April 2015 - Page 3 of 3 - On the Go in MCO

Give Kids the World Village Annual Gala

Give Kids The World Village’s Black & White Gala Highlights Orlando Social Calendar

Annual event attracts thousands to Central Florida, including celebrities

Give Kids The World Village’s (GKTW) annual Black & White Gala will feature gourmet food, world-class entertainment and best of all, the chance for attendees to help children with life-threatening illnesses. Scheduled for Saturday, May 9 at the Hyatt Regency Orlando, the event has become one of Central Florida’s most popular social events on the calendar, directly helping make more than 7,400 wishes come true every year.

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In addition to a fabulous evening of food and entertainment, a silent auction will be included featuring vacation packages, artwork, sporting event experiences and much more. Attendees will be able to bid on items using smart phones or tablets, making it easier to participate in the auction process.

“Gala is our biggest fundraiser of the year, but it also is a time for us to pause and say thank you to so many friends, supporters and partners who make this great organization so wonderful,” said Pamela Landwirth, President of GKTW Village. “Hopefully, we will have an opportunity to welcome new individual and corporate friends to this year’s Gala so we can continue to make our Village a place where happiness inspires hope.”

For more information about Give Kids The World Village and its Black & White Gala, visit http://www.gktw.org/gala.

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Celebrates Apollo 13 Anniversary

On the 45^th Anniversary of Apollo 13, Remember Its Trials and Triumphs at

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Apollo 13 Lunar Module Pilot Fred Haise Talks about His Experience on the Famous Mission As Part of Visitor Complex’s ‘Tell Me A Story’ Video Series

April 11 marks the 45^th anniversary of the harrowing and heroic Apollo 13 mission, the third mission to land on the moon that became a daring mission to bring three brave astronauts home to Earth. An oxygen tank exploded, leaving the crew without electricity and water – 200,000 miles from Earth. They were forced to orbit the moon without landing and return to Earth. That mission – Apollo 13 – was at the same time one of NASA’s biggest trials and one of its greatest triumphs. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is the ideal destination for an immersive experience into the legendary Apollo program, including Apollo 13.

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The Apollo/Saturn V Center at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is dedicated to the Apollo program and home to a treasure trove of Apollo equipment and memorabilia. Items from Apollo 13 are housed at the Apollo/Saturn V Center including Commander Jim Lovell’s flight suit, his Command Service Module Rescue Book and Spacesuit Repair Kit. An actual Lunar Module on display is similar to the Apollo 13 Lunar Module, and the focal point of the Center is a majestic 363-foot long Saturn V moon rocket, the workhorse of the Apollo program. Kennedy Space Center also was the launch site for Apollo 13, as well as all the Mercury, Gemini, Apollo and Space Shuttle missions.

Just in time for the 45^th anniversary, Apollo 13 Lunar Module Pilot Fred Haise talks about his experience aboard Apollo 13 here in the latest addition to the Visitor Complex’s “Tell Me A Story” video series.

About Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex brings to life the epic story of the U.S. space program, offering a full day or more of fun and educational activities, including the Kennedy Space Center Tour featuring the Apollo/Saturn V Center with an actual Saturn V moon rocket, the new Space Shuttle Atlantis^SM, Shuttle Launch Experience^®, IMAX^® Hubble 3D and Journey to Space films, Astronaut Encounter, Exploration Space^®: Explorers Wanted, Rocket Garden and many other interactive exhibits. Admission also includes the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame^®, featuring historic spacecraft and the world’s largest collection of personal astronaut memorabilia, which opens daily at noon and closing times vary by season. Only 45 minutes from Orlando, Fla., Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex opens daily at 9 a.m. with closing times varying by season. Admission is $50 + tax for adults and $40 + tax for children ages 3-11. The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex offers annual passes starting at $75 + tax for adults and $60 + tax for children ages 3-11. For more information, call 877-313-2610 or visit www.KennedySpaceCenter.com.

Twitter: @ExploreSpaceKSC

facebook.com/KennedySpaceCenterVisitorComplex

#AlwaysExploring

SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium Welcomes First Group of Fish with Open Arms (and Fins)

Photo courtesy of SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium

School’s in for the Summer: First Group of Fish Arrive at SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium

School’s in for the summer as @sealifeorlando welcomes the first group of fish to the aquarium

From Angelfish to Porkfish, SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium has welcomed the first group of colorful fish and marine animals to the 25,000 square-foot aquarium attraction.

Opening May 4, the immersive, one-of-a-kind aquarium experience will eventually be home to more than 5,000 sea animals from the oceans and waters of the world. After each group arrives, the fish and marine life are acclimated to the aquarium waters before moving into one of 32 display habitats. The first grouping features a variety of smaller sea animals, including Everglades Pygmy Sunfish, Butterflyfish and Triggerfish, Moray Eels and several sea snakes such as the Yellow Ratsnake and Rough Green Snake, to name a few.

“The fish and sea animal arrival is a huge milestone for our aquarium,” said Steve Blair, Curator, for SEA LIFE Orlando. “Once our smaller animals are acclimated to their new environments, we’ll get the chance for their larger neighbors, such as rays and sharks, to move into the SEA LIFE neighborhood in a few weeks.”

Guests will have the chance to come nose-to-nose with many different sea creatures through a variety of display habitats, cold water rock pools, bubble aquariums, floor-to-ceiling aquariums, and walk through 360-degree and 180-degree clear acrylic tunnels.

For more information on SEA LIFE Orlando, or to purchase tickets, go to Visit SeaLife.com/Orlando.

About SEA LIFE Orlando

Opening May 4, 2015, SEA LIFE Orlando is an immersive, one-of-kind aquarium experience that allows marine life enthusiasts to experience the magical world beneath our oceans of the world with interactive touch pools, bubble aquariums, floor-to-ceiling displays, and 360-degree and 180-degree ocean tunnels featuring more than 5,000 sea creatures. The 25,000-square foot aquarium attraction will be home to colorful fish, sharks, sea horses, sting rays, jellies, sea turtles and much more.

SEA LIFE provides a glimpse of the diversity of marine life, while also playing an active role in animal and environmental conservation. Visitors will see strong evidence of the Breed, Rescue and Protect program with activities around the world, and new projects developed locally, as well as educational initiatives, including guest lectures and talks.

SEA LIFE is the world’s largest aquarium chain and SEA LIFE Orlando is the 50th location aquarium launched in the world and the 8th in the U.S. SEA LIFE Orlando is located at 8337 International Drive in Orlando, Florida, inside I-Drive 360, the entertainment and dining complex which is the home of the 400-foot Orlando Eye observation wheel and celebrity wax attraction Madame Tussauds Orlando. For more information, go to www.visitsealife.com/orlando.

Wild Days With Jack Hanna Returns to Busch Gardens

International Animal Expert Presents a Weekend of Wild Animal Encounters in April

Join “Jungle Jack” Hanna at Busch Gardens® Tampa on
April 18 and April 19 for Wild Days, a weekend of wild animal shows, autograph signings and special meet-and-greets.

The internationally-known animal expert will share animal facts and his travel tales during animal shows in Stanleyville Theater at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. All shows are included with any annual pass, Fun Card or paid admission.

NEW! Jack Hanna’s Wild Days VIP Experience

Saturday, April 18 and Sunday, April 19, 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Meet “Jungle Jack” himself and get up-close to some of his favorite animal ambassadors. This exclusive VIP experience includes a private meet-and-greet, commemorative Wild Days photo, a personalized autograph and even reserved seating for the Wild Days show. The Jack Hanna VIP Experience is $19.99, with Pass Member discounts available.

Jack Hanna Family Fun Sleepover
Saturday, April 18 from 6 p.m. to 9 a.m.
Guests will spend the night at Busch Gardens in one of the park’s secure on-site venues and enjoy a night of family fun, interactive activities and an animal adventure hosted by Jack Hanna. Dinner, a continental breakfast and commemorative gifts are also included. The sleepover is designed for families with children in grades 3 or higher; the cost is $78 per person, with discounts available for Pass Members. Busch Gardens admission is not required or included. Registration is required.

Hanna’s hands-on approach has won him widespread acclaim as a conservationist, author, television personality and lifelong adventurer. He isbest known as the star of the Emmy^® Award-winning television series “Jack Hanna’s Into the Wild,” where audiences are invited to join him on expeditions around the globe.

Busch Gardens Tampa logo Photo Key Wild Days

Be the first to know about new events, special deals and future announcements by following the park’s blog at BuschGardensTampaBlog.com, or “like” the Busch Gardens Facebook page, and follow @buschgardens on Twitter and Instagram.

For park tickets or to register for the sleepover, visit buschgardens.com or call 1-888-800-5447. Media contact is Busch Gardens Public Relations at BGTPublic.Relations@buschgardens.com or 813-987-5090.

Tickets Now Available for 2015 Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic

Tickets and overnight packages now available for 2015 @swandolphin Food & Wine Classic, Oct. 30 & 31: www.SwanDolphinFoodandWineClassic.com

Overnight packages and event-only tickets are now on sale for the sixth-annual Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic, Friday, October 30, and Saturday, October 31, at www.SwanDolphinFoodandWineClassic.com and 1-888-828-8850.

A Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic causeway ticket offers guests unlimited tastings at more than 40 stations featuring culinary selections from the hotel’s award-winning restaurants and wine from more than 30 wineries amidst a festive backdrop of live entertainment on the hotel’s scenic causeway. Upgraded ticket options allow guests to enjoy access to a beer garden featuring a wide selection of craft beers and Oktoberfest-inspired cuisine. The event also includes hands-on experiences with the hotel’s chefs and certified beverage experts in a variety of food and beverage seminars.

Several overnight and multiple-night package options are available for the sixth-annual Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic and can be booked by phone at 1-888-828-8850:

Package One, starting at $359, includes overnight accommodations and tickets to the outdoor festival for two
Package Two, starting at $385, includes overnight accommodations, tickets to the outdoor festival and upgraded beer garden access for two
Package Three, starting at $435, includes overnight accommodations, tickets to the outdoor festival, upgraded beer garden access and an interactive seminar experience for two

Individual ticket options are also available for the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic and can be purchased at www.SwanDolphinFoodandWineClassic.com (pricing is inclusive of tax and service fees):

Advance-purchase, event-only tickets to enjoy unlimited tastings on the causeway are $105 per person
Upgraded tickets, including unlimited tastings on the causeway and access to the beer garden, are $125 per person
Beverage seminars are $45 per person, per class with the purchase of a causeway ticket
Pasta making, sushi and sake, and cheese seminars are $60 per person, per class with the purchase of a causeway ticket

About the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel

In the heart of the Walt Disney World Resort, the award-winning Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel resides amongst the greatest theme parks and attractions in Central Florida. The hotel is located between Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and nearbyDisney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park and Magic Kingdom Park. Guests can discover 17 world-class restaurants and lounges, sophisticated guest rooms with Westin Heavenly Beds and the luxurious Mandara Spa. The hotel features five pools, two health clubs, tennis, nearby golf, complimentary transportation throughout the Walt Disney World Resort, the extended park hours benefit, where each day, one of the four Walt Disney World Theme Parks is open extra time for guests to enjoy select attractions (Valid Theme Park admission and Resort ID required) and Disney FastPass+ service, where guests can reserve up to 3 select theme park experiences up to 60 days in advance of their visit. The hotel can be reached at 800-227-1500, www.swandolphin.com or through Facebook at www.facebook.com/swananddolphin.

SeaWorld Camps Make a Splash this Summer

Summer camps offer up–close animal experiences for children at SeaWorld Orlando

Summer is right around the corner and SeaWorld Camps are returning to offer educational, fun and exciting encounters for kids of all ages. The camps include up-close experiences with marine animals designed to encourage a lifelong passion for wildlife and the environment.

Campers are immersed in the wonders of the sea through up-close animal discoveries, exclusive behind-the-scenes opportunities and amazing attractions, rides and shows. The opportunities campers receive are unequaled – first-hand experiences with veterinarians, animal trainers and animal care staff. SeaWorld Camps not only allow children to surround themselves with aquatic life and education, but they also make friends, have fun, explore the great outdoors, ride world-class coasters and create lifelong memories.

SeaWorld Camps offer a learning environment that fosters exploration, inquiry, self-discovery and self-esteem with two offerings: traditional Day Camps and “sleep-away” Resident Camps.

SeaWorld Camps in Orlando:

Day Camps: During their particular week at SeaWorld Camp, participants learn about a variety of animals, including whales, dolphins, penguins and sea lions. Campers will focus on a different animal each day and learn about them through songs, take-home arts and crafts, as well as by talking with the zoological staff. Day Camps are offered for children going into preschool through 8^th grade. Lunch, snacks, a camp T-shirt and water bottle are included.

Resident Camps: Make it a summer to remember for students going into 7-12^th grade with a Career Camp. Campers experience what it takes to train and work with marine animals and have the opportunity to touch a penguin, snorkel in a shark cage, work with the animal care staff and create an enriching environment for the animals at SeaWorld. Plus, participants have the opportunity to spend a day at Discovery Cove® swimming with dolphins, snorkeling with tropical fish and rays, and feeding exotic birds in a free-flight aviary. Resident Camp fees include all camp activities, lodging onsite at SeaWorld® and at SeaWorld’s partner hotel for five nights, plus all meals and snacks. Supervision and guidance is provided 24 hours a day for the entire duration. Many campers fly in from around the country – these campers are picked up at the Orlando International Airport by the dedicated camp staff and brought to SeaWorld to start their camp experience.

For nearly 25 years, SeaWorld has provided safe, fun and educational camp experiences for kids of all ages in the not-so-traditional setting of a world-class theme park. In the last 10 years, more than 250,000 youth have attended a SeaWorld and Busch Gardens® Camps.

For more information, visit SeaWorldCamps.com/Orlando or call 1-800-406-2244.

About SeaWorld Camps

SeaWorld Camps are accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA), a nationally recognized association focused on health, safety and program quality. ACA assists the public to choose camps and works to preserve, promote and improve the camp experience.

A study by the American Camp Association (ACA) revealed that over 90 percent of campers felt their summer camp experience made them feel good about themselves and helped them make new friends. 70 percent of parents said that summer camp improved their child’s self-confidence.

About SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc.

SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE: SEAS) is a leading theme park and entertainment company delivering personal, interactive and educational experiences that blend imagination with nature and enable its customers to celebrate, connect with and care for the natural world we share. The Company owns or licenses a portfolio of globally recognized brands including SeaWorld®, Shamu® and Busch Gardens®. Over its more than 50-year history, the Company has built a diversified portfolio of 11 destination and regional theme parks that are grouped in key markets across the United States, many of which showcase its one-of-a-kind zoological collection of approximately 89,000 marine and terrestrial animals. The Company’s theme parks feature a diverse array of rides, shows and other attractions with broad demographic appeal which deliver memorable experiences and a strong value proposition for its guests.

SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. is one of the world’s foremost zoological organizations and a global leader in animal welfare, training, husbandry and veterinary care. The Company collectively cares for what it believes is one of the largest zoological collections in the world and has helped lead advances in the care of animals. The Company also rescues and rehabilitates marine and terrestrial animals that are ill, injured, orphaned or abandoned, with the goal of returning them to the wild. The SeaWorld rescue team has helped more than 24,000 animals in need over the last 50 years.

Disney’s Create Tomorrowland – XPRIZE Challenge

Share your vision of the future with Disney’s Create Tomorrowland – XPRIZE Challenge

Nationwide challenge asks 8 to 17 year olds to imagine world-changing technology of the future

Inspired by the upcoming Disney movie “Tomorrowland,” The Walt Disney Studios, Disney Citizenship, and XPRIZE announce a nationwide challenge for young innovators.

Beginning April 22, 2015, Disney’s Create Tomorrowland – XPRIZE Challenge invites kids to imagine themselves in the future and report back to the present through video, imagery or stories about one new and amazing invention or innovation they encounter, how it works, and the impact it has on the future.

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In June, six winners will have a once–in-a-lifetime mentorship experience with a leader in their area of interest. In addition, each winner will receive a $3,000 check, a 3D Printer from 3D Systems, and registration for FIRST® LEGO® League for the competition season 2015-2016 in the U.S.

“‘Tomorrowland’ has always been a place of possibility in our parks and for the creative team behind our new film,” said Sean Bailey, President, Walt Disney Studios Motion Picture Production. “The future will be steered by the imaginations of our young people, and Disney is thrilled to work with XPRIZE to encourage and inspire the next generation of thinkers and dreamers to build the future they imagine is possible.”

“We are excited to launch the Create Tomorrowland XPRIZE Challenge, which gives young people a platform to voice and depict their creative, bold and imaginative problem-solving inventions of the future,” said Trish Halamandaris, Senior Vice President Marketing & Communications at XPRIZE. “At XPRIZE we believe that solutions to the problems facing humanity can come from anyone, anywhere and one of these young innovators just might come up with an idea that can truly turn Tomorrowland into reality.”

Participants will compete in two divisions: Junior Division (8-12 years old), and Senior Division (13–17 years old). All entrants must have prior consent from their parent or legal guardian in order to participate in the challenge. Official Rules and details about the Challenge are available at http://XPRIZEchallenge.org/CreateTomorrowland. Official registration and submission period starts April 22, 2015, and runs through May 17, 2015.

Submissions will be judged on innovation, creativity and presentation. XPRIZE will provide a panel of judges who will evaluate and score all submissions, and six (6) winners will be chosen.

Supporting XPRIZE Partners include FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology), 3D Systems and the United States Patent and Trademark Office.

About XPRIZE

Founded in 1995, XPRIZE is the leading organization solving the world’s Grand Challenges by creating and managing large-scale, high-profile, incentivized prizes in five areas: Learning; Exploration; Energy & Environment; Global Development; and Life Sciences. Active prizes include the $30M Google Lunar XPRIZE, the $15M Global Learning XPRIZE, the $10M Qualcomm Tricorder XPRIZE and the $2M Wendy Schmidt Ocean Health XPRIZE. For more information, visit www.xprize.org.

About Disney’s “Tomorrowland”

From Disney comes two-time Oscar® winner Brad Bird’s “Tomorrowland,” a riveting mystery adventure starring Academy Award® winner George Clooney. Bound by a shared destiny, former boy-genius Frank (Clooney), jaded by disillusionment, and Casey (Britt Robertson), a bright, optimistic teen bursting with scientific curiosity, embark on a danger-filled mission to unearth the secrets of an enigmatic place somewhere in time and space known only as “Tomorrowland.” What they must do there changes the world—and them—forever.

Featuring a screenplay by “Lost” writer and co-creator Damon Lindelof and Brad Bird, from a story by Lindelof & Bird & Jeff Jensen, “Tomorrowland” promises to take audiences on a thrill ride of nonstop adventures through new dimensions that have only been dreamed of.

The film also stars Hugh Laurie as brilliant scientist David Nix, Raffey Cassidy, Tim McGraw, Kathryn Hahn, Keegan-Michael Key and Thomas Robinson.

“Tomorrowland” is produced by Damon Lindelof, Brad Bird and Jeffrey Chernov and directed by Brad Bird, with John Walker, Bernard Bellew, Jeff Jensen and Brigham Taylor serving as executive producers. “Tomorrowland” opens in U.S. theaters on May 22, 2015.

Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows: Bora Bora Bungalows

I got the chance to tour an amazing new Bora Bora Bungalow the other day and wanted to share some of the pictures, as well as some of my favorite details. These fantastic two bedroom accommodations are unlike any other at Walt Disney World, perched over the water with spectacular views.

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The 20 Bora Bora Bungalows at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows sit on the Seven Seas Lagoon, and at 1,093 square feet have room for up to eight guests.

The Bora Bora Bungalows feature one king-size bed, one queen size bed, one queen-size sleeper sofa, and two pull down bunk-sized beds.

Additionally, the master bathroom offers an in-mirror TV, a whirlpool tub, and walk-in shower with rain shower head.

The second bathroom is separated into two sections – one with a tub/shower and vanity, the other with a toilet and vanity.

The full kitchen includes a refrigerator, dishwasher, oven, microwave, and everything you would need.

Each Bora Bora Bungalow at Disney’s Polynesian Villas and Bungalows has a laundry area featuring a stacked washer and dryer.

The private deck of each Bora Bora Bungalow features a plunge pool, lounge furniture, hanging chairs, and absolutely amazing views of Magic Kingdom Park.

The plunge pool is a unique way to cool off if you need a quick dip with the water temperature at a nice 72 degrees.

At night guests staying in the Bungalows will enjoy the Electrical Water Pageant and nightly fireworks from the privacy of their deck with the accompanying music on the Bora Bora Bungalow’s personal sound system. Can you imagine how cool it would be to be that close to the Electrical Water Pageant?

Some of my favorite touches are the surfboard-inspired coffee table trunk and headboards. I also really love the artwork and decor throughout the bungalow. I especially enjoy the cover from Annette Funicello’s Hawaiiannette album, and the hula dancer on the guest bath shelf. If you ever get to stay in the Bora Bora Bungalow, make sure you have someone ring your doorbell and listen closely!

We are going to continue sharing tons of pictures and even more information about Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows, so make sure you keep up with the fun by following us onTwitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

You can find my post about my visit to Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto here and a Photo Tour of the Deluxe Studio Villa – Lake View here.

Also, we will be posting videos on our YouTube channel so make sure you subscribe today!

Many thanks to Morgan Crutchfield and Cynthia Larrison for the additional pictures for this post!!!

Madame Tussauds Orlando Will Feature New Jimmy Fallon Wax Figure

Jimmy Fallon meets his brand new figure for Madame Tussauds Orlando. Photos courtesy of Madame Tussauds

Jimmy Fallon and Madame Tussauds Debut Five New Wax Figures

Celebrating the opening of its new location in Orlando, Madame Tussauds has teamed up with Jimmy Fallon to debut five wax figures

Jimmy Fallon, host of NBC’s “The Tonight Show,” joined Madame Tussauds at their New York attraction for a special launch of five brand new, never-before-seen wax figures of the popular funnyman. The event took place at Madame Tussauds New York in Times Square and will mark Fallon’s one-year anniversary behind “The Tonight Show” desk.

For the first time in history, Madame Tussauds unveiled not one, but five, unique wax figures of a single celebrity. Fallon’s figures will be housed in Madame Tussauds locations spanning the country: New York City, Washington DC, Hollywood and San Francisco. His fifth figure will be featured in the newest Madame Tussauds in Orlando when it opens May 4, 2015.

“I’m honestly floored! These artists did an amazing job,” said Jimmy Fallon upon seeing his figures for the first time. “I guess I’ll have to stop with the plastic surgery for at least a few years so these figures stay relevant.”

Madame Tussuads And Jimmy Fallon Debut Five Wax Figures At Madame Tussauds New York Madame Tussuads Orlando — Photo courtesy of Madame Tussauds

“We are thrilled to welcome Jimmy Fallon to five of our U.S. Madame Tussauds attractions, including our newest Orlando attraction opening in May this year,” said Janine DiGioacchino, Divisional Director, Midway North America, Merlin Entertainments Group. “Jimmy is beloved by fans across the world and we look forward to offering so many of our visitors the opportunity to engage with such an entertainment icon.”

Dressed in his signature suit, each figure was meticulously created by Madame Tussauds studio artists over the course of four months. Fallon worked closely with the artists who spent hours sitting with the star taking over 250 measurements, no details were overlooked including identifying exact eye color, and detailing each strand of hair.

Each Madame Tussauds figure is truly a work of art, involving teams of professional artists and sculptors who spend months on extensive research and taking more than 200 measurements to recreate world-famous icons, to achieve the kind of astonishing realism that has been at the heart of the 250-year Madame Tussauds legacy.

Guests at Madame Tussauds Orlando will experience a brand new, immersive and interactive wax experience, bursting with family fun and world-class entertainment, as they move through themed areas meeting all of their favorite stars from award-winning film actors, to historical and modern world leaders, sports stars, music legends as well as figures important to Florida. All visitors can shake hands with the president, get on stage with rock stars and pop princesses, or get up close and personal with a Hollywood heartthrob and take the ultimate selfie!

Fun Facts:

Jimmy Fallon donated the shirt and tie for his Orlando figure.

All five figures debuted on “The Tonight Show” on Thursday, March 26.

It took 20 studio artists 3-4 months to complete the figures and the hair alone took 6 weeks per figure.

Fallon’s personal hair stylist styled each of the figures’ hair.

For more information, visit www.madametussauds.com/orlando.

Two Studio Ghibli Films Coming To Disney Blu-Ray

Studio Ghibli Miyazaki's Spirited Away Studio Ghibli The Cat Returns DVD

Disney Presents Two Beloved Films from the Acclaimed Studio Ghibli Available for the First Time on Blu-ray

Hayao Miyazaki’s Oscar®-Winning Masterpiece SPIRITED AWAY The Enchanting Fantasy Adventure and THE CAT RETURNS

Experience these Magical Adventures Like Never Before on Blu-ray Combo Pack June 16, 2015

Disney presents two beloved films from the acclaimed Studio Ghibli, Oscar – Winning Masterpiece Spirited Away and the enchanting fantasy adventure The Cat Returns, will be available for the first time on Blu-ray Combo Pack June 16th!

Spirited Away is a wondrous fantasy about a young girl, Chihiro, trapped in a strange new world of spirits. While The Cat Returns is about a schoolgirl, Haru (voiced by Anne Hathaway), bored by her ordinary routine, saves the life of an unusual cat and suddenly her world is transformed beyond anything she ever imagined.

Both are magical animated adventures that will delight and inspire the whole family!

SPIRITED AWAY:

From Hayao Miyazaki, one of the most celebrated filmmakers in the history of animated cinema, comes the Oscar®-winning triumph (2002, Best Animated Feature Film), filled with astonishing beauty and epic adventure, a dazzling masterpiece for the ages. “Spirited Away” is a wondrous fantasy about a young girl, Chihiro, trapped in a strange new world of spirits. When her parents undergo a mysterious transformation, she must call on the courage she never knew she had to free herself and return her family to the outside world. An unforgettable story, brimming with creativity, “Spirited Away” will take you on a journey beyond your imagination. It’s a fantastic tale the whole family will want to experience over and over again on Disney Blu-ray!

The English Voice Cast for Spirited Away includes Daveigh Chase (Chihiro), Suzanne Pleshette (Yubaba/Zeniba), Jason Marsden (Haku), Susan Egan (Lin),David Ogden Stiers (Kamaji), Lauren Holly (Chihiro’s Mother), Michael Chiklis (Chihiro’s Father), John Ratzenberger (Assistant Manager), Tara Strong (“Baby”)& Bob Bergen (Aogaeru).

The Feature Run Time is 125 minutes, but there is a good amount of bonus content!

Spirited Away Bonus Content includes an Introduction by John Lasseter, The Art of Spirited Away, Behind The Microphone, Original Japanese Storyboards, Nippon Television Special, Original Japanese Trailers, and TV Spots.

THE CAT RETURNS:

From the Studio that brought you “Spirited Away,” comes the visually stunning “The Cat Returns.” Haru, a schoolgirl bored by her ordinary routine, saves the life of an unusual cat, and suddenly her world is transformed beyond anything she ever imagined. To change her fate, she’ll need to learn to believe in herself and, in the process, she will learn to appreciate her everyday life. For the first time ever on Disney Blu-ray comes “The Cat Returns,” a magical animated adventure that will delight and inspire everyone.

The English Voice Cast for The Cat Returns features Anne Hathaway (Haru), Cary Elwes (The Baron), Peter Boyle (Muta), Elliott Gould (Toto), Andy Richter (Natoru), Rene Auberjonois (Natori), Tim Curry (Cat King), Judy Greer (Yuki), Andrew Bevis (Prince Lune),Kristen Bell (Hiromi), Kristine Sutherland (Haru’s Mother) and Katia Coe (Little Haru).

Feature Run Time of The Cat Retursn is 75 minutes.

Bonus Content on the Blu-Ray includes Original Japanese Storyboards, Original Japanese Trailers, TV Spots, The Making of The Cat Returns, and Behind The Microphone.

Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows: A Visit to a Lake View Deluxe Studio

Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows officially opens today featuring 360 Deluxe Studio accommodations (opening in phases through summer 2015) and 20 over-the-water Bungalows.

“This is truly a stunning addition to the Disney Vacation Club portfolio,” said Ken Potrock, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Disney Vacation Club. “Research has told us that Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is one of our most beloved Walt Disney World Resort hotels. As a result, we integrated a new Disney Vacation Club resort that stays true to the original character of this spectacular and iconic property.”

To continue our week-long look at the newest additions to Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows, today we are taking a look at a Lake View Deluxe Studio in the Moorea Building.

httpv://youtu.be/1TQKZvxBSGU

The first thing that strikes me as I entered the longhouse hallway, is the vibrant color scheme!

Disney's Polynesian Villas & Bungalows Deluxe Studio Villa Disney Vacation Club DVC Poly — Moorea hallway

I love the reds, oranges, and yellows that they used in the carpet, but I am obsessed with the Tiki sconces!

For the first time in Disney Vacation Club history, Deluxe Studio Villas at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows are able to connect to each other, based on availability.

The Deluxe Studio Villas sleep up to five guests, and are a really room 447 square feet.

There are tons of drawers offering a great amount of storage, as well as an open frame for luggage storage under the beds.

Deluxe Studios Villas feature one queen-size bed, one queen-size sleeper sofa, one pull-down bunk-bed.

There is also one bathroom separated into two areas – one with the shower and sink, the other with the toilet and a tub/shower combination.

Deluxe Studio villas also include a flat-panel TV and private porch or balcony.

The Kitchenette has a wet bar, small refrigerator, microwave, toaster, and coffee maker.

I seriously cannot get over how many wonderful details there are in the Deluxe Studios Villas at Disney’s Polynesian Villas and Bungalows!

Also, we will be posting videos on our YouTube channel so make sure you subscribe today!

Many thanks to Morgan Crutchfield for the additional pictures for this post!!!

Month: April 2015

Give Kids the World Village Annual Gala

Give Kids The World Village’s Black & White Gala Highlights Orlando Social Calendar

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Celebrates Apollo 13 Anniversary

On the 45^th Anniversary of Apollo 13, Remember Its Trials and Triumphs at

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

About Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium Welcomes First Group of Fish with Open Arms (and Fins)

School’s in for the Summer: First Group of Fish Arrive at SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium

Wild Days With Jack Hanna Returns to Busch Gardens

Wild Days With Jack Hanna Returns to Busch Gardens

Tickets Now Available for 2015 Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic

Tickets Now Available for 2015 Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic

SeaWorld Camps Make a Splash this Summer

SeaWorld Camps Make a Splash this Summer

SeaWorld Camps in Orlando:

Disney’s Create Tomorrowland – XPRIZE Challenge

Share your vision of the future with Disney’s Create Tomorrowland – XPRIZE Challenge

Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows: Bora Bora Bungalows

Madame Tussauds Orlando Will Feature New Jimmy Fallon Wax Figure

Jimmy Fallon and Madame Tussauds Debut Five New Wax Figures

Two Studio Ghibli Films Coming To Disney Blu-Ray

Disney Presents Two Beloved Films from the Acclaimed Studio Ghibli Available for the First Time on Blu-ray

Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows: A Visit to a Lake View Deluxe Studio

Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows: A Visit to a Lake View Deluxe Studio

Wordless Wednesday: Tiki Shrug

Wordless Wednesday: April 1, 2015

Give Kids The World Village’s Black & White Gala Highlights Orlando Social Calendar

On the 45th Anniversary of Apollo 13, Remember Its Trials and Triumphs at

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

About Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

School’s in for the Summer: First Group of Fish Arrive at SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium

Wild Days With Jack Hanna Returns to Busch Gardens

Tickets Now Available for 2015 Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic

SeaWorld Camps Make a Splash this Summer

SeaWorld Camps in Orlando:

Share your vision of the future with Disney’s Create Tomorrowland – XPRIZE Challenge

Jimmy Fallon and Madame Tussauds Debut Five New Wax Figures

Disney Presents Two Beloved Films from the Acclaimed Studio Ghibli Available for the First Time on Blu-ray

Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows: A Visit to a Lake View Deluxe Studio

Wordless Wednesday: April 1, 2015

On the 45^th Anniversary of Apollo 13, Remember Its Trials and Triumphs at