Green Builder Media Celebrates Vision House Anniversary at Epcot with Trip Giveaway

WDWNT on February 18, 2014

Green Builder Media is celebrating Earth Day and the 2nd anniversary of its Vision House at Epcot’s Innoventions this year with a  4-day, 3-night Walt Disney World Resort vacation giveaway.

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Located in Epcot’s Innoventions West, the Vision House enables guests to walk through a house built with the environment in mind. The Vision House tour guide walks guests through each room in the house, highlighting the “green” technology, like water-saving toilets and LED lighting.

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The Vision House also introduces some pretty cool “tech gadgets” for the home, with ways to automate your green home. From the touch screens, homeowners can set temperatures, lower shades, and control the technology throughout the house.

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 Enter for your chance to be Green Builder Media’s guest on Earth Day for the 2nd Anniversary celebration at GreenBuilderMag.com/EarthDayGiveaway2

REVIEW: Spice Road Table Soft Opens at Epcot

WDWNT on February 18, 2014

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This past weekend the Spice Road Table soft opened at the Morocco pavilion in Epcot. There is no official opening date yet and in the meantime no discounts are being accepted (this includes Cast, Tables in Wonderland, Annual Pass, ext.). The restaurant is located right along World Showcase Lagoon giving it stunning views of the park and a new viewing location for Illuminations. The menu for Spice Road  Table is tapas style, featuring classic Mediterranean dishes. Also well the restaurant has a selection of beers, wines, speciality drinks and desserts. Spice Road Table currently does not accept reservations making it a perfect spur of the moment dining choice.

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The decor at Spice Road Table is simply stunning. Imagineering once again did an excellent job. Upon walking in, you see a beautiful bar. To the left is the outdoor seating and the indoor seating is on the right.

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Let’s take a look at what the menu offers for Spice Road Table…

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Pictured above is the Hummus and Imported Olives. This dish was a table favorite the hummus was so smooth and creamy with no aftertaste that you commonly find with the hummus you can buy in the grocery store.

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Above is the Mediterranean Omelet this was a surprisingly good dish. It’s basically your standard omelet that is stacked on top of potatoes and topped with a thick tomato sauce. I thought it would make a perfect breakfast dish, it was odd to have the omelet mixed with items that were more traditional dinner items.

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Spicy Garlic Shrimp – the name says it all! It wasn’t as spicy as I was expecting and it sure was loaded with garlic.

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The Moroccan Merguez Sausage was by far the spiciest dish we tried out. So if you love spicy this is the dish to try out.

For those of you who have allergies Spice Road Table is happy to accommodate. I have a dairy allergy and the chef came out and I could actually have 7 out of the 10 items. Items that were deemed unsafe, the chicken roll, lamb slider and calamari. Another important note is that ALL the bread served at Spice Road Table contained dairy.  Unfortunately, on this trip we didn’t get to desserts so I am unsure if any of those items are safe.

Overall, it was great to try out the new dishes at Spice Road Table but no dish was a run away hit with me. The food was okay but once you factor in the prices and portions it has me in no rush to be returning to this location.

Dirk Wallen’s 1/15/14 WDW Photo Report

WDWNT on February 18, 2014

WDWNT Reporter Dirk Wallen visited Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Epcot, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom last week and has some newsworthy photos (and video) to share with us, so let’s take a look:

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Banners for The Jungle Book on Blu-Ray now hanging in the Animation Courtyard

A billboard up as well

A billboard for Maleficent is also up near PIXAR Place, and yes, the horns stick out of the top…

The scanner boards at Star Tours have still not been activated to work with MagicBands yet

There’s also a new sign that will interact with guests installed in the pre-show area at Muppet Vision 3-D

The Etch-A-Sketch in the queue at Toy Story Mania was finally turned on last week, here’s a video showing the device in action:

Osborne Lights are coming down

All clear on this end of the street

The AFI exhibit is quietly being updated at the exit of the Backlot Tour

A few props have been switched out and moved around

Among the new additions is a costume from Batman

There are also now some items from E.T.

The croissant doughnut (or Cronut) is our only photo from Epcot, but you can pick up this incredible snack at the Refreshment Port

The Let The Memories Begin signage has been removed from the front of Animal Kingdom

Some walls are up near Island Mercantile where FastPass+ kiosks once stood… not sure if they are moving this help desk or not

Walls now up blocking guests from Camp Minnie-Mickey as it transforms into AVATAR

Camp Minnie-Mickey signage around the park has been removed

Work continues on the new home for Festival of the Lion King and the former Dawa Bar has now been absorbed by walls to accommodate queue construction

A look at the theater construction from far away

Not too long ago, Dug and Russell got some permanent signage for their meet and greet

Since Camp Minnie-mickey is closed and Animal Kingdom is down one show, Dinoland is now hosting a dance party

Here’s a short clip of the new offering that is full of obscure characters:

Dirk Wallen’s 2/4-2/8/14 WDW Photo Report

WDWNT on February 18, 2014

WDWNT Reporter Dirk Wallen visited the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom and Downtown Disney over the last few days, so let’s take a look at everything happening around Walt Disney World right now:

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Nikon photo spot now in place near the Rose Garden

Some more planter work happening near the hub… rumors suggest this may all be related to a new nighttime show for the park…

See ya’ later trash can…

The facade at the Enchanted Tiki Room is getting some work done

The Nikon picture spot at Splash Mountain isn’t quite picturesque yet…

The Splash Mountain refurbishment continues

Tarps up on the buildings in Liberty Square and the castle crane looming behind it

The Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin FastPass machines are being removed

Plenty of Valentine’s Day treats are available at Big Top Treats

Moving over to Disney’s Polynesian Resort, DVC wing construction is in full swing

I love these signs…

Gates up on the beach

The work out in the water on the rumored bungalows

Over at Epcot, the former Kim Possible kiosk area is now a MyMagic+ service center

Prep work for the Flower and Garden Festival is in full swing now

Another Nikon picture spot

The Darkroom at Hollywood Studios is still presented by Kodak

Yet there is a Nikon Picture Spot not too far away

The Monsters University meet and greet is becoming the Monsters Inc. meet and greet again

Backlot tour is still closed

Frozen billboard up in the backlot

Pirate Fairy and Jungle Book billboards up in the Animation Courtyard

Nikon picture spot at Animal Kingdom

A decent size line for FastPass+

AVATAR construction is happening folks…

Some work happening outside of Expedition Everest

A look at the new Festival of the Lion King theater from high up on Everest

Looks like there is a lot of work to still be done

On to Downtown Disney… Disney Springs… whatever it is…

Not much visible progress to the West Side Starbucks

Not much to see on Pleasure Island either

But there is something happening behind these walls

Here is the site for the large water-side building in The Landing

Bridge work in the Marketplace is happening quickly

The stage area near Fulton’s has been behind walls for a few weeks now

The staging area for the bridge is across from T-Rex behind the DVC booth

The Marketplace Starbucks is also coming along slowly

Guests watching construction take place

Cinderella outside of World of Disney received a backdrop on the construction walls for the Starbucks

Some strange new men’s shirts on sale

Team Mickey is now closed to become the Marketplace Co-Op

New Star Wars MagicBandits have arrived

There is also an R2-D2 MagicSlider!

Dirk Wallen’s 2/17/14 Epcot & Disney Springs Photo Report

WDWNT on February 18, 2014

WDWNT Reporter Dirk Wallen visited Epcot and Downtown Disney this week and has some newsworthy photos of Walt Disney World to share with us, so let’s take a look:

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The Flower and Garden Festival is just a few weeks away

The butterfly garden is starting to rise

The playground near Imagination! is also being set up

Moving to Downtown Disney, work continues on the parking structure

The latest progress on the West Side Starbucks

This crane and construction materials are still mysteriously sitting out by the West Side parking lot and the construction trailers

Not much to see here

It appears that the back of Portobello is being themed to fit in once the new walkway to The Landing (Pleasure Island) opens

Some work happening where the stage is between Fulton’s and Portobello

The latest progress on the Marketplace bridge


Finally we can see some of the framework for the Starbucks in the Marketplace

New Soda Flavors Coming, Some Old Favorites Leaving Club Cool at Epcot

WDWNT on December 4, 2013

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Is there a certain soda at Club Cool that you absolutely love? Well, you may want to go and get one last taste (of what’s left) before new flavors appear next Wednesday October 30, 2013.  A couple of “favorites” will be sticking around though…here’s a look at the new line up:

Fanta Pineapple: With more than 90 distinct flavors available in more than 180 countries, Fanta made its European debut in the 1940’s and was introduced to the USA in 1960. Fanta Pineapple is caffeine-free and features a sweet pineapple taste.

VegitaBeta: Originally launched in Japan in 1992, VegitaBeta is a non-carbonated beverage with apricot and passion fruit flavors and is rich in beta-carotene that contributes to its unique orange color. (Currently Available)

Fanta (Melon Frosty): This is the number one soft drink of Thailand. With a fun melon flavor, this carbonated beverage is beloved in Thailand’s sunny, tropical climate.

Bibo: Originally created in 1998, Bibo is a fruit flavored line of juice drinks popular in South Africa. The brand features fun characters such as Johnny Orange, Taka Strawberry, and Paolo Peach.

Sparberry: A raspberry flavored cream soda, Sparberry launched in Africa in 1955. It is exclusively available in several countries in southeast Africa.

Guarana Kuat: This is a guarana berry flavored soft drink first launched in Brazil in 1997. The word guarana comes from the Guarani word guna, which translates to ‘fruit like the eyes of the people.”

Inca Kola: Known as “The Taste of Peru,” Inca Kola has an unusually sweet fruity flavor that many compare to the taste of liquid bubblegum, The name refers to the Quechua words for king and queen.

Beverly (Staying): With its bitter flavor, it is a popular non-alcoholic aperitif that is a traditional part of Italian refreshment culture. (Currently Available)

These flavors are only available in the United States at Epcot and World of Coca-Cola attractions in Atlanta and Las Vegas. Club Cool will continue toe “Magical Moment” of recognizing the first tasting/testers of the day.

Going away from Club Cool will be Smart Watermelon, Kinley Lemon, Fanta Colita, Lift Apple, Mezzo Mix, and Krest Ginger Ale. Unfortunately, most of these are already out of stock and are not going to be replenished in time for you to say goodbye… THEY ARE GONE FOREVER.

So, what do you think? Did you lose a favorite drink (R.I.P. Smart Watermelon)? Excited that Beverly is staying?

PHOTOS & VIDEO: Frozen Characters Anna & Elsa Debut in Norway at Epcot

WDWNT on December 4, 2013

Over the weekend, Anna and Elsa from Disney’s upcoming animated film Frozen began greeting guests in some former shop space in the Norway pavilion at Epcot:

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The new exhibit in the stave church is still not open

Windows of the Norway shops are filled with Frozen merchandise

The entrance being used for the meet and greet

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Here’s a short video of the duo in action:

Guests get a gift (while supplies last)

After you meet the sisters, you can buy all kids of Frozen merchandise

So, there is a little less shopping to do in the Norway pavilion as the front of the store has been made into the meet and greet. Also, the former perfume room is now being utilized for Frozen items.

So, what do you think? Are you excited to meet Anna and Elsa from Frozen?

Joe Hogarty’s 11/4/13 WDW Photo Report

WDWNT on December 4, 2013

WDWNT Reporter Joe Hogarty visited the Magic Kingdom and Epcot on Monday and has a number of newsworthy items to share with us from his trip, so let’s take a look:

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Triton’s Treasures is no longer a thing, these space originally meant for a shop will now be a Disney Vacation Club kiosk

As much as I hate to say it, the sign is beautiful

There is a squid weathervane on the building

We believe this to be a reference to the 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea attraction

Work continues on Seven Dwarfs’ Mine Train as we approach 2014

We can now see a small building rising near the track

We expect this to be the queue

We believe this to be the entrance

Looking good!

Frozen merchandise can now be found in the Emporium

Some of it is the same you can find at the Disney Store

Moving over to Epcot, Spaceship Earth is awfully dirty

Hopefully there is some way to get up there and clean it

Plenty of Christmas merchandise out in the parks already

Happy holidays!

The Muppets to Welcome Guests to Epcot Flower & Garden Festival in 2014

WDWNT on December 4, 2013

It’s only November, but I’m already “thinking Spring.” I miss the warmth of the sunshine and the brilliant colors of leaves and flowers. With that in mind, I’m pleased that Walt Disney World has announced some news on the 21st Annual Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival this week.

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Kermit the Frog, with his blooming banjo, and Miss Piggy will be joining the other artfully-crafted topiaries during the 21st Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival from March 5 – May 18, 2014 at the Walt Disney World Resort.

During the 75 days that Epcot hosts the Annual International Flower and Garden Festival, almost 100 topiaries will adorn the Park, transforming Epcot into a colorful wonderland of gardens and exhibits. The outdoor food and beverage marketplaces will also be back for a second year, offering many tasty treats, both savory and sweet. Perhaps taking a nod from Epcot’s Food and Wine festival, new menu items will include Piggylicious Bacon Cupcakes and a Barbecued Chicken Leg at the Smokehouse Barbecue marketplace. Previous menu favorites, such as the Watermelon Salad with baby arugula, feta cheese, pickled red onions and balsamic reduction, will be back to wow guests. In addition to new menu items, several lemonades, cocktails, wines and beers, all with floral inspirations, will be available to pair with food choices.

Featured topiaries this year will include:

  • Goofy, Donald Duck and Daisy Duck topiaries will appear in a new Epcot front entrance garden vignette, celebrating spring with a butterfly hunt adventure.  This garden will feature a waterfall and pond with water lilies.
  • Timon and Pumbaa topiaries will be featured near the park’s Outpost location between China and Germany.
  • Peter Pan, Captain Hook and Croc can be found in the United Kingdom showcase again this year.
  • Dozens of additional character topiaries, including Mickey Mouse, will delight guests throughout the Park.
  • Florida agriculture will be in the spotlight at a large World Showcase garden, exhibiting fresh Florida crops to include citrus, sugar cane, berries and vegetables.
  • As the sun sets each night, the illuminated gardens will cast a festive glow across the Park.
  • In World Showcase, the spotlight will shine on topiaries of Disney princesses, storybook characters and even pandas and trolls.
  • Back by popular demand, the Disney-Pixar “Cars” garden and playground will bring favorite movie characters to life for the younger festival-goers.  Tinker Bell’s Butterfly House will thrill with hundreds of the winged beauties and fairy topiaries of Tinker Bell and Periwinkle.
  • At the Festival Center in the Park’s Future World, twice-daily interactive gardening workshops will set the stage for outdoor do-it-yourself inspiration, and gardening guest speakers will appear daily.  The Festival’s sponsor, HGTV, will have design celebrities host home, garden and design seminars between Fridays and Sundays during the Festival.

The Flower Power Concert Series welcomes two new acts in 2014:  Gary Lewis and the Playboys (“This Diamond Ring”) March 14-16, and The Alan Parsons Live Project (“Eye in the Sky”) May 16-18.  During opening weekend, the series kicks off at America Gardens Theatre with fan-favorite band, The Guess Who (“American Woman”) March 7-9.  Other pop acts set to perform include Chubby Checker & the Wildcats, The Village People and Paul Revere & The Raiders. (Entertainment is subject to change).

Kids can explore the multiple-themed gardens and children’s play areas, while dozens of Disney-crafted “flower towers,” herb gardens and beds of multi-colored blooms will add to the floral splendor of the park’s landscape will delight adult festival attendees. Disney’s gardeners estimate 70,000 bedding plants will surround the Future World east and west lakes alone.  On the water, 220 mini-gardens will be set afloat.  Several special weekend happenings, including the popular Art in the Garden Weekend, will be scheduled.

The festival, including all gardening programs and exhibits, is included in regular Epcot admission.

Have you been to Epcot’s International Flower & Garden Festival? What are you favorite topiaries?

Horizons 30th Anniversary Limited Edition Shirt Now Available

WDWNT on December 4, 2013

I still remember the mantra of  Horizons – “If we can dream it, we can do it.”  Since its closing  in 1999, many Disney Parks guests have truly missed the Horizons attraction. With its glimpse into 21st century living, “on land, sea and even in outer space,” guests were able to experience visions of the future.

Horizons operated at Epcot from October 1, 1983 to January 9, 1999, and Walt Disney World is now celebrating the 30th Anniversary premiere of the attraction. The Disney Parks online store will offer an exclusive anniversary T-shirt from November 21-25, 2013.

The artwork for this shirt was created by Disney Design Group artist Casey Jones.  His design shows the iconic robot butler along with the attraction’s signature marquee on the front of the shirt. Casey also included the iconic quote, “If we can dream it, we can do it,” which was found just inside the attraction’s entrance.

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Some guests may remember  “choosing your own flight path back to the FuturePort” at the end of the attraction; the back of the shirt is inspired by this “choose your own” element. Casey decided to feature three different graphics for the back of the shirt – Mesa Verde, Sea Castle Resort and Omega Centauri.

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He partnered with Steven Vagnini from the Walt Disney Archives in Burbank, California. The two collaborated to bring these reference images to the shirt design. The front of the shirt will remain the same for each order, but customers can choose the logo they want printed on the back of the shirt.

To order this shirt, starting November 21, please visit www.Disneystore.com/ParkEvents.  All items will ship in 6-8 weeks (express shipping is not available).