News Archive - November 2007

November 26, 2007


Mickey Mouse Makes House Calls

The "Mickey Call" holiday promotion is back by popular demand after its success last holiday season. Families that book a trip to Walt Disney World Resort between November 26th and December 23rd can arrange for a special call from Mickey Mouse on Christmas Day to deliver the news. They can also select the greeting that Mickey gives their families - either "Merry Christmas" or "Happy Holidays." For details on this and other vacation specials contact INTERCOT's Official Travel Agency, Magical Journeys at 1-570-785-3283, or visit their web site and fill out a quote form.

Details & Discussion

November 19, 2007


Thanksgiving Turkeys Going To Disney World

Mickey Mouse unveils the two turkeys that will receive pardons from President George W. Bush on November 20. Following their pardons, the turkeys will join Super Bowl stars and other celebrities by "Going to Disney World" for a November 22 parade in their honor.  This is the 60th anniversary of the National Turkey Federation's holiday tradition of presenting National Thanksgiving Turkeys to the President. The tom turkeys were raised at Ten Star Ranch in Dubois, Indiana.

November 17, 2007


IAAPA 2007 Convention  Day Three Coverage

With tired feet and sore legs, the INTERCOT team set out for their last day at IAAPA 2007 and came up a little shorter than previous days photo wise, but fear not... we saved some photos of Disney Legends Marty Sklar, Dick Nunis and Harrison "Buzz" Price to round out the batch.  Once again, "The Show You Never Outgrow" did not fail to amaze, entertain and amuse!

IAAPA Coverage & Photos
IAAPA 2007 Video

November 16, 2007


IAAPA 2007 Convention  Day Two Coverage

The INTERCOT gang of amusement seekers spent a second day exploring the floor of IAAPA 2007 in search of the latest and the greatest amusements soon to grace theme parks and water parks around the world.  Webmaster John (pictured above?) had a close encounter with a UFO.  How did he fare?  If you can get him off the Tilt-a-Whirl, he may tell you.  Or, you can find the results in our IAAPA 2007 coverage. 

IAAPA Coverage & Photos

November 15, 2007


IAAPA 2007 Convention  Day One Coverage

The INTERCOT crew is back at it again with coverage of the IAAPA 2007 Convention live from the Orange County Convention Center, Orlando Florida. Our very own Webmaster John, reports that Day One consisted of a lot of walking, a ton of fast food, games, rides and more but they survived. Dubbed as "one of the coolest experiences of the day", and getting a big thumbs up, was the "Dinner in the Sky". John literally hung suspended from a crane 128 feet (or so) in the air at a dining table.

IAAPA Coverage & Photos

November 14, 2007


Yak & Yeti Restaurant Now Open

Disney's Animal Kingdom's Yak & Yeti restaurant opened today. The new restaurant features both indoor table service and outdoor counter service dining. The Inside dining area is on two floors with rich furnishings and lavish Asian works of art throughout. The menu is upscale, with dishes and flavors drawn from many parts of Asia, China, Japan, Thailand and Indonesia. In addition to the restaurant, a new merchandise shop is now open in the village of Anandapur. It offers oriental crafts, teas, clothing, and Yak & Yeti tee-shirts.

The Discussion Continues Here...
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November 12, 2007


"Cinderella's Holiday Wish" Debuts Today

For the first time, Cinderella Castle will magically transform into an ice palace for the holidays -- thanks to a new special effects spectacle bathing the castle in 200,000 twinkly white lights. Magic Kingdom guests will be treated nightly to the castle celebration, which also features cherished Disney characters. "Cinderella's Holiday Wish" will delight Magic Kingdom guests nightly, beginning November 12, 2007.

Details & Discussion

IAAPA 2007 Coverage Begins Wednesday

IAAPA - The International Association of Amusement parks and Attractions puts on a gigantic trade show each year bringing together all of the biggest and smallest names in the amusement industry.  INTERCOT covers this amazing convention with photo's, news, information and commentary.

IAAPA Coverage & More Information

November 11, 2007


INTERCOT Welcomes Our New Sponsor: Quicksilver Tours & Transportation

A hearty welcome and thank you to Quicksilver Tours and Transportation.  Quicksilver has been providing Orlando-area transportation for years and has a great reputation in the Central Florida market.  According to Quicksilver owner Gregory Nicolas, "Our drivers are the first personal contact you have when you arrive in Orlando.  With that in mind, they are selected not only based on their driving records, but also on friendliness, politeness, and familiarity with the area."

Visit Quicksilver's Website Now!

November 10, 2007


Disney Institutes 18% Gratuity At Restaurants

It seems that not everything goes smoothly at the Walt Disney World Resort.  A recent change with mandatory gratuity at table service restaurants has people on the discussion boards fuming.  An email was sent recently to Disney Dining Experience participants which included the following wording... "We would also like to inform you that the Walt Disney World® Resort will be implementing an across property policy change regarding gratuity at all food and beverage locations. Effective January 1, 2008, 18% gratuity will be added to all transactions, regardless of party size. Thank you for your continued support."

UPDATE: Disney has responded to a number of INTERCOT Guests who emailed guest relations:

"The 18% gratuity will be included when Guests are parties of six or more enjoy dining experiences at our Table Service locations or if Guests are members of the exclusive Disney Dining Experience..."

Those with a DDE Card are still out of luck and 18% will be added to your check regardless of the level of service you receive.

The Discussion Continues Here...

November 2, 2007


Park Calendar Released for May 2008

The Walt Disney World Resort has released it's Extra Magic Hours, Operating and Event schedules for May 2008. For guests visiting during this time, you will want to visit the Park Hours and Events pages to aid in planning your trip. Remember, all times and schedules are subject to change, so check back often.

November 1, 2007


Pirate & Princess Party Returns in 2008

Due to the popularity of the Pirate & Princess Party held this year, the event is returning in 2008. Guests will embark on a quest for beads and chocolate treasures, be witness to a Pirate and Princess parade, character greetings, fireworks spectacular and some of the most popular attractions. Experience Pirate Coves and Princess Courts filled with treasures and special themed entertainment. The party will be held on select nights beginning in January. Tickets are on sale now. Call (407) W-DISNEY.

Details & Discussion