INTERCOT Insider  October 2004 - Edition Two

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This newsletter and other past issues can also be read online at; http://www.intercot.com/interactive/insider/archive

<< Introduction >>

Happy Halloween!

We’ve got a jam-packed edition of the Insider for you, so grab your “20 minute coffee break” mug and prepare with a few stretches and pre-Disney jitters. In this edition we will map out the huge discounts available to the general public and annual passholders (all courtesy of Magical Journeys travel agency). JohnY shares his recent experience with an escaped alien (and no, it's not JimmyC), Ron gives us insight into some Disney Trivia, Carol reviews the Halloween Festivities at Walt Disney World, Linda rounds up the INTERCOT troops for great advice on traveling with tots, and Mel gets us into the pin-trading spirit. Let’s get started!
 
<< Disney Discounts >>

Disney has announced a slew of discounts for all you near-future travelers! Room-only discounts are available for travelers vacationing at the Walt Disney World Resort between January 2nd and April 16th of 2005. Rates range from $55 (and up) per night for Value Resorts, $85 (and up) for Moderate Resorts, and $164 (and up) for Deluxe Resorts. The code is BDP. Be sure to book by December 1st, 2004 to get the discounts.
Discussion & Details

Disney has also released room-only discounts specifically for annual passholders. These savings range from $49 (and up) Value Resort rooms, Moderate Resorts starting at $79, and Deluxe Resorts starting at $151. These rates are valid from most nights between January 2nd and February 16th. See the link below for restrictions and block-out dates.
Discussion & Details

To book a vacation using a discount or to get a free quote, be sure to contact INTERCOT’s official travel agency, Magical Journeys (or simply call 570-785-3283).

<< JohnY’s Sneak Peek at Stitch’s Great Escape  >>

Our fearless leader, JohnY, has recently taken the great opportunity to preview the new Magic Kingdom attraction Stitch’s Great Escape! Click here for details and photos on the new attraction. INTERCOTees have been speaking up about this attraction and the feedback seems generally positive so far.

“Stitch is my all time favorite Disney character and I'm glad he has finally found a home at the MK.” –disneyboy98
“This is terrific news on all fronts, especially with the height requirement” –Tekneek
“I am looking forward to seeing a much cuter alien in the teleporter tube” –TinyTink
Attraction overview and photos
Discussion

<< A Disney Halloween with PolyGirl40  >>

My son and I attended Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party on October 12th, 2004. We had a ghoulishly great time. I highly recommend this event.

We arrived around 5PM. There was a separate line at the turnstiles for guests attending the party. The park was decorated in Halloween décor - very festive indeed! Halloween themed music played throughout the park – really setting the mood for the event.  Upon entering we received our admittance wristband, goody bag and map. As a grand way of kicking off the party, we opted for the Dinner Add-on at the Liberty Tree. I'm so glad we did. The servers were decked out in Haunted Mansion garb. The characters were also dressed up. The food, service and atmosphere were all remarkable. Our Liberty Tree dinner  did indeed make for a great start.

On to the event details ---

Trick-or-Treating:
There are trick-or-treat stations throughout the “Lands”. We made the mistake of going to them early in the evening. (Hindsight – do them later in the evening when the masses are elsewhere.) They do move quickly – but it is very time consuming when the lines are long.

Mickey's Boo-To-You Halloween Parade:
I wish I had an accurate opinion of this parade. We opted to view the 10 o’ clock parade to avoid the masses. Unfortunately it rained and the version offered at that time was shortened. We didn’t see the headless horseman, some of the floats and many of the characters. However, what we did see was great. (Hindsight – I will not risk the weather. I’ll jump at opportunity and see the first parade offered.)

Mickey's Mouse-Ka-Rade Costume Parties:
This was fun. We watched and listened to a lot of the costume party from the TTA. There was a DJ. Characters come out and children are brought up on stage to show off their costumes. My son had a bout of shyness and opted not to go up on stage with the other pirates. It can get very crowded and hard to see. Consider attending a viewing beyond the first time slot offered. A word of advice if you decide to dress up. It's hot in Florida in October. I saw a lot of people sweltering in their costumes because of the heat. My son handled it fairly well. Although, he did have on long pants and a long sleeved shirt.

Special Halloween Fireworks:
Great! We watched from the Castle Rose Garden and had a perfect view of the witch flying overhead. This display is a special version of Fantasy in the Sky and offers perimeter fireworks.

Special Disney Character Appearances:
Wow! Despite the rain we saw lots of characters. There locations are marked on the park map. Take the time to search them out. The photos are priceless. I would recommend doing this later in the evening. The lines to meet & greet can get very long first thing in the evening – especially in Toontown.

All and all we had a great time. The sour note came with the rain. Our parade was delayed by weather – causing us to lose valuable park time AND get soaking wet. Nonetheless, we already have plans of going again in the future. However, our touring will be very different. We’ll do the early parade, ride the rides – and then search out the candy and ghouls!

Many people have asked me if I preferred the Halloween party over the Christmas party. I would have to say yes. The Magic Kingdom Halloween transformation is a sight to see!

What others are saying;

”All of the rides were walk-ons, even Splash Mountain, which I had never seen. Very awesome. The first parade was nice, we loved the headless horseman, and the Mad Hatter and Dopey both stopped to bow to Aly and kiss her hand. The fireworks were OK, and a ton of people left right as they ended, Main St just kept going right out of the gates, it was weird. So we trick or treated with no real waits, and kept riding everything with no lines at all. We kept running into characters, Aurora was all alone in the judging tent in Toontown, they were surprised when we walked in. We found Donald and his handler standing alone by the Barnstormer. We made it to midnight but were hurting.” – Digger

” It was really neat walking up to the Magic Kingdom and seeing all the banners and big balloons. Hard to believe they can get all that done in just an hour. We went right for Tomorrowland and decided to get our picture done right away. It was so much fun seeing everybody in all their costumes. We got a lot of people calling out to us that they liked Dakota's Cheshire Cat outfit. While riding TTA I saw Chip and Dale in some crazy green space outfits. Found out later that they were part of the kids costume parade that was held several times that night. Ate a quick dinner at Cosmic Rays and then off to Fantasyland. We were able to see PhilharMagic in back to back showings. When there is no line if you exit very quickly and jump right back into the line you can be among the last seated for the very next show. Philharmagic is my newest WDW Love. I think it gets better each time I see it. We then went and got a spot for the second running of the Halloween Parade. The Headless Horseman is so cool. The horses hoof-beats really echo through the night air. The parade was very cute. Loved Chip and Dale in their ghost costumes. After the parade we went back to Tomorrowland to see Chip and Dale. Was disappointed to see that it wasn't a meet and greet, but the kiddie parade I mentioned earlier. It was still fun to watch. We rode TTA one more time, went to the Emporium and got the MNSSHP t shirt and decided to get on out at 11:30 before the mass exodus. I could not believe how quickly the night went and how little we got accomplished. But we had a lot of fun. I am a big Halloween fan in general so I really enjoyed all the music, decorations and lighting they used throughout the park. Very, very good Halloween mood.” - ChipnDaleGal

If you attended one of the “Mickey Not So Scary Halloween Parties” and would like to share your experience, drop us an email at; [email protected]. We’d love to hear from you. Boo!

<< Some Goofy Trivia with WDWdriver  >>

I guess we all love Goofy. This shy, bumbling character is frequently seen blushing and uttering his favorite expression, “Gawrsh!” He made his first appearance in a small role as a member of the audience in Mickey’s Revue in 1932. Although quite clumsy, he has become over the years an authority on many sports, gradually assuming the title of “Sport Goofy”.

But what is Goofy exactly? Is he a dog or a human? Unlike Pluto, who was created as a dog, Goofy was created as a human character. Yes, his physical appearance might lead you to think he is a dog. But there are many characteristics that tell us he is human. He walks upright, talks, and displays many human emotions that we all share.

Goofy has starred in 48 cartoon shorts, and has appeared in many Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck cartoons. He has also appeared in six animated feature films, including a starring role in A Goofy Movie (1995). His original voice was created by Pinto Colvig, a Disney voice actor, musician and former circus clown. Pinto can be heard as the voice of the Practical Pig in The Three Little Pigs (1933) and Grumpy in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1939). He was also the voice of Pluto’s barks. In 1987 Bill Farmer took over as the voice of Goofy and Pluto.

Some Goofy oddities:
 

 In 1995, the states of Alabama North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Georgia declared April 1st “Goofy Day”.

<< Faline’s Toddler Tips >>

If your trip to Disney includes taking along an infant or toddler, you know there are some special considerations. Here are some of the topics that have been discussed in the Vacation Planning Forum.

Should I buy an airline seat?
d_m_n_n states “In all the times we have flown with our 2 Ds' (6 and 2), only once did we not have a seat for them. And it was the “LONGEST” flight because of it.” Lady recommends “getting him his own seat-best $200 you’ll spend sanity wise.” “The airlines will sell you a discounted ticket for any child under 2 and for us it is well worth it” says vamaggie. On the other hand, dlchap “opted not to purchase a seat for her because of the way she is at home in her car seat.....I felt like even if we had purchased the seat, we would have been taking her out of it and lugging around her car seat.”

Should you bring your own stroller or rent one at Disney World?
scrappinqueen says “Absolutely, bring your own stroller.” while Here we go again... says “We rented a stroller. After 6 days, it got to be a little pricey. But, it was nice not having to haul it on the bus.” goin2disney always brings a stoller “not the big one but an umbrella stroller.” On the other hand, JohnD reports “We rent a double stroller when we get down there. We tried bringing our own double stroller, but it was such a pain the neck to break it down every time we boarded a bus or a parking lot tram.”

What to do with the stoller at the airport?
“Yes, you can wheel your stoller right up to the door on the plane than they take it from you when the plane lands the stroller is waiting right there for you.” reports Catzle.

What do you do when faced with the terrible-two’s just as you’re leaving for Disney World?
bratmaster is concerned because “my normally compliant son has turned into a holy terror all of a sudden.” What do you do when faced with the terrible-two’s just as you’re leaving for Disney World? Googlie Bear recommends “Limit the sugar intake......Get a kid leash....Know when to take a break.” You may need to be flexible about some things. “We knew our son would not sit through shows last time, so we did not even try.” reports Tekneek. JohnD suggests “Go back to the resort for a cool nap, or a dip in the pool when crankiness rears its ugly head, as often as necessary.” Your mindset may also help as Springsteen reports “As long as you can retain your sense of humor and remember that her tantrums are NOT something she is doing TO you, you will probably have some pretty funny stories to tell her when she’s older.” Perhaps making the trip one for a larger family group as proposed by Idcaruso might help as well “On many trips when my kids were younger we brought a grandma, aunt, uncle, etc......It’s amazing how a favorite Grandma or Aunt can help prevent a meltdown.”

What other tips do folks have when traveling with infants and toddlers?
mars “always had a bag of stuff to keep him occupied, toys, crayons, snacks, etc. It didn’t always work but sometimes it helped.” Anticipating disinterest with some shows, mars also “tried to sit at the back or edge of the row so if he started to act up I could always leave. Ask the CM (cast member) where the best place for you to sit if you have to leave.” Again, attitude is often key. almeg says “We went with the attitude that we wouldn’t be able to do everything and we had to enjoy what we could...the baby was content to take in the lights and smells and slept when she needed to.” DisneyDog suggests “Just pace yourselves, stop when you need to stop, keep baby hydrated, and you will be fine. Oh, and take advantage of the Baby Care stations at each park -- they have the BEST, nicest changing tables you have EVER seen!” mars also suggests taking advantage of the Baby Care centers and says “check the maps to find the locations of the Baby Care centers. There is only one in each park...There are high chairs, food to purchase, lots of big, clean changing tables, etc.” Also important are capturing those special moments that occur each trip. LarryBoy reminds parents to “remember to take lots of pictures, to show your child when they get older.”

Why take an infant or toddler to Disney World?
hunnyluvsthemouse sums it up well. “So many people tell us ‘why would you want to take your baby when are so young, they won’t remember anything’, they may not, but we will, and our older sons love watching videos and looking at pictures of when they were little at Disney World.”

What if you want a night out without the little ones?
Vacation Dad “used the Neverland club at the Poly...My son wanted me to take him back the next day.” Chrisx2 reminds us that “the kids clubs....require the child be 4 and potty trained....If you are looking for in room care, we had a great woman from Fairy Godmothers.” Another advocate of in-room sitting, Dopey’s Girl reports “My Aunt and Uncle used the Godmothers...the kids still talk about how great their Godmother was....It was kinda spendy, but I know they would do it again!” Again, bringing extended family members might also be the solution as LoriR reports “We are taking my parents with us...and they plan to take the kids...a couple of nights”

<< Disney Pins with Melanears  >>

Calling all Disney pin traders and pin collectors!! The Disney Pins forum at INTERCOT is full of great information for the seasoned collector, the novice trader and everyone in between. Find out just what this pin-trading craze is all about.

When you stop by the Pins forum, you can ask questions of our many members that have already been bitten by the pin trading/collecting bug. Find out all the ins and outs of trading with Disney Cast Members and fellow guests. Look for announcements on special pins and special pin trading events. Find out where to get that upcoming limited edition pin. Inquire about that certain pin you’ve had for years. Tell everyone about your most special pin, and what kinds of pins you collect. By the time you return to Walt Disney World, you’ll feel like a pin expert!

Just a word of warning, pin trading/collecting is very addictive, but also very fun. Come join the pin excitement in the INTERCOT Disney Pins forum!

Go to the Discussions!

<< Conclusion >>

Phew! That was a mouthful (pageful?). If that doesn’t get you revved up for your next vacation, nothing will! Be sure to stop by the discussion boards daily to share your vacation secrets and to gain new tips! Be weary of the water in the water cooler, though… See you  next month and Happy INTERCOTing!

<< INTERCOT Would Like To Thank>>

The INTERCOT Insider and INTERCOT.com are supported by the following sponsors who in turn, help us bring the Magic to you!

Magical Journeys
Magical Journeys is your Disney Vacation specialist. Start planning your Vacation Discount Dreams today!
Website: http://www.yourmagicaljourneys.com/

Radisson Resort Parkway
Right in the heart of action! Only 1.5 miles from Walt Disney World is an oasis of ponds, beautiful landscaping, serene waterfalls and relaxing options hiding in every corner.
Website: http://orlando.guestselectresorts.com?pid=INTERCOTN

All Star Vacation Homes
When you need a home away from home, look no further. From comfort to luxury, All Star Vacation Homes has it all in four series of homes to fit any taste and any budget just moments from the magic of Walt Disney World!
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Happy Limo
Providing ground transportation to the entire state of Florida.
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The Official Ticket Center
Walt Disney World’s, Universal Studios and Sea World’s #1 guest service provider for the last 3 years. The Official Ticket Center has been servicing vacationers for more than 7 years now and sells tickets only, at a discount price.
Website: http://www.officialticketcenter.com/default.aspx?affid=TC21LBC

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