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Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort News: Barista Bootcamp

Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort News:

Barista Bootcamp

For those who’ve ever wanted to become the consummate at-home coffee barista, Lickety Split at Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort is presenting the perfect chance. Guests can attend a Barista Bootcamp, this December, learning how to master single drip coffee, cold brew coffee, coffee cocktails, and latte art.

The Barista Bootcamp is offered as part of Four Seasons Entertain U(niversity), a series of unique classes offered between now and December 31, 2015 taught by the entertaining, culinary and beverage masterminds at Four Seasons properties across the globe.

Lickety Split is an innovator among Central Florida coffee shop offerings, featuring techniques and equipment that are unique to Orlando. Lickety Split features Caffe Umbria coffee, a third generation Italian coffee roaster based out of Seattle, Washington, and offers six different blends and four different brew styles, enabling baristas to customise the coffee experience.

The two-hour Barista Bootcamp at Lickety Split will give the coffee lover the necessary skills to move beyond creating a basic “cup of joe” to creating an extraordinary, signature cup of coffee rich in flavour and with an artful presentation. Baristas-in-training will learn from coffee connoisseur Allison Burkard, Manager of Lickety Split, who honed her coffee making skills in Seattle, Washington at the headquarters for Caffe Umbria coffee roasting company.

Burkard will welcome guests by first teaching them how to make the signature cold brew coffee Lickety Split is known for. Next, she will discuss how to make the perfect single drip coffee. Burkard will also demonstrate how to add some holiday cheer to coffee by creating two different coffee cocktails. In addition, Burkard will provide instruction on latte art – including whimsical designs from Christmas trees to snowmen, perfect for the festive season. Guests will also learn about the art of the pour, and how to serve designer coffees with fun accents such as peppermint swizzle sticks and chocolate spoons, which can be easily made at home and lend a festive touch and holiday flavour to one’s coffee. Each guest will depart with a fun takeaway bag filled with decadent delights from Lickety Split.

Classes, offered at USD 75 per person, will be offered on December 5, December 12, December 19 and December 26, 2015 from 5:00 to 7:00 pm in Lickety Split. Reservations are required and space is limited; for reservations, call (407) 313-6161.

A Visit To Four Seasons Resort Orlando’s Plancha #FiveDiamondOrlando

A Visit To The Four Seasons Resort Orlando’s Plancha

The Tranquilo Golf Club at Four Seasons Resort Orlando is a beautifully designed Tom Fazio course, that is also a certified Audubon Sanctuary, is home to a true gem…Plancha.

Plancha, open to the public daily 11am – 6pm, is an all-day dining restaurant featuring a Cuban-American Cuisine, Signature Cocktails, and wide variety of Cigars.

The Plancha dining room is intimate and filled with a laid-back elegance, that would be a perfect way to cap off an afternoon of golf or lunch with friends.

Plancha Four Seasons Resort Orlando Tranquilo Golf Course — Photo: Four Seasons Resort Orlando

Chef Pedro Sanchez and his team have created a vibrant, fresh, and authentic menu that brings a taste of Cuba to Orlando.

At Plancha, Sanchez combines his experience, love for food and natural cooking ability with recipes that he learned from his grandmother, who is originally from Cuba. “I grew up in Puerto Rico but we had Cuban restaurants on every street. Puerto Rican food and Cuban food are very similar, but Cuban food uses different spices,” he says. Dishes like the black bean soup and the mojo chicken, favourites on the menu at Plancha, are recipes that he learned from his mother. “My goal is to cook from the heart and serve dishes guests can make at home, but presented in an upscale and innovative way.”

We started with a few beverages from the full-service bar that offers signature cocktails, beer, and wine.

Hemingway Daquiri (Bacardi Rum | Lime | Grapefruit | Luxardo)

Lemon Basil Punch (Stoli Vodka | Lemon | Orange)

The Plancha menu has some really great appetizers that are perfectly portioned, light, and fresh. Any, or all, of these would be a great start to a meal.

Beef Empanadas (Mango & Jalapeño Jam)

Guacamole (Roasted Corn Relish | Naan Chips)

Tuna Ceviche (Avocado | Ginger & Coconut Dressing)

The Salads, Sandwiches, and Entrees were extremely flavorful and vibrant.

El Cubano (Roasted Pork | Black Forest Ham | Swiss | Mustard | Housemade Pickles)

Plancha Burger (Chorizo and Beef Patty | Maduros | White Cheddar | Lettuce | Heirloom Tomatoes)

NY Strip (Mamposteao Rice | Classic Chimichurri)

And what kind of person would I be if I didn’t try the desserts at Plancha? I would eat the Traditional Flan everyday if I could!

Piña | Coconut Helado | Passion Fruit

Guava Roll | Crema de Queso

Traditional Flan | Caña Sugar Caramel

Tres Leches | Dulce de Leche | Dulcey Pearls

I was really excited to be invited to this tasting luncheon at Plancha, and while it was my first visit it won’t be my last!

Project: Time-Off at Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World

Photo Courtesy: U.S. Travel Association and Project: Time Off

Do you have a few vacation days left? Why not use them to take a Staycation at the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World as part of Project: Time-Off Week!

Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs and City of Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer are both proclaiming May 25-29 as Project: Time-Off Week, inspired by the global travel industry’s “Super Bowl” – IPW 2015 – the largest generator of international travel to the U.S. and in turn, a very high-profile showcase for its host city, which this year is Orlando.

During IPW, held May 30 – June 3, thousands of travel industry executives, journalists, and influencers from more than 70 countries will coming to Orlando generating nearly $2 billion in future travel to Orlando and Central Florida.

And if we are talking Ultimate Staycations, you have to consider staying at the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World.

httpv://youtu.be/liyKbTd_cDU

Located inside of the Golden Oak at Walt Disney World Community, the Four Seasons Resort Orlando offers a breathtaking lakeside location, spacious and luxurious rooms, and activities the entire family will enjoy.

Boasting the largest standard guest rooms on property, the Four Season Resort Orlando feature a welcoming décor, luxurious bathroom, amazing touches of technology, and beautiful views.

Four Seasons Orlando Resort at Walt Disney World Park view guest room project: Time-Off Week — Four Seasons Orlando Resort at Walt Disney World – Park View Guest Room

Guests of Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort will enjoy a wide variety of activities and amenities without a Resort Fee:

Complimentary transportation to Magic Kingdom Park, Epcot, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Access to the 5 acre “Explorer Island” water park, including a winding lazy river complete with a rapids section, two water slides, an interactive splash zone with water cannons, climbing wall, and much more.
Poolside ‘Dive In’ movies on select nights
Complimentary Kids For All Seasons program offers organized activities for children ages 4 to 12 from 10 am to 6 pm daily.
24-hour Fitness Centre
Adult-Only Oasis Pool
Access to The Spa at Four Seasons

If you are looking to step up your experience there is an 18-hole Tom Fazio-designed Tranquilo Golf Club and The Spa at Four Seasons to explore.

Four Seasons Orlando Resort at Walt Disney World Spa — Inside The Spa at Four Seasons Orlando Resort at Walt Disney World

And if shopping is more your speed, you will definitely want to visit Wardrobe, open daily from 8 am – 9pm, for exclusive merchandise that is inspired by Walt Disney World.

Anya Hindmarch Handbag exclusive to Four Seasons Orlando Resort at Walt Disney World

The Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World also has four restaurants and three lounges with delicious menus and stunning settings.

Ravello Restaurant Four Seasons Orlando Resort at Walt Disney World

For an extra special treat The Lobby Bar and Capa Bar each offer Happy Hour drink and food specials.

Capa Lounge at Four Seasons Orlando Resort at Walt Disney World

And if you are looking for a quick bite, something sweet, or a coffee fix you will want to stop by Lickety Split. Their gelato is made in house, and if you are looking for a delicious mix try the PB&J and chocolate!

Lickety Split at Four Seasons Orlando Resort at Walt Disney World

As Central Florida’s only AAA Five Diamond Award rated property, a staycation at Four Seasons Resort Orlando is now even more enticing with as they have introduced an amazing Florida Resident Rate offer.

The Resort is offering Florida Resident rates starting from $295 USD per night for a Four Seasons guest room that includes the amazing amenities and resort activities, as well as valet parking for one vehicle and basic WiFi.

The Florida resident rate is offered over select dates beginning April 23 through June 11, 2015 and also from August 17, 2015 through October 4, 2015.

To check availability and to make reservations, you can contact the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World by contacting them online or by calling 1-407-313-7777.

I have to give a huge Thank you to Desiree Miller from Stress-Free Baby for letting me join her on her stay at the Four Seasons Orlando Resort at Walt Disney World!

Wordless Wednesday: The View From The Yacht Club

Wordless Wednesday – May 13, 2015

Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel Offers Special Star Wars Weekends Rates

Guests can blast off to Star Wars Weekends with a special offer at the
Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel

Join Disney’s Star Wars Weekends celebration w/ @SwanDolphin special rates starting at $185 per night, May 15-June 15 www.swandolphin.com/offers

The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel is offering guests the chance to enjoy the month-long Star Wars Weekends celebration at Disney’s Hollywood Studios with special rates starting at $185, May 15-June 15.

Guests staying at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin are within walking distance or short complimentary boat ride to all the festivities taking place at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Star Wars Weekends will be held every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, May 15-June 14. The 2015 event will feature Star Wars characters roaming the theme park for meet-and-greet opportunities, star conversations with Star Wars celebrities, a Star Wars motorcade through the park, interactive activities, exclusive merchandise and more.

In addition to staying within walking distance of Disney’s Hollywood Studios, guests at the Epcot Resort-area hotel will receive exclusive theme park benefits, such as complimentary transportation throughout Walt Disney World Resort, Disney FastPass+ service, which allows guests to reserve up to three select theme park experiences up to 60 days in advance of their visit, and the extended park hours benefit, which allows guests to spend extra time and enjoy select attractions in one of the four Walt Disney World Theme Parks each day.

For more details about savings at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel, visit www.swandolphin.com/offers. To make room reservations, call1-800-227-1500 and mention “STARWARS.” Rates start at $185 per night. Taxes, resort services fee and gratuities not included. Not valid with any other special offers, promotions, or for existing reservations or groups; offer is based on rate schedule availability.

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 nearby Disney’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.

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.

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!

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 on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

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!!!

Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows Introduction

All this week we are going to be posting about the new offerings at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and the Disney Vacation Club additions called Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows.

Since Betsy shared her visit to Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto, I thought I would share a brief introduction to what you will find when visiting Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows.

E Komo Mai to Disney Vacation Club at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows

Here are some quick facts about what you can expect to find when visiting Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows:

At Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows, Disney Vacation Club Members and Guests can choose between two different room categories: Deluxe Studio Villas (sleeps up to five) and Bora Bora Bungalows (sleep up to eight).
Upon completion of all construction phases, Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows will feature 380 vacation homes – 360 Deluxe Studios villas (the largest number of their kind at Walt Disney World Resort) and 20 Bora Bora Bungalows.
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.
Hidden Mickeys in the carpet of the longhouses, as well as artwork inspired by Polynesian nature, including birds, floral, and a feature art piece based on the Jungle Cruise attraction.
Villa countertops and tiles are inspired by volcanic rock, with colorful accent tiles in the bathroom walls inspired by Mary Blair, the same visionary who created the look and feel of the It’s a Small World attraction.
Members and Guests watching the fireworks over Magic Kingdom Park from the deck of their Bora Bora Bungalow can enjoy listening to the accompanying music through their personal sound system.

Later today I will be touring and sharing tons of pictures and even more information about Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows, so make sure you keep up with my adventures by following us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

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

Experience Spring Break Fun At Four Seasons Resort Orlando

Experience Spring Break Fun In the Sun at

Four Seasons Resort Orlando.

Put down the shovel and escape to the pool this spring break with an enticing value-added package with a daily resort credit.

In many areas, March is the month with the greatest snowfall, and even April can be quite chilly; but in Orlando, it’s the time of year when the weather is blissfully sunny and the temperatures are perfect for poolside relaxation. To celebrate the inaugural spring break season at Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort, the new Fun In the Sun package offers a daily resort credit for guests to maximize their on-property experience. For a vacation to Walt Disney World Resort in perfect balance, guests can enjoy the Disney parks along with Four Seasons’ many on-site recreational activities.

The Fun In the Sun package extends a daily USD 50.00 resort credit with a four-night minimum stay, available for use on Tranquilo Golf Club; at The Spa or Salon; shopping in the resort’s designer boutiques; for a golf, tennis or fitness lesson; poolside cabana rental, and more. The resort credit enables guests to maximize their on-property enjoyment by experiencing a variety of resort activities during their stay.

“With easy access to Walt Disney World Resort, and the dynamic diversions offered right here on property, guests will be assured the perfect spring break vacation,” says Thomas Steinhauer, general manager of Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort.

On Property Recreational Pursuits
A highlight of Four Seasons Resort Orlando is the five-acre (two hectare) “Explorer Island” water park, including a winding lazy river complete with a rapids section, two water slides, an interactive splash zone with water cannons, and much more. Family fun abounds, with activities including table tennis, bocce ball, beach volleyball, a rock climbing wall, and more all found at Explorer Island. “The Hideout” at Explorer Island is a separate freestanding building offering the latest gaming systems, billiards and more. Additionally, “The Mansion” at Explorer Island is home to the Kids For All Seasons program, providing a complimentary kids camp for children ages 4 to 12 on a daily basis during the hours of 10 am to 6pm—a one- of- a-kind offering in central Florida.

While children are having a blast at Kids For All Seasons, moms and dads can enjoy relaxation at the 18-treatment room Spa, or unwind in the paradise of The Oasis adult pool, for ages 21 and up, featuring cabanas and poolside cocktail service. In addition, golfers will love the 18-hole Tranquilo Golf Club, and tennis aficionados will enjoy the three Har-Tru tennis courts and a variety of clinics, matches and more offered in partnership with Peter Burwash International. A spacious lakeside fitness center is available 24-hours a day, with fitness classes ranging from yoga to cardio offered on a weekly basis.

Spring Break Activities
During the spring break period, between March 20, 2015 to April 12, 2015, guests will enjoy added resort activities on a complimentary basis, offering fun for all ages. Kids For All Seasons will offer fun water slide races, hula hooping contests, lazy river boat races, family feud games, Nintendo Wii dance parties, balloon artistry, face painting, S’mores making, pizza making with the Chef, and more. For adults, mixology classes and cooking classes with the culinary team will be offered in the resort’s custom demonstration kitchen, along with special theme dinners in Plancha. Fitness classes including yoga, spinning, “power flex” and “yogalates” are also offered throughout the week.

In addition, other activities will be offered for a fee, such as Kids For All Seasons’ special Hide Out Nights Out, where parents can drop off the kids for a few hours to enjoy a romantic dinner. Tranquilo Golf Club will offer daily clinics with Head of Golf Instruction Rod Cook, on topics such as the fundamentals of chipping, how to make more putts, how to control distance with a scoring club, and how to control curvature and trajectory of shots.

Easter at Four Seasons Resort Orlando
For guests staying at the resort over Easter Sunday, on April 5, little ones will enjoy a morning and afternoon Easter Egg Hunt, along with games and photos with the Easter Bunny. Ravello will offer an Easter buffet from 11 am to 8 pm, for USD 95.00 per adult and USD 45.00 per child. Additionally, Capa restaurant, typically open exclusively for dinner, will be open on Easter for a special a la carte brunch from 10 am to 2 pm.

Disney Connectivity

Guests of Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort enjoy great access to Walt Disney World, including complimentary transportation to Magic Kingdom Park, Epcot, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The resort also offers a lobby level Disney Planning Center and a character breakfast, The Good Morning Breakfast with Goofy & His Pals, offered on Thursdays, Saturdays and select Tuesdays at Ravello restaurant.

Rates start at USD 579.00 per night at Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort for the spring break period. Visitwww.fourseasons.com/orlando/offers or call 1-800-267-3046 for more information.

Walt Disney World Swan And Dolphin Announce 2015 Food & Wine Classic Dates

Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Announces Dates for Sixth Annual Food & Wine Classic

The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic is returning for its sixth year on Friday Oct. 30, and Saturday, Oct. 31, 2015, at the Epcot Resort Area hotel.

The two-night, outdoor festival will feature more than 40 stations with culinary selections from the hotel’s award-winning restaurants and wine from more than 30 wineries. Guests will also enjoy live music, a beer garden featuring local and seasonal brews from around the world and food and beverage seminars led by the hotel’s chefs and certified beverage experts.

With 17 restaurants and lounges, and a distinguished culinary and beverage team, the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel continually earns national recognition for its food and beverage program. The hotel features more than 70 certified wine sommeliers and 1,400 wine selections.

More details about the event, including specific ticket packages, will be announced later. For the latest information, guests can visit www.SwanDolphinFoodandWineClassic.com, like www.facebook.com/swananddolphin or call 1-800-227-1500.

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 is the gateway to Central Florida’s greatest theme parks and attractions. The hotel is located between Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and nearby Disney’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 and the Extra Magic Hours benefit, where each day, one of the four Walt Disney World Theme Parks offers additional time for guests to enjoy select attractions. (Valid Theme Park admission and Resort ID required). The hotel can be reached at 800-227-1500, www.swandolphin.com or through Facebook at www.facebook.com/swananddolphin.

Wordless Wednesday: A Grand Christmas

Wordless Wednesday

December 24, 2014

Celebrating #DisneyHolidays: Build Your Own Gingerbread House

One of my family’s favorite ways to celebrate the Holidays at Walt Disney World is by taking a little time away from the parks to explore the resorts and their beautiful decorations.

We especially enjoy touring the five deluxe resorts that create unique holiday displays and sugar shacks that are made of edible ingredients. It is amazing to see the craftsmanship that goes into these creations!

Frozen Gingerbread Holiday Display Walt Disney World Contemporary Resort — Walt Disney World Resort guests can enjoy an all-new Gingerbread Holiday Ice Castle inspired by Disney’s “Frozen” this year on the 4th floor of Disney’s Contemporary Resort. TheÊ17-foot-tall culinary concoction is adorned with favorite characters from the film including Anna, Elsa, Olaf, Kristoff and Sven, 1,500 gingerbread shingles, snowflakes and chocolate-covered trees. “Frozen”-themed merchandise, desserts and gingerbread treats also are available for purchase at the ice castle kiosk. (Kent Phillips, photographer)

A great way to bring a piece of the #DisneyHolidays to your home is by building a Gingerbread House of your own!

Gingerbread House Christmas at Walt Disney World BoardWalk Inn — Photo: Kelly Hicks

Just inside of the lobby of Disney’s BoardWalk Inn is the location of a new gingerbread display inspired by the Jersey Shore. This new “Gingerbread Stand” is reminiscent of New Jersey Boardwalk concession stands with wreaths made of ice cream cones, plus Disney whimsy with Mickey and Minnie shaped gingerbread heads surrounding the marshmallow dotted marquee.

Christmas at Walt Disney World BoardWalk Inn Gingerbread House — Photo: Kelly Hicks

At the Gingerbread Stand, you can purchase a kit to create your own house like a Disney Chef for $14.95, and John from BigFatPanda.com had a chance to create an adorable Gingerbread house with Disney’s BoardWalk Inn Pastry Chef Matt Avery.

httpv://youtu.be/ByFwiqGtW_E

I can’t thank John enough for filming this #DisneyHolidays video for us! Make sure you give his BigFatPanda.com YouTube channel a follow!

Fifth Annual Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic – Preview

Thanks so much to the awesome Amanda Higgs for attending the Fifth Annual Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic for us! Amanda is passionate about having fun and making magic. You’ll often find her in the local theme parks or searching for the next big adventure to go on. Make sure to give her a follow on Twitter, and join her adventures at the Food and Wine Classic this weekend!

I had the opportunity to attend the preview for the Fifth Annual Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic which is being held this weekend on October 31 and November 1. This annual event showcases the food offerings at Disney’s Swan and Dolphin and offers a distinctive dining experience for those who attend.

The food offerings at the Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic are going to be unique each night, and we were able to sample a few of the dishes and all of them were delicious.

Housemade Bacon with Corn Bread Puree, Charred Corn and Smoked Tomato Bacon Ragout-which will be featured on Friday night- was a stand out from the samples offered.

Chef Robert Ciborowski, who has been with the Swan and Dolphin since 2007, was on hand to answer a few questions about his passion for smoking meats and how he’s sampled and tested different kinds of Bar-B-Que around the world. He boasts that his is some of the best anyone will find and I have to say that I absolutely agree.

On Saturday, Todd English’s bluezoo will be featuring a Shrimp Cocktail Steamroller, which deconstructs the shrimp cocktail foodies know and love and turns it into a beautiful and simple sampler. The steamroller is a glass tube that is open-ended. Diners will have to place their hand on one end to cause suction and literally suck the cocktail out the other to enjoy the food. This will be a highlight at the event for anyone who tries this interesting dish.

Dessert offerings were beautiful and unique as well. I enjoyed the Banana Foster Panini which features homemade caramelized banana puree and vanilla ice cream in a brioche bun. It’s cooked for twenty five seconds to warm the bread but keeps the center cool for a delicious twist on a classic dessert.

Also new to the event this year is the festival Beer Garden. This area will be featuring local craft beers and the roll out of the Swan and Dolphin’s own seasonal brew. Branded Fin and Feathers they will be featuring “Sweet and Mellow” which is a sweet potato and marshmallow flavored beer, which is sure to be a hit at the Classic this year. It also boasts the best pub snacks around like kimchi chips and other yummy treats.

Finally, there will be seminars taught during the event. From Modern Mixology, Wine Blending, and TQU: Tequila University to The Fine Art of Sake and Sushi and Pasta Making with Chef Cib the team who put together this event will share what they’re passionate about and give guests the opportunity to learn something interesting while enjoying a night out.

For ticket pricing and more information on the event go to www.swandolphinfoodandwineclassic.com. It promises to be an event to remember whether it’s a date night or a way to experience a different and exciting way to see food in Orlando, I recommend this event to anyone looking for something to do over the weekend!

Walt Disney World Swan And Dolphin Hotel Redesign

Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel Announces $125 Million Redesign

Largest renovation in Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel’s 25-year history will transform every guest room

The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel is getting the largest makeover in its history. The hotel has launched a multi-phase, multi-year, $125 million redesign project that will transform every guest room in the 758-room Swan Hotel and the 1,509-room Dolphin Hotel.

“As we celebrate the hotel’s 25th anniversary, it is appropriate that we mark the occasion with a renaissance of our room product,” said General Manager Fred Sawyers. “Our guests will continue to receive the level of service and hospitality that comes with a quarter century of experience while enjoying a modern new guest room.”

The transformation will occur without disruption to the guest experience as the majority of guest rooms will be available throughout the process. The hotel’s public spaces, restaurants, meeting rooms, shops, pools and recreational areas will not be impacted and remain fully operational throughout the renovation.

Noted hotel and condominium interior design and architecture firm Garcia Stromberg/GS4 Studios, designers of the Conrad Hotel Ft. Lauderdale, the Waldorf Astoria’s Boca Beach Club and One Thousand Ocean condominium in Boca Raton, Fla., created the concept for the new rooms.

The new room design is inspired by the resort’s water-themed architecture. The goal was to create a serene and sophisticated atmosphere.

The guest room features upgraded furniture and all of the latest technology including large HD TVs. Additional power outlets provide corporate executives and family travelers more options for use of multiple personal electronics.

Blending an artistic combination of whites, blues and grays, the design creates a tasteful ambiance that appeals to adults while abstract artwork playfully delights children as well.

The centerpiece of the room is the famous Westin Heavenly Bed with its all-white custom-designed pillow-top mattress set, cozy down blanket, a trio of crisp sheets, goose down comforter and four over-stuffed pillows.

The design continues into a completely new bathroom, featuring a back-lit mirror mounted on iridescent glass tiles.

The project started at the Swan Hotel, with approximately 500 of the 756 rooms redesigned by the end of 2014. The first phase of the Dolphin Hotel rooms will begin in 2015 with the entire rooms project currently scheduled for completion by the end of 2016.

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 is the gateway to Central Florida’s greatest theme parks and attractions. The hotel is located between Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and nearby Disney’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, extended park hours, a 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 the new 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.

Walt Disney World Swan And Dolphin: Celebrating Grandparents Day

Grandparents Can Connect with Family at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel with Connecting Room Deal in Honor of Grandparents Day

Grandparents Day is 9/7! Families can celebrate all September at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel with connecting room deal www.swandolphin.com/offers

In recognition of Grandparents Day, September 7, the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel is making it easier for the whole family to connect and spend quality time together with an offer ideal for a multigenerational vacation.

Grandparents and their families vacationing at the Epcot Resort Area hotel can receive a connecting guest room for just $109 per night – up to a 50-percent savings off standard rates – when booking one room at the standard price for stays in September. Connecting guest rooms provide the space, privacy and access ideal for multigenerational families as well as for grandparents traveling alone with grandkids. They’re the perfect space for making priceless memories like sharing a bedtime story with grandma or sneaking a midnight snack with grandpa.

Whether grandparents want to enjoy nearby theme parks with their grandchildren or escape for a couples massage, the hotel offers a variety of amenities for each generation and activity level, including: 17 world-class restaurants and lounges, five pools, two health clubs, tennis, nearby golf, a Balinese-inspired spa and complimentary transportation throughout the Walt Disney World Resort.

For additional information, or to make reservations, call 1-800-227-1500 or visit www.swandolphin.com/offers. Taxes, resort services fee and gratuities not included. Not valid with any other special offers, promotions, or for existing reservations or groups; offer is based on rate schedule availability.

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 is the gateway to Central Florida’s greatest theme parks and attractions. The hotel is located between Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and nearby Disney’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 Extra Magic 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 the new 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.

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