From the Authors:  Big Announcements -- New "Editions" On The Way!

Disney Feature: Pregnant at Disney

Travel Feature: Airport Security: Tips for Metal Detectors and X-Ray Machines

Updates: What's New and Changed

Tips:  Watching for discounts, preparing kids for scary attractions, making a Mickey bank

Q&A: Pop Century vs. Coronado Springs, Beaches on St. Maarten/St. Thomas
 

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Updates:
What's New and Changed

Here’s a few of the new developments at Disney…

Walt Disney World admission prices (single day tickets, park hoppers, and annual passes) went up on March 28. We’ve updated our Park Passes section so you can get the latest scoop on the new rates.

Cirque du Soleil also increased its ticket prices to $90.53 adult/$62.84 child (prices include tax). If you buy two tickets at a time, the ticket price is $77.75 adult/$52.19 child per ticket (includes tax); three or more tickets are $62.84 adult/$41.54 child per ticket (includes tax).

The Earl of Sandwich at Downtown Disney Marketplace finally opened on March 19. All the freshly-made sandwiches are just $4.95 each, and you can get them as wraps instead of in bread if you wish. In addition to sandwiches like "The Original" (roast beef, cheddar, and horseradish sauce), "The Earl’s Club" (turkey, apple bacon, Swiss cheese, lettuce, tomato, and sandwich sauce), and "The Frenchy" (country ham, creamy brie, and dijonaise sauce), you can get tossed bowl salads ($5.95), desserts (cookies, brownies, scones, and turnovers), and yogurt smoothies ($2.95). You can also get hot breakfast sandwiches in the mornings for $4.95.

Disney’s Wide World of Sports complex is expanding! Twenty new acres will be added, which combines four baseball diamonds with other fields for soccer and football. The new fields should be ready by August 2004. The expansion is being sponsored by Hess Corporation, which is also taking over the three on-site service stations at the Walt Disney World Resort.

The Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival is being held for seven weeks this year – from April 16 to June 6.

Star Wars Weekends are back for five consecutive weekends beginning May 14, 2004.

>Things To Do: Hear some news? Send it to us at
news@passporter.com .
 

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Disney  Tips:
From Fellow Readers

Our readers are a wealth of information! Here are the winners in this month's tip contest:

WATCH FOR DISCOUNTS
"Keep watching the WDW site for discounts!  Posted rates for our travel dates (Spring Break week--one of the most expensive) were $109 per night.  I went through the site at least once a week for two months, looking for better prices.  Sure enough, a discount price was published in a small corner of the site and was only available for about two weeks.  I booked our room for only $79 a night!" – contributed by Bonnie M. (happyhedgehogs@…)

PREPARE KIDS FOR SCARY THINGS
"Prepare ahead for the rides if you are traveling with a young child. We were able to read our PassPorter and prepare our child for "scary" things. For example, the troll in the Norway ride, was the troll from ‘Dora the Explorer.’ She didn't even get the slightest bit scared knowing what to expect. We pumped her up for this and the ‘Honey I Shrunk the Audience,’ so we didn't have to miss out on our Disney experience." – contributed by Tara (aroundthesound@…)

MAKE A MICKEY BANK
"Make a Mickey Mouse bank! You need: yellow, black, and white paper, construction paper, or poster board; a coffee can; red spray paint; possibly a black (large) permanent marker. Wash the coffee can. Spray paint the can red and if the lid is not black, use the marker to color it. The new Foldger's Aroma Seal canisters are great; the lid is black, the can is red (just paint over the label) and canister is plastic (great for kids). While the paint dries, cut two circles with small tabs from the black paper (ears), two small ovals from the white (pant buttons), and the top part of a large heart from the yellow (shoes). Cut slits in the lid to insert the tabs of the black circles making ears on the lid.  Duck tape the tabs down on the inside of the lid. Cut another large opening for inserting money. Glue (I used Mod Podge) the white ovals on the red can in the front top section to make the buttons on Mickey's pants. Glue the yellow heart top under the can so just the "toes of his shoes" stick out from the bottom. This bank is modeled after a cookie jar I saw at the Disney Store site. You can see it by going to disneystore.com and typing Mickey Shorts Cookie Jar in the search bar. This bank was fun for the kids as well as me to make. It makes saving the money to visit WDW more fun since we get to put it in "Mickey's Shorts"!" – contributed by Jenny S.

>Notes: Send us your tips ! You may see them in this newsletter and win a copy of PassPorter!
 

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Q & A:
With Jennifer and Dave

Dawn asks:
"I have reservations at Pop Century in a preferred room for 109.00 per night. I just found out that I can get reservations at Coronado Springs Resort for 94.00 per night. I am looking at maybe changing hotels, would you?"

Jennifer answers:
"Oh yeah, if you can get Coronado Springs for less than Pop Century, we'd definitely say ‘go for it!’ Coronado Springs is a moderate resort with bigger rooms and better facilities than Pop Century, a value resort. You won't be at all disappointed!"

Jesse asks:
"Can you walk to the beaches at St. Maarten & St. Thomas?"

Dave answers:
"Yes, for St. Maarten. They've been fixing-up the beach at Great Bay, just a short walk from the cruise pier. There's now a beachfront boardwalk that's easy to reach from the pier. The beach has nice, clean white sand, very gentle surf, and there are plenty of restaurants and shops along the beach and one block over on Front St.

There's no beach within walking distance in St. Thomas, though. You'll have to take a taxi or excursion. Morningstar Beach (at the Marriott resort) is the closest, and has all the comforts of a resort area beach. We list several other beaches (and beach excursions) in our DCL guidebook."

Have a question? Post it at http://www.passporterboards.com  -- and if you're lucky, you may find that folks have already asked and answered the same question that's on your mind!
 

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

 

Hi, friends!

This issue of our newsletter brings big news of new "editions!" First, the expected announcement: the new, second edition of our Disney Cruise Guide is now available for pre-order. We expect to ship all pre-orders of the cruise guide sometime during the week of April 19, 2004. Bookstores should have the new cruise guide sometime in May.

Now, the surprise announcement – we’re hoping to add a new "edition" to the PassPorter family this August. Yep, that’s right – WE’RE HAVING A BABY!

After years of infertility, we’re overjoyed to say that Jennifer is now halfway through a healthy pregnancy and is due August 12 with a baby boy. We invite you to our "New Edition" Baby page at http://www.passporter.com/babya – you can read the full story of baby Alexander’s journey to date, view ultrasound images and pregnancy photos, send messages to us and Alexander, and enter your guesses for the birthday and birth weight! Please stop by and share our excitement with us!

This newsletter (which now goes to over 18,000 subscribers!) is packed with tips on traveling to Walt Disney World while pregnant, going through airline security, and getting the most out of your vacation. Enjoy!

Jennifer and Dave
PassPorter Travel Press

The second edition of our best-selling cruise guide has 60 brand-new pages, many more photos, expanded sections on lodging in Port Canaveral and staterooms, enhanced reviews of shore excursions, tips on cruising with kids, staying healthy while cruising, and reunions/group cruises. Pre-order your second edition today in either paperback, deluxe starter kit, or deluxe refill kit… and be among the first to receive it later in April!

To visit the Preview Center and order a copy, visit:
http://www.passporter.com/dcl/guidebook2e.htm

by Jennifer Watson and Dave Marx (newly pregnant people!)

Perhaps you've carefully planned your Walt Disney World trip months in advance, only to discover you're pregnant. Congratulations! Now you may ask yourself, "Should I still go to Walt Disney World, or cancel my plans now that I'm expecting? If I do go, what should I avoid?" We traveled to Walt Disney World at the end of January 2004 while Jennifer was three months pregnant (see http://www.passporter.com/babya for the baby scoop), and we have several insights to offer.

1. Talk to your healthcare provider (midwife or doctor). If you have any special conditions that may make travel difficulty, your healthcare provider can advise you. Don’t assume that just because you found out you’re pregnant, it’s not necessary to bring it up. Most miscarriages occur in the first trimester. If you get the green light, ask him/her for the names of good healthcare providers in the Orlando area, just in case. Also carry your own healthcare provider's name and phone number with you at all times. (Jennifer’s doctors gave her the green light, but gave her several reminders and precautions for the trip.)

2. What is your due date, and how close will you be to it when you plan to travel? Travel in your third trimester may not only be risky, but downright uncomfortable. Some airlines may require a note from your healthcare provider, and as a general rule, you should not fly within 30 days of your due date without your healthcare provider's permission. To make air travel more comfortable, request an aisle seat (for easy access to the facilities and better leg room), bring food and water for yourself, and stand up and stretch at least once an hour during the flight. You may also wish to dress in layers in the event it gets too hot. Jennifer's sister Kim adds, "pregnancy-approved anti-nausea medication may also be very helpful during the flight." Jennifer couldn’t take any anti-nausea medication, but found that sea-bands (acupressure wrist bands) were helpful. Jennifer also found that it was well worth it to upgrade to the better, larger seats in the front of the plane, which may be more affordable than you think. For example, on Spirit Airlines, you can upgrade for just $40 at check-in if there is still availability. If you drive rather than fly, just remember to pull off the road every 1-2 hours for a little walk.

3. Are you going on the Disney Cruise Line? Pregnant women past their 24th week are not allowed to sail (we had to cancel a great 7-night cruise scheduled for May because of this rule). Before your 24th week you'll still need to fax a healthcare provider's note to Disney and then complete a medical clearance form before you can sail. Call 800-511-9444 for more information. Also, if nausea is a problem during your pregnancy, talk to your healthcare provider about pregnancy-approved anti-nausea medication before you go. Jennifer's sister Kim adds this note: "If you can handle the motion of a cruise ship, it's a fantastic value for a pregnant woman as you can graze whenever on whatever and never have to pay a cent. If you are not feeling up to some of the on-shore adventures, don't worry. You will find staying on the ship has definite advantages as you really have it to yourself. You can go into a lounge and listen to your favorite Disney tunes with your feet propped up while watching jet skiers out the HUGE portholes. On special nights they may have Captain's parties where there are free drinks offered to all who attend. Not to worry, they always have several yummy nonalcoholic choices available." Kim adds this tip regarding eating onboard: "Many woman have an increased appetite (or need to eat small meals more often) during pregnancy. When you are on a cruise you are at the mercy of the ship to provide your meals. Although there are a wide variety of foods available, currently the Disney cruise ships do not have a 24 hour buffet available. What worked best for me was room service. It's great as you can return to your cabin several times throughout the day, kick off your shoes, sprawl out on the big bed, and order your favorite sandwich or fruit plate. You will refresh yourself and be able to participate in all the fun activities the cruise has to offer."

4. Pack plenty of comfortable clothes you can layer. Water bottles with filters (such as Brita) are also a good idea to bring along, as you should be drinking water frequently to avoid dehydration. Sure, you can buy bottled water at Disney, but it's very expensive! Be sure to also bring your prenatal vitamins and any special medications or food. If you've got morning sickness, pack those saltines! You may also want to bring a maternity support belt, particularly if you're not used to walking around much. Bring along your prenatal medical records as well, just in case. Jennifer reminds you to try on your vacation clothes just before you leave, too – pre-pregnancy clothing that is too tight is no good. Jennifer’s sister Kim adds this packing tip: "Bring a really good pair of walking shoes, possibly a 1/2 size larger (or the wide version of normal size) as the Florida heat mixed with the physical activity tends to puff your ankles a bit."

5. Moms-to-be usually need more sleep, but this can be hard when you're pregnant and even harder when you're away from home. If you have a favorite pillow or wedge, consider making room in your suitcase for it. A portable travel sound machine can block outside noise and lull you into sleep. And a nightlight for the bathroom will make those frequent trips easier to bear. Your resort choice can also make a difference. When we visited Walt Disney World in January, we chose a "preferred room" at Pop Century – sure, it costs $10 more per night, but it’s was well worth the convenience to the bus stop and the guest facilities in the main hall.

6. Avoid attractions with health restrictions. These restrictions are always posted at the attraction itself, or you can check the PassPorter Walt Disney World guidebook to find out before you go. In general, you want to avoid rides that are bumpy, cause dizziness, or accelerate too quickly. Epcot is the most pregnant-friendly park -- only three attractions, Mission:SPACE, Test Track, and Body Wars, are off-limits. At Magic Kingdom, just say no to Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Splash Mountain, Dumbo (if you get nauseous easily), Magic Carpets of Aladdin, Mad Tea Party, The Barnstormer, Astro Orbiter, Space Mountain, and the Tomorrowland Indy Speedway. At Disney-MGM Studios, stay off Star Tours, Rock n' Roller Coaster, and the Tower of Terror. At Disney's Animal Kingdom, avoid Kali River Rapids, Primeval Whirl and Dinosaur. Kilimanjaro Safaris carries a health restriction, but many pregnant women (including Jennifer's sister) feel okay about it. If you decide to go on the Kilimanjaro Safaris, ask the cast member if you can ride in the wheelchair-accessible vehicle -- it isn't as bumpy as the others. If you're not certain if a particular ride is for you, have your significant other try it out first and then report back. If you opt out of a ride, you can either shop in a nearby gift shop (there's always one around) or stay in the queue with your party until boarding and then ask for the "chicken exit."

7. Do you know where your restrooms are? You'll be a happier mommy-to-be if you always know where the nearest restroom is located. Be sure to grab a park map (or two) on your way into the park and keep it handy. Or just keep your PassPorter handy -- all the restrooms are marked on the PassPorter maps. Each park also has a First Aid and Baby Center. It doesn't hurt to note its position on the map when you enter the park, and to keep your eyes open for it during the course of your day's tour. If you need a cool place to lie down (not to mention a helping hand from a knowledgeable professional), you'll be glad to know how to find it.

8. Get plenty of rest. Take advantage of park benches and sit-down shows and rides while you're touring. The Baby Centers are also cool havens to take a break -- every park has one. How about a midday swim back at your resort? Get yourself a maternity swimsuit you're comfortable in and take a swim -- swimming while pregnant can be very liberating! Avoid the waterslides, though. Another way to relax is to book the Mother-To-Be Massage at the Grand Floridian Spa -- it's a 50-minute treatment that includes a head massage, foot compress, body brushing, and a soothing massage with lavender oil. It's a bit pricey at $120, but we hear it's VERY relaxing. (Jennifer will be trying this in May and will report back on it.)

9. If you have food aversions, which are common during pregnancy, consider your restaurant choices carefully. You can use the descriptions in PassPorter or the menus on Deb Wills' site (http://www.allearsnet.com). For food cravings, keep your favorite snacks handy in a backpack. And don't forget to drink that water!

10. Plan your trip well. This does not mean going "commando," but this isn't the time to "wing it" either. Your trip will be more comfortable and enjoyable if you have a good idea of what you plan to do and when. This is especially important for first-time visitors to the World. When you have a plan, you'll find it is much easier to change it on the spur of the moment, which is exactly what you may need to do.

11. Consider the possibility that you may need to cancel your trip at the last minute. We'd suggest you take advantage of travel insurance in this instance. And if you get a note from your healthcare provider, you should be able to get a refund even on those non-refundable flights.

12. Oh, and while you're at Walt Disney World, you may want to pick up some baby clothes. In our experience, you'll find the best selection at Downtown Disney (World of Disney and Pooh Corner). We also found some infant outfits at MouseGear at Epcot and L.A. Cinema Storage at Disney-MGM Studios. Don't forget to pick up some embroidered Mickey Ears for your little one -- you can get them in smaller sizes at The Chapeau on Main Street in the Magic Kingdom. 

Things To Do: More Tips for Expectant Moms-To-Be can be found at All Ears Net (http://www.allearsnet.com/pl/pregnant.htm). For a more humorous look at being pregnant at Disney, visit http://raven763.tripod.com/roseandthorn7/Hum7a.html. And if you'd like to discuss this topic with other PassPorter readers, visit http://www.passporterboards.com.

Notes: We're not midwifes or doctors, and we cannot offer medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before traveling and follow his/her advice.

by Jennifer Watson

Let’s face it – we all feel a small measure of trepidation when it comes time to go through security at the airport. We find ourselves thinking: Did we leave a penknife in our carry-on by accident? Are all the alarms going to go off when I show up? But these little insecurities don’t need to plague you if you read our Know Before You Go Through primer.


BEFORE YOU LEAVE FOR THE AIRPORT
1. Pack your carry-on carefully. If you’re traveling with a carry-on you’ve used before, go through every pocket to make sure you’re not leaving a "banned" item in it (such as a penknife or other weapon-like object). (Been there, done that!) Be aware that bringing a banned item to a security checkpoint – even accidentally – is illegal. The government has recently stepped up enforcement -- you are now more likely to be fined or prosecuted. You can get the current list of Permitted and Prohibited Items at http://www.tsa.gov or call 866-289-9673.

2. Label all carry-ons with a luggage tag or identification label. If you leave an item at the security checkpoint by accident, it’ll need to be identified in order to be reunited with it. Did you know that laptops are the most frequently forgotten item? Be sure your laptop is labelled.

3. Got presents? Don’t wrap them unless you’re planning to put them in your checked luggage or ship them ahead of time. No wrapped items are allowed in carry-ons. We’ve seen many a sad person watch their carefully wrapped presents get ripped open during a security check.

4. Don’t wear metal. It lurks in places you may not consider: undergarments, clothing, and shoes. You may want to invest in a pair of travel-friendly shoes without metal shanks (Bass has an entire line of these at their stores). Most running shoes and sandals are just fine. If you’re pierced, remove the jewelry before you come to the airport.

5. If you have a medical implant or other device that could set off the metal detector, bring documentation verifying this condition. (It’s not required, but it may save you time during the security process!)

6. Put undeveloped film under 800 ASA in your carry-on, not your checked luggage. If you have film over 800 ASA, be aware that the X-ray machine may damage it – you’ll want to ask for a hand-inspection instead. Also note that multiple x-rays (more than 5 times) of the same roll of undeveloped film (regardless of speed) may cause damage.


APPROACHING THE SECURITY CHECKPOINT
1. You’ll need to show your photo I.D. and boarding pass before entering the line for security, and we find it easiest to keep these handy in a PassHolder Pouch or similar hands-free, see-through document holder. If you keep them in pockets or bags, there’s a danger of them falling out in your haste to get through the airport.

2. Finish that food and drink before getting in line. Spilled food and drink can damage security equipment unless it is wrapped or in a secure container. If you must keep that drink, you may carry it through the metal detector with you provided it is in a paper or polystyrene (i.e. Styrofoam) container. All other containers must go through the X-ray machine, and must be either sealed or spill-proof.

3. Talk to your kids about the security checkpoint. Reassure them so they will not be frightened, and remind them that it isn’t okay to make jokes about bombs or terrorists.  It’s also a good idea to warn young children that their carry-on items – including that teddy bear they are hugging – will need to go through the X-ray machine, but they will get them back.


THE X-RAY MACHINE
1. While you’re waiting in that security checkpoint line, take off your outer coat or jacket and shoes (if they have metal in them), as well as jewelry and items in your pockets. These things will go into a plastic bin then through the X-ray machine when your turn comes. You may find it easier to put loose items in your coat pockets or carry-on bag. Getting these items prepared in advance speeds things up a bit.

2. All carry-on items must go through the X-ray machine, including diaper bags, blankets, toys, etc. If an item does not fit (such as a stroller), the item must be visually and physically inspected.

3. Make sure all pockets and zippers on your carry-on bags are securely fastened before sending them through the X-ray machine.

4. Laptop computers must be sent through X-ray separately. Remove yours from its carry-on and put it into a plastic tub.


THE METAL DETECTOR
1. Wait until the security agent indicates it’s your turn to walk through the metal detector. Go through one at a time. Do not touch the metal detector as you pass through.

2. All children must be removed from their carriers and strollers. You may carry babies, but if your child can walk unassisted it is best if they do so.

3. You are not required to take off your shoes before passing through the metal detector, but if they set off the alarm, you will need to undergo a secondary screening.

4. If you do not want to go through the metal detector, or cannot for some reason, you may request a personal search (pat-down inspection) in a private area. If you refuse screening, however, you will not be allowed to pass through the checkpoint.


SECONDARY SCREENING
1. If an alarm sounds while passing through the metal detector, or you are randomly selected, you will be directed to the secondary screening area just past the metal detectors and x-ray machines. This is not something to fear nor should you feel "singled out" – we’ve all had to do this at least once or twice before.

2. A screener of your gender will perform the inspection with a hand wand, which passes over your body without touching you. You may be directed to remove your shoes or open your belt buckle.

3. You’ll probably be separated from your carry-on luggage during this secondary screening, but do try to keep visual contact with it.

4. Members of your party may not wait with you in the secondary screening area (with the exception of children).

You’ll find a wealth of information on air travel security at the Travel Security Administration web site (http://www.tsa.gov/public/display?theme=175).


DRESS FOR SUCCESS
If even one member of your party must go through secondary screening, your entire group may suffer. Here are some tips for dressing for the occasion.

Be ready before you approach the security checkpoint. Assemble your whole party, and make sure they’re all prepared. Not only will you move through faster, but so will the people behind you.

Forget the jewelry! Necklaces, bangles, bracelets, rings, earrings… You may feel naked without them, and you may forget you’re wearing them, but it’s best to keep them tucked away in your bag until after the inspection. Nobody’s impressed by your jewelry when it delays their own journey. Eyeglasses, belt buckles, and clothing with multiple zippers, studs and other decorations are other common reasons the metal detector goes "tilt."

Dave has honed his wardrobe to minimize trouble, including a belt with plastic buckle, and slip-on shoes for easy-off/easy-on. He empties his pockets into his carry-on before he approaches security, and makes sure his cell phone and eyeglasses are in the bin for the scanner.

Assume you’ll be asked to remove your coat/jacket, hat, and all shoes but sneakers, and run them through the X-ray before they ask.

Dave has a favorite pair of "convertible" pants, which are great for going from cold Michigan to warm Florida. He thought they’d be fine, as all the zippers are plastic. Wrong! Ten metal zipper pulls and a few snap fasteners were more than enough to ring the bell during one inspection (although they passed without notice many other times).

Do you have more tips and experiences to share? Visit our message boards at http://www.passporterboards.com and let us know!