Al confirmed via his sources on miceage this week that Disney-MGM Studios will change its name in the coming months, or at least year. I'm not sure I mind. The Pixarification of the MK is in some ways a crying shame. It's not that I hate Pixar. It's just that animation belongs in Fantasyland, not Frontierland or Tomorrowland. So renaming the Studio park after Pixar will hopefully encourage the execs that matter to put all future animation rides and attractions into the Studio park. Where it belongs.
This park needs help anyway. Here's my list:
1. Get rid of half the shows
2. Replace them with rides of some sort. Some thrill, some family Omnimovers, some movies
3. Add *new* offerings for the whole family, not thrills.
4. Expand the park. This can probably only be done by ripping down the soundstages currently backstage. Well, so what. They haven't been in use in ages anyway. Expand, or die. Already DAK has caught you and is still racing ahead, in terms of attendance.
Saturday, March 31, 2007
WDW hotel expansion
It's been a few weeks since Disney announced to the "real" media that they will expand WDW offerings with a luxury (Four Seasons) hotel and a budget section out on Western Beltway (hotels, shops, dining).
The former is likely a play by Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, one of the major DLP investors who is probably demanding reciprocation for him propping Disney up (you see, he's part owner of Four Seasons). And yes, there probably is room on property for ultra luxury. Those customers would come to Disney too.
The budget stuff seems to me a blantant attempt to get people paying Disney and not some unnamed hotel for the budget experience. I said as much when I broke the news about Western Way expansion (and this is one of only two things I can really say I beat every single media outlet on). Disney sees the 192 corridor full of cheap hotels and thinks: "gee, how can we get *their* money too". The problem is, the "cheap" experience is NOT the Disney experience. On the whole, this one is probably bad news. As always, I withhold full judgment until I actually see it, but that doesn't prevent me from guessing. Let's just say my guesses are not as yet very positive.
The former is likely a play by Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, one of the major DLP investors who is probably demanding reciprocation for him propping Disney up (you see, he's part owner of Four Seasons). And yes, there probably is room on property for ultra luxury. Those customers would come to Disney too.
The budget stuff seems to me a blantant attempt to get people paying Disney and not some unnamed hotel for the budget experience. I said as much when I broke the news about Western Way expansion (and this is one of only two things I can really say I beat every single media outlet on). Disney sees the 192 corridor full of cheap hotels and thinks: "gee, how can we get *their* money too". The problem is, the "cheap" experience is NOT the Disney experience. On the whole, this one is probably bad news. As always, I withhold full judgment until I actually see it, but that doesn't prevent me from guessing. Let's just say my guesses are not as yet very positive.
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Fly to Disney World/Orlando for $9!
The Most Miserly Mom hopes you are reading my blog today, because if you are you can save big money on your trip to Disney World and Orlando!
Spirit Airlines is having an airfare sale today from many cities in the United States to Orlando for only $9 each way. The dates are specific for travel, and they are listed on Spirit's web site - they are in April.
But you have to book them on line today - March 28th by midnight! Go to http://www.spiritair.com/ today!
And for Miserly Money Saving Tips visit my web site: http://www.cheaporlando.net/ Check out my book:
A Mom's Miserly Guide:
Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day!
Universal Studios Back to the Future Attraction Closing
The Most Miserly Mom is incredibly disappointed to announce that Universal Studios will be ending its longest-running attractions-Back to The Future Ride!
The last ride will be this Friday, March 30th.
If you are visiting this week, make sure that you experience Universal's epic Attraction: Back to The Future - You won't be disappointed!
A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day!
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
The Most Miserly Mom always wants to find great deals for you when you travel to Disney World and Orlando.
You can truly get awesome prices on car rentals when visiting Orlando and Disney World and the theme parks.
I just verified with three different rental car companies that have rates as low as $18 a day and that is including taxes and fees. Enterprise, Payless, and Thrifty all had rates that low for summer travel. How can you go wrong with rates like that?
My book offers many more strategies on car rentals in Orlando and Disney as well.
Check out my book:
A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day!
Monday, March 26, 2007
Year of a Million Video Games
While at DisneyQuest on Saturday with my wife, four year old, and five month old, we were approached by a happy CM wearing the usual DQ outfit. He asked how we were and if we'd been on any rides yet. (They have "rides" in the form of VR simulators, raft simulators, a pirate boat video game in a whole room, etc). We said no, not yet. He offered to backdoor us on every single ride, one after the other, as we took part in a quest for Jack Sparrow's treasure. He'd accompany us on this journey, and at each ride, we'd search for clues for which ride to go on next. At the end there would be booty - I think meaning treats and chocolates and such.
My wife didn't want to - she had the baby strapped on her belly in a "snugli" sling. So we took a pass. It didn't occur to me until later that this may be DQ's version of the Year of a Million Dreams... this is how they make a family's dream come true. Had the kids both been older, we would have jumped at the chance.
My wife didn't want to - she had the baby strapped on her belly in a "snugli" sling. So we took a pass. It didn't occur to me until later that this may be DQ's version of the Year of a Million Dreams... this is how they make a family's dream come true. Had the kids both been older, we would have jumped at the chance.
Gators at the Park
You may see deer around Walt Disney World. We did, even as tourists. There was a mating pair hanging out in the parking lot for the Ticket and Transportation Center, where there are mild woods around. I also almost ran over a buck more recently on the more-heavily-wooded Western Beltway exit to Disney World, where they are going to build the new value-version of Downtown Disney.
Over in the TTC, I've also seen wild turkeys in the central patch of swamp. That was neat.
But then a couple of weeks ago, I finally saw a live, wild alligator at WDW. You'd think I would see it in the canals that run alongside (and across) the roads. But nope, I saw it within the confines of a theme park. It was just swimming around, loose and carefree, in the central lagoon of DAK (you know, the one between Expedition Everest and Dinoland). It was small - maybe a four footer - but still really neat to see. We were at the Flame Tree BBQ and it was right below us, about ten feet down, and sitting lazily in the water. Cool. I wonder if anyone's ever been bitten by a gator at the parks? Access to that body of water is by and large restricted, but the fences are pretty low-key. If he wanted to, the gator could have found his way to people.
Over in the TTC, I've also seen wild turkeys in the central patch of swamp. That was neat.
But then a couple of weeks ago, I finally saw a live, wild alligator at WDW. You'd think I would see it in the canals that run alongside (and across) the roads. But nope, I saw it within the confines of a theme park. It was just swimming around, loose and carefree, in the central lagoon of DAK (you know, the one between Expedition Everest and Dinoland). It was small - maybe a four footer - but still really neat to see. We were at the Flame Tree BBQ and it was right below us, about ten feet down, and sitting lazily in the water. Cool. I wonder if anyone's ever been bitten by a gator at the parks? Access to that body of water is by and large restricted, but the fences are pretty low-key. If he wanted to, the gator could have found his way to people.
Friday, March 23, 2007
Cheap Hotels and Disney World
The Most Miserly Mom knows that you may be shopping for deals to Disney World right now.
Have you ever checked Disney World and Orlando prices on Expedia.com? They have some great sales right now for flights to Orlando, hotels near Disney, and theme park tickets.
Check out this link: http://www.expedia.com/daily/promos/hotel/orlando-sale/default.asp?CCheck=1&olacid=textlink.2007q1dr.awayn.deals_news_Q1_text_link_033.pixel.1x1
A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day!
Thursday, March 22, 2007
A CGI Dark ride
Tonny S. pointed me toward the new video of "Invincible" by the band Muse. It's a long dark ride in the vein of It's a Small World, though decidedly more violent than the usual Disney ride.
Tonny points out, and I agree, that it's sad Disney can't make dark rides any more, or at least not as often as movie rides.
Here's the video: http://bookish85.vox.com/library/video/6a00cd9700115b4cd500d09e5cad12be2b.html
or try www.muse.mu
Tonny points out, and I agree, that it's sad Disney can't make dark rides any more, or at least not as often as movie rides.
Here's the video: http://bookish85.vox.com/library/video/6a00cd9700115b4cd500d09e5cad12be2b.html
or try www.muse.mu
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Cheap Airfare to Disney World
The Most Miserly Mom wants you to know that there are great airline sales to Orlando & Disney World for you to take advantage of.
Book soon!
For example, Jet Blue Airlines has rates as low as $59 each way from Newark to Orlando or $79 from New York City to Orlando each way - just to name a few.
Check out their web site: http://www.jetblue.com/
Check out my book:
A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day!
A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day!
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Disney World Family Travel Tips!
The Most Miserly Mom knows that families will be traveling to Disney World in droves because summer time is coming, so here are a few travel tips to remember:
1. Plan early for special hotel rates! Check out my book for special hotels that offer refrigerators in the room, pools for refreshing dips in the afternoon, and free breakfast daily.
2. Use walkie-talkies and cell phones to keep in touch and set up pre-determined meeting times.
3. Wear like-colored t-shirts to find that special family member easily.
4. Use fast-pass whenever possible.
5. Please use sunscreen and drink as much water as possible - don't get dehydrated - I'm serious here - this is a Miserly Mom talking!
6. Keep working on airfares - check internet deals - often times sales come out on Tuesday nights.
A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day!
Monday, March 19, 2007
T-Rex Cafe photos
Landry's, the restaurant chain behind Rainforest Cafe, is building a T-Rex Cafe in Downtown Disney next. Here are some photos of the kinds of props they are building for the inside: http://www.theeffectslab.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=353&highlight=dinosaur
Sunday, March 18, 2007
The Laugh Floor is open!
Yesterday the Laugh Floor at the Magic Kingdom opened, apparently for good. This soft opening is unofficial (and the assurance that it will stay open comes from front-line folks, so take that with a grain of salt), but my guess would be this is it.
I'll have a full review in my MiceAge article this week. But in brief, I found it less annoying than it could have been, but really not that great of an addition to Tomorrowland. Certainly it fits the Pixarized theme of the new Tomorrowland, but I would rather it had fit the vision of ... well... tomorrow. And if it's going to be Pixar, at least make it so flat-out entertaining we don't mind the co-opting of our beloved future visions. Alas, it's not that funny.
More later this week on MiceAge.
I'll have a full review in my MiceAge article this week. But in brief, I found it less annoying than it could have been, but really not that great of an addition to Tomorrowland. Certainly it fits the Pixarized theme of the new Tomorrowland, but I would rather it had fit the vision of ... well... tomorrow. And if it's going to be Pixar, at least make it so flat-out entertaining we don't mind the co-opting of our beloved future visions. Alas, it's not that funny.
More later this week on MiceAge.
Friday, March 16, 2007
Another Disney death
A visitor to Walt Disney World's Blizzard Beach water park collapsed of an apparent heart attack Thursday afternoon and later died at a hospital, theme-park officials said.
[snip]
The death is the 10th involving Disney World rides and water-park attractions since late 2004.
The full story here: http://www.orlandosentinel.com/business/custom/tourism/orl-disneydeath16x07mar16,0,1626148.story?track=rss
That really gave me pause. Ten deaths in a year and a half?! The vast majority, if not the complete totality, have been due to natural causes and pre-existing conditions. So it's not like Disney safety is to blame.
But look where these people are dying: climbing steps for water parks or after riding roller coasters. These people are NOT dying while riding any "Walt" rides (that is, rides the whole family can go on together). Something I hope they remember. Thrill rides do cause deaths.
[snip]
The death is the 10th involving Disney World rides and water-park attractions since late 2004.
The full story here: http://www.orlandosentinel.com/business/custom/tourism/orl-disneydeath16x07mar16,0,1626148.story?track=rss
That really gave me pause. Ten deaths in a year and a half?! The vast majority, if not the complete totality, have been due to natural causes and pre-existing conditions. So it's not like Disney safety is to blame.
But look where these people are dying: climbing steps for water parks or after riding roller coasters. These people are NOT dying while riding any "Walt" rides (that is, rides the whole family can go on together). Something I hope they remember. Thrill rides do cause deaths.
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Michael Eisner's newest venture
Whatever you do, don't compare Michael Eisner's latest project to Lonelygirl15. Yes, Prom Queen, a web-based serialized soap opera made up of three months' worth of 90-second shorts launching April 2, is aimed at the same tech-toting, YouTube-watching, advertiser-tempting teens. But Eisner insists he's offering viewers far more than a pretty face talking into a camera.
With Vuguru, the new standalone production studio behind Prom Queen, Eisner -- best known for his 20 years at Disney -- hopes to own the realm of made-for-web original programming. He'll do it, he says, by offering what he calls far better storytelling and quality than what's currently found on the likes of YouTube. Oh, and instead of one pretty face, you'll get five, all with scripted lines and post-production cleanup.
The full story on Wired here: http://www.wired.com/news/culture/0,72976-0.html?tw=rss.indexNational Geographic's take on Orlando and sprawl
Thanks to Chris P. who pointed out to me, by email, a National Geographic article that takes on Orlando's sprawl and how the city really has turned into Disney (and the author doesn't mean that in a good way).
"All over Orlando you see forces at work that are changing America from Fairbanks to Little Rock. This, truly, is a 21st-century paradigm: It is growth built on consumption, not production; a society founded not on natural resources, but upon the dissipation of capital accumulated elsewhere; a place of infinite possibilities, somehow held together, to the extent it is held together at all, by a shared recognition of highway signs, brand names, TV shows, and personalities, rather than any shared history. Nowhere else is the juxtaposition of what America actually is and the conventional idea of what America should be more vivid and revealing. Welcome to the theme-park nation. "
The full article here: http://www7.nationalgeographic.com/ngm/0703/feature4/
"All over Orlando you see forces at work that are changing America from Fairbanks to Little Rock. This, truly, is a 21st-century paradigm: It is growth built on consumption, not production; a society founded not on natural resources, but upon the dissipation of capital accumulated elsewhere; a place of infinite possibilities, somehow held together, to the extent it is held together at all, by a shared recognition of highway signs, brand names, TV shows, and personalities, rather than any shared history. Nowhere else is the juxtaposition of what America actually is and the conventional idea of what America should be more vivid and revealing. Welcome to the theme-park nation. "
The full article here: http://www7.nationalgeographic.com/ngm/0703/feature4/
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Orlando housing alternative: rent a house instead?
If you are coming to Orlando, or Disney World in particular, you may want to stay on property at one of the Disney World hotels (though I never did this as a tourist myself). However, if you have a large family or if you desire more space than a cramped 400 square foot hotel room, there are other options.
You may know that I write occasional travel articles for OrlandoVacation.com. These folks connect renters and vacationers in the Orlando vacation home business. Such vacation homes have popped up all around Disney World’s main entrance, and there are almost as many vacation homes in
Looking back at my experiences now, I would definitely give the vacation home experience a shot. If you’re going with a group and can use multiple rooms, you’d be surprised by how much money you can save using a house instead of a hotel room.
Monday, March 12, 2007
Disney World and Princesses
The Most Miserly Mom read two articles today about Walt Disney World and the art of making our little girls into princesses.
At Disney Village Marketplace Disney offers a spot where our little girls can actually become princesses - They can get their hair done, their nails done, buy an outfit - they can actually choose if they would like to be Ariel or Cinderella - they literally can become "Princess for a Day."
This is not free however. The experience may be priceless, but the costs range from $35 up to over $175. This is not in the Miserly Mom's Budget. But maybe you want to fit it in yours?
And for Miserly Money Saving Tips visit my web site: http://www.cheaporlando.net/
Check out my book: A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day!
Check out my book: A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day!
Thursday, March 8, 2007
Disney World Orlando and Monsters Inc.
The Most Miserly Mom wants to let you kow that Disney is unveiling its newest attraction Monsters Inc. The Laugh Floor at Disney's Magic Kingdom.
Disney is actually offering its passholders a sneak preview of the attraction March 30-April 1st, so if you are a Disney passholder and plan to visit during this time then check out the newest attraction. I know The Most Miserly Mom will!
For more information about this attraction check out this link:
A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day!
Wednesday, March 7, 2007
Disney Water Parks vs. Sea World Aquatica
The Most Miserly Mom is excited about Sea World's new water park, Aquatica. The new park sonds magnificent with beaches and underwater slides and relaxation rivers and lots of marine life viewing.
Aquatica will offer needed competition for our Disney World water parks. Disney's Typhoon Lagoon & Blizzard beach remain my favorite spots for families to enjoy the Florida sun, water and slides for kids of all ages - and on a budget too. It will be interestesting to see if Sea World lets families bring coolers into the new park like Disney does & if there will be free parking. These particular features make Disney's water parks a great value for families.
The photo above is at Disney's Blizzard Beach!
A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day!
Tuesday, March 6, 2007
Disney World & Orlando Spring Travel
The Most Miserly Mom knows that right now everyone in the Great White North wants to come to Disney World and Orlando to enjoy the warmth. In fact, today it is sunny and 75 degrees. It is just lovely.
Keep this in mind happy vacationers: If you want to save money, try to steer clear of the actual spring break dates. If you can take your kiddos out of school for even a couple of days, you may save hundreds of dollars. Ask their teacher's if they can do an extra report - There is so much information they can gather at Disney's EPCOT for world cultures.
Right now there are some great hotel rates, you just have to search! My book lists many opportunities for awesome hotels and motels. Check it out!
A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day!
Disney World & Cheap Hotel Options and Vacation Homes
The Most Miserly Mom knows lots of economical motels and hotels in the Disney World and Orlando area. Many of them offer free breakfast, refrigerators in the room, and cool refreshing pools for your family to enjoy after a day at the parks. I tell you specific names of properties that I recommend in my book: A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Disney, Universal & Sea World on $25 a Day!
Another option you might consider for your family when visiting Disney World & Orlando, especially if you are traveling with another family or a large group is a vacation home. Often times these beautiful homes end up costing less when families split the weekly costs. Some home rental companies offer special packages and incentives as well.
For instance, All Star Vacation Homes offers families a $100 gas or grocery voucher for a week's stay. That is a Miserly deal!
For more information check out:
A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day!
Monday, March 5, 2007
Sea World Shows
The Most Miserly Mom visited Sea World last week and I must say I do have to comment on the changes in the shows at Sea World.
Let me first mention that my "fun card" to Sea World was $69 and I can visit all year long for that price -- so The Most Miserly Mom is very happy about that.
Now, on to the shows. The Dolphin and Whale show was truly interesting -- the performers combine acrobatics and costumes and music with the antics of the dolphins and whales. Exotic birds fly through the air as well. It is almost a combination of Sea & Circus. I really enjoyed this show.
The Shamu show "Believe," was actually a bit hokey even for this Miserly Mom. While I enjoyed Shamu's tricks, as always, the show was a bit too "emotional" if you will -- I wanted more Shamu - less talking from trainers. But that's just me.
For more information on Sea World and their shows check out their web site:
A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day!
Friday, March 2, 2007
Sea World Orlando Discounts and Deals
The Most Miserly Mom visited Sea World yesterday and I got the guts to ride Kraken! Yes, I did! And I must say that is was an awesome experience.
Sea World touts Kraken as Orlando's only "floorless" roller coaster, and that is very true. As the ride starts the floor actually drops out from under you and you begin to soar around the park - looping and swooping, all the while screaming (if you are The Most Miserly Mom of course) and your adrenaline picks up amazingly.
I highly recommend the ride - it was a blast!
The rate for my "Fun Pass" was $69 - and that will give me admission all year long. That's a great deal in this Miserly Mom's opinion.
For more information on Sea World Orlando, go to:
A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day!