Will you be in Walt Disney World for your Halloween holiday?  Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party (MNSSHP) is Disney’s answer to the American trick-or-treat tradition that takes place every fall.  For the span of a month and a half (September 13 – November 1) Disney closes the Magic Kingdom relatively early on select days and transforms it in the evening for a Halloween celebration.  This party requires the attendees to purchase an entirely separate ticket specifically for the event.  Regular park tickets and Annual Passes cannot be used for admittance.  Guests are welcome to masquerade in their costumes of choice, collect candy, and participate in special happenings around the park for the last five hours of the day (7pm to 12am).

The tradition is to allow MNSSHP ticket holders entrance into the Magic Kingdom at 4pm in the late afternoon, even though regular park guests are still actively running around.  Upon presenting a ticket or purchasing one on the designated night, MNSSHP guests are given a wristband that distinguishes them from the average park guest.  When the party officially starts, guests without a wristband are no longer allowed to enter attractions, and as the night progresses they are prohibited from even entering the various lands and asked to exit entirely.

MNSSHP begins at 7pm.  At that time, Cast Members set up candy distribution spots throughout the entire park.  These locations are designated on the MNSSHP park maps, and this year these spots are placed in every land except for Main Street, U.S.A.  The largest number of candy-collecting opportunities is in Tomorrowland, yet the highest concentration of them for this year can be found at Br’er Rabbit’s Laughin’ Place Candy Patch (a walk through the Splash Mountain queue that hits three candy barrels in a single line).  The candy that is passed out is essentially the same mixture at every location, so it isn’t necessary to visit every spot for the purpose of variety; however, the more stations you visit, the more candy you accumulate.  Feel free to revisit stations throughout the night, as well, to gather a particularly large stash of sweets.  For those who have special dietary concerns, lines for raisins form alongside the lines for candy.

Much like during regular park hours, guests have the opportunity to meet with Disney characters throughout the park in specified locations until 11:30pm.  The primary difference during MNSSHP is that the characters are either dressed in Halloween garb or their personalities are villainous in nature.  It may be appropriate to prepare younger children for intimidating meetings with cruel step-mothers and harsh sorcerers.

Character Dance Parties take place during the evening with Rockettower Plaza Stage being a primary location to interact and dance with characters like Stitch.  The other location is The Diamond Horseshoe, where a Western themed dance party brings out Woody’s Round Up Gang to “shake their groove thing.”  Also, a Halloween stage show titled Villain’s Dance Mix & Mingle happens almost hourly in front of the castle with the villains roaming throughout the audience after each show (7:45pm, 8:50pm, 10:05pm, and 11:15pm).

Happy HalloWishes is the fireworks show that is sandwiched in between two appearances of the Halloween-themed Mickey’s “Boo To You” Halloween Parade (8:15pm and 10:30pm for the parade and 9:30pm for the fireworks).  These events are the cornerstones of the entire evening.

Happy HalloWishes can be viewed from any location in the Magic Kingdom, but the best views to be had are from Main Street, U.S.A., facing the castle.  The castle turns a whole spectrum of blues, green, oranges, and purples as fireworks are synchronized to a medley of spooky and villainous tunes.

The “Boo To You” parade is an eclectic mixture of fluffy elements such as floats that emulate Halloween on a farm with clucking chickens, pumpkins, cowboys, and Country Bears, as well as more ghoulish traits such as grave digging dancers and skeletons.  The Disney characters are featured in Halloween attire, and there are special appearances from not-so-often seen villains like the Headless Horseman, Pain & Panic, and personalities from the Haunted Mansion.

The expense of the event varies, depending on the date you choose to attend, as well as whether you purchase your tickets prior to that particular evening.  With the exception of the Friday nights in October and Halloween weekend parties, guests have the option of purchasing tickets at an Advanced Sales Price or at a Same Day Sales Price.  The Friday nights in October and Halloween weekend parties only sell at the Same Day Sales Price.  The exception to these prices are the evenings of October 28 and 31, when tickets are sold at Premium Pricing.  Disney Vacation Club members trump them all, though, with a tax-included discount ticket price on select nights (call DVC Member Services with your DVC Member number for pricing).  Keep in mind two caveats for the DVC discount: the tickets have to be purchased in advance by phone using your DVC Member ID number, and a government issued photo ID along with your ticket order number must be presented at a Will Call window to receive the tickets.

Most of the Magic Kingdom’s attractions remain open for MNSSHP.  A number of counter service restaurants and snack kiosks continue to host hungry guests as well.  No table service restaurants are open once the party officially begins, but considering that guests are only given five hours in the park, most would not want to spend a full hour or two of that time seated in a restaurant and missing the very events that they paid a premium price to experience.

Disney’s Photopass photographers will be stationed throughout the park, especially in locations where the Halloweeen style of the castle can be used as a backdrop.  Another spot of particular interest is the stroller parking area in Fantasyland that formerly was the location of the Skyway to Tomorrowland.  Cinderella’s Coach is parked there amongst pumpkins for a unique photo opportunity.

What are the specific dates and times of MNSSHP in 2011?

For 2011, the time frame is 7pm-12am on each of the following evenings:

September 13, 16, 20, 23, 27, 30

October 2, 6, 7, 10, 11, 13, 16, 18, 20, 21, 23, 25, 27, 28, 30, 31

November 1

What is the price of the event?

September Advanced Sales Price: $53.95 + tax for 10 & up / $47.95 + tax for 3-9

September Same Day Sales Price: $59.95 + tax for 10 & up / $53.95 + tax for 3-9

October and November Advanced Sales Price: $56.95 + tax for 10 & up / $51.95 + tax for 3-9

October and November Same Day Sales Price: $62.95 + tax for 10 & up / $57.95 + tax for 3-9

October Premium Sales Price (October 7, 13, 21, 30): $62.95 + tax for 10 & up / $57.95 + tax for 3-9

October Premium Sales Price (October 28, 31): $67.95 + tax for 10 & up / $62.95 + tax for 3-9

*The Advanced Sales Price is not available for October 7,13, 21, 28, 30 or 31

*Tickets for October 7, 13, 21, 28, 30 and 31 are only available at the Premium Sales Price

*The Disney Vacation Club Discount Price is not available if tickets are purchased on the same day.

Are there any costume restrictions or policies?

There are a few rules that Disney asks its guests to adhere to concerning costuming.  First, for safety reasons Disney does not permit costumes that obstruct vision or drag on the ground.  Eyes must be visible at all times.  Costumes may not contain sharp or pointed objects that could strike another guest.  Because the event is child-friendly, guests are asked to not wear offensive or violent disguises.  And, finally, guests that are dressed as Disney Characters are not permitted to pose for pictures or sign autographs for other guests to accommodate Disney licensing issues.

Is MNSSHP merchandise available?

MNSSHP merchandise is available.  It is sold in a number of shops throughout the park such as the kiosk near the exit of the Haunted Mansion and the gift shop in which Mickey’s PhilharMagic empties.  More options for Disney Halloween items can be found in the Emporium on Main Street, U.S.A., the Merchant of Venus store in Tomorrowland, and the Pirates Bazaar in Adventureland.

Do I need to bring my own container for collecting candy?

It isn’t necessary to bring a bag or container for collecting candy.  Disney does provide guests with nice plastic bags for this purpose if they arrive empty-handed.

Which attractions and food services are expected to be open?

While Disney reserves the right to change their plans at a moment’s notice, their pattern of the past years has been such:

Open Attractions

Pirates of the Caribbean; The Magic Carpets of Aladdin; Splash Mountain; Big Thunder Mountain Railroad; Haunted Mansion; Peter Pan’s Flight; Prince Charming Regal Carrousel; Dumbo the Flying Elephant; Mickey’s PhilharMagic; Snow White’s Scary Adventures; The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh; Mad Tea Party; Space Mountain; Tomorrowland Speedway; Astro Orbiter; Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin; Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover; Stitch’s Great Escape; Monster’s Inc. Laugh Floor

Open Food Spots

Casey’s Corner; Aloha Isle; Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe; Golden Oak Outpost; Westard Ho; Fronteirland Turkey Leg; Sleepy Hollow; Liberty Square Pizza Cart; Storybook Treats; Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe; The Lunching Pad at Rockettower Plaza

Is the event worth the extra expense?

If your visit only includes a day or two at Disney, then the extra ticket is worthwhile in order to extend your hours in the park.  If you are really set on seeing the Magic Kingdom in full force for Halloween, then the expense is also worthwhile since it can’t be experienced this way at any other time.  However, if your vacation extends for more than a few days and the Halloween aspect of the Magic Kingdom doesn’t intrigue you, then bypass the cost of the extra ticket.  In fact, it would probably be best to bypass the park entirely on the designated MNSSHP days due to the crowds.  Instead, choose a separate day for your visit to the Magic Kingdom, especially if it is not scheduled for Extra Magic Hours.  Since most people will have been there the previous day and late into the night, it is likely those same people will sleep in late and visit a different park the following day, making your day in the Magic Kingdom less crowded, more efficient, and more pleasant while still enjoying some of Disney’s fall decor.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party 2011 is a post from the TouringPlans.com Blog. Signup for a premium subscription today! Or get news via Email, Twitter, & Facebook.

For those that love shopping and the culture of Africa, the Animal Kingdom Lodge provides enough unique items within its walls to make a trip worthwhile.  The two large and separate sections of Animal Kingdom Lodge, Kidani Village and Jambo House, each have a gift shop of their own to amuse its guests.

JOHARI TREASURES

Meaning “jewel” in Swahili, Johari Treasures attempts to express the idea that it contains items of value within its walls.  This is only true to a small degree.  For the most part, Johari plays the role of convenience store for the the guests of Kidani Village.

In spite of the overwhelming stock of Frosted Flakes and cartons of milk, there are a couple things in Johari that attract shoppers with specific taste.  The first would be the selection of African wines.  Ranging in price from $14.00 – $24.00, there are approximately 18 South African wines from which to choose.  Whether the purchase is made to enhance a guest’s stay while at the lodge or to bring home as a memento, this type of keepsake isn’t one that can be picked up just anywhere on Disney property.

In addition, there are a few items in Johari that are exclusive to this small store.  This is the sole location where any merchandise branded with the Kidani Village name can be found.  Hats, mugs, toothpick holders and t-shirts with animal prints and the familiar Kidani Village font are available and affordable at prices from $7.00 – $28.00.

A small selection of African craft items can be found here as well.  And while these items can also be found at the Jambo House location, they are still unique to the Animal Kingdom Lodge.  Of particular note is a limited collection of stoneware pottery that is carved by hand in Kenya.  Depending on the piece, the cost is between $10.00 – $17.00 and serves as a great Disney souvenir that is authentically African.

ZAWADI MARKETPLACE

Zawadi, meaning “gift,”  is the gift shop for the Jambo House section of Animal Kingdom Lodge.  It is much more substantial than Johari with a greater selection of inventory. Again much of what is found in the store is common for Disney gift shops, but a few things here are certainly unique to this location.

As with Johari, Zawadi Marketplace sells merchandise that is proudly branded with the resort’s name.  The selection is wider, offering items like throws, sweatshirts and hoodies in addition to the standard t-shirts and mugs.  But whereas the items in Kidani Village are specific in name to that half of the resort, the inventory here is not.  Rather, all of the branded products come under the all-encompassing umbrella of Animal Kingdom Lodge as opposed to the more specifically pin-pointed Jambo House.

For coffee lovers, bags of 100% Arabica coffee are readily available.  Being a coffee known to contain less caffeine than other commercially produced coffees, the Arabica coffee bean also originates from Africa.  And while it is uncertain whether the beans that make up the coffee in Zawadi are direct from Africa, it is definite that this coffee is produced and ground exclusively for the Animal Kingdom Lodge.

Individuals who appreciate art will also discover some great finds.  Prints of the lodge itself,  drawn by Larry Dotson, can be purchased here.  As with all of the artwork done by Mr. Dotson of the various resorts throughout Disney property, the prints vary in size and price.  A small, matted and unframed print will cost around $20.00 whereas a large, framed print will run about $115.00.

For those looking for art more specifically focused on African themes as opposed to the resort itself, beautiful renderings of African animals, patterns and objects can also be found in Zawadi.  The prints are done by an African artist known as “Bushman” and is sold exclusively at Zawadi Marketplace after it is created in the artist’s studio in Downtown Orlando.  Most of the drawings cost between $100 – $600 and come in various types of frames and sizes as well.

Clearly there are some uncommon shopping opportunities to be had at this extremity of Disney’s property.  What unique items have you been able to dig up at this sophisticated resort?

Unique Shopping at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is a post from the TouringPlans.com Blog. Signup for a premium subscription today! Or get news via Email, Twitter, & Facebook.

“Dream Big.  Live Grand.”  is the catch phrase for the Grand Floridian Resort, and with good reason.  Luxury is the goal, and shopping is how it’s done.  With five upscale stores, the Grand Floridian covers a lot of  merchandise.  Typical resort items such as clothing, trinkets, and toys are available in abundance, but among the standard inventory there are some unique items that are worth seeking out.

Basin White

On the second floor of the Grand Floridian towards the entrance to the monorail station, Basin White is a part of a small chain of bath and spa products found on Disney properties on both coasts.  The one in the Grand Floridian, however, is a premium outlet which means that it’s inventory is made with higher quality ingredients.  It also means that some of their inventory is unique and can’t be found at their other outlets.

The variety of items range from soy candles and shampoo bars to shaving cream and loofah soaps.  But of particular interest are their salt scrubs, which make an excellent souvenir.  For $35.00, you receive a large container of scrub with a base of shea butter or oil.  The salt in the scrub exfoliates your skin while the oil or shea butter moisturizes, leaving your skin feeling like silk.  If you used it just for your hands and feet, this container’s contents could stretch for a year, making it not only an uncommon find but a lasting one.

Another unique find is Basin White’s almond coconut milk bath.  The size of the bottle is decent, and the “bath” has multiple uses such as a moisturizer, body wash and bubble bath.  The silky soap even cleans jewelry somehow.  For $20.00, this is an inexpensive, useful souvenir with the ability to pamper and a bit different than the standard Mickey t-shirt.

An added benefit at Basin White is the expertise and ability of the staff to accommodate the increasingly stringent airline restrictions.  Considering that many of the products in Basin White would be confiscated when trying to fly, all staff have been specifically trained to pinpoint product that would pose a problem, and provide shipping directly to the customer’s home.

Commander Porter’s

Set up as a men’s store on the 2nd floor of the Grand Floridian, Commander Porter’s gives males a shopping experience geared towards their needs.  With brands like Ralph Lauren, Tommy Bahama, Bulgari, Oakley and Ray Ban, there is a decent variety of upscale clothing, caps, ties, and watches.  But for a slightly different gift, cigars such as Ashton, Arturo Fuente, and Romeo y Julieta can be bought in this location for anywhere between $8.95 and $20.00.  Once purchased, guests are provided with a cutter so that they can cut their cigar at the counter, or they have the option of purchasing their own high-end cutter for $2.95. It makes for a Disney souvenir that is a bit out of the ordinary.

Summer Lace

The last unique shopping option at the Grand Floridian is a women’s boutique located on the ground floor and towards the back of the lobby.  Most of the items found here are pricey clothing and accessories sporting brand names such as Lily Pulitzer, Polo, Christine Alexander, Guerlain, Dooney and Burke and Burberry.  But there are some items that are more affordable such as merchandise with the Grand Floridian logo and hair accessories.

The ultimate unique find that cannot be obtained anywhere else on Disney property is the Chamilia bracelets and charms that are for sale here.  The bracelets are about $30.00 and come in leather, gold, or sterling silver.  The charms range from $17.00 – $40.00 and come in a variety of designs.  Many of them are Disney icons such as Mickey gloves, Cinderella coaches or Disney characters.  The charms truly make for a purchase that is distinctly Disney and slightly different.

Unique Shopping at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort is a post from the TouringPlans.com Blog. Signup for a premium subscription today! Or get news via Email, Twitter, & Facebook.

I was fortunate enough to experience Disney’s Wild Africa Trek in the Animal Kingdom recently.  Rather than write a lengthy post about all its particulars, I thought you might prefer to take the trek with me through this video montage.  I hope it helps you decide whether this particular tour is one for your “bucket list” and gives you a greater sense of what to expect.

Disney’s Wild Africa Trek is a post from the TouringPlans.com Blog. Signup for a premium subscription today! Or get news via Email, Twitter, & Facebook.

A Dining Story – Part 1

I sit at my computer to check the park hours of Disney’s Hollywood Studios. While I’m notating particulars about Extra Magic Hours for Disney resort guests, a pop-up box notifies me that I have received an e-mail from someone named Chef Patrick.

I open the letter to read a thoughtful note from the chef of The Hollywood Brown Derby.  He explains that he was contacted by Brenda, the head of Disney’s Special Dietary Requests Department, about our family’s circumstances and is very interested in enabling us to visit the park.  He then requests an e-mail back specifying the items that my children cannot eat.

I am quick to put my current task aside.  After all, if our dietary dilemma does not get resolved, Extra Magic Hours will be meaningless anyway.  I feel much like Milo when he cohesively organized all his research in hopes of securing passage to the lost city of Atlantis, and I carefully begin construction on my dietary epistle to Chef Patrick.  Since the list of foods my children can eat is more brief and specific than the list of foods they cannot eat, I start my small e-book with this itemized list.  After that I give an abridged explanation of my children’s medical diet, the science behind it, and our current position in its progression.  This is all followed by explicit warnings of the potential physical, behavioral, and neurological consequences for my children if their food is not prepared within the set guidelines.

As I proofread my e-mail, which is probably worthy of publication in a medical journal, I wonder what Chef Patrick’s response will be.  The diet actually is a return to whole foods in a very restricted and pure form.  However, I am acutely aware that to most contemporary persons, the kids’ diet seems like a maniacal menu designed by The Swedish Chef and Dr. Bunsen Honeydew.

I expel a heavy sigh and acknowledge that the note cannot be helped.  If I am going to trust this man with the health of my children, I need to be sure that he understands the magnitude of our situation.  So with some reservation, I hit the “send” button, and my short novel takes off through cyberspace to an inbox somewhere in Orlando.

Several minutes have passed, and I’m back to searching the Disney website for details on height restrictions of attractions and recommended activities for toddlers.  Another pop-up box informs me that Chef Patrick has responded.  Already?  I know that Disney tries to be timely in responding to guests, but this is very impressive.  I open the new message and read, “May I call you right now?”

“Oh my!  Is this a good thing or a bad thing?” I wonder.  I oblige by sending Chef Patrick more specific contact information and wait for the phone to ring.

Over the last two years, our family has received a wide variety of reactions to our diet.  But the most common reaction is one of disbelief.  In spite of the evidence that my children’s recovery provides, most people seem unable to grasp that our extreme dietary measures have been completely necessary (as if I was putting us all through these severe restrictions just for fun).  When Joel (my husband) and I first encountered these responses, they were shocking.  Then they grew to be infuriating.  At this point, they are expected, but they have never become less painful.  So – more often than I care to recall – my experience when conversing about my family’s diet has been negative.  I brace myself for what I may confront in my next phone call.

The phone rings, so I pick up.  I’m greeted by a kind voice, “Hi. This is Chef Patrick from The Hollywood Brown Derby.”  I return the greeting.  Chef Patrick explains, “I’m sorry to bother you.  I received your e-mail and have looked it over.  With all my experience in dealing with dietary issues, I’ve never seen the likes of this.  I’m calling because I want to make sure that I fully understand it.  Is it alright if I ask you some questions?”  I take a big breath and agree to answer his questions even though most of these types of conversations turn into something resembling an interrogation.

We start off discussing the kids’ medical condition and its affect on their digestive system.  I explain that most likely the reason he is unfamiliar with their prescribed diet is because most individuals on it are unable to visit restaurants.  This is why we haven’t been in a restaurant as a family in two years.  Chef Patrick exclaims, “Two years!”  But rather than with disbelief, Chef Patrick treats my research and experience with a sense of respect and admiration.  He continues to ask very specific questions about ingredients and cooking processes.  His manner is one of genuine interest, and he asks me to occasionally pause so that he can catch up on his notes.  I find myself feeling slightly at ease with Chef Patrick.  He is very likeable, and even though I am neurotic, he seems to take me seriously.

After all the questions have been answered, I express my fear that the meals could accidentally be cross-contaminated due to the nature of a restaurant’s operation.  Chef Patrick very calmly addresses me, “I want to lay all your fears to rest.  Should you decide to come to my restaurant, your meals will be treated with the utmost care.  My restaurant is the only five-star restaurant within a Disney theme park.  For this reason, we have two kitchens – one that is rarely ever used.  If I’m on duty that day, not only will your meals be pulled off the main line and prepared in an entirely separate kitchen but I will also prepare them myself.  I want your family to eat in my restaurant.  You have been through so much.  Please allow me to serve you this way.  I truly want to feed your family.”

I nearly choke as my eyes tear up, and I struggle to catch my breath.  His words ring in my ears. IWANT to feed your family?  Of all the times I’ve witnessed reactions to our story, I’ve never encountered this.  I’ve seen arrogant condescension.  I’ve seen irritated tolerance.  At best, I’ve seen sympathetic compassion.  This is the first time though I’ve seen aggressive inclusion, and I am moved in a powerful way.

It is in this moment that I know I can place the safety of my family’s health in the hands of this incredible man.  He has succeeded where so many have failed by being humble and realizing there are some things that he can still learn in life (even from a Neurotic Disney Mom).  Because he has made himself teachable, he has also made himself trustworthy.  My defenses are coming down, and I smile as I imagine my family enjoying the luxury of a restaurant together for the first time since Elle’s birth.

Chef Patrick and I end our discussion with my promise to make a reservation and his promise to remain in touch.  He says that he plans to periodically check on our progress before we arrive, and once again I’m awestruck by his desire to be so “hands-on” with us.

I feel most of my apprehension melt away.  In its stead, the familiar feeling of Disney excitement grows.  Somehow this saintly man, disguised as a chef, has broken the curse of Disneyphobia that has tortured me for too long.  Upon recognizing this, I whisper a prayer of thanks for his entrance in my life.  He is the Genie in a lamp that I’ve been waiting to find, making my Disney wishes come true.

*Contact information for Walt Disney World special dietary requests:

(407) 824-5967; WDW.Special.Diets@disney.com;  http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/guest-services/special-dietary-requests/

A Dining Story – Part 2 is a post from the TouringPlans.com Blog. Signup for a premium subscription today! Or get news via Email, Twitter, & Facebook.

“There is nothing wrong with your computer monitor.  Do not attempt to adjust the settings.  We are controlling content.  If we wish to excite you, we will bring you a post about the Fantasyland Expansion.  If we wish to bore you, we will bring you a post about which brand of band-aid best accommodates walking-borne blisters.  If we wish to bend your brain, we will bring you a post much like the one to follow.  For the next five minutes, sit quietly and try to wrap your mind around what we are about to deliver.  We repeat: there is nothing wrong with your computer.  You are about to participate in a great adventure.  You are about to experience the awe and mystery which reaches from within the insanity of Type-A, commando, vacation planners to . . . The Outer Limits.”

This is how I imagine a blog post such as this one should open.  My mind explodes as I try to comprehend the magnitudinal impact of the information that I am about to share.  In terms of a Disney vacation, this is where it is at for a die-hard.  The time that could be saved . . . the biological energy that could be conserved . . . the amount of Disney territory that could be conquered . . . it’s almost more than a little Neurotic Disney Mom such as myself can take.  But a word of caution: This information is not for the faint of heart.  It is possibly not for the faint of anything because once you are able to comprehend this complex trickery of Touring Plan bliss, the execution of it might cause you to . . . well, faint.  Consider yourself warned.

Many a Disney fan is familiar with the Fastpass system that is an option for most of Disney’s longest “wait-in-line attractions”.  To refresh, though, I will pull an excerpt from the latest edition of The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World:

” . . . . insert your park admission pass into a Fastpass machine and receive an appointment time (for later in the day) to return and ride [the attraction for which you opted to get a Fastpass].  When you return at the designated time, you enter the Fastpass line and proceed directly to the attraction’s preshow or boarding area.” – p. 79

In the Fastpass system, each ticket is limited to one Fastpass at a time.  The holder of the Fastpass for one attraction may not acquire a Fastpass for a second attraction until the time indicated on the original Fastpass has transpired.  Only then can a ticket-holder seek a Fastpass for a second attraction, but the “Rider Exchange” is a game-changer for those that are serious about time efficiency.

The “Rider Exchange” (referred to as the “Switch-Off” in The Unofficial Guide) is possibly a less-known time-saving technique amongst the Disney guest population because it is not as widely publicized.  However, it is a necessary option for parties that have a person who is unwilling or unable to ride attractions but can’t be left alone while the rest of the group experiences them.  Here is another excerpt from The Unofficial Guide to briefly explain:

“To switch off, there must be at least two adults . . . . On most Fastpass attractions . . . . When you tell the cast member that you want to switch off, he or she will issue you a special “rider exchange” Fastpass good for three people.  One parent and the non-riding child (or children) will at that point be asked to leave the line.  When those riding reunite with the waiting adult, the waiting adult and two other persons from the party can ride using the special Fastpass.” -p. 331-332

So here is the mind-blowing part.  You can incorporate Fastpasses with the Rider Exchange in order to have Fastpasses for multiple attractions at the same time. This is an enormous benefit for larger groups.

Because the “rider exchange pass” can be used by the adult holding it as well as three companions, this essentially gives a “four for the price of one” scenario in terms of Fastpass currency.  The basic idea is that we’re using one one-person Fastpass to get one multi-person rider swap pass.  Naturally this give you more “bang for your buck” in terms of covering ground during your hours at Disney.

An alert reader in Mequon, WI discovered this strategy of combining the two time-saving line options to ride more Fastpass attraction headliners:

You advise sending someone to get Fastpasses for Big Thunder and then “switching off” so all the adults can ride.  But if you have at least two adults in a group and one non-riding child, it’s possible to use the “switching off” pass to get Fastpasses for more than one attraction at a time.

Our group consisted of two adults, two teens, and two young children.  We split our tickets into two groups of three and used one group to get Fastpasses for Big Thunder and one group to get Fastpasses for Splash Mountain.  When the half with the Big Thunder Fastpasses went to ride, we asked to “switch off” and obtained a pass good for one adult and up to three other people.  My husband used the three Fastpasses to ride with our two teens.  Then, with the switch-off pass, I rode with the teens again and one of our younger sons who was willing to ride.  We did the same thing on Splash Mountain immediately afterwards because the time on our Fastpasses for that ride was already here when we finished riding Big Thunder.

Depending on size and number of ticket-bearers, this strategy has the potential to hold Fastpasses for as many as five attractions at any given time while still maintaining the ability to get the entire group on each attraction with a single “swap.”  This mass Fastpass acquisition is accomplished by dividing up the group’s tickets for Fastpasses at different attraction kiosks, but the maximum number of attractions a party can exploit this way diminishes as the size of the group increases.

Used at its fullest potential, a family that consists of two adults and four other ticket-bearing people (one which is not able or willing to ride) can divide their tickets into five groups.  One ticket would be used to obtain a Fastpass at “Attraction A.”  One would be used to get a Fastpass at “Attraction B.”  The pattern would continue for acquiring tickets for “Attractions C, D and E” simultaneously.  With the attraction of the earliest Fastpass time stamp being called “Attraction A”, an adult wielding the Fastpass for “Attraction A” would request a rider exchange pass by approaching the Cast Member at the Fastpass Return entrance.  After securing the rider exchange pass, the adult would use his Fastpass to board the ride and give the rider exchange pass to the second adult when he rejoins the group.  At that point, the second adult–accompanied by the three others whom are riding–would present the switch-off pass to the Cast Member guarding the Fastpass Return entrance.  All four family members would be permitted to enter the Fastpass lane for the ride while the first adult would remain with the non-riding individual.  Upon the return of the second group, the same procedure could be followed for the remaining four Fastpass attractions without having to wait an extended period for the assigned time-frames.

This scenario may seem unappealing as it would require an adult that was always willing to ride solo as well as some serious team cooperation in gathering the Fastpasses from all corners of the park.  For that reason, we see dividing the group’s tickets into thirds and using them for three different attractions as a more reasonable option (providing the number of riders in the party doesn’t exceed six).  Here is how it might play out:

Two parents, two adventurous grandparents, two excited teens, and one terrified child named Clarence want to make the most of their time.  Dividing their tickets into three groups of two, Dad runs to grab two Fastpasses at Space Mountain and plans to meet up with the rest of the family after they have used two tickets to get Fastpasses at Splash Mountain and two tickets to get Fastpasses at Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.  Once the time rolls around, Dad and Grandpa use the Fastpasses for Splash Mountain, being sure to ask for the rider exchange pass when they enter the Fastpass line.  After they ride, they give the rider exchange pass to Mom who then takes Grandma and the two teens through the Fastpass lane.  Dad and Grandpa wait with Clarence near the exit, and the group is reunited when Mom, Grandma and the happy teens emerge.  This same scenario would play out for Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Space Mountain in short duration due to the fact that the FastPasses for those attractions have already been grabbed and the time for entry has probably arrived.

Now that I have completely amazed you with the brilliance of this Touring Plan technique, you are left with two questions:

1. How far are you able to take this mind-boggling strategy within the demographics of your particular vacation party?

and

2. Are you willing to take it to the “Outer Limits”?

Fastpasses and the Rider Exchange: A Powerful Combination is a post from the TouringPlans.com Blog. Signup for a premium subscription today! Or get news via Email, Twitter, & Facebook.

Although I have been doing my best to not allow my newly acquired Disney phobia get the best of me, it has been hard for me to entirely shake it.  Traveling with our special dietary needs is a concept that still makes me very uneasy, so I decide not to set our expectations too high.  We will brave one park for one day, and we will remain content within that limitation.

The park, Disney’s Hollywood Studios (DHS), seems like a good fit for this trip.  My little starlets have never been to this park, and my husband, Joel, and I have not been since our honeymoon.  It is a park that can be almost completely seen within a day if one carefully plans and strategizes.  And because Disney’s Hollywood Studios has a large amount of shows with only a couple rides that exempt small children, our choice is particularly wise for our toddler.

As I analyze the situation, I am continually frustrated by our dietary circumstances.  I want to feed my children food that I have prepared because I know this guarantees their safety, but it is impossible for us to carry entire meals for our family around the park.  The amount of edibles would require a large cooler to be schlepped around the full day.  I am not about to consider this possibility when I will already feel like a pack mule under the weight of a diaper bag, a camcorder bag, and a backpack that contains all the essentials for surviving a Walt Disney World theme park.  Plus, I will need all my hands available to manage and direct my Disney troop.

In the back of my mind, I hear the voices of easy-going Disney guests advocating a retreat back to the villa during meals.  But this habit is strictly forbidden for my family.  It is deep within the commando code to never leave a theme park before its closure forces such dreadful action.  So if I intend to have my family experience as much as humanly possible within the limited hours DHS is open, a mid-day retreat is out of the question.

Think, think, think.  I tap my furrowed brow with the tip of my index finger as I search for an inspiring solution.  This technique in mental exercise always helps Winnie the Pooh visualize “outside the hunny pot.”  Perhaps, it will assist me as well.

Ah!  I’ve got it!  But my plan of ingenuity will require special permission.  I retrieve the phone number of Brenda Bennett, the primary supervisor of Disney’s special dietary department, and quickly dial the digits.  Surprisingly, she answers personally rather than a voice message.  I quickly introduce myself, my circumstances, and my brilliant idea.  I propose, “If Joel and I made reservations at a restaurant for lunch and dinner, we could drop meals off there for the children first thing in the morning.  Then the restaurant could store the kid’s food in the refrigerator until we arrived for our reservations.”  In my mind, the notion is perfect.  The restaurant will receive our business; the children will be safe, and our family will experience eating together in a restaurant for the first time in two years.  However, Brenda finds a glaring flaw in my scheme.  It is illegal.

Disney is responsible whenever a guest reacts negatively to a meal eaten within their restaurants.  So to ensure they are only held accountable for incidents that they have actually caused, these eating facilities are not permitted to serve food that they have not prepared.  As a loyal Disney mom, it is difficult for me to imagine persecuting an innocent Mouse in a court of law, but apparently there are people who do this sort of thing.  As a result, it has dashed all hopes of my family living the Hollywood life for a day.

I do my best to hold it together, but tears fill my eyes.  Our dietary restrictions have kept us from being able to do a great many things these past years.  I have tried to stay positive in spite of it all, but this is more than I can bear.  As I attempt to thank Brenda for her time, I hear my voice quiver.  She hears it as well and begs me to consider trusting one of her chefs.  As I try to explain the complexity of my children’ s diet and my apprehension, I find myself taking big breaths and long pauses to stave off the sob fest that I am dangerously close to engaging.

Brenda extends her sincerest sympathies and remarks that my fears are natural.  She assures me, though, that if I’m willing to give her a chance, she will go beyond the routine process of filling out the standard Dietary Needs Form.  She will put me personally in touch with chefs that not only ensure my kids’ safety but guarantee that their meals will receive exclusive attention.

I begin to hope.  Maybe if I’m able to speak with some chefs first-hand, I will be able to ascertain whether they actually can handle the grave responsibility of safely feeding my delicate, red carpet walkers.  I tell Brenda with some trepidation that I will take this initial step with her.  She is elated to hear it and promises that I will begin receiving e-mails from Disney’s Hollywood Studios chefs within a day or two.  I express my gratitude, and we end our conversation.

I sit and wonder if I have done the right thing.  I desperately wish that I did not have to make such a scary decision; however, because we are a Disney family we cannot live in a bubble that floats outside of the realm of Disney.  I’m perfectly content for my bubble to exclude almost everything else in life, but when Mickey is on the outside looking in, it is time for the bubble to pop.

I try to relax and feel comfortable in the direction I’m taking.  After all, this is Walt Disney World we are talking about.  If anyone is on top of their game, it is this company.  Surely I can place my family in their hands and trust we will be taken care of, or can I?

I bury my conflicted head in my hands.  Will I ever fully recover from my doubtful Disney state?  This is the most distressing condition a Disney Mom could have.  It sure would be nice to access Genie and his magic lamp right now, but I’m starting to wonder if my deliverance from this misery is even beyond the reach of the most powerful wish granters.

A Dining Story–Part 2

*Contact information for Walt Disney World special dietary requests:

(407) 824-5967

WDW.Special.Diets@disney.com

A Dining Story-Part 1 is a post from the TouringPlans.com Blog. Signup for a premium subscription today! Or get news via Email, Twitter, & Facebook.

“I’m sorry. We don’t have a reservation under that name at this resort or any other Disney resort.”  This was the rocky start to my relationship with Disney’s All-Star Music Resort.  Baffled and sent away with my tail tucked between my legs, I found a seat in the lobby.  I needed wifi to pull up my confirmation email (which admittedly I should have already had with me), but I quickly learned there was no wifi anywhere.  I waited in the check-in line a second time to inquire about getting an internet connection but was told this was only available for an extra fee with (wait for it). . . a room reservation.  Sent away with my tail tucked between my legs for a second time, I spent some time seeking wifi and tracking down my confirmation email.

Once I was armed with the proof that my clan did, indeed, have the right to occupy one of the resort’s family suites, I waited in the check-in line for a third time.  The reservation was found under my last name with an incorrect spelling.  I was relieved–that is until I was told I needed to pay the balance on the room.  “This room should have already been paid for,” I explained to the lady behind the counter.  She pleasantly explained that the first night had been paid off but not the second, and I was bewildered when she asked if I would please hand over my credit card for the $300 per night charge. I was certain it had already been covered.  However, I thought it over for a few seconds and considered the fact that if I had to wait in that check-in line one more time I might hang myself.  With that visual in mind, I gave the woman my sparkling Disney Visa.  The matter would have to be figured out later as my family needed accommodations, and I knew we would not be able to find another room easily on the holiday weekend.

The papers were signed, and I was told that the room was available immediately.  Dragging my luggage and family of five along, I approached and opened the door to our suite on the second floor.  Bam! The intense smell of chlorine bleach hit me like a Mac truck.  “Whoa!” I exclaimed, “Back up! No children may enter here yet!”  My kids were tired. They were sweating. They were irritable, but there was no way I would let them in the room.  I reasoned that mild perspiration never hurt anyone; however, inhaling chlorine bleach had, and I made them wait out on the balcony while I did my best to air out the room.

After a few minutes with the door held open, the smell abated enough for everyone to enter.  This was when the course of our experience changed.  Everyone “ooohed and ahhhhed” as we inspected our temporary digs.  A living room featured a TV, table, a couple dining chairs, hidden beds in the sofa, stuffed chair, and ottoman.  It was simply but tastefully accented with a musical theme.  Equally simple and yet completely practical was a kitchenette with cabinets, sink, mini fridge, and microwave.  Around a corner was separate bedroom with TV, queen bed, and desk.  But clearly my favorite amenity was the set-up of two separate bathrooms, something of which even some DVC accommodations don’t boast.  We immediately felt quite comfortable in its crisp and clean atmosphere.

When I ventured out to the food court after settling in our quarters, it impressed me as just as clever.  It had separate stations such as a bakery, a grill, a pizzeria, an ice cream counter, waffle station, and beverage island.  The service was quick and efficient.  I sampled a burger and fries from the grill and sat amongst the colorful murals and posters of music celebrities in the court. It was a pleasant half hour for me.  My little ones colored at a strategically placed table that was stocked with coloring sheets and crayons .  I sat peacefully nearby and watched “Sonny With A Chance” on a mounted flat screen TV and finished my fries in peace.

“The grounds are somewhat eclectic and charming,” I noted when I scouted the area.  As with every Value Resort, All-Star Music was dotted with garish structures establishing its theme.  This style always creates a playful and energetic setting for families; however, hidden between the vivid musical monuments I found a rather serene environment–a fenced in rose garden with benches and a fountain.  Had I sought out relaxation, this would have been my area of choice.  But alas, relaxing is not my strong point when at Walt Disney World, and my family sought out action in these stomping grounds.

We followed the action trail to a central location of the resort.  Here we found the primary attraction of All-Star Music–the pools.  My family spent a large amount of time at the main pool on both days we were there.  The unique guitar shape of the pool along with the water gun-shooting Three Caballeros fountain in the center drew my kids like a Pooh Bear to the hunny pot. Imagine our enthusiasm when we discovered that pool parties were a daily event with energetic DJs and a nightly pool-side movie.  It is no surprise that this became the hot spot for the Knopps, and my kids returned from these pool events with bright smiles and tired eyes.

When our troop finally checked out of the family suite of Disney’s All-Star Music Resort, I conceded that it had been a great experience once we were actually permitted to set up camp.  The price seemed a bit steep, but being a large family who had need for some kitchen space, the cost was possibly justified.  Also, the second bathroom was appreciated on more than one occasion.  After all when you have young ones that “gotta go” at the same time, no mom wants to be praying that one can “hold it” while the other is lolly-gagging on the latrine.  With this arrangement we found ample places for everyone to be “relieved” as well as get ready to go without standing on top of one another.  In addition to that, the resort pool activities did create some wonderful family moments for which there was no price tag.  For my family with three younger children, it seemed a fantastic place to establish home base while running around the Walt Disney World Resort.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iIpI1jx1h3A

All-Star Music Resort Family Suite Review is a post from the TouringPlans.com Blog. Signup for a premium subscription today! Or get news via Email, Twitter, & Facebook.

Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party (MNSSHP) is Disney’s answer to the American trick-or-treat tradition that takes place every fall.  For the span of a month and a half (September 14 – November 1) Disney closes the Magic Kingdom relatively early on select days and transforms in the evening for a Halloween celebration.  This party requires the attendees to purchase an entirely separate ticket specifically for the event.  Regular park tickets and Annual Passes cannot be used for admittance.  Guests are welcome to masquerade in their costume of choice, collect candy, and participate in special happenings around the park for the last five hours of the day (7pm to 12am).

The tradition of past years is to allow MNSSHP ticket holders to enter the Magic Kingdom at four o’ clock in the late afternoon even though regular park guests are still actively running around.  Upon presenting a ticket or purchasing it on the designated night, MNSSHP guests are given a wristband that distinguishes them from the average park guest.  When the party officially starts, guests without a wristband are no longer allowed to enter attractions, and as the night progresses they are prohibited from even entering the various lands and asked to exit entirely.

MNSSHP begins at seven o’clock.  At that time, Cast Members set up candy distribution spots throughout the entire park.  These locations are designated on the MNSSHP park maps, but in past years these spots have been placed in every land with the highest concentration of them being along a path (labeled Alice and Mad Hatter’s Treat Party) that begins in Mickey’s Toontown Fair, runs behind the Tomorrowland Speedway, and exits in Tomorrowland beside Space Mountain.  The candy that is passed out is essentially the same mixture at every location, so it isn’t necessary to visit every spot for the purpose of variety; however the more stations you visit, the more candy you accumulate.  Feel free to revisit stations throughout the night as well to gather a particularly large stash of sweets.

Much like during regular park hours, guests have the opportunity to meet with Disney characters throughout the park in specified locations until 11:30pm.  The primary difference during MNSSHP is that the characters are either dressed in Halloween garb or their personality is villainous in nature.  It may be appropriate to prepare younger children for intimidating meetings with cruel step-mothers and harsh sorcerers.

If Disney continues its tradition, The Pirates League will remain open until 8pm so that guests with reservations can be transformed into pirates.  The price of the packages start at about $30 (with the ability to add accessories and costumes a la carte style).  The league can accommodate all genders and ages.

Character Dance Parties take place during the evening with Rockettower Plaza Stage being a primary location to interact and dance with characters like Stitch.  Also, a Halloween stage show titled “Disney’s Villains Mix and Mingle” happens almost hourly in front of the castle with the villains roaming throughout the audience after each show (7:45pm, 9pm, 10:05pm, and 11:15pm being last year’s timetable).

“Happy HallowWishes” is the name of the fireworks show that is sandwiched in between two appearances of the Halloween-themed “Boo To You” parade (with previous times being 8:15pm and 10:30pm for the parade and 9:30pm for the fireworks).  Both of these events are the cornerstones of the entire evening.

“Happy HalloWishes” can be viewed from any location in the Magic Kingdom, but the best views to be had are from Main Street USA, facing the castle.  The castle turns a whole spectrum of blues, green, oranges, and purples as fireworks are synchronized to a medley of spooky and villainous tunes.

The “Boo To You” parade is an eclectic mixture of fluffy elements such as floats that emulate Halloween on a farm with clucking chickens, pumpkins, cowboys, and Country Bears as well as more ghoulish traits such as grave digging dancers and skeletons.  The Disney characters are featured in Halloween attire, and there are special appearances from not-so-oft seen villains like the Headless Horseman, Pain & Panic, and personalities from the Haunted Mansion.

The expense of the event varies, depending on the date you choose to attend as well as whether you purchase your tickets prior to that particular evening.  With the exception of the Friday night and Halloween weekend parties, guests have the option of purchasing tickets at an Advanced Sales Price ($53.95 + tax for people over the age of nine /$47.95 + tax for children 3-9 years of age) or at a Same Day Sales Price ($59.95 + tax for people over the age of nine / $53.95 + tax for children 3-9 years of age).  The Friday night and Halloween weekend parties only sell at the Same Day Sales Price.  The exception to these prices are the evenings of October 29 and 31 when tickets are sold at Premium Pricing ($64.95 + tax for people over the age of nine / $58.95 + tax for children 3-9 years of age).  Disney Vacation Club members trump them all, though, with a tax included discount ticket price on select nights ($53.20 for people over the age of nine / $46.81 for children 3-9 years of age).

Most of the Magic Kingdom’s attractions remain open for MNSSHP.  A number of counter service restaurants and snack kiosks continue to host hungry guests as well.  No table service restaurants are expected to be open once the party officially begins, but considering that guests are only given five hours in the park, most would not want to spend a full hour or two of that time seated in a restaurant and missing the very events that they paid a premium price to experience.

Disney’s Photopass photographers will be stationed throughout the park, especially in locations where the Halloweeen style of the castle can be used as a backdrop.  Another spot of particular interest is the stroller parking area in Fantasyland that formerly was the location of the Skyway to Tomorrowland.  In the past, Cinderella’s Coach has been parked there amongst pumpkins for a unique photo opportunity.

What are the specific dates and times of MNSSHP in 2010?

For 2010, the time frame is 7pm-12am on each of the following evenings:

September 14, 18, 21, 23, 25, 28, 30

October 1, 3, 7, 8, 11, 12, 14, 17, 19, 21, 22, 24, 26, 28, 29, 31

November 1

What is the price of the event?

Advanced Sales Price: $53.95 + tax for 10 & up / $47.95 + tax for 3-9

Same Day Sales Price: $59.95 + tax for 10 & up / $53.95 + tax for 3-9

Premium Sales Price: $64.95 + tax for 10 & up / $48.95 + tax for 3-9

Disney Vacation Club Discount Price: $53.20 (tax included) for 10 & up / $46.81 (tax included) for 3-9

*The Advanced Sales Price is not available for October 8, 22, 28, 29, or 31

*Tickets for October 29 and 31 are only available at the Premium Sales Price

*The Disney Vacation Club Discount Price is not available for September 25, October 8, 22, 28, 29, 31, or November 1

Are there any costume restrictions or policies?

There are a few rules that Disney asks its guests to adhere to concerning costuming.  First, for safety reasons Disney does not permit costumes that obstruct vision or drag on the ground.  Eyes must be visible at all times.  Costumes may not contain sharp or pointed objects that could strike another guest.  Because the event is child-friendly, guests are asked to not wear offensive or violent disguises.  And, finally, guests that are dressed as Disney Characters are not permitted to pose for pictures or sign autographs for other guests to accommodate Disney licensing issues.

Is MNSSHP merchandise available?

MNSSHP merchandise will be available.  In previous years, The Merchant of Venus store in Tomorrowland has been the headquarters for Disney’s Halloween merchandise, but there should also be some merchandise available in the Emporium on Main Street USA as well as Pirates Bazaar in Adventureland.

Do I need to bring my own container for collecting candy?

It isn’t necessary to bring a bag or container for collecting candy.  Disney does provide guests with nice plastic bags for this purpose if they arrive empty-handed.

Which attractions and food services are expected to be open?

While Disney reserves the right to change their plans at a moment’s notice, their pattern of the past years has been such:

Open Attractions

The Barnstormer at Goofy’s Wiseacre Farm; Tomorrowland Transit Authority; Stitch’s Great Escape; Monster’s Inc. Laugh Floor; Tomorrowland Speedway; Astro Orbiter; Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin; Splash Mountain; Big Thunder Mountain Railroad; Haunted Mansion; The Hall of Presidents; Swiss Family Treehouse; Pirates of the Caribbean; The Magic Carpets of Aladdin; Peter Pan’s Flight; Prince Charming’s Regal Carrousel; Dumbo the Flying Elephant; Mickey’s PhilharMagic; “it’s a small world”; Snow White’s Scary Adventures; The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh; Mad Tea Party

Open Food Spots

Casey’s Corner; Aloha Isle; Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe; Golden Oak Outpost; Westward Ho; Frontierland Turkey Leg; Sleepy Hollow Pizza Cart; Mrs. Potts Cupboard; Friar’s Nook; Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe; The Lunching Pad at Rockettower Plaza; Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies

Is the event worth the extra expense?

If your visit only includes a day or two at Disney, then the extra ticket is worthwhile in order to extend your hours in the park.  If you are really set on seeing the Magic Kingdom in full force for Halloween, then the expense is also worthwhile since it can’t be experienced this way at any other time.  However, if your vacation extends for more than a few days and the Halloween aspect of the Magic Kingdom doesn’t intrigue you, then bypass the cost of the extra ticket.  In fact, it would probably be best to bypass the park entirely on the designated MNSSHP days due to the crowds.  Instead, choose a separate day for your visit to the Magic Kingdom, especially if it is not scheduled for Extra Magic Hours.  Since most people will have been there the previous day and late into the night, it is likely those same people will sleep in late and visit a different park to explore the following day, making your day in the Magic Kingdom less crowded, more efficient, and more pleasant while still enjoying some of Disney’s fall decor.

Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party is a post from the TouringPlans.com Blog. Signup for a premium subscription today! Or get news via Email, Twitter, & Facebook.