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INTERCOT > Interactive > INTERCOT Insider Archive > April  2007

Intercot.com

INTERCOT Insider
April 2007 - Edition One 

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<< Introduction >>

The April Fool and the Easter Bunny have come and gone, but the Insider is here to keep you up-to-date on all the latest Disney Vacation happenings. Unfortunately, the calendar was not our friend this month.  We're sorry we're behind.  So enjoy this pre-Mother's day April in May Edition of the Insider.  We’ve combined our regular columns from our first and second editions into one mega-packed edition. In this edition we cover Disney happenings from coast to coast, the hottest topics on the discussion boards, take another look at new board features, get some more great timeshare tips, cover the March water cooler happenings and countdown favorite frozen treats. Hang on to them hats and glasses, cause this here’s the most informative ride on the Internet!


<< Coast to Coast Disney with Mel  >>

- Pirate & Princess Party Returns in August at WDW   -
Due to the popularity of the Pirate & Princess Party held this Winter, the event is returning late Summer. 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 August 11, 15, 18, 21, 24, 28, 31 and September 3. Tickets go on sale May 1, 2007. Call (407) W-DISNEY.

This will just add the pixie dust to our trip! – steph436
We're headed down August 8-17 and I was really upset because of the HM refurb, now we have the P&P Party, so I'm smiling again. – Mousehead35


More Information
Discussion Here


- It's a Pirate's Life For You at Disneyland!
 -
During The Year of a Million Dreams, wannabe buccaneers can live like a pirate, play like a pirate and eat like a pirate. You can even shop like a pirate thanks to cool, new Pirates of the Caribbean 40th anniversary merchandise!

 Details & Discussion

- It's a Girl!  -
The Walt Disney World Resort’s Animal Programs team welcomed a 6-foot-1 inch, 151-pound bundle of joy at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Nikki, a 10-year-old giraffe, gave birth to a healthy baby girl on March 26th. The calf, named Rori, was Nikki’s first and both the calf and Nikki are doing great and are expected to rejoin their herd on the savannah at Disney’s Animal Kingdom in the next few weeks.
 
Rori's adorable.....hopefully I get to see her in person SOON. – Mickey 101
She's beautiful. It amazes me something so large is a newborn. - magicofdisney

Discussion Here

- Epcot Flower & Garden Festival Now Open  -
The Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival begins opened April 5 and will continue through June 3. A flower-festooned pirate ship has dropped anchor and Disney princess topiaries color the landscape at the 14th annual event. Previously a seven-week event, the popular festival expands to 60 days this year and offers more floral fantasy and gardening fun than ever before. Paul Revere and the Raiders will kick off the Flower Power Concert Series at the American Gardens Theatre. Other highlights include Themed Weekends, Minnie's Magnificent Butterfly Garden, Tinker Bell's Fairy Garden, Daily Ladybug releases and much more. The festival is included in regular Epcot admission.

Event Details

- The Three Caballeros Debut  -
After a brief delay, the "Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros" at Epcot's Mexico pavilion opened April 6. Replacing "El Rio Del Tiempo", The "Gran Fiesta Tour" offers a new storyline and film starring Donald Duck, José Carioca, and Panchito. It features an animated overlay of the caballeros being reunited for a grand performance in Mexico City. Along the way, Donald disappears to take in the sights of the country, leaving José and Panchito to search for their missing friend. In addition to the new film, the boat ride's props, set facades and sound system were also refurbished and enhanced.

More Information

- Changes Ahead for Epcot's Spaceship Earth -
In a press release issued April 11, Disney announced that remarkable changes will be taking place over the next several months to the Epcot icon. A re-imagined Spaceship Earth presented by Siemens will combine the magic of the attraction's time-travel adventure into the past with a new finale which provides guests the opportunity to imagine their futures. New show scenes will be added to the attraction's story along with new lighting effects, costumes, set decoration, narration and musical score. With phased renovations occurring through the year, Spaceship Earth's makeover is scheduled to be fully completed in early 2008. The attraction will be closed on the following dates for refurbishment; May 7 - 10, 2007, June 22 - 23, 2007 and July 9 - November 1, 2007.

I have to say that i am just glad that they are keeping this a "ride slowly through scenes" type of ride. – 4ubie1
From what I've read the changes all seem positive, and won't change what I love about this attraction. – 2Epcot

Details & Discussion Here

- ‘Pirates’ World Premier Celebration at Disneyland Park  -
The Walt Disney Company is helping to make wishes come true for children all over the world by donating proceeds from the highly anticipated World Premiere of Walt Disney Pictures/Jerry Bruckheimer Films’ “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End,” to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of America and Make-A-Wish® International. The event will take place on May 19th at Disneyland® Park in Anaheim, California, with all of the film’s stars expected to participate.


<< Timeshare Tips  >>

by The Timeshare Store

Purchasing your membership in the Disney Vacation Club through the Timeshare Store is a very simple process. The only costs incurred by you (the buyer) are the purchase price, closing costs and dues for the points that you receive for the current use year.

For example, let’s say you purchase 150 points at Old Key West at $80 per point. Your purchase price would be $12,000. Closing costs are based on the selling price. For a $12,000 purchase, closing costs would be $475. That would include a complete title search (making sure that you receive your property free and clear of any liens or encumbrances), title insurance and cost related to recording of all documents and deeds.

If you were to receive all points for the current use year, Disney requires that the dues for those points are paid in full at the time of closing. If you are only receiving partial points for the current use year, you would only pay the dues on the points that you receive and would be able to use. (The seller would pay the dues on the points that they borrowed and used). If the listing you purchase has banked points from a previous use year, the seller has already paid dues on those points and they would be “free” points to you.

Visit The Timeshare Store’s website to review our current listings. If you have any questions on the resale process, please call The Timeshare Store and talk to any of our DVC resale experts. We are here to help you and your family have many magical vacations for years to come.


<< INTERCOT Hot Topics  >>


There are lots of great discussions going on as INTERCOTee’s start to plan for Summer Vacations, so let’s look at the Hot Topics for April 2007.

- Park Hopping? -
poeticeclipse want to know how other INTERCOTees took advantage of the Park Hopper Ticketing Option. Here’s what some of the INTERCOTees had to say:

“We love to go to one park in the morning, take a break at the hotel, and then we usually go to Epcot to eat or we go to another resort and eat, and then go to another park. We just hop all over Disney World!” -- cinderella crazy

“We usually park hop on the day that we go to Animal Kingdom. We do Animal Kingdom for most of the day, then park hop to see one of the night time shows at one of the other parks.”-- Speedy1998

“I love to go to one park in the morning, take a nap or hang out in our room for a while, then make it to another park in time for our dinner reservation and to stay late for the Extra Magic Hours. I used to think park hopping was silly, but now I can't imagine what I would do without it.”-- MMouse6937

“We generally try not to hop during the day, we usually save that for late in the day when one park closes an hour or more before another.”-- Jasper

“I love park-hopping. We usually start in one park, go rest in the pool mid-afternoon and then go to another park for the evening. This is especially helpful when AK closes at 5 or 6 pm. Just hop on over to another park that is open later.”-- dolphinmickey9170

- Lunch at Disney-MGM Studios? -
IceCreamlover was looking for a place to get a light lunch at the Disney-MGM Studios. Here’s some of suggestions INTERCOTees offered:

“Backlot Express is a basic Disney counter service place, but we love the themeing of a backlot warehouse.”-- Polynesian Dweller

“Starring Rolls. Huge sandwiches big enough to share and the best desserts at Disney-MGM Studios.”-- Natazu

“Backlot Express gets my vote. Food is good, service is good, and there are plenty of seats if you go before or after the traditional meal times. It's one of my favorite places for a cool break.”
-- Granny Jill A

“The ABC Commissary.... it’s a very nice counter service location with a variety that is not "burger and fries" that you get everywhere else. We always make it a point to have lunch there...it's inside (so air conditioned in the summer) and pleasant atmosphere”-- WishingStar2006

- Magic Kingdom Dinner: Liberty Tree or Tony’s? -
5fromabove sought the input of fellow INTERCOTees on deciding between the Liberty Tree Tavern and Tony’s Town Square Restaurant for a Magic Kingdom Dinner. Here are some of opinions INTERCOTees gave:

“My family really enjoyed Liberty Tree Tavern; the food was good and the character interaction was great. I ate at Tony's on one of my solo trips and it was ok, but nothing I would make a point of trying a second time.”-- auntfrannie

“We've been to both; I would recommend Liberty Tree Tavern. We love the food at Liberty Tree Tavern and the kids enjoy the interaction. It's just good home-style comfort food. We enjoyed Tony's two years ago; I would return for lunch. Service was great and the food was good, just not as good as Liberty Tree Tavern.”-- adamsfam5

“I prefer Tony's for lunch - they have a soup or salad and sandwich combo which is excellent.”
-- Belle_0717

“We ate at both Liberty Tree Tavern and Tony's for dinner during our recent trip in January. I would definitely recommend Liberty Tree Tavern over Tony's. Liberty Tree Tavern is typical Thanksgiving fare for dinner but it is very good.”-- Raye3201

- Pop Century Resort or the All-Star Resorts? -
KAJUNKING wanted to know if INTERCOTees preferred the Pop Century Resort or the All-Star Resorts when it came to the Value Category of Disney Accommodations. Here are some of opinions INTERCOTees gave:

“Pop is newer and, in my opinion, has better theming. Also, the transportation is better - Pop has dedicated buses, so you're not having to stop all the time.”-- EpcotNut

“We found Pop to be too large, loud and crowded. Whenever we were at the food court, no matter what time of day, it was packed. Our All Star resort is the Sports. The kids like the sports theme better than any other resort.”-- CanadianWDWFan

“We have stayed at both, and like both. Our last family trip we stayed at Pop because it was only about 6 months old, and figured it would be nice and new (which it was). As far as amenities, they are about the same.”-- luvkatiebug

“I stayed at All-Stars for a few trips in the late 90's and now have been staying at Pop Century for my last handful of trips. I would choose Pop because it is more centrally located to the parks than All-Stars, which makes the bus rides quicker.”—Vinny

Thanks to our topic starters for asking such great questions, and thanks to all of those who responded for sharing their insight and experiences.


<< Across the Boards with Figment! >>


Welcome Back to Across the Boards. In this edition we continue our review of the new board features by taking a look at the new Private Messaging system. Not a lot has changed in function, but there have been some significant changes in form.

The private messaging feature is still accessed the same way, but following either the link to your inbox in the upper right hand corner of any forum page or by choosing the “private message” option found in any members profile. The message field looks the same and functions the same way as well, but there have been a few subtle changes that could affect your message.

When replying to a message, you may notice that your options are “forward” or “post reply”. The “post reply” button is the same “reply” feature as before, it is just labeled a little differently. Choosing this option still takes you to a reply message page which will be “sent” to them and not “posted” on the boards.

Previously when you would send a message, a prompt would appear asking you if you wanted a “read receipt”. A read receipt is a notice that lets you know your recipient has read the message you sent. The new system still has this feature, but it no longer prompts you for it. Below the message field, you will find a field market “Additional Options”. Here there is a check box marked “Request a read receipt for this message” check this box prior to hitting the Submit button if you want a read receipt for that message.

Until next time, happy browsing around the boards and see ya real soon!


<< INTERCOTee Top 5 … Ice Cream Sundaes  >>

Nicer weather is starting to sprout-up as we head deeper into Spring, and that means the ice cream sundae is starting to come back into season (not that it is every totally out). At a resort destination as big as the Walt Disney World resort, there are soda shops, parlors, kiosks, cafes and restaurants abound where Guests can indulge themselves in a deliciously decedent sundae. But with so many options (and so little time) it can be a bit of a confectionary confusion. To help, the Insider has reviewed recent discussions and has compiled the INTERCOTee Top 5 Favorite Ice Cream Sundaes at Walt Disney World.

Coming in at number 5 … The Plaza Restaurant Sundae

The namesake dessert of the Plaza Restaurant in the Magic Kingdom Park, this scrumptious sundae delivers a classic taste of yesteryear. Your choice of ice cream smothered with hot fudge and strawberry sauce, covered in crushed pineapple and whipped cream, dusted with chopped nuts and topped off with a cherry. Priced at $3.99 this is a sweet treat for your tummy and your wallet.

Coming in at number 4 … Ghiradelli Warm Caramel Sundae

A Carmel lovers dream come true, but you don’t have to be in Dreamland to find such a treat, just dine at the Ghiradelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop in the Downtown Disney Marketplace. Two scoops of premium vanilla ice cream layered with warm Ghirardelli creamy caramel, covered with whipped cream and chopped almonds, topped off with a cherry and served with a Ghirardelli’s famous chocolate with caramel square. This sundae doesn’t have to stay in your dreams, it can be in your tummy for just $6.95.

Coming in at number 3 … The Kitchen Sink

Words like ultimate, colossal and gigantic only begin to describe this sundae at the Beaches and Cream Soda Shop in Disney’s Beach Club resort. Scoops of vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, coffee and mint chocolate chip, smothered in every topping in the Soda Shop including whole brownies and candy bars, and served in an actual kitchen sink! While this treat carries a hefty price tag at $21.99, those who devour it claim it’s worth every penny.

Coming in at number 2 … No Way Jose

Don’t be fooled by it’s name, no one would turn down this peanut butter decadence at the Beaches and Cream Soda Shop in Disney’s Beach Club resort. Chocolate and vanilla ice cream, smothered in peanut butter sauce and hot fudge, covered with peanut butter and chocolate morsels, and topped off with whipped cream and a cherry. This large & delicious of a dessert priced at only $7.99 might just make you exclaim its very name.

And coming in at number 1 … Ghiradelli World Famous Hot Fudge Sundae

Ghiradelli is world famous for their chocolate and their chocolate fudge is just as famous proven each day by visitors to the Ghiradelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop in the Downtown Disney Marketplace. Two scoops of premium vanilla ice cream overflowing with Ghiradelli fresh home-made hot fudge sauce, covered with whipped cream and chopped almonds and topped with a cherry. While a master-class dessert like this may be priceless to you, Ghiradelli has valued it at just $6.95.

That’s it for this countdown, hope it’s given you some sweet ideas for your next sundae excursion at “the world”.


<< Off Topic with ChipDale >>

Thanks to all of our members who contributed to the “Imagineering INTERCOT” fund drive – you can take pride in the fact that because of your generosity we’ll have a bigger, better and most importantly a quicker server! Now on to the March happenings in the Water Cooler:

Jamie kicked off the March Friday parties with the Happy Beer Blast Friday Party and moved on to the We’re Going to the Future, Doc Party, INTERCOT’s annual Let’s Be Irish for the Weekend St. Patrick’s Day Party, the Spring Fever Friday Party, and to close the month we had the April’s Antics, Animals and All that Rain Party. Thanks to Jamie, we can all end the week in style at the Water Cooler!

We’ve all done it. Read, browse and post on INTERCOT when we should be doing something else. Here’s what some of our members had to say: Cantgetenuff: “…should be out of my pajamas and getting dressed!” Disneymom4ever: “…paying bills and cleaning house! Ugh! This is definitely more fun!” Jimenyfan: “I should be finishing my laundry.” Lizzy: “I should be searching for a new job…” BronxTigger: “Taking down the Christmas Tree!” Darth Macho: “Doing the taxes and watching the kids!” So the next time that you should be doing something other than posting, remember you’re not alone!

Pet talk comes up often in the Water Cooler. Donald A asked the question “Who has the most indoor pets?” aprilisis: “I have 2 dogs, 3 cats and 2 rats”. VickiP has 5 cats. DisneyDog: “I have 1 dog and 1 cat, but also a 4-year old son and a husband – do they count?” Piglet822: “I've got 4 dogs, 1 cat, 1 iguana, 1 parakeet, 1 turtle and 2 goldfish.” Amaya-chan: “We have 12 pets; 6 birds, 4 fish, turtle, gecko, and one cat. It's pretty crazy but we love them all.” And the INTERCOTee with the most? Momof2boys: “My kids always tell their teachers that they have 20 pets . . . even though 17 of them are fish. We also have 1 dog and 2 turtles.”

Piglet822 shared the March celebrations – were you aware that March 9 is Panic Day and Nametag Day? Other fun occasions to celebrate included What if Cats and Dogs Had Opposable Thumbs Day, March Forth – Do Something Day, National Potato Chip Day, Buzzard’s Day, National “Joe” Day, Something on a Stick Day, Fly a Kite Day and National Sing Out Day. Be sure to check out Jeanne’s wacky celebrations each month in the Water Cooler. Thanks Jeanne!

March posting milestones were reached by: vizsla – 17,000 posts, DizneyFreak2002 – 14,000 posts, dlpmikki – 7,000 posts, alpro2 – 6,000 posts, ElenitaB – 5,000 posts, offwego – 5,000 posts, Strmchsr – 3,000 posts, pogo- 1,500 posts, Caroleh – 1,000 posts, Red Randal – 1,000 posts, mini – 1,000 posts, HndrdPrcnt – 1,000 posts, Speedy1998 – 1,000 posts, mudpuppysmom – 1,000 posts, Jimenyfan – 900 posts, BronxTigger – 900 posts, BelleBeauty – 900 posts, chrisb26 – 500 posts, mmouse566 – 500 posts, ibrowse17 – 500 posts, Just2Mickey – 500 posts, indytravler – Senior Cast Member, scottgr - 100 posts, magicman – 100 posts. Congrats to all!

That about wraps it up for March. See you next month!


<< Conclusion >>

Whew! That was so much great info we just barely crammed it into a single edition. We’ll be back next month with our standard first and second editions. With the Summer approaching quickly, there’s lots to cover to plan a great Disney Summer Vacation and the Insider will be there to help. See ya real soon!

 
<< 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!

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!
Website: http://www.allstarvacationhomes.com?ovchn=OTHER&ovcpn=Listing+Sites&ovcrn=intercot&ovtac=AD

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

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

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

The Timeshare Store
The #1 Disney Vacation Club Reseller in the World.  See how easy and affordable it is to purchase your very own piece of the MAGIC!
Website: http://www.dvc-resales.com/

Garden Grocer
GardenGrocer.com allows you to spend more time doing the things you want to do on your vacation and less time at the supermarket.
Website: http://www.gardengrocer.com/

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