From the Authors:Just Around The Corner

Travel Feature:  The Emerald Isle

Holiday Feature: Holidays At "The World", Part 2 

Updates: What's New and Changed

Tips: Backpack Bravos, Sticker Shock, Fountain Fun

Captain's Corner: Holiday Shop

Q&A: What exactly is concierge-level service? 
 

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Updates:
What's New and Changed

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

During November 23 - 26, 2005, the Diamond Horseshoe at the Magic Kingdom will offer a dinner buffet. Served from 2:00 - 8:00 pm, the menu includes items such as chicken, salmon, beef and assorted side dishes. This is a temporary offering. 

An inside look at the upcoming Disney film, "The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe" will be unveiled at the Disney-MGM Studios on December 9, 2005. (The same day the movie premiers.) A sound stage has been transformed into a wintery, walk-through experience that explores the world of Narnia and the making of the film.

Walt Disney World President Al Weiss, has been promoted to the new position of President, Worldwide Operations. Weiss began with the Disney company in 1972 and has worked his way through the ranks. He has been President of Walt Disney World since 1996 and oversaw the introduction of such attractions as Mission: Space and Mickey's Philharmagic. 
 

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

BACKPACK BRAVOS
"On our last trip to Disney, I took a light-weight, nylon backpack. I used this instead of a waist pack. I could just leave it on my back on rides and it didn't interfere with the seat belts. It also can hold more than a waist pack."
-- contributed by Beth S. 

STICKER SHOCK
"When it rains, and everyone is wearing an official poncho, your child(ren) may blend into the crowd. I took one of the free stickers that a cast member gave my daughter and put it on her shoulder so that I would be sure that the little hand that I grabbed belonged to me."
-- contributed by Kelly Abell

FOUNTAIN FUN
"For someone who wants to 'see it all' at the World, here is an out-of-the-way, but pretty fun thing to see. Make your way to the left side of the castle, by the Cinderella fountain. Get down to "kids-eye-view" and look at the Cinderella statue through the fountain. You'll see the illusion of her crown on her head. Pretty cool!"
-- contributed by Jennifer B. 

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

Want more Disney tips? We've collected 500 of the tips submitted by readers over the past six years -- most have never been published before. All have been edited for accuracy and categorized. The "Disney 500" are available in e-book form for immediate download. For details, visit the PassPorter Store. 

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Captain's Corner:
Treasure Hunting Game

Play our fun and quirky treasure hunting game, hosted by Captain Jack Skatt from our upcoming book, "PassPorter's Treasure Hunts at Walt Disney World." 

The Captain makes a study of the delightful details -- sometimes hidden, sometimes in plain sight but often overlooked -- at Walt Disney World and aboard the Disney Cruise Line. Using notes from his journals, he will lead you to this "treasure" at Disney with clues, questions, photos, or riddles. Your challenge is to discover the answer by searching your memory, visiting Disney, or even just looking really hard on the Internet. If you think you've found the answer, e-mail it to jackskatt@passporter.com -- the first person to correctly submit the FULL answer will receive a free PassPorter enamel pin or PassPorter name badge pin.

Here is this week's treasure from Captain Skatt's Journal:

I've observed that just as the birds fly south when the weather gets cold, so do many humans. My hunting grounds seem to be a favorite of many humans -- indeed, I've observed one type that comes here every year in packs. I call it the MouseFestus Sapiens. They seem to enjoy the holiday decorations in particular. Perhaps I should tell them about the little store I discovered near Streets of America that is always decorated for the holidays? There's even snow out front. The shop's name is ... (rest of journal entry obscured by some of Mama Melrose's sangria)

So what is the name of the holiday shop?

Send your full answer to jackskatt@passporter.com -- the winner will be notified by e-mail and announced in the next newsletter, along with the correct answer!

Congratulations to Scott Hughes who was the winner of last newsletter's treasure hunt game last week! Scott correctly identified the shrimp boat in Typhoon Lagoon as the "Miss Tilly." To view the original clues, see the last newsletter.

And the Captain made a mistake in the previous newsletter. Actually, Caidi Hodge was the first person who correctly stated that Old Brachy is located in Dinoland U.S.A. The skeleton forms a bridge ("Oldengate Bridge") between the kids' play area and the fossil dig site. Our apologies to Caidi! Congratulations to both Caidi Hodge and Cody Ayre for getting the correct answer so quickly. 

If you enjoy treasure hunts, we've got an entire book with over 100 distinct treasure hunts and over 1500 questions, complete with clues and contributions from Captain Skatt. We expect to release the book -- "PassPorter's Treasure Hunts at Walt Disney World" -- in early 2006. Watch this space or http://www.passporter.com for more information!

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Q & A:
With Jennifer and Dave

Shawn S. asks: "What does "concierge level service" mean, and what do you get? How does it work?"

Jennifer and Dave answer: "Concierge service at Walt Disney World is an added-price option. There are several features:

Restricted-access Concierge "level" - A section of the hotel that is open only to guests who have paid for concierge services. A room key is required for access to this level. At some hotels, all concierge guest rooms are in this key-protected area. At other hotels, only some of the concierge rooms are in the key-protected area. If the extra security of having rooms in the key-protected area is an issue (for celebrity guests, for example) be sure to make that clear when you make reservations.

Concierge Lounge - a lounge in the restricted-access area, open only to concierge guests. Newspapers, TV, board games and "complimentary" food and beverage service are available for most of the day. Typically they serve a continental breakfast, sandwiches and other light lunch items, afternoon snacks, cocktail hour snacks, and dessert items. Juice, coffee, tea, milk, soft drinks and sometimes wine are included.

Concierge Desk - All "front desk" services for concierge guests are handled by staff within the restricted-access concierge level. When guests arrive at the hotel they phone the concierge desk, and they are escorted up to the concierge level for check-in. Concierge desk staff is available for much of the day for assistance with guests' vacations - making dining and recreation reservations, providing advice, etc. While the same services can be provided to regular guests by the regular front desk staff, the easy availability of concierge staff (they're close to the guests' rooms, and are usually seated by the concierge area elevator) and comfort (guests sit at the desk, rather than stand at a counter) tends to encourage guests to make use of these services, and to feel more pampered.

Planning services - Guests will be contacted by the concierge staff prior to their vacations, to provide assistance with vacation planning.

The guest rooms are generally no different than regular rooms at the hotel, but in many cases, all suites at the hotel are part of the concierge area.

The turndown service that is a by-request option at the deluxe hotels is provided automatically to concierge guests. Concierge guests may also receive "signature" toiletries, rather than the hotel's standard items.

In general, to get the most out of concierge services, guests have to spend more of their time at the hotel and less time at the parks. Lingering in the lounge is indeed a pleasure, but you have to be in the mood to linger.

Concierge service can be especially useful on the day of departure. While check-out time is the same as for other guests (10:00am), concierge guests have full use of the concierge lounge for the remainder of the day. So, if folks are departing for the airport late in the day they can give their luggage to bell services, head to the parks for a while, and return to the concierge lounge for refreshments and relaxation before departure. The same is true for guests who check-in early - the lounge will be available even though their rooms may not be ready.

Guests who regularly use concierge service tend to be enthusiastic fans that enjoy the extra feeling of exclusivity and of being pampered. Some even feel the food alone is worth the extra price. However, while we do enjoy the added air of luxury, we don't see the food provided in the lounge to be a money-saving feature. When you compare the price of concierge rooms to regular rooms, the cost difference rarely justifies the value of the food."

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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Future Newsletters:
Want To See Your Name in Print?

We're on the lookout for guest columnists to contribute articles to this newsletter. No professional writing experience necessary, just a  desire to share your experience with others! 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 submission guidelines, please e-mail news@passporter.com. Articles about Disney and general travel are welcomed!

The Emerald Isle
by Michelle R. Mangio, Guest Contributor and Owner of Magical Escapes Vacations

The small country of Ireland holds a mythical place in the stories of our childhood. Nearly 45 million Americans are descended from Irish Immigrants, so it’s small wonder that Ireland’s folklore has found its way into our own. What it is about this country that holds such appeal in the hearts of so many Americans? Given the number of Americans who claim Irish ancestry, it is not surprising why some refer to Ireland as the “51st State.” But ancestral ties aren’t the only reason this country holds such allure: it truly is a fairy tale land, of rolling hills and glistening lakes, of castles and churches and ancient ruins, where the people are warm and friendly and the day ends in laughter, good food, and good drink at the local pub. 

(Speaking of pubs, let me dispel a myth - they are not the same as American bars. In fact, they are a social gathering and meeting place, where neighbors and families come together at the end of the day to relax and enjoy each other’s company.  Most pubs also offer some form of entertainment, and if not, you might be treated to the local patrons improvising their own. Children are welcome, and my two year old nephew was the star of one pub when he danced to an Irish jig.)

But more, it is a country that evokes that sense of coming home, even while you’re visiting a place that is new and exciting. It is that warm welcome that brings visitors back again and again to Ireland.

Even Walt Disney World now welcomes “the luck of Irish,” with the opening of the Raglan Road Pub in Downtown Disney – a charming Irish pub, offering a great time with wonderful food, live entertainment in the form of dancers, musicians, and storytelling.  Be sure to take a small step onto the Emerald Isle next time you visit Walt Disney World.

Roughly the size of the state of Maine, Ireland is an island country located west of Great Britain, and the only European country with no direct connection to mainland Europe, either natural or manmade. Despite its small size, there is much to see and do. In fact, its size is often its biggest draw, as it is easy to travel all over this country and experience the diverse scenery and experiences. Ireland is also easy to reach, a short five or six hour flight from many East Coast cities.

Ireland has a mild climate, and it’s very possible you may experience all four seasons in a single day. Rain showers are possible at any time, so it’s always advisable to bring layers, especially if you are going to be out and about all day. The day may start off chilly, then warm up, then rain, then grow cold again.

Despite Ireland's reputation for rain, most visitors report that weather did not impact their vacation. But if it does rain, you may be able to experience another amazing sight: one of the most brilliantly beautiful rainbows you’ve ever laid eyes on. And when the sun comes out, you will quickly learn why Ireland is called the “Emerald Isle.” There aren’t enough words to describe the shades of green blanketing the rolling hills when the sunlight brings the countryside alive.

Visitors arrive in Ireland at either Shannon on the West Coast, or Dublin on the East.  Dublin is the capital of Ireland, and a city rich in history and culture. Here you can visit Trinity College, and see the famous Book of Kells – the most beautifully illuminated medieval manuscript in Ireland; St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the oldest Christian site in Ireland; St. Stephen’s Green, a tranquil park in the midst of the bustling city; Dublin Castle, or the Guinness Brewery. There are also many museums, and don’t forget to visit Temple Bar, a collection of cafes, shops, art galleries, bistros, live music venues, nightclubs, and pubs.

An hour’s drive from Dublin will bring you to the Wicklow Mountains, exhilarating country where rock-strewn glens provide sharp contrast to the forested mountains, and heather paints the bog lands with a purple sheen. Glendalough, nestled in the mountains among two lakes, is not to be missed; aside from historic and archaeological attractions, the sight of the morning sun sparkling through the valley’s fog evokes the sense that you have traveled back in time. For garden lovers, a stop at the Powerscourt House & Gardens is a must; stop for lunch here to take in one of the most amazing views in Ireland.

North of Dublin is the Boyne Valley, where the famous archaeological site of Newgrange can be visited; a World Heritage Site, this tomb is also the oldest solar observatory on Earth. Nearby is the Hill of Tara, for centuries the spiritual heart of Ireland and seat of the High King.

To the West of Dublin, visit the Shannonbridge Bog Railway, a 45 minute tour that will make the landscape come alive. Here as well you can visit Clonmacnoise, once a thriving ecclesiastical center of scholarship.

Journey south, then, to Kilkenny, considered Ireland’s most popular heritage town. Kilkenny Castle is the town’s largest and most impressive visitor attraction. From there, you can easily visit Jerpoint Abbey, the best kept Cisterian abbey in Ireland, before continuing on to Waterford, where you can stop at the Waterford Crystal Factory and watch glass crafters at work, much as they have for the last two hundred years.  

Continuing along the south of Ireland, magnificent coastlines, dramatic mountains, and peaceful lakes will greet you. The south also has a rich heritage, displayed in the number of prehistoric monuments, Norman castles, fortified manor houses, Georgian architecture, and heritage towns. The climate is warmer here, thanks to the Gulf Stream, and the scenery breathtaking.

For food lovers, a stop in Ballymaloe is a must (dine at the Ballymaloe House). One of Europe’s foremost culinary schools is also here. Visitors can take short classes (ranging from one to five days). Continue on then to Kinsale, the culinary capital of Ireland, and its annual Gourmet Festival. From there you can visit Blarney Castle and kiss the famous Blarney Stone – said to grant eloquence to those who kiss it. If you dislike heights, keep in mind that to kiss the stone, you have to lean out over the edge of one of the castle towers to do so. An assistant holds on to you so you won’t fall, but it can be unnerving!

Continue on to Cork, the third largest city in Ireland, also known as the Festival City.  Many festivals are held here throughout the years, including the Guinness Jazz Festival, the Irish Folk Festival, and the Choral Festival.

The Ring of Kerry, a route around the Iveragh Pennisula, beckons next. The route begins in Killarney, wandering through villages, hugging the edges of mountains high above rocky shorelines before dipping down to sandy coves and forests below. Many argue that the Ring of Kerry is the most beautiful scenic route in Ireland.  

But if there is one thing you must do in this region, it is the Gap of Dunloe. You can hike, bike, or drive up through the Gap, and you will be astounded by the amazing scenery all around you. 

North of Kerry is the Dingle Pennisula, which is my personal favorite scenic tour in Ireland. Nothing compares to Connor’s Pass high in the mountains, where you might find yourself spending hours just looking out among the countryside, lakes glistening like jewels below you. It is the most unforgettable view in all of Ireland.

From here, you can journey into the West of Ireland, a region characterized by wild and dramatic scenery, interspersed with interesting towns and beautiful countryside. The Rock of Cashel, the seat of the Kings of Munster beginning in the 5th Century, is not to be missed – an immense stone fortress on top of a rise, it rises dramatically over the surrounding plain. The Cormac Chapel within boasts stunning carvings, and the view of the countryside from the castle gives you a sense of the power and majesty this place once held.

Here in the West is also the city of Shannon, where Ireland’s second international airport is located. There are many famous castles in this region. A tour through King John’s Castle will give you a sense of the power of the kings of old. Bunratty Castle, one of Ireland’s top rated attractions, is also home to nightly medieval banquets. The Bunratty Folk Park, near the castle, is a meticulous recreation of life at the turn of the 20th Century.  Durty Nelly’s is a pub located next to Bunratty Castle, and is also a great place to eat.

Adare, located nearby, is considered to be the prettiest town in Ireland. Thatched cottages, stone buildings, and ruins give this town a quaint feel. The Adare Manor has been converted to a luxury hotel – spend a night in a castle!

Continue northward to the Cliffs of Moher, where you will feel as if you are standing at the edge of the world. The Cliffs, at nearly 650 feet high, drop off dramatically to the ocean far below.

Further north you will find Galway – a lively university city – and the Connemara region.  Connemara is a vibrant, wild countryside of mountains (the Twelve Pins), valleys, bogs, and lakes. Be sure to take some time to hike in the Connemara National Park.  Kylemore Abbey, perhaps the most famously photographed “castle” in Ireland, is also in this region, a romantic fantasy sitting on the edge of a lake against a forested mountain. The Abbey is near the Sky Road, a circular route beginning in Clifden which offers stunning ocean views. The nearby Delphi Valley is also the last untouched glacial valley in Europe.

Finally, plan a trip out to the Aran Islands, rugged islands whose isolation has preserved traditional Irish lifestyles even to this day. The islands are crisscrossed with stone walls, and marked by several prehistoric stone forts. The most dramatic of these is Fort Angus, sitting high on the edge of a cliff. Don’t forget to buy your Aran sweaters while here!

Ireland offers many types of accommodations, including traditional hotels. But for those looking for a more immersive vacation, I highly recommend staying at a Bed & Breakfast. Often more affordable than hotels, Irish B&Bs provide the opportunity to meet local families and experience a taste of “being at home”. Full, hearty, traditional Irish breakfasts are served every morning. Ireland also presents the opportunity to stay in a castle or a manor house, including one that is reputed to be haunted.

To begin planning your journey to Ireland, begin at Tourism Ireland’s web site: http://www.tourismireland.com . From there you can search for a “Shamrock Club” member, a travel agent who is an Ireland Specialist certified by Tourism Ireland. Remember, peak season is during the summer, and many popular attractions will be crowded – or sold out – so be sure to plan in advance for many of the sites that you most want to visit.

A vacation to Ireland will give you the chance to explore a new country, yet still evoke a sense of home. The haunting beauty of this country will stay with you long after you return – and you will quickly learn why visitors to Ireland return again and again.  

Michelle Mangio is a Shamrock Club Ireland Specialist and owner of Magical Escapes Vacations. 

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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.

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Holidays At "The World" (Part 2)
By Cheryl Pendry, PassPorter Message Board Guide

In the second part of this article, PassPorter board message guide Cheryl Pendry continues to share more reasons why she keeps heading back to Walt Disney World for the holiday season year after year. The first part of this article can be found at http://www.passporter.com/news/news111005.htm#travel.

Having already looked at the Christmas celebrations in the Animal Kingdom, MGM Studios and Epcot, you’d be forgiven for thinking that was all that’s on offer during the festive season. After all, getting around to all the activities in those three parks will take some time, but there’s even more to see! 

The Magic Kingdom enjoys its own special ticketed event in the run up to Christmas, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party (MVMCP). Taking place on selected evenings from 7:00 pm until midnight in the days leading up to Christmas, this year’s dates are November 27 and 29 and December 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 9, 11, 13, 15, 16, 18 and 20. If you're planning on being at Disney World on any of those dates, this is an event that’s well worth seeing. 

Admittedly it’s not cheap – the advance price for adults is $38.95 plus tax and for children between the ages of 3 and 9, there’s not that much of a reduction – prices are $29.95 plus tax. If you choose to wait to buy your tickets, the price goes up on the day of the event to $43.95 plus tax for adults and $34.95 plus tax for children aged 3 – 9. Another reason to buy your tickets in advance is because some of the Party nights do sell out. In previous years, the first to fill up is usually the last one of the season, although some of the Friday nights earlier on in the season can also sell out. 

If you’re sitting there now, wondering whether the steep price of admission is really worth it, then I can tell you that we felt exactly the same way when we first went to the Party in 2002. We thought it was a lot of money and weren’t entirely sure what to expect, so for anyone feeling the same, here’s a run down of what is offered. 

Perhaps the highlight is the Very Merry Christmas parade, which runs twice nightly, with the second of the night always the quieter one. During most of December, it’s the only time that the Christmas parade runs at the Magic Kingdom, with the usual Share A Dream Come True Parade still on in the afternoons. The Christmas-themed parade usually takes over the afternoon slot the day after the last MVMCP. 

Another big draw is the special fireworks – not just your average showing of Wishes, but an extended version, including fireworks which appear to come from all around you – and if you get a chance to see them from the Polynesian, you’ll be able to see how far afield they are actually being set off from! 

There are special shows, including Mickey’s ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas show at the Tomorrowland Theater and a special Christmas show at the forecourt of the Castle. Main Street sees “snow” falling on it and don’t forget to get a family souvenir, with free photo sites available at various locations throughout the park. There’s also free hot chocolate and cookies to keep you warm and don’t forget to check out the shops – there’s exclusive merchandise available, with special pins on offer every night of the Party. 

Fear not if you’re heading to Disney after the Party nights have finished, because there’s still plenty of Christmas fun at the Magic Kingdom. As mentioned earlier, the Christmas parade will be held in the afternoon and there’s a special tree lighting ceremony in Town Square every evening. The Country Bear Jamboree changes to host a special holiday version and although it’s not one of my favorite attractions during the rest of the year, we love the Christmas edition.  And Christmas shows run during the daytime at the Castle forecourt and the Tomorrowland Theater, after the Party nights have finished. 

Something else not to be missed during the Christmas season are the various Disney resorts. Each one boasts Christmas decorations, some more breathtaking than others - the best generally found at the deluxe resorts. But which ones should you visit if you’ve only got limited time and is it worth the time away from the parks? Well, the answer to the second part of the question has to be yes, if you’ve ever wanted to see a life sized gingerbread house, a revolving gingerbread carousel or a miniature African village made out of chocolate. All these and more can be found at the resorts. 

Let’s start with the most dramatic display on property. I think most people would agree that title should go to the Grand Floridian. The Christmas tree here is 40 feet tall, with 30,000 decorations on it and it’s all put up in just one night.  The gingerbread house to the left of the lobby as you walk in is also well worth a look and in fact is a shop, selling a wide range of items, including the gingerbread shingles that make up the roof of the house! 

Another dramatic display is the revolving gingerbread carousel in the Beach Club lobby. Made of an amazing 2,000 gingerbread pieces, the recipe also calls for 50 pounds of chocolate, 100 pints of eggs, 100 pounds of icing and 36 pounds of honey. It really is something to see and can easily be combined with a visit to the lobbies of two other nearby resorts with staggering displays in their lobbies. The scene of a town from the 1930’s in the Boardwalk lobby took three months to create and includes a fairground, complete with roller coaster and big wheel. The miniature railway display in the lobby of the Yacht Club deserves lots of close inspection, boasting its own tiny versions of favorites from the resort complex, including Beaches and Cream and the Bayside Marina. 

Our two other favorites are the Animal Kingdom Lodge, great for a visit at any of the year, but also boasting a miniature chocolate African village outside Boma, which is worth a look, especially if you’re planning on dining at the resort. And who could forget the Wilderness Lodge, perhaps the most festive of all the resorts on property? With its rustic northwest charm, the huge Christmas tree seems right at home and there’s no better way to celebrate the season than to grab one of the chairs in the lobby and watch the world go by. 

If you are staying on property during the festive season, there may also be entertainment in the lobby of your hotel – check on arrival with guest services. This can include choirs, bell ringing and even visits from some of the Disney characters or perhaps a quick stop from Santa on Christmas Eve. Cookies and hot drinks are also available in the evenings at some resort. 

Something else that’s offered is festive sleigh rides from the Wilderness Lodge. Having tried this last year, it’s worth noting that the half hour ride takes you into the neighboring woods, which are very dark and could be scary to small children. Each carriage costs $30, including tax and the carriage can hold up to three adults and two children or four adults. Carriages can be booked by calling WDW-PLAY and are running between 30 November – 30 December, with hours from 5:30 pm – 10:00 pm, apart from Christmas Eve, when hours at 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm. 

However, there are other options. Carriage rides operate year round from Fort Wilderness and Port Orleans Riverside from 6:00 pm – 9:30 pm and the 25 minute ride costs $35, including tax. Tickets are available from the carriage drivers or you can make advance reservations by calling WDW-PLAY. Pick up is from Crockett’s Tavern outside Pioneer Hall at Fort Wilderness and in front of Boatwright’s Dining Hall at Port Orleans Riverside. Both may provide more scenic routes than the sleigh ride, with Fort Wilderness especially beautiful at Christmas, as many residents take the trouble to decorate their campsites and cabins. 

And perhaps that’s what I love most about Christmas at Disney – the time and trouble that’s to make it such a special celebration. There’s so much to see and do, with all  the parks and resorts beautifully decorated for both the day and night. Whether it’s your first or fiftieth visit to Disney at Christmas, one thing’s for sure – the array of events and activities on offer will dazzle you and fill you with festive spirit! 
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Did you enjoy this article? Have questions? E-mail us at news@passporter.com or visit http://www.passporterboards.com to discuss your holiday plans.