010, 11:33 pm
While it may not be exactly the change that many were hoping for, Walt Disney World’s Space Mountain has gone “Starry-O-Phonic” with the addition of a new audio feature.  All flights will now be enhanced by a specially-composed musical score and sound effects, playing from 60 speakers instal...
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Kids Sail Free!

R. D. G. posted an article on - Aug 31, 2010, 9:02 pm
One of Disney Cruise Line’s most popular special offers is back for early 2011.  Sail away to the Caribbean in a Verandah Stateroom and two full-fare adults can bring the kids along for free.  Choose from most seven-night voyages between January 8 and March 5, 2011. The Disney Magic is sailing ...
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Hidden at the Movies

R. D. G. posted an article on - Aug 30, 2010, 8:01 pm
It takes a sharp eye to capture Mickey, hidden amongst all the amazing detail of the Great Movie Ride at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
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Hungry Pirates

R. D. G. posted an article on - Aug 29, 2010, 11:46 pm
If you’re visiting at the right time and looking for a change from the usual fast food fare, consider a stop at El Pirata y El Perico Restaurante, located in Aventureland at the Magic Kingdom. Open seasonally, the limited menu features food with a Mexican twist including such favorites as burrito...
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Reflections of the Universe

R. D. G. posted an article on - Aug 28, 2010, 6:49 pm
A creative take on the reflective possibilities of the Universe of Energy Pavilion.
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