From the Editor: Thank you!

Travel Feature: When Bad Trips Happen to Good People

Disney World Feature:  Taking a Toddler to Walt Disney World (Part 1)

Updates: What's New and Changed

Tips: Souvenir Showcase, Character Calendars, Swim Shoe Shuffle

Q&A: Which night to dine at Palo on Disney Cruise?
 

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

Updates:
What's New and Changed

Here's a few of the new developments at Disney·

On Monday, June 13, 2005, a child was found unresponsive after riding Mission: Space. 4 year-old Daudi Bamuwamye, who met the ride height requirement of 44 inches, was on the ride with his mother. When the ride finished she discovered that he was unresponsive. Medical personnel attempted resuscitation techniques but were unsuccessful. The child was transported to Celebration Hospital where he was later pronounced dead. The ride was closed immediately following the incident but was re-opened after an investigation found that the ride was operating normally. During the autopsy, no obvious cause of death such as trauma was found, further results may take up to 12 weeks. Our thoughts and prayers go out to everyone affected by this loss. 

Star Wars Weekends wraps up for the year this weekend, June 24-26, 2005. Jake Lloyd, who portrayed Anakin Skywalker in Episode I, and Warren Fu, Concept Designer on Episode III and creator of the original design for General Grievous, will be making appearances throughout the weekend. 

Ice Station Cool at Epcot has been closed and boarded up. No word on whether the closure is permanent. 

Beginning July 1, 2005, Disney is changing the age range for "child" at all dining establishments from ages 3-11 to 3-9, similar to the age range used in theme park admissions. 

You can view our page-by-page list of updates and corrections for the new PassPorter Walt Disney World 2005 Edition at http://www.passporter.com/
customs/bookupdates.htm.

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

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

Disney Tips:
From Fellow Readers

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

SOUVENIR SHOWCASE
"Our family always makes a showcase out of our resort window (at the value and moderate resorts). On the windowsill, we will display souvenirs, photos, stuffed animals, etc. It makes it more personalized and special for us and a sight for the other guests walking by. Not to mention, it also has been known to help one family member or another locate our room when they all look the same."
-- contributed by Rebecca Hayes (strmtropr96@...)

CHARACTER CALENDARS
"Instead of using an autograph book, we brought a Disney Princesses calendar with us to our breakfast at Cinderella's Castle. The Princesses (and Prince Charming) were very excited to find their pictures on the different months and autograph the pages. We caught up with Ariel in her Grotto. We have enjoyed the calendar all year! It's a daily reminder of a wonderful trip. On our next trip, we will be taking the Pooh calendar! "
-- contributed by Susan K.

SWIM SHOE SHUFFLE
"The intense Florida sun can make the deck around the resort swimming pools unbearably hot. Be sure to pack a pair of swim shoes to wear in and around the pool. They are also better to wear for your walk back to your resort room than a pair of flip-flops."
-- contributed by Fran Skall

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

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

Q & A:
With Jennifer and Dave

ReneHW asks: "I am trying to pick the best night for Palo reservations. I have reservations currently for Palo on the third night of our West Coast cruise, but after reading my PassPorter last night, I discovered that we will most likely have Animator's Palate (this is based on having an 8 and 10 year old) on the 3rd night. I have also learned that the "show" at Animator's is only on the 1st night of your rotation. Do I reschedule my Palo reservations for our second night or miss the Animator's "show"?" 

Dave answers: "Please remember that we don't "predict" your rotation, we only state what's likely based on the makeup of your party.

One approach would be to plan Palo for the fourth night (or later). That way you'll experience all the dining rooms once and catch the Animator's show, regardless of what rotation you actually receive. I think every cruiser should experience Animator's once, but it's not nearly so important to catch each of the "theme" dinners that occur later in the cruise."

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!

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

Future Newsletters:
Want To Get Published?

We're on the lookout for guest columnists to contribute articles to this newsletter. Not only is this a great way to give something back to the PassPorter community, but you get to see your name in "print" and receive a $25 gift certificate. For details and our article guidelines, please e-mail news@passporter.com. Articles about Disney and general travel are welcomed!

The 2005 edition of PassPorter Walt Disney World and PassPorter's Field Guide to the Disney Cruise Line 3rd Edition ship on the next business day when ordered by 8:00 pm ET the night before. If you've been waiting to order your copy, now is the perfect time!

Everyone gets a 15% discount and if you've already got a copy of PassPorter, you can register it to get a discount coupon good for 30% off the list price of any PassPorter guidebook.

Order your copy today at:
http://www.passporterstore.com/store

Each annual edition of our guidebooks features a new collection of magical memories from fellow readers. We know most of you have had magical experiences ... and we'd love the opportunity to include your story in an upcoming guidebook! To learn more and submit a story for consideration, visit these pages:

Disney World Stories: http://www.passporter.com/wdw/tipsandstories.htm

Disneyland and S. Cal Stories: http://www.passporter.com/dl/tips.htm

Disney Cruise Line Stories: http://www.passporter.com/dcl/tips.htm

Special Needs at Disney Stories: http://www.passporter.com/wdw/
specialneeds/tips.htm

We look forward to receiving your magical stories!

When Bad Trips Happen to Good People
By Dawn Dobson, Guest Columnist

I saw a billboard that said "True happiness is being able to enjoy the view even on a detour." I got to thinking about applying that statement to a Disney World or Disney Cruise Line vacation, especially during hurricane season.

What makes "the perfect trip?" How many times do we read (on message boards) that someone's chosen itinerary, advance dining reservation plans (formerly "priority seating)" or getting that stateroom upgrade will make for a "perfect trip?" How does it make those of us whose itinerary gets swept away on gale force winds feel? For many, much effort and emotion goes into planning our Walt Disney World vacations. We read our guidebooks and highlight pages, surf the web and post on message boards, gleaning every scrap of information we can about everything from the resorts to the rest rooms. We are well-versed even on the type of shampoo we should expect. The problem is that sometimes we set our expectations too high. We forget that Mother Nature may have other plans. We forget that little Mike or Sue might not be able to walk around, exposed to the bright and luscious wonder of Disney for hours on end. We forget that there are germs and accidents everywhere we go, yes, even at the most magical place on earth! We watched the planning video and those people (and children!) are smiling and laughing and having a wonderful time, so we will, too, by golly. Or will we? Stuff happens. It is very important for travelers to remember that little adage. Yes, it may be a once-in-a-lifetime trip, but if something does go wrong, how you choose to deal with it will make all the difference in your memories in years to come.

It is best to prepare ahead of time for the little disasters that are likely to happen during your stay, so that when you are faced with a "change of plans," you can adjust readily and with a smile.

Hurricanes are a deadly force of nature. If you have scheduled your vacation during hurricane season, you may be in for a bumpy ride. It is a good idea to keep an eye on the sky (and on the weather forecasts) and make some choices about your vacation. Yes, you've planned and saved, but is it worth potentially risking your life or the lives of your loved ones? OK, too late, you are there during the hurricane. Sitting around the resort room stressing and griping about the storm is not productive. It just upsets anyone else who is in the room with you. Make the best of what you have. Go "camping" with the kids. Watch TV. Read a book together. Make up a new game. If you have children, they are especially sensitive to your emotions and if you are calm, they will remain calm themselves. Most of all, remember that the cast members who are assisting you may have just lost their home or worse, yet here they are, smiling and trying to help you and yours have a magical time. Be nice. It's a tough gig.

As the mother of four girls, stressed-out children make me understand why some animals eat their young. (Just kidding. Really!) There is nothing worse than a melt-down or screaming temper tantrum as you are about to board Test Track. Chances are you feel like everyone is staring at you, and that is embarrassing. You may think they are judging your ability to parent little Mike or Sue. Keeping a vigilant eye out for signs of fatigue or fear or over-stimulation can help prevent these situations. (Children who haven't taken a nap in years often do take one at Walt Disney World -- adults too!) Every guidebook tells you to take the kids back to the resort for a rest and a swim, but many people do the math and see how much "park time" that they are "wasting" by doing this. Re-think your definition of "fun" from a child's point of view and then go have some fun! (Ask many children what their favorite part of the trip was and they will tell you about the pool at the resort!)

Accidents happen. So do blisters and stomach bugs. It is good to know that Disney is equipped with first aid in each park and a helpful front desk in each resort. On a recent trip, I stepped into the trolley track right in front of the Castle after Wishes. I was tired, cranky, and in pain. I went to the first aid station and they took excellent care of my sprained ankle and bruised ego. I was told to check at the front desk of my resort as soon as I returned for further medical information, in case I needed it. Thankfully, I didn't need it, but it was reassuring to know that it was available to me. It's no fun to be sick or injured on vacation, but, come to think of it, it's no fun to be sick or injured at home either. Just file it under "L" in the life experiences folder. 

Some friends of mine returned last year from their 40th anniversary cruise and I asked how it was, knowing they had had to do some hurricane-dodging. I was concerned about how they had dealt with the stress of canceled ports and excursions. She told me that it was the most wonderful and relaxing time. She laughed as she said the Captain was joking about the hurricane wanting to visit the same ports they were supposed to. What she said that had the most impact on me was, "We were there together, celebrating our marriage. It didn't matter where we went, just so we went together." They were able to enjoy the view, even on the detour. That sounds like the perfect trip to me.

- - - - - - - - - - - -

Did you enjoy this article? Have questions? E-mail us at news@passporter.com or visit http://www.passporterboards.com to discuss your travel plans.

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

Taking a Toddler To Walt Disney World
(Part 1 of 2)
by Anna Totty, Guest Columnist 

Taking a toddler to Walt Disney World. To some it sounds like a great adventure, to others it sounds like a nightmare in the making. Should you rent a stroller or bring your own? How will you get out of the hotel in time for Extra Magic Hour? How can you ride Space Mountain when your child can't? What is there to do while you wait in line? I've taken toddlers to Walt Disney World and it is wonderful. Your trip can be too, with a little advance planning. Here are some of the tips we've learned through trial and error during our Disney trips. 

There are several things to do before leaving home to ensure a smooth vacation. First you will need a stroller. I've heard parents with two- and three-year-olds say they don't need one because their child walks everywhere at home. But Disney World is the size of Manhattan and the walking you do here is much more than an average person does at home. Toddlers need to conserve their energy and need a place to rest and perhaps even nap while touring the World and a stroller is perfect for both. Plus, if you're planning on doing a child swap at some of the big rides, you will need a comfortable place for your child to wait. 

Should you bring your own stroller or rent one? I recommend bringing your own. There are some disadvantages, but in my experience, the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. A lot of it depends on how you explore the parks. If you travel light and only need a stroller when your toddler needs a break, bringing your own stroller might not be the way to go. But most toddlers don't travel light. Your toddler, the toddler gear, cameras, snacks, drinks, and other stuff can be quite a load. Your stroller can be the perfect pack mule. And if you stay on property, your cargo-moving needs don't end at the park gate. You've got quite a load to get to the bus stop and then to your room. Some of the Disney resorts are rather sprawled out. When we stayed at Animal Kingdom Lodge it was over a quarter of a mile from the bus stop to our room. That's a very long way to carry a tired, probably sleeping child at the end of the day along with everything else. 

Another plus to bringing your own stroller is that yours is probably made out of a comfortable material and your child likes it. (Or at least is familiar with it!) Disney strollers are made out of hard, molded plastic and are too big for babies and are difficult for some small toddlers to sleep in comfortably. You also know what your stroller will hold, the best way to pack it for the day, and probably have those oh-so convenient cup holders. If you bring your own and will be using Disney transportation, make sure your stroller is lightweight, compact, and can be folded quickly to get on and off the buses easily.

If bringing your own isn't an option, don't despair. Disney strollers are very convenient and functional. You can rent one near the front of every park and at Downtown Disney by the day or for the length of your stay. They will give you a paper ID tag to place in the plastic sleeve on the stroller to identify it as yours for the day. If you decide to park hop, keep your ID tag. Use it to get a stroller at the next park at no additional charge. If you decide to rent for multiple days, they will give you vouchers to use for the other days. All you have to do is show the voucher at the first park each day and place your ID tag on the stroller and you're ready to go.

Whether you bring your own or rent, you'll need an easy way to ID your stroller in a sea of others. You may think you're the only person who has a green striped stroller with white wheels, but believe me -- you're not. And to make it even harder, Disney has cast members whose job is to move parked strollers so that everything stays looking neat. You may have left it next to the entrance of Kilimanjaro Safaris, but by the time you come out, it could be wedged way back in the back of the stroller area. Tie something personal to the stroller's handle. It doesn't have to be big or fancy, a simple bandana will work. Just make it something you can spot easily.

After the stroller decision is made, you'll need to decide what bag to take to Disney. Toddlers never travel light and a trip to Disney is no exception. You'll need a place to carry all those little things: diapers, pull ups, wipes, extra clothes, sunscreen, sippy cups, etc. On our second trip, I learned an invaluable lesson just by chance. I took a clear backpack instead of a regular diaper bag so I could easily find what we needed in the parks. I had no idea that it would actually be a big time saver as well. When we came up to the security bag check, the guards just glanced at it and waved us on through. No having to spend time unzipping all the pockets and having all our stuff searched. Security can see everything you have in it in a glance and you can just zip through the line.

Now that those two decisions are made, you need to think about ways to make it easier to make it to the bus stop for Extra Magic Hour or those great character breakfasts. A little advanced planning goes along way here too. First, when packing, put each complete outfit in its own zip lock bag (shirt, shorts, underwear/pull-up, socks, hat, hair bows for girls, etc). That way, all you have to do is grab one thing out of the suitcase and you have everything you need. Doing this, our girls could get their own clothes each morning. Plus, you can easily grab a complete change of clothes to take to the parks with you in case of accidents. And if anything gets wet during the day, you can pack it in the plastic bag to take back to the hotel.

Another tip to make it easier to get going in the morning is to go to a discount store that sells things for $1 before your trip and buy a shoe holder with pockets that will hang over the bathroom door or on the closet rod. Put each person's toothpaste/toothbrush in its own slot as well as hairbrush/comb in one, makeup in another, etc. It makes it easy to see and get to everything you need in the morning. Plus, your kids know where their toothbrushes or hairbrushes are all the time.

To keep arguments down to a minimum and to be able to find these quickly, bring labels you make at home and label every thing. This helps in case you lose something. And it also helps if the kids have two of the exact same thing such as autograph books, sand buckets that come with the kid meals at Blizzard Beach, Epcot passports, etc. You will be able to see whose is whose if it has their name on it, cutting down on lots of arguments. Our youngest can't read yet, so I let her pick out a character to be for the week. All of her things get a Cinderella label so she can quickly pick out her own refillable mug or disposable camera as we're running out the door.

(Next week: You're finally at Walt Disney World. Now what?)
- - - - - - - - - - -

Did you enjoy this article? Have questions? E-mail us at news@passporter.com or visit http://www.passporterboards.com to discuss planning your Disney vacation.