Details on the Princess Fairytale Hall for Magic Kingdom

The Princess Fairytale Hall, part of the New Fantasyland expansion, is well on its way to its fall debut. It will be the new home to meet the Disney Princesses in the Magic Kingdom.

This new area will feature a castle-like entrance that will feature walls of stone, as well as stained glass windows. In addition, there will be a large regal gallery with photos of the Disney Princesses.

©Disney

Guests will then proceed into one of four elegant rooms where they will have the opportunity to meet with their favorite princesses. Each room will be home to two ladies of the Disney royal family.

This new meet and greet will be located where Snow White’s Scary Adventures used to be found, located in the Castle Courtyard in the center of Fantasyland.

No specific opening date has been announced. Stay tuned to the blog as we find out more information for your ability to meet Disney Royalty in their gorgeous new home!

Fonte: http://blog.touringplans.com/2013/05/26/details-on-the-princess-fairytale-hall-for-magic-kingdom/

Merida Crowned as the Eleventh Disney Princess at Magic Kingdom Park

Comissão do Congresso americano barra visto permanente a brasileiros

Uma emenda aprovada ontem por uma comissão da Câmara dos Deputados dos EUA impossibilita a concessão de vistos permanentes a cidadãos brasileiros.

O projeto, que será votado em junho no plenário da Câmara, interrompe o financiamento do Serviço de Imigração e Cidadania dos EUA para o Brasil, mas não afeta vistos temporários, como os de trabalho ou de turismo.

O autor da emenda, o democrata Tim Ryan, 39, de Ohio, quer punir o Brasil pela não extradição da brasileira Claudia Hoerig, acusada de matar o então marido, o piloto da Força Aérea Americana Karl Hoerig, em 2007. Ela voltou ao Brasil no mesmo ano.

"A assassina do major Hoerig deve ser devolvida aos Estados Unidos para enfrentar processo e nós precisamos mandar uma mensagem ao Brasil que a conduta deles não será tolerada", disse o deputado Ryan após o voto.

Um acordo entre os dois países desobriga a extradição entre ambos. Pela Constituição, o Brasil não pode extraditar uma cidadã brasileira. Ela poderia ser julgada no Brasil, mas o caso não chegou à Justiça do país.

Claudia foi casada com outro cidadão americano entre 1990 e 2000 e obteve a cidadania americana em 1999. Em 2005, casou-se com Hoerig.

Tanto o promotor do caso quanto o deputado querem que ela seja julgada nos EUA. No site do deputado, ele trata a questão como uma de suas principais bandeiras, dizendo que o piloto morto "era um militar condecorado, que fez 200 missões nas guerras do Afeganistão e do Iraque".

Em entrevista ao jornal carioca "Extra" em 2010, o advogado da Claudia, Antonio Andrade, disse que a cliente matou o então marido "em um momento de fúria, por maus-tratos e abuso sexual".

Ela morava em Nova Friburgo, no Rio de Janeiro.

A embaixada brasileira em Washington está estudando o caso, mas ainda não há resposta oficial do Itamaraty.

A emenda foi acrescentada ao projeto que decide o orçamento para o Departamento de Segurança Nacional em 2014, que deverá ser reforçado após os atentados terroristas de Boston.

Fonte: http://www1.folha.uol.com.br/cotidiano/2013/05/1283361-comissao-do-congresso-americano-barra-visto-permanente-a-brasileiros.shtml

Informes aos passageiros

10 Things to Do When Pregnant at Disneyland

Have you ever seen a very pregnant lady at Disneyland fighting the crowds, pushing a 2-year-old in a stroller, and sweltering in the heat and thought, “She looks miserable?” Have you ever been that very pregnant lady at Disneyland? Well, whether you’ve been that Mom-to-be before, will probably be her in the future, or just love someone who’s been pregnant (or will be!) at Disneyland, this article is for you.

Now let me say right up front, going to Disneyland when you’re pregnant may not be the perfect time to go, but it doesn’t have to be a bad time! You can still have a great vacation. Here are a few ideas for you, in honor of mothers and mothers to be. And, if you remembered that this coming Sunday is Mother’s Day, you get a gold star (metaphorically speaking of course)!

1. Consult Your Doctor – The first and most important tip should be the most obvious – talk to your doctor before you go. Make sure he’s/she’s okay with the walking, the standing, the heat, and everything else that’s typical of a Disneyland vacation. You’re not the first person to ask, and they know what you need.

2. Listen to the Ride Restrictions – If a ride says it’s not for expectant mothers, it’s not for expectant mothers. Don’t do it. You may be fine, but it’s not worth it. The ride will still be there the next time you visit. You won’t be pregnant forever, even though it may feel like it.

3. Ride Some Rides – Don’t worry, there are some rides you can ride! As long as you can get in and out of the vehicles safely, there are several rides that offer no drops, sharp terms or jarring of any kind. In the Disneyland Park, Haunted Mansion, Jungle Cruise, Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters, and it’s a small world all come immediately to mind. In Disney California Adventure, The Little Mermaid-Ariel’s Undersea Adventure is your tamest option there. But again, carefully look at those ride restrictions each time before boarding a ride!

4. See the Shows – Disneyland has some excellent shows. Shows that no guest should miss, pregnant or not! Disney’s Aladdin-A Musical Spectacular is my favorite show in any park. World of Color is an incredible nighttime show that’s worth going to bed a little late for. Everybody likes the Enchanted Tiki Room, and Billy Hill and the Hillbillies will have you laughing until your sides hurt. I think laughing is safe, right? So go to the shows! There are a lot of options. You could spend a whole day just seeing the shows!

5. Walk Through Attractions – There are several attractions that you walk through. No climbing in vehicles, just walk right through! The Sleeping Beauty Castle Walkthrough has stairs, but if you can handle that, it’s worth some time.Tarzan’s Treehouse is another one with a lot of stairs, but it’s fun. The Disney Gallery is an art gallery where I always enjoy spending a lot of time browsing. Speaking of browsing, take some time to shop. You don’t have to buy, although my husband will agree that I’ve never mastered that ability; just take some time to walk through. There are stores everywhere! Hello, Mickey baby clothes!

6. Street Entertainment – Stop and see some of the more informal shows, otherwise known as Street Entertainment or Atmosphere Entertainment. It’s not quite as spontaneous as it may seem, the street entertainment options are listed in your times guide. You can catch the very popular barbershop quartet known as the Dapper Dans on Main Street, U.S.A., or the newer, excellent Five & Dime on Buena Vista Street. Check your times guide!

7. Resort Activities – At the onsite resorts, there are probably some resort activities going on during the day like Storytelling by the Hearthside Lounge at the Grand Californian. Maybe even an animation class! Or, just take a break by the beautiful fireplace in the Grand. Relax in one of the rocking chairs and take a (big) load off.

8. Swim – If your doctor didn’t restrict you from swimming, and you don’t mind putting on a swimsuit, a swim is a great way to relax and rejuvenate. One of my friends told me swimming in the resort pool was the most wonderful thing at the end of the day. She said the feeling of a “weightless belly” after all that walking was just glorious. I must say I laughed at the image of a weightless belly. I’ve had two children, I’m allowed to laugh at that by the way.

9. Take Breaks – This is important. You cannot wear yourself out and still enjoy yourself. Not to mention, I’m sure it’s not good for you or the baby. No, I’m not a doctor, but I have stayed at a Holiday Inn Express before (OK, that’s an old joke, but I’m really not a doctor…). On this trip more than ever, you must take breaks! Go to the room and nap. Find a shady spot and kick your heels up. Have a relaxing meal at a sit down restaurant. There are a lot of options, just make yourself do it!

10. Take care of yourself – In addition to resting, listen to your body. Take care of it. Stay hydrated with lots of water. Wear the most comfortable walking shoes ever. If your feet have grown, splurge and get a bigger size making sure to break them in before you arrive at Disneyland. Better yet, get two pairs so you can alternate. If you’re worn out, don’t be embarrassed, get a wheelchair. There’s no shame in needing to be off your feet when you’re pregnant! Do what you need to do.

Bonus – Don’t pick baby names at Disney. No matter how much you loved Maleficent in Fantasmic!, it’s not a good baby’s name. Wait at least two weeks after returning home before deciding. You may need some distance from the Magic to get an honest perspective.

So, have you done Disney pregnant? What worked or didn’t work for you?

Fonte: http://blog.touringplans.com/2013/05/10/10-things-to-do-when-pregnant-at-disneyland/

10 Ways to Have Fun with a Large Group at Disneyland

Have you ever been to Disney with a large group of people? Family, friends? People you hope are still family, friends after you vacation together? Well, believe it or not, you actually can have fun with your extended family. I lied; I don’t know your extended family. It’s entirely possible that you cannot have fun with them. So think of a large group of friends! Let’s talk about a vacation with them! I love going to Disneyland with big groups. The more the merrier for me. So here are some things I’ve learned over the years.

1. Choose Whom You Invite Wisely – First, you need to decide who is going! This may be decided for you by family obligations, but if you can pick, pick people you think you’d have a great time with. Keep in mind that Disney considers 10 or more rooms travelling together a group. Group means group discount! Discounts on rooms and tickets! So you may want to reach out to even more friends and family!

2. Designate a Leader – I confess, I like to be the leader on a big trip to Disney. My husband, who after 20+ years in the Air Force has no room to talk himself, might say I like to be bossy. I admit it, there’s a fine line between being a leader and being bossy (but I assure you, I’m firmly on the leader side of the line!). For planning purposes though, having a leader helps immensely! One person as the main contact is so much easier than constant Reply All emails!

3. Work With a Travel Agent – This will seem oddly self-serving (Star Trek reference anyone?), but it’s true. Even better than having a leader, is having a travel agent. A good travel agent who specializes in Disney and has experience booking groups will be your best friend. They can help coordinate the group, schedule things for you, book everything, take payments, etc. Their whole purpose should be to make it easier for you. And best of all, many won’t charge you any fees. It’s the same price to book through them as to book through Disney directly!

4. Link Everyone’s Rooms – I’m going to say right away that it will be much easier if everyone stays at the same resort. It will give everyone a stronger feeling of togetherness. Make sure you, or your travel agent, let your hotel know that everyone is traveling together. They’ll try to keep you as close to each other as possible.

5. Get Input – Get input from everyone that’s going. It may be that some want to splurge and stay at the Grand Californian, or maybe some others are trying to do this as cheaply as possible. Let everyone be honest about what their expectations are. Find out if anyone has a restaurant where they’ve always wanted to eat or a show they’ve always wanted to see with everyone else. Keep these in mind when you’re planning.

6. Agree to Split Up – The truth is, with a large group you probably won’t do everything together. The truth is, you probably shouldn’t try to do everything together! Different people are going to want to do different things, at different times, and at different paces. We always send out a letter to all involved before we leave for a big Disney trip. This letter describes what everyone can expect. This is what it says – “This is YOUR vacation. You have paid a lot for this vacation. It is not anyone else’s job to make sure you enjoy your vacation. You have complete freedom and responsibility to do what you please on YOUR vacation.” There will be times when little cousin Johnny wants to ride it’s a small world for the fifth time, and all you want to do is find Tower of Terror as quickly as possible. When that happens, it’s time to part ways. Not forever. Just for a while. No need for hurt feelings. We will see you again, and we will survive without each other for a few hours. See you soon!

7. Have a Basic Schedule – Splitting up is easier when you have a basic schedule. Make sure everyone knows where and when the day starts. Let everyone know what time you’ll leave the hotel every morning and where you plan on going. Everyone doesn’t have to go! A family with young kids may be up at 6 while families with teenagers may want to sleep until 10. Remember, it’s their vacation and they should do what makes them happy! Knowing what others are doing will help them decide and make it easier to meet up later.

8. Plan Meals Together – Another thing to add to your basic schedule is meals. We like to make reservations, or specific meal plans, at least once a day for everyone. It’s a great time to sit and relax, enjoy everyone’s company and compare notes from the day if we’ve slit up. Knowing that there’s at least one time a day that they’ll see everyone will make people feel more free to spend time on their own too.

9. Private Event –If you’ve got a group by Disney standards (10 or more rooms), you can plan a private event for your group. That’s right, Disney will let you spend even more money with them! Events like a private gathering in Cars Land. Or, you can get together on Paradise Pier and enjoy VIP World of Color viewing. How about an event inside the Golden Horseshoe? Sounds fun to me!

10. Meet Every Night to Reassess – We like to touch base with everyone every night before bed. Remind everyone of the departure time in the morning, the meal plans for the day, and see if something needs to be changed. If someone’s room has a living area, that’s a great place to unwind. You can all talk at dinner if you’re all eating together as well, or just a quick phone call before bed will work!

So that’s what works for us! What tips do you have for traveling with large groups?

Fonte: http://blog.touringplans.com/2013/05/03/10-ways-to-have-fun-with-a-large-group-at-disneyland/

Férias de Julho

Universal Studios Hollywood Evolution Plan Approved: Curious George Out, Harry Potter In

Earlier this week, the final puzzle piece in Universal Studios Hollywood’s ambitious “Evolution Plan” clicked into place, as the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors gave final approval to the expansion of the famous movie studio and theme park.

Over the next few years, the Evolution Plan calls for radical changes at Universal Studios Hollywood, including the addition of parking garages, new CityWalk dining and retail venues, and two on-site hotels. Inside the theme park, the Special Effects Stage, WaterWorld stunt show, and Gibson Amphitheater will all be shuttered in the coming months for new attractions, and three additional points of interest will eventually be added along the Studio Tram Tour.

The most visible element of the expansion will be the addition of a west coast version of Orlando’s über-popular Wizarding World of Harry Potter. While details on what portions of the Islands of Adventure area will migrate to California are unknown, a copy of Hogwarts Castle complete with the Forbidden Journey dark ride is expected, along with shopping and eating opportunities.

In order to begin construction on Hollywood’s Harry Potter land, Universal has announced that its Adventures of Curious George playground will close at the end of the summer season. A similar kids attraction at Universal Studios Floridacontinues to operate. So if your kids love getting sprayed with reclaimed water and wading through plastic balls, get out to USH before September to bid farewell to Curious George.

Here is the complete official press release direct from Universal:

UNIVERSAL CITY, California, April 23, 2013 – NBCUniversal announced today plans to begin construction of the first projects of its 25-year Evolution Plan. The Evolution Plan represents a $1.6 billion investment in tourism and production. This long-term investment in two industries that are vital to Los Angeles will create more than 30,000 jobs and generate $2 billion of economic activity during operations for the region.

“After nearly a decade of work on the Evolution Plan, today’s vote sets the stage for our next 100 years in Los Angeles,” said Ron Meyer, president and COO of Universal Studios. “We are thankful for the support and leadership we have received from both the County and City of Los Angeles and are ready to get started investing in these important tourism and production projects in the next few months.”

Starting in late summer, NBCUniversal will begin construction of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter themed land at Universal Studios Hollywood theme park, as well as new and upgraded television production facilities, office space and infrastructure on the Universal Studios lot. These projects represent a nearly $500 million investment in the Los Angeles economy and the creation of more than 2,000 construction jobs alone.

“We thank Los Angeles County Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky, the entire Board of Supervisors, and County staff for providing us the path to bring much needed jobs and investment to Los Angeles,” said Corinne Verdery, Chief Real Estate Development and Planning Officer, NBCUniversal. “The working relationship we have built with the community was invaluable in developing our future plan and we are grateful to our nearly 7,500 supporters and union partners who have been with us every step of the way. We look forward to bringing The Wizarding World of Harry Potter to Hollywood, forever changing the face of tourism in Los Angeles.”

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Hollywood will be a fully immersive experience for the entire family designed to bring the Harry Potter fiction and films to life with impeccable detail and authenticity. Similar to the dynamic Universal Orlando Resort themed land that opened in 2010, the Hollywood experience will be faithful to the visual landscape of the fiction and films, including Hogwarts castle that will serve as the centerpiece of the impressively themed environment. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a collaboration between Warner Bros. Entertainment and Universal Parks and Resorts.

On the Universal Studios lot, NBCUniversal will upgrade existing production facilities and add new capabilities to better respond to the needs of television production. In addition, NBCUniversal is looking to create modern offices that will house everything from post-production services to traditional office space.

Fonte: http://blog.touringplans.com/2013/04/29/universal-studios-hollywood-evolution-plan-approved-curious-george-out-harry-potter-in/ 

Special Coronation to Introduce Princess Merida

Merida, from Brave, will officially become Disney’s 11th Princess in a royal coronation that is scheduled to take place on Saturday, May 11, at 9:30 am at Cinderella Castle in the Magic Kingdom.

She will join her fellow princesses, Snow White, Aurora, Cinderella, Ariel, Belle, Jasmine, Mulan, Pocahontas, Tiana, and Rapunzel, all of whom will likely join her on stage. She will be the first Pixar Princess ever.

These special coronation ceremonies started in 2010 when Tiana was first established as a princess. Rapunzel soon followed in 2011.

All Magic Kingdom guests are invited to witness this special event.