For a text-only version of this newsletter, visit http://www.passporter.com/news/122806text.htm.
PassPorter News Brought to you by PassPorter Guidebooks
  December 28, 2006 * Issue 6.50
 
In This Newsletter

From the Authors: Happy New Year!

Travel Feature: Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions: A Travel Agent's Perspective

Disney Feature: Making the Most of Disney's BoardWalk Resort

Updates: What's New and Changed

Tips: Marvelous Maps, Hot Water How-To, Put Away Those Pins

Captain's Corner: Weird Wide Web

Q&A: Do airlines ever give complimentary upgrades upon request?
 


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Updates:
What's New and Changed

Here are a few items of relevant news:

Plans have been announced for a Walt Disney Family Museum to be located at The Presidio in San Francisco. The museum will focus on Walt's personal life  and will feature personal artifacts, video interviews with his contemporaries and family members, and a walk-through show about Walt's life.

Donny Osmond will be signing autographs at the Disney Outfitters store at Disney's Animal Kingdom on Friday, December 29, 2006. Osmond provided the singing voice of Shang in the Disney animated feature movie, "Mulan," and is currently appearing on Broadway as Gaston in Disney's Beauty and the Beast.

Walt Disney World is again changing the children's menus at their food establishments, likely in response to guest feedback. Kid-friendly foods such as macaroni and cheese, hot dogs and chicken nuggets have been reintroduced while healthy options such as pita pizzas, yogurt and fruit remain. Soft drinks and French fries are not listed as the main side dish options for kids meals' but ARE available. 

Our thanks to AllEars.net from which we get some of our news leads.

>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:

MARVELOUS MAPS
"I ordered the custom maps from the DisneyWorld.com vacation planning section (for free). I was expecting to get copies of the park maps that are available on property. I wanted to use them to help prepare my four-year-old for the trip. To my wonderful surprise they came customized with our family's name and included some special attractions that I had entered as "favorites". They are printed on really nice heavy paper. They are beautiful! They're almost too nice to use with my daughter!"
-- contributed by Kristine A. (daisyjane1216@...)

HOT WATER HOW-TO
"After a long day walking the parks and standing in line, most people want to go home and put their legs up. The best thing I found to re-energize my legs is soaking in a long "hot as I can stand it" bath. The hot water helps loosen your leg, hip and lower back muscles, while the privacy lets your mind unwind from all the excitement. As a retired professional wrestler, I know what hot soaks can do for your mind and body. If your hotel offers a hot tub, that works too."
-- contributed by Kelly Adkins

PUT AWAY THOSE PINS
"Make sure you secure your lanyards full of pins (or hats, etc.) before you ride any of the attractions. I've lost a couple of pins because I didn't make sure they were properly secured or put away before I boarded a ride. But Disney, in its typical magical fashion, happily offered to replace each one."
-- contributed by Cami O. (age 12) 

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

Want more Disney tips? For Walt Disney World fans, we've collected 500 of the best tips submitted by readers over the past six years. All have been edited for accuracy and categorized. For details, visit the PassPorter Disney 500 info page or the PassPorter store. For Disney Cruise Line fans, we have an e-book with 250 cruiser tips, as well as a special cruise line comparison section and seven customized packing lists. For information, visit the Disney Cruise Clues info page.

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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 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 journal entry:

"My old friends -- the Marxes -- sent me a holiday card with an alarming photo of their son Alexander. Their toddler is stuck on a huge spider web! And yet, the boy has a grin on his face. I'm wondering if the photo is not all it seems -- the spider web does seem vaguely familiar. I'm stuck on where the photo was shot, however."

The "sticky" photo:


Where is this spider web?


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 Pam P. who was the winner of last week's treasure hunt game! She correctly identified the Carousel of Progress as the location of the Christmas scene described in last week's clue. To view the original clue, see last week's newsletter

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. The new "PassPorter's Treasure Hunts at Walt Disney World" book is now available! You can order the book today at http://www.passporterstore.com.


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Q & A:
With Jennifer and Dave

mistybuchanan asks: "Does anyone know if airlines will give upgrades to a different class when you ask? We are going on our honeymoon and its our first time going to Walt Disney World and we figured if we asked the worst they could say is no. I have checked and there are only 2 first class seats sold so far...just wondering."

Dave & Jennifer answer:
"Generally, there are too many people that deserve an upgrade, and too few seats to go around. These days, nearly every upgrade is paid for in some fashion - either by frequent fliers spending miles to get the upgrade, "platinum" frequent fliers getting free upgrades, or coach passengers purchasing upgrades. Spirit sells their vacant "business class" seats by offering low-priced ($40-$60) upgrades to travelers as they check in. If those tactics don't fill the seats and they need to make room in coach class due to overbooking, then they'll start moving coach passengers forward at no charge. On some airlines, they'll give those seats to airline employees flying on their discounts, "deadheading" airline crews... just about anything but give them to regular customers, because that may raise "unreasonable expectations" among the flying public.

Still, it never hurts to ask.
"

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?

PassPorter News is published weekly, and this means we're always in need of articles! We're on the lookout for guest columnists who want to contribute articles to this newsletter. No professional writing experience is 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 use at www.passporter.com

For details and our article submission guidelines, please e-mail news@passporter.com. Articles about Disney and general travel are welcomed!




From the Authors: Happy New Year!

Hi, {{user("firstname")}}! 

Wow, what a year! We published four new PassPorter books and two new e-books, got PassPorter to the weekly travel bestseller list more than 30 times, mailed 50 PassPorter newsletters (with 100 feature articles and 150 reader tips), welcomed over 5000 new members to the PassPorter message boards, and celebrated the first wedding between two people who met thanks to PassPorter. Wow! Thank YOU for helping us this past year, and we look forward to a brand new year of magic-making with you!

The new edition of PassPorter's Disney Cruise Line guidebook is now available for pre-order and is expected to arrive around January 22, 2007. The new edition is 336 pages (our longest yet!) with in-depth information on all 2007 ports, including the special Mediterranean and repositioning ports. As an added bonus, readers who pre-order the guidebook through us will receive the Mediterranean cruise sections (over 70 pages) in a preview PDF file as an immediate download.

PassPorter Walt Disney World 2007 is in stock and orders from the PassPorter Store are shipping on the next business day. Place your order today at our online store. And don't forget to use the 20% off coupon code at the bottom of this issue of PassPorter News!


In this issue of the newsletter, veteran contributor and travel agent Maureen Austin answers the top 10 frequent asked questions about Disney travel and Terry Rohrer reveals the hidden gem that is Disney's BoardWalk Resort. Enjoy!

Jennifer and Dave
PassPorter Authors
 

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  Travel Feature: 

Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions:
A Travel Agent's Perspective

by Maureen Austin, Guest Contributor and PassPorter Message Board Guide


In the years since I have become a travel agent, I've been asked many, many questions. Some queries come up more often than others and these questions seemed perfect for a list of Frequently Asked Questions that might benefit the traveler. Some questions pertain to Disney travel, some are more general but every question is a good one.

10. Should I fly or drive? You'll see that many of these questions are the kind that only the traveler themselves can answer but a good travel agent can point out pros and cons and give you some things to think about in order to make a good decision. When a client asks me this one, I suggest considering the cost of a fare versus the time it takes to drive, in addition to gas, food and other normal parts of any road trip. For some, time is money, and if that is the case, I generally recommend flying.

9. How do I get the best deal on airfare? Do your homework! I always recommend a travel fare finder such as Travelocity's Fare Watcher to notify you of any changes in fares to a specific destination. Sign up for e-mail sales alerts. If a client is interested in a package vacation to Disney or anywhere else, we normally check the rates on air that can be bundled with the package. In many cases, the fares get better if clients book directly from the airline websites. The key to getting really good airfares is being flexible, either with dates, times and surrounding airports. I'll use myself as an example - when searching for fares to Orlando from our regional airport in December I was disappointed to find nothing under $585 per person. I widened my search to another airport and got a little more flexible with my departure time- and poof! I paid $230 per person instead. For a family of six that's more than worth the hour and a half's drive!

8. What is the best time of year to travel? It depends on where you are going. Summer is a big travel season to most destinations, but there are still good deals out there. If you want to take in New Year's Eve on Times Square in NYC, then you'll pay more for a stay than at other times of the year. Europe in the fall and winter can be a good value. My husband and I flew to London on British Airways for an unbelievable fare of $250 per person and got an excellent deal on a hotel - all for visiting in November. It was a bit cold but we were treated to superb Christmas lights and decorations and few crowds at popular sightseeing spots. Again, the key is flexibility - the more flexible you are, the more travel opportunities are available to you, and at a good price.

7. What kind of vacations can we take that will help keep the budget in check? You can do this with any kind of vacation if you do some really good planning. However, I have some clients who prefer to pay for most expenses up front. These folks are excellent prospects for all-inclusive resorts, cruises and escorted tours. In most instances, lodging, some or most meals, entertainment, and transfers are included in the vacation price. Of course, not every single cost can be eliminated prior to departure. Souvenirs and some gratuities for example, have to be accounted for while you travel.

6. How much do you charge for your services? This may depend from agency to agency, area to area. Some agencies do charge consultation fees that the agency may apply towards your package if you follow through and book with them. However, most agencies and the agents that work in them are paid by suppliers (meaning the tour operator, hotel or package vendor) and charge the client nothing. To avoid any surprises later, ask!

5. Do I really need the trip insurance? Here's another question that really has to be answered by the traveler, but I recommend it. No matter how healthy you or other family members may be, the unexpected can happen. In that event, are you content to lose money? Trip protection helps you recover some of those losses and also protects you during the course of your vacation, should something happen while you are on it. Policies are offered by most tour operators and there are also independent companies offering policies you buy direct from them. The plans can vary some in terms of coverage, so it's important to review conditions and policies carefully to find one that meets your needs. Your travel agent can help you do this.

My favorite vacations to book are of course, Disney destinations! Loving the magic personally as much as I do, it's easy to get excited and help another Disney fan make their dreams come true. These next four questions, about Disney travel are definitely the ones I am asked most often!

4. Where should I stay/should I really stay at Disney? If only it were that easy to decide, right? It can be a little overwhelming, especially to clients who are traveling to Walt Disney World in particular, for the first time. Your budget has to be a consideration. If you book a stay at a resort that is way beyond your comfort level financially, I assure you it will make it very difficult to enjoy your vacation (been there and done that). ALL of the Disney Resorts have their own special attributes but whether you choose All-Star Sports or the Grand Floridian the benefits, such as Extra Magic Hours, remain the same. I do recommend staying with Disney. However, I am not paying for that vacation, so that decision ultimately has to be the travelers. Book what you can afford and select from that category - there are different resorts with completely different "feels" in each of the four price categories. From time to time specials and discounts may become available. In that event, you can move up to another category or resort if you wish. It's a good idea to let your travel agent know when you book so they can be searching and ready if a discount becomes available. Do not book a resort priced higher than you can afford in the hopes or need for a discount later. Those deals are never guaranteed.

3. How far in advance should we book? As soon as you are ready! Actually, if you are planning for your toddler's high school graduation trip you'll have to wait just awhile. I usually plan my own trips from 9-14 months out and I have found most clients approach me to help them plan anywhere from 4 months to 12 months prior. Of course, if the urge for a weekend getaway next month hits, don't hesitate to contact a travel agent. One caveat about very advance planning - if you book your Disney trip in one year but actually travel the next, rate increases may affect the price. This can hold true for any trip, so be sure to ask if rates are guaranteed.

2. Do we really need to make Disney dining arrangement so far ahead? I totally empathize here. I mean, really, do we actually know what we want to eat and when if a trip is still six months away? It's hard, but yes, you really need to book those meals as soon as the window (180 days for most restaurants) opens. Sketch out a basic plan as best as you can, especially if park hours are available, and book. With the increased popularity of the Disney Dining Plan, walk up seating is harder and harder to get. Please don't set yourself up for that disappointment! While some dining arrangements require a credit card guarantee and a 24-48 hour cancellation to avoid a no-show fee, most reservations can be canceled up until the seating time without issue. I always ask clients to cancel or have me cancel any dining arrangements they want to pass on so it opens up tables for other folks.

And the number one question...

1. Is there anything else we should know about to make our trip to Disney more magical? Usually, my response is, "How much time do we have to talk?" The possibilities are endless! Advise your travel agent if there are any family celebrations. Are there members of your family who are especially interested in trains, or gardening? Do you have any scuba divers in the crew, or how about race fans? If you answered yes, then there is something at Disney that will add to their magical time. A good travel agent will take the time to get to know you and your family while helping you plan, but you, the client, also have to help your agent do that! I always refer my clients to additional sources they can review at their leisure, such as PassPorter and also AllEars.net. If any questions come up, then they can come back to me for any additional input. Travel planning is a team effort between agent and client. And the results? Memories that last a lifetime!


About the Author: Maureen is the Co-Owner of Ears To You Travel as well as a PassPorter Message Board Guide.

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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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Disney Feature: 

Making the Most of Disney's BoardWalk Resort
by Terry Rohrer, Guest Contributor


A hidden gem at Walt Disney World is Disney's Boardwalk Resort. Most vacationers may not know what entertainment and dining options are available to guests that are not staying at the property. We found what this resort offers when a friend wanted to meet us for dinner but did not have park admission. We decided to meet at the BoardWalk and have dinner at one of the restaurants.

The BoardWalk Resort is of course a deluxe property with all the amenities. But what most guests miss is the actual boardwalk that sits in the back of the resort. There are restaurants, shops, an ice cream parlor & candy store, and carnival games for the kids. There is the Atlantic Dance Hall, and Jellyrolls, which is a dueling piano bar for the over 21 crowd.

There are bikes available for rent to ride around the Boardwalk and Crescent Lake. The path that circles Crescent Lake is 7/8 of a mile and will take you past five different resorts. It starts at the BoardWalk and goes past the Swan, Dolphin, Beach Club and Yacht Club resorts. The best part of the bike ride is seeing these resorts from the back. You get an up-close look at the best pool on Disney property, the Beach and Yacht Club's
Stormalong Bay. You can even get a four-wheeled surrey bike that the entire family can ride!

The dining options at the BoardWalk are wonderful: there is the Big River Brewing Co., the Flying Fish Café, Spoodles and an ESPN Club (for the sports nut in the family). Be sure to check your PassPorter for the details on what they serve and the costs. We enjoy Spoodles for the Mediterranean-style pasta. When you see the menu and the amount of food you will understand why we rent the bike AFTER dinner!

One of the things that Disney has done to make the night great for the entire family is add entertainers to the boardwalk. They change them on a frequent basis so that if you go every night you may experience a variety of entertainers or (at least) not see the same show as you saw the previous night. Each roving entertainer will stop and perform their act, and as he or she gets going you will see they have a large crowd watching. They will get the crowd involved in the act. Our 6 year-old played a washboard with the Banjo Man, swung a rope with the cowgirl, and helped the magician with a trick, all in one night.

The entertainers are out every night from
7:00 pm until 9:00 pm. Disney does not advertise them or list when or where they will perform, as they are meant to be a “happy surprise” for the guests. If it rains they are still there but may be a bit harder to find - they will perform in the lobby of the BoardWalk or in the restaurant lobbies. If it is raining be sure to keep a look out for them as it will help pass the time while you wait for a table and keeps the little ones happy while trapped inside.

The performers include but are not limited to:

Professor Flapdoodle and his All American Medicine Pitch
is an original member of the BoardWalk Buskers, who started in 1996 when the BoardWalk opened. He performs magic with comedy.

Erick Olson and Brian Staron
, who do comedic magic.

The Amazing Carlo
(Marek Dudek) who does amazing balancing and sword swallowing.

Bill & Lin Whitmire
do a comedy juggling routine.

Mark Anderson
, aka The Musicale Mark and his bicycle piano.

Anthony the Banjo Man
who does comedic banjo tunes.

When you see them perform be sure to tell them that, "Shy Brady from Indiana says hello." Our son was a bit shy at first but once he realized how much fun it was to participate he started talking to all of them, and was a hit. Every time we go back we see someone who remembers him.

Another neat thing that the BoardWalk offers is a view of IllumiNations, Epcot's fireworks spectacular. Head for the west end of the boardwalk near Jelly Rolls and the Atlantic Dance Hall to grab a spot! You can also see IllumiNations from the bridge between the BoardWalk and the Swan & Dolphin resorts.

As you can tell, the BoardWalk is on our "must do" list every trip because of everything it offers. With all things Disney, the entertainment is subject to change (and usually does) so check your Times Guide or refer to your PassPorter for more information. You will have a great time at the BoardWalk and will start to include it in every trip, like we did after just one trip. Just remember to tell them, "Hi from Shy Brady in Indiana."

About the Author: Terry is the father of two and is a previous contributor to PassPorter News.

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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 Disney vacation plans.

 

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