From the Authors:Newsletter Editor and Baby Alexander Update

Travel Feature: Comfy Summer Travel Tips

Disney Feature: 15 Years of MGM -- A Shining Star!

Updates: What's New and Changed

Tips: Write a “Souvenir Reminder,” Park & Ride, Soak Your Feet 

Q&A: PassPorter Versions, The Wonder in Dry Dock

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Updates:
What's New and Changed

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

On July 1, 2004 a new store opened for those who love their pets almost as much as they love Disney. Disney Tails is located in the Downtown Disney Marketplace next to Pooh’s Corner and carries a wide variety of pet care products which a touch of Disney magic. Here you can purchase fresh baked dog treats, personalize an ID tag or pick out that perfect chew toy!

The 999 Happy Haunts Event at the Haunted Mansion in the Magic Kingdom returns this year for the weekend of October 25-27. Three different packages ($2,299.99 per person, $529.99 per person and $149.99 per person) will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Check out http://psc.disney.go.com/
eventservices/
event_wdw3572.html for more details!

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

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Disney  Tips:
From Fellow Readers

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

Write a “Souvenir Reminder”
“Keep a small notepad in your purse/fannypack, etc. When you or your kids see a souvenir you've "got to have," write down the price, the store, and the park/hotel where you saw it. Then at the end of the day, or towards the end of your trip, you can go over your list and decide what you really want. Then have a shopping day ? this helps kids (and adults like me) with budgeting and not blowing all our spending money the first day or two.” -- contributed by Robin B. (disnychck@...)

Park & Ride
“If you’re going to see either the Hoop-Dee-Doo Revue or Mickey's Backyard Barbecue, park at the Wilderness Lodge and take the ferry boat over to Fort Wilderness. You can also valet park at the Lodge if you are in the mood to splurge or are in a hurry to get there.” -- contributed by Wayne C. 

Soak Your Feet
“After a long day of walking at the parks, a foot soak in the bathtub with warm water and Johnson's Foot Soak really revitalizes your tired achy feet!  It comes conveniently in pre-measured packages which are easy to pack!)” -- contributed by Molli M. (marshalls@...)
 

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

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Q & A:
With Jennifer and Dave

Diane asks: “I’m trying to find out what the difference is between all of the different editions of PassPorter from the basic to the deluxe, hardcover and spiral. Can you tell me what the differences are or direct me to the area of your website that might have this information?”

Jennifer answers: “Each of our guidebooks comes in two versions -- a basic version and a deluxe version. The Walt Disney World guidebook’s basic version is a spiral binding and its deluxe version is a ring binding. The Disney Cruise Line guidebook’s basic version is a paperback binding and its deluxe version is a ring binding. So the only real difference between any of these is the binding (the way the pages are held together). Spiral binding means that the pages are held together with a plastic coil spiral binding, meaning the book lies flat when opened and there’s room for expansion when you put things in the pockets. Paperback binding means that the pages are held together with glue, just like a novel or most other books you buy -- the book doesn’t lie flat when opened and there are no pockets (as there’s no room for expansion). Ring binding means that the pages are held together by six metal rings in a padded ring binder, which also has ten interior pockets for ID cards, extra papers, and a pen. The ring-bound edition lies flat when opened, has room for expansion when the pockets are filled, and the pages can be removed, rearranged, and added because the rings open and close (unlike the spiral binding). 

Most people decide whether to get the basic or deluxe version of a given guidebook based on price -- the basic version is typically half the price of the deluxe version. Most folks who buy the deluxe version have tried out a PassPorter before and know they like the format, or just know they want a binder rather than a more traditional book. If you’re trying to decide between a spiral binding and a ring binding of the Walt Disney World guidebook, we have created a flow chart which you may find helpful.”

TLRotzoll asks: “Does anyone know where the Wonder will be dry docked and when the exact dates are. We live in VA and did not realize that the Magic was so close when it was being refurbished. We would love to see the Wonder if it too is going to be so close. It will be right before our cruise in Oct. Thanks, in advance, for any of your help!”

Dave answers: “Yes, the Wonder will be in drydock this fall. When it returns to service it will have the same kind of changes that were made to the Magic last year - new teen and adult areas. DCL says they still haven't come up with the final details for those changes (names may be different than on the Magic, and the modifications will probably reflect guest feedback from the Magic).”

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!
 

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!
 

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Get a 25% discount off the list price of both a Disney Cruise guide and a Walt Disney World guide when you buy both together (paperback/spiral/refill kit/deluxe kit). Just use discount code DCLWDW during checkout in our online store! (One discount/coupon per order.)

To order your copies, visit:
http://www.passporterstore.com/store/

by Dave Marx

With Baby Alexander due in mid-August (making Jennifer especially heat sensitive), summertime "survival" is an especially important topic for us this year. Here are a few of our favorite tips for comfy summer travel:

I just wanna say one word to you. Just one word. "Hats." (Apologies to 'The Graduate')

Watch out for dehydration! Fill up on water at every opportunity. On our most recent, late June Walt Disney World research trip we noticed that our restaurant servers were unusually attentive to refilling our drinks and water glasses. Dave suspects they've been told that, "A hydrated guest is a happy (and healthy) guest." When you're dehydrated you'll tire quickly and are prone to headache (among other things). That's no way to enjoy your summer vacation. Be especially alert to companions who aren't sweating when they ought to - that's a sign of serious dehydration, and worse will soon follow. Frayed tempers are another sign that it's time to pass the water bottle.

I just wanna say one more word to you. Just one word. "Sunblock." (More apologies to 'The Graduate')

Take it slow and easy. "The lazy days of summer" will be far more memorable than a forced march in 95-degree heat. Well, they'll both be memorable, but some memories are nicer than others.

Bring your car in for an air conditioning tune-up, and don't forget to top-off the radiator!

Remember the most "delicate" members of your traveling party. Normally hale and hearty seniors, pregnant moms, and infants may be especially sensitive to the heat and humidity. Give serious consideration to renting a scooter/ECV, and, as we say in backpacking, "Always let the slowest hiker set the pace."

A damp kerchief/wash cloth around your neck will help keep you cool (as the water evaporates heat is carried away in the water vapor). For a slightly more high-tech solution, look for various kinds of neck "coolers" that do the same job, but stay nearly dry to the touch. These often are little, fabric tubes, filled with granules that absorb and hold large amounts of water. This Google Search will lead you to suppliers and do-it-yourself instructions. Neck coolers may also be available at Disneyland and Walt Disney World gift shops - they're small items, so you may have to ask.

Only mad dogs and Englishmen go out in the noonday sun, so we seriously suggest a siesta. Noel Coward's classic song made the point oh-so-well (apologies to any and all ethnic groups mentioned - the world was different when Sir Noel composed this tune in 1932):

  Mad dogs and Englishmen go out in the midday sun, 
  The Japanese don't care to, the Chinese wouldn't dare to, 
  Hindus and Argentines sleep firmly from twelve to one 
  But Englishmen detest-a siesta. 
  In the Philippines they have lovely screens to protect you from the glare.
  In the Malay States, there are hats like plates, which the Britishers won't wear. 
  At twelve noon the natives swoon and no further work is done, 
  But mad dogs and Englishmen go out in the midday sun.

And if you need further advice, northern Michigan is lovely this time of year. Anyone for a bit of Mackinac Island fudge?
 

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by Cheryl Pendry
PassPorter Message Board Guide

Disney-MGM Studios recently celebrated its 15th anniversary by announcing further new attractions for visitors. As Cheryl Pendry explains, the park’s already undergone considerable change since it opened and there’s still more to come… 

“A star is born” -- how Disney describes May 1 1989, when Walt Disney World opened its third theme park, the Disney MGM Studios. 

But for all the fanfare of its official opening, many visitors, used to the numerous attractions of Epcot and the Magic Kingdom, were probably disappointed by what was originally offered at park number three. 

Many of the Studios’ attractions that we know and love today were not open for the world premiere, attended by such legendary names as Bob Hope, Lauren Bacall, Audrey Hepburn, Kevin Costner, George Lucas and Bette Midler. 

The first year of operation saw the arrival of Star Tours, the perennial children’s favorite, the ‘Honey I Shrunk the Kids Movie Adventure Set’ and Muppet-Vision 4D. The Sci-Fi Dine-In Restaurant also began to serve up meals “under the stars” and there were displays of a different kind under the stars with the Sorcery in the Sky fireworks display. 

The park’s fifth birthday saw the arrival of one of Disney’s most popular attractions, the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror™ and in the last 10 years, it has become steadily more terrifying, with the latest version introducing random drop sequences. 

For the 10th anniversary, the Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster® starring Aerosmith, powered into the park, blasting guests from 0 - 60 mph in just 2.8 seconds, similar to the feeling of sitting on a supersonic jet as it blasts off from the deck of an aircraft carrier. Disney’s first American coaster to feature inversions, the half mile long track includes two roll over loops and one corkscrew. 

But more was still to come. By 2001, the Studios were the centerpiece for the “100 Years of Magic” celebration, which commemorated the 100th anniversary of Walt Disney’s birth. The 12-story high Sorcerer’s Hat at the end of Hollywood Boulevard became the park’s new icon and Walt Disney: One Man’s Dream, an interactive exhibit, took visitors on a fascinating journey through Walt’s life, recounting the story of how his dreams first led to animated films and then the development of theme parks, which could be enjoyed by the whole family. Originally planned as a temporary attraction, its popularity with guests meant it become a permanent celebration of Walt’s life and his achievements. 

2001 also saw the arrival of two new shows at the Studios, both with very different audiences. For many children, Playhouse Disney -- Live on Stage! is a “must-do,” while quiz lovers make a beeline for Who Wants To Be A Millionaire -- Play It! 

Even now, the Imagineers are busy in the park, creating the Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show, which is scheduled to open in spring 2005. Drawing its inspiration from its French cousin in the Walt Disney Studios Park at Disneyland Paris, it will show visitors how stunts are created for the big screen, with motorbike and car chases which both amaze and delight audiences. With a car ballet that has to be seen to be believed, motorbike chase and a grand finale, the 45 minute show is already one of the most popular attractions at the Paris studios and is likely to become another e-ticket attraction at the MGM Studios. 

Prior to the spring opening of the Stunt Show, there are plenty of other special events, designed to attract visitors to the Studios. 

Already home to the successful Star Wars weekend, which each year draw in thousands of sci-fi fans, a new family festival is being planned over the weekend of July 31 - August 1 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of sports network ESPN. A must for any sports fan, events over the two days will include special appearances from athletes and sports celebrities, live ESPN broadcasts, interactive fan events and a special sports version of Who Wants To Be A Millionaire -- Play It! 

From a new event to an old favorite as November sees the ninth ABC Super Soap Weekend, the largest annual soap fan event in the world. Dates for this year’s event are November 13 - 14. 

Younger guests can meet the stars of JoJo’s Circus, as JoJo and Goliath join the Disney-MGM family. The six year old clown girl and her pet lion Goliath already appear daily in the Stars and Motor Cars Parade and this summer, the pair will also be meeting and greeting their young fans. 

There’s a treat in store for all ages during the festive season, with the return of the Osborne Family Spectacle of Lights from November 24 until January 2. Disney promise this year’s sparkling spectacular will be bigger and better than ever, with over five million lights reaching three stories high, making an already breathtaking display even more amazing. Teams will begin work on putting the lights up at the end of July and four months later, the results will be on display for everyone to see. 

From humble beginnings 15 years ago, there’s now certainly something for everyone at the Disney-MGM Studios, with high thrill rides, spectacular shows and entertainment specifically for youngsters. Over the next year, Disney promises more of the same for the park, which is already gaining a reputation for having some of the best attractions on Disney property. 

In the recent Readers Choice Awards in the Disney Magazine, the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror™, Rock ’n’ Roller® Coaster Starring Aerosmith and Fantasmic! were all voted into the top five of favorite attractions at Disney World. By next year, the new Stunt Show could be up there with the old MGM favorites. 

One thing’s for sure. There’s plenty more showbiz magic to come at the Disney-MGM Studios. If a star was born in 1989 when the park opened, then that star is now shining brighter than ever.