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- For information on the construction of the Animal Kingdom Villas go here
- For information on the construction of the Contemporary Resort Disney Vacation Club Tower go here
27 April 2008: Contemporary Resort gets new palm trees at the main entrance
As part of all the recent improvements to the Contemporary Resort, a new area has just been newly planted with palm trees, giving the front of the Contemporary a very 'Florida" feel.
20 April 2008: Latest Caribbean Beach main pool refurbishment progress photos
14 April 2008: The Wave now accepting reservations and initial menu listing
Reservations are now being taken for June 30th and beyond at the new upscale restaurant in Disney's Contemporary Resort. The new location is expected to open shortly after the Concourse Steakhouse closes on May 31 2008.
"The Wave… of American Flavors! From the classic
American breakfast, to lunch and dinner where flavors and aromas blend…
The Wave offers casual dining featuring American cooking blended with
world flavors. The stylish, contemporary Wave lounge sets the stage
offering specific appetizer-style menu items, and featuring new world
wines with a twist and trendy cocktails with natural flavors. "
The first pre-opening menu is now available in our menu section.
The new restaurant will be on the Disney Dining Plan and will honor the DVC, Passholder, Disney Dining Experience, and Cast Member discounts as currently accepted at Concourse Steakhouse.
For other menus, go to http://www.wdwmagic.com/menus.htm
4 April 2008: Disney release a bit more information on the new upscale Contemporary restaurant
This summer, The Wave debuts at Disney's Contemporary Resort, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Located on the first floor with a "superlounge," the upscale restaurant will offer "bold American cooking with flavors from all over the world." The seasonal menu will feature local and regional products when possible, organic beers and trendy cocktails such as the "antioxidant cosmo" with açai juice. The innovative wine list has a quirky claim to fame -- all screw caps, no corks. Cutting-edge wines from around the globe will be showcased.
29 March 2008: Big changes coming to Fort Wilderness Resort
Some considerable changes and upgrades are coming to the Fort Wilderness Resort, details below.
NEW PREMIUM CAMPSITES – Power, Water, Sewer,
and Cable TV included
The sites will feature expanded parking area offers and better
manoeuvrability for the larger RVs of today that exceed 45 feet in
length and/or have multiple slide outs. They will be wider (up to 24
ft), and deeper (up to 60 ft). They will also feature new upgraded
picnic tables and grills and new landscaping to allow more privacy and
better appearance. All sites will include cable and offer high-speed
Internet access for an addition daily fee.
The exact size and shape of each campsite will depend on Mother Nature.
While all the campsites in this new category will be enhanced, the final
dimensions will be based on the limitations of the natural surroundings.
The Coquina area (dirt pad) will be completely removed. Tents will still
be allowed on these sites, however, it will be difficult to secure a
tent to the ground as the entire campsite pad will be paved, making it
impossible to drive tent stakes into the ground to anchor a tent.
Pull-through sites will not be added, but the new sites are much deeper.
This will allow across-the-street neighbors to pull all the way back
allowing you more room to turn. The entrance of each site will be much
wider and easier to back into.
As the sites are converted, pet loops will be re-designated as Loops:
500, 700, 800, 900, 1200 and 1300.
The conversion schedule is as follows:
(Schedule subject to change without notice)
Loop 900 – closed 7/08 to 7/25 – reopens 7/26/08.
Loop 1000 – closed 7/27 to 8/08 – reopens 8/09/08.
Loop 1100 – closed 8/10 to 8/22 – reopens 8/23/08.
Loop 500 – closed 8/24 to 9/21 – reopens 9/22/08.
Loop 800 – closed 9/22 to 11/01 – reopens 11/02/08.
Loop 400 – closed 11/03 to 11/21 – reopens 11/22/08.
Loop 600 – closed 11/30 to 12/19 – reopens 12/20/08.
Loop 1300 – closed 1/4 to 1/23 – reopens 1/24/09.
Loop 1200 – closed 1/25 to 2/06 – reopens 2/07/09.
Loop 1400 – closed 2/08 to 2/13 – reopens 2/14/09.
Loop 700 – closed 3/15 to 4/03 – reopens 4/04/09.
REVISED PREFERRED CAMPSITES – Power, Water,
Sewer, and Cable TV included
The most frequently requested locations, loops 100, 200, and 300
will not be converted to Premium campsites due to environmental
limitations. Since they cannot be made any larger, campsites in these
three loops will remain as Preferred. Also for similar reasons, loops
1600, 1700, 1800, and 1900 will be reclassified as Preferred. All sites
will include cable and offer high-speed Internet access for an addition
daily fee. Picnic tables and grills will remain as they are now.
As the sites are converted, pet loops will be re-designated as Loops:
300, 1600, and 1800.
The addition of cable TV and Internet will not require any down time but
completion dates are as follows:
Loop 100 – Already completed
Loop 200 – Already completed
Loop 300 – Already completed
Loop 1900 – completed by 7/04/08
Loop 1800 – completed by 7/25/08
Loop 1700 – completed by 9/19/08
Loop 1600 – completed by 10/31/08
Remember all dates are subject to change without notice.
TENT/POP-UP CAMPSITES – Power, Water, and Cable TV included
Loops 1500 and 2000 will remain as partial hook-up sites for campers
using tents, pop-up campers and van campers. As now, RV will not be
allowed on these sites. All sites will soon include cable TV and offer
high-speed Internet access for an addition daily fee. Picnic tables and
grills will remain as they are now. As now, there are no pet loops in
this category.
The addition of cable TV and Internet will not require any down time but
completion dates is expected by 11/21/08 for both loops.
Standard Full-Hookup Campsites
This category will be phased out completely as the new Premium and
Preferred Campsites become available.
Creekside Meadow
This primitive campsite area will remain unchanged for use by scout
troops, schools and other group campers.
Meadow Swimmin' Pool
Enhancements to this area are planned, including the addition of a slide
and hot tub, but exact refurbishment dates have not be released as of
yet.
River Country
As this area is controlled by Disney Attractions, no changes to this
area are expected anytime in the near future, nor will this area be
incorporated into Fort Wilderness Resort.
20 March 2008: Caribbean Beach main pool refurbishment progress photos
Thanks to Charlie for this latest set of photos of the Caribbean Beach Resort pool refurbishment.
18 March 2008: More resort pool refurbishments
Coronado Springs Pool refurbishment
The Jaguar Pool Slide will be closed for refurbishment from March 31 –
April 18, 2008. The Lost City of Cibola Pool will continue to operate
during this refurbishment.
Boardwalk Inn Pool refurbishment
The Boardwalk Inn Quiet Pool will be closed for refurbishment from March
31 – April 18, 2008. During this time, Guests may continue to enjoy the
Luna Park Pool and Villas Quiet Pool.
Boardwalk Villas Pool refurbishment
The Boardwalk Villas Quiet Pool will be closed for refurbishment from
April 21 – May 9, 2008. During this time, Guests may continue to enjoy
the Luna Park Pool and Inn Quiet Pool.
Beach Club Pool refurbishment
The Beach Club Tidal Pool (Quiet Pool) & Spa will be closed for
refurbishment March 31 - April 11. During this time, Guests may continue
to enjoy Stormalong Bay (Feature Pool area) and the Beach Club Villa’s
Quiet Pool.
Yacht Club Pool refurbishment
The Yacht Club Admiral Pool (Quiet Pool) & Spa will be closed for
refurbishment April 14–21. During this time, Guests may continue to
enjoy Stormalong Bay (Feature Pool area) and the Beach Club’s Quiet
Pool.
18 March 2008: Concourse Steakhouse closing date
The Concourse Steakhouse is now set to permanently close on May 31, 2008 to make way for the Contemporary Resort's new quick service restaurant.
14 March 2008: Caribbean Beach main pool refurbishment progress photos
The main pool at Caribbean Beach is being totally rebuilt, with a scheduled reopening September 16 2008. The photos below (Thanks to Moustronaut) show the latest progress of this extensive project.
12 March 2008: Resort pool refurbishment details
Beach Club Pool refurbishment
The Tidal Pool (Quiet Pool) & Spa will be closed for refurbishment
March 31 - April 11 2008. During this time, Guests may continue to enjoy
Stormalong Bay (Main Pool area) and the Beach Club Villa’s Quiet Pool.
Caribbean Beach Resort pool refurbishment
The Main Pool located at Old Port Royale is currently closed for
refurbishment, from January 7 – September 15, 2008. Guests may continue
to use the six quiet pools at each of the islands within the resort. In
addition, waterslides for children will be added to the pools at the
Jamaica Village and Barbados Village during this time and enhanced
children’s recreation activities will be offered.
26 February 2008: The Disney Resort Collection catalogue launches today
Disney today begin a new offering available directly at resorts or from home via phone or internet. The Disney Resort Collection catalogue will be placed in all Disney Resort Guest rooms at Walt Disney World. The catalogue features amenities found in Disney Resort Guest rooms as well as personal and décor accessories inspired by visits to Walt Disney World Resort.
Guests have the ability to order Disney Resort
Collection product during their stay for home delivery or receive
additional information by calling 1-877-888-8287. Guests can also order
from
www.DisneyResortCollection.com
Visa, Master Card and American Express credit cards as well as personal
checks are accepted. Disney Gift Cards or Key to the World Cards are not
accepted as payment options during this launch phase.
The hours of operations for Disney Resort Collection is: Monday - Friday
8am - 10pm EST. Saturday 9am -5pm EST. Closed on all major holidays.
11 February 2008: Resort pool and restaurant refurbishments
The Nanea Volcano Pool at the Polynesian Resort will be closed for refurbishment from February 11 2008 – March 15, 2008. The pools at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa will be available for guests.
The "Doubloon Lagoon" pool, spa and deck area will be closed from January 28 2008 – March 15, 2008. The "Ol' Man Island Pool" will remain open. Guests may also use the "Alligator Bayou" and "Magnolia Bend" Pools. Shuttle transportation will be available during this closure.
The Yachtsman Steakhouse will be closed for refurbishment from February 18 2008 through February 26 2008, reopening on February 27 2008 at 5:30pm.
Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground Mickey’s Backyard BBQ, which is offered March through December is currently closed and is set to reopen on March 6, 2008.
1 February 2008: Disney's Contemporary Resort and Disney's Polynesian Resort earn four diamond AAA rating
Walt Disney World Resort recently earned its fourth and fifth four-diamond distinctions from the American Automobile Association (AAA). Disney's Contemporary Resort and Disney's Polynesian Resort joined Disney's Yacht & Beach Club Resorts and Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa with their own official four-diamond ratings for 2008. The AAA diamond rating process is considered North America's premier hotel and restaurant rating system.
27 November 2007: Photos of the completed Contemporary concourse merchandise area
The new merchandise area is now open. Thanks to ScottJ for the photos.
22 November 2007: Contemporary concourse merchandise area opens
The Contemporary concourse merchandise area is now open.
11 November 2007: Latest photos of the Contemporary concourse merchandise area
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27 October 2007: Latest photos of the Contemporary concourse merchandise area
These photos show the latest construction progress on the concourse merchandise area at the Contemporary Resort. Thanks to ScottJ for the photos.
27 October 2007: Latest photos of the Contemporary lobby area
Thanks to ScottJ for the photos.
22 October 2007: Boma receives a second check in location in the main lobby
In an effort to help alleviate some of the congestion that takes place around the entrance to the ever popular Boma restaurant at the Animal Kingdom Lodge, there is now a new check in desk for the restaurant in the main lobby of the resort. Located just inside the main entry, next to bell services, diners can check in at the podium, and receive a pager. Check in is also still available at the regular location at the entry to the restaurant. There is no information if this is a permanent addition, or a trial.
10 October 2007: The new Contemporary Resort front desk
The Contemporary Resort looks to have nearly completed it's front desk renovations, and it looks great. Work still continues on other areas of the lobby and the resort.
3 October 2007: Disney Expands Resort Business on Oceanfront Property in Hawaii
Walt Disney Parks & Resorts announced today that the Company has finalized plans to purchase 21 acres of oceanfront property on Hawaii's island of Oahu.
The property, located on the island's western side in the picturesque Ko Olina Resort & Marina, Honolulu's premier resort destination, will be home to Disney's first mixed-use family resort outside of its theme park developments. The expansive resort, scheduled to open in 2011, will have more than 800 units including hotel rooms and villas for Disney Vacation Club, which is Disney's rapidly growing timeshare business.
"This resort hotel will give our guests another way to visit an exciting part of the world with a brand they trust," said Jay Rasulo, Chairman of Walt Disney Parks & Resorts. "In fact, Hawaii has been among our most requested Disney Vacation Club getaway locations beyond our theme parks. We are looking forward to building a special family resort that honors the cultural diversity of Hawaii and reflects the spirit of aloha that makes this location so unique."
Consistently ranked as one of the top family destinations in the world, Hawaii's natural beauty and extensive offering of family activities make it an ideal location for a Disney resort. The new resort hotel will be the latest addition to the Ko Olina development, known for its sweeping ocean views, picture-postcard white sand beaches and tranquil crystal blue lagoons.
Part of the Disney resort hotel in Ko Olina will be dedicated to Disney Vacation Club, a timeshare program that helps families enjoy flexibility and savings on vacations for decades to come. By becoming a member of Disney Vacation Club, families can enjoy vacations at Disney destinations worldwide as well as more than 500 other popular Member Getaways vacation locations around the globe.
Disney Vacation Club has grown to serve more than 350,000 individual members from more than 100 countries and all 50 U.S. states.
"We are delighted to create a place in Hawaii that our Disney Vacation Club members can call home," said Jim Lewis, President of Disney Vacation Club. "We know that both our existing members and new members will be thrilled about this resort in Ko Olina."
Designs for the resort are still being finalized by Walt Disney Imagineers, who have been traveling extensively throughout Hawaii for the past several months as they garner ideas to develop a resort celebrating Hawaii's vibrant culture and rich heritage. The team is working closely with local architects, engineers and cultural advisors, conducting research and exploring the region, building on a tradition that has long been a hallmark in the creation of everything from Disney films to Disney vacation destinations.
Plans for the resort hotel are expected to be finalized and revealed in early 2008.
"We are very excited about becoming part of the Ko
Olina community," Rasulo said. "Clearly, Hawaii already has a special
place in our hearts and in Disney's history. Building a resort hotel in
Hawaii is the next chapter in our effort to create immersive Disney
experiences that allow families to reconnect and recharge in the areas
of the world they most long to visit."
3 October 2007: Kona Coffee Bar to offer Sushi during the evenings?
There is some speculation that the popular Kona Coffee Bar in the Polynesian Resort may operate as a Sushi Bar during the evenings. There is no official confirmation yet of when, or if, this addition will take place.
6 September 2007: Contemporary photo update - Tempo Grab and Go, concourse construction, and the new look lobby area
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Above: The now closed Food and Fun Center which is
now being converted into a new table service restaurant called The Wave
which will open around April 2008.
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Above: Concept art of the new look lobby and check in
area.
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Above: Progress so far on the half completed new look
lobby area.
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Above: The temporary Tempo Grab and Go quick service
location near the Outer Rim lounge on the 4th Floor will operate through
August 14, 2008. Sandwiches, flatbread and other quick serve items are
available.
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Above: Seating for the Grab and Go is fairly limited.
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Above: An overhead view of the Grab n Go
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Above: Concept art of the new merchandise location in
the middle of the concourse.
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Above: An overhead view of the concourse
construction.
17 August 2007: New Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts room category
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Guests shopping for Walt
Disney World accommodations will discover a "new" category of resort at
the Vacation Kingdom. In an effort to alleviate confusion about the
availability of Disney Vacation Club (DVC) accommodations as nightly
rentals, Disney vacation planners are now using the term Disney Deluxe
Villa Resorts in reference to the DVC properties for non-members.
The Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts category tops off a lineup of Disney
resorts for every taste and budget including Disney Value Resorts,
Disney Moderate Resorts and Disney Deluxe Resorts. The Disney Deluxe
Villa Resorts offer comforts of home with most rooms featuring full
kitchens or kitchenettes, washer/dryers, whirlpool tubs and living
areas. Villas available include studios and accommodations with up to
three bedrooms.
Currently the Disney Deluxe Villa Resort option is available at:
Disney's Old Key West Resort, The Villas at Disney's Animal Kingdom
Lodge, Disney's Beach Club Villas, Disney's BoardWalk Villas, The Villas
at Disney's Wilderness Lodge and Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa.
17 August 2007: New Grand Floridian Portrait Sessions
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- There's a new occasion
to "say cheese" at Walt Disney World Resort: during individual portrait
sessions now available at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.
Guests who desire a more one-on-one photo experience during their Walt
Disney World vacation can book a shoot at the majestic Victorian-style
resort where a Disney PhotoPass photographer escorts the group through
some of its most picturesque backdrops. Consultations are available
prior to the shoot to discuss wardrobe, session location and theme
options.
Guests can create a portrait package that suits their individual needs
with two current offers: a single sitting ($49.95), and a package that
includes a sitting and a PhotoPass CD with all of the digital images
taken by theme park photographers during a guest's vacation ($124.95).
For more information or to book a portrait session, visit Disney's
PhotoPass desk on the second floor of Disney's Grand Floridian Resort &
Spa or call 407/824-1700.
9 August 2007: New electric boats at the Swan and Dolphin Resort
The swan paddle boats have been retired and now replaced with electric boats.
The Sony Playstation consoles have been removed from the guestrooms, and guests can now play games on the TV using the keyboard as the controller.
5 May 2007: Contemporary Resort changes and new table service restaurant
Beside the demolition of the North Wing, the Contemporary has been undergoing some other changes to merchandise and dining locations.
The Fantasia merchandise location has been
temporarily moved into the concourse area of the 4th Floor while it's
regular location is being refurbished. The new Fantasia shop will open
in mid-August, 2007.
A temporary quick service restaurant location will open near the Outer
Rim lounge on the 4th Floor on July 30, 2007, and will operate through
August 14, 2008. The Food and Fun Center will be closed during this
timeframe as the location is being converted into a new table service
restaurant called The Wave which will open around April 2008. Concourse
Steakhouse will close at that time to make way for a new, permanent
quick service restaurant which will open in mid-August, 2008.
New landscaping and traffic flow will be phased in from July 2007
through to October 2007.
A new look will be phased into the lobby from June 11 through mid-November 2007.
1 May 2007: All Disney resorts become Smoke-free
All Walt Disney World® Resorts, including Disney Vacation Club Resorts, will become smoke-free on June 1, 2007. The new policy applies to all guest rooms, patios, and balconies.
6 March 2007: Demolition of the Contemporary North Wing photo update
The photos below show the current progress on demolishing the Contemporary North Wing in preparation for the new Disney Vacation Club Tower wing. Thanks to jvrabel for the photos.
See the new dedicated section for more photos and information
13 February 2007: Demolition of the Contemporary North Wing photo update
This series of photos shows the current progress on demolishing the Contemporary North Wing in preparation for the new Disney Vacation Club Tower wing. Thanks to Metscool for the photos.
31 January 2007: Contemporary North Wing now being demolished
In preparation for the new DVC Tower, demolition of the North Wing at the Contemporary Resort is now very much underway. The tennis courts are completely gone, and the main building of the North Wing is now being demolished.
25 January 2007: Disney Animal Kingdom Villas officially announced
COPYRIGHT 2007. THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY
Lake Buena Vista, Fla. -- Disney Vacation Club is developing a new time-share resort on Walt Disney World property to meet ongoing strong demand for its unique vacation-ownership program.
Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas will be located at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge, which readers of Travel & Leisure Family magazine recently honored with the No. 4 spot on their list of the 50 greatest family resorts in the United States and Canada.
"We continue to see strong demand from families who want to build a lifetime of unforgettable memories by vacationing in ways they never dreamed possible," said Jim Lewis, president of Disney Vacation Club. "I am delighted to announce that our members will have yet another place to call home with Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas. This begins another exciting new era for Disney Vacation Club as we continue to explore future destination possibilities both domestically and internationally."
The Disney Vacation Club accommodations will feature intricate African-inspired details and home-like amenities, and most will offer sweeping views of an expanded savanna inhabited by a variety of African animals. Members who call this resort "home" will live their very own true-life adventure in a setting inspired by the intrepid explorers and historic expeditions of 19th century Africa.
Walt Disney Imagineers are designing the new village of Vacation Homes to feel curiously at home in the natural world. The architectural style will evoke the look of a thatched-roof, hewn-timber structure that will appear to emerge organically from the land beneath it, drifting in and out of view from lush landscapes like a giraffe hiding in the tall grasses of the savanna. Add authentic artwork, imaginative architectural details and Disney's world-class brand of storytelling, and the result will be an immersive village unlike any other.
COPYRIGHT 2007. THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY
These new accommodations are scheduled for development in phases with an anticipated opening beginning fall 2007, with completion scheduled for spring 2009. The project's first phase will include 134 remodeled accommodations on the fifth and sixth floors of the existing Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge building, and subsequent phases will include the construction of 324 Vacation Homes in a new building on the resort property, for a total of 458 Vacation Homes.
The highly anticipated project also calls for construction of a new table-service restaurant, themed pool and water-play area, fitness center, merchandise shop, sports-and-recreation facilities and more.
COPYRIGHT 2007. THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY
Disney Vacation Club, now celebrating its milestone 15th anniversary, is an innovative time-share program that lets families enjoy flexibility and savings on future vacations at Disney destinations and more than 500 other popular vacation sites around the world. Since 2000, Disney Vacation Club membership has doubled to include more than 300,000 individuals from more than 100 countries and every U.S. state.
Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas will be the eighth Disney Vacation Club Resort, joining five others at the Walt Disney World Resort, one in Vero Beach, Fla., and one in Hilton Head Island, S.C. Disney Vacation Club has sold out of memberships at its first six resorts, and sales remain ahead of schedule at its seventh property, Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa, which opened in May 2004 near the Downtown Disney area at the Walt Disney World Resort.
23 January 2007: Disney Vacation Club at the Contemporary Resort update
Since early 2006 we have been tracking the speculation that the Disney Vacation Club will soon be coming to the Contemporary Resort. More details have begun to emerge on this story, and the latest information is that work will begin imminently on the demolition of the existing 3 story tall North Wing of the Contemporary (The left hand side if facing the Contemporary from the front of the resort). Once the demolition is complete, a new crescent shaped, 16 story tower will be built on the site. The expected completion date of the project will be late 2009.
The photo below shows the current closed off North
Wing that is set to be demolished.
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23 January 2007: Disney Vacation Club at the Animal Kingdom Lodge update
Back in October 2006, Disney announced that they were planning to expand the popular Disney Vacation Club to the Animal Kingdom Lodge. 134 units will be converted from existing rooms on the 5th and 6th floors at the resort, and a new wing, with 324 properties will be built. The first conversions will be ready by late 2007, with the remainder built by mid 2009.
Some more details have just been revealed about the new wing. It will be built on the left hand side of the resort (if facing the front entrance), and will consist of 18 connected buildings, in the shape of 2 horseshoes. Each building will be 5 stories tall, and there is the possibility that parking will be on the first level. As well as savannah overlooks, the new extension will have it's own check in building, swimming pool, tennis courts and animal support buildings.
21 November 2006: Captain Cook's reopens
Captain Cook's at the Polynesian Resort has now reopened after it's refurbishment.
25 October 2006: Contemporary North refurbishment wall photos
Further to the 21 October update below, these new photos show the scale of the refurbishment wall. If you look closely, you can see the wall surrounding the building and the parking lot. Thanks to Daniel for the photos.
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21 October 2006: Construction walls at the Contemporary
A new 9 foot tall construction wall (screened with green) has been erected around the north wing of the contemporary, the racquetball courts, and half of the parking lot right by the north wing. There are also reports that parking at the STOLport will no longer be permitted for cast events from November 1. This news seems to coincide with the 11 March update below regarding some major upcoming construction at the Contemporary.
15 October 2006: Il Mulino New York Trattoria opening soon at the Walt Disney World Swan Resort
"Il Mulino New York Trattoria" is coming soon to
the Walt Disney World Swan Resort, in place of the now closed Palio
restaurant.
The new restaurant will feature traditional Italian cuisine from the
Abruzzi region of Italy, served in a lively bistro environment. It will
feature a diverse offering of elegantly and bountifully presented
dishes, prepared from original Italian recipes.
12 October 2006: Disney Vacation Club coming to the Animal Kingdom Lodge
Disney are expanding the popular Disney Vacation Club to the Animal Kingdom Lodge. 134 units will be converted from existing rooms on the 5th and 6th floors at the resort, and a new wing, with 324 properties will be built. The first conversions will be ready by late 2007, with the remainder built by mid 2009.
5 September 2006: Captain Cook's closed for refurbishment
Captain Cook's, the 24-hour snack bar within the Great Ceremonial House at the Polynesian Resort is currently closed for refurbishment. Service is temporarily housed at the Tangaroo Terrace. Closures include the area past Captain Cook's which formerly housed men's and ladies clothing stores.
31 August 2006: Palio closing
Palio, at the Walt Disney World Swan will be closing on September 3rd 2006 for refurbishment. It will reopen as a new restaurant. More details will be posted when available.
10 July 2006: Luna Park Playground refurbishment
The Luna Park Playground at the Boardwalk will be closed for refurbishment from July 10 2006 to July 24 2006. The Luna Park pool will remain open as normal.
7 June 2006: Wyndham Worldwide adding 400-room hotel to Bonnet Creek
Wyndham Worldwide have announced they will be adding a 400-room hotel to Bonnet Creek, the timeshare community that is very close to Disney property, in particular, the Caribbean Beach Resort and Pop Century Resort. More details can be found here http://www.bizjournals.com/orlando/stories/2006/06/05/daily13.html
31 May 2006: Hilton to open new hotels near Walt Disney World
NEW YORK, May 31 (Reuters) - Hilton Hotels Corp. (HLT.N:
Quote, Profile, Research) on Wednesday said it plans to open two hotels
at a new resort to be built near the Walt Disney World Resort in
Florida.
The hotelier will build a 1,000-room Hilton and a 500-room
Waldorf-Astoria at Bonnet Creek, it said in a statement. The project is
expected to open in the summer of 2009.
24 April 2006: Picabu now open at the Walt Disney World Dolphin
Picabu, the new 24 hour self-service dining and sundries location, is now open at the Walt Disney World Dolphin. This new location replaces Tubbies.
11 March 2006: Construction project at the Contemporary Resort
The long abandoned STOL airport near to the Transportation and Ticket Centre is set to be turned over to Imagineering from September 2006 until December 2009. It is speculated that this large area will be used as a staging area for a huge construction project at the Contemporary Resort. Rumors link the construction project to a possible introduction of a Disney Vacation Club wing. This information is not yet officially confirmed, and may be subject to change.
8 March 2006: Animal Kingdom Lodge achieves Florida Green Lodging Certification
Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge became certified on
the Florida Green Lodging Certification program this month. For more
information about the program, see
http://www.dep.state.fl.us/waste/categories/recycling/GreenLodging/
For information about the measures taken by Disney to
reach this goal, see
http://www.earth911.org/library/greenlodging/features.asp?locationid=140107
7 March 2006: All Star Music Family Suites
For the initial launch, about 40 suites will be
available, with more opening up throughout the coming months. Current
plans are for all 192 Family Suites to be available on or before January
1, 2007.
The Family Suites will be located in the Calypso and Jazz Inn Buildings.
When complete:
Calypso Building 1 will have 32 suites
Calypso Building 10 will have 54 suites
Jazz Inn Building 2 will have 52 suites
Jazz Inn Building 9 will have 54 suites
The suites are located on all three floors, and will be near each other,
but none will offer connecting suites. There is no price difference
between the buildings.
2006 pricing will be:
$169 plus tax - Value Season (Aug 27 - Oct 4; Nov 26 - Dec 19)
$209 plus tax - Regular Season (Apr 23 - Aug 26; Oct 5 - Nov 25)
$239 plus tax - Peak Season (Mar 6* - Apr 22)
$259 plus tax Holiday Season (Dec 20 - 31)
(* once available)
For comparison, the price of a Family Suite is $9-11 more then 2
Standard Rooms, or $13-15 less the 2 Preferred Rooms, depending on
season.
Currently, none of the discount promotional offers will include these
suites, (ie, no passholder, FL Resident, AAA, etc) however this may
change in the future once all suites are ready, based on occupancy
trends.
Each room is 520 sq ft, and can sleep a maximum party of 6 Guest plus an
infant age 2 or under with 1 Queen bed in the master bedroom and a
Double Sleeper Sofa, Single Sleeper Chair, and a Single Sleeper Ottoman
in the living room, plus room for a pack-n-play crib (available on
request.) The Sleeper furniture is constructed by the same company as
those found in the Disney Vacation Club Properties and are very
comfortable.
The Family Suites will also include a kitchenette with an under the
counter refrigerator, microwave, sink and coffee/tea maker, and two
bathrooms with separate vanity areas with two sinks and a wall mounted
hair dryer.
These Family Suites will offer an affordable option for larger families
compared to rooms at Moderate and Deluxe Resorts and DVC Studios. Here
families can be sure to be together in suite like accommodations and
still enjoy separate sleeping areas with more privacy, whereas booking
two adjoining/connecting rooms cannot always be guaranteed.
More information about the All Star Music Resort
29 November 2005: Swan repainting complete
Further to the 7 April 2005 update below, the Swan has now completed its repainting. The difference is quite dramatic in person, and has brought the resort back to its original condition. The Dolphin repainting is still in progress.
Above: The newly repainted building. Notice the faded
looking Dolphin in the background.
13 October 2005: Lilo and Stitch join Ohana restaurant
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Some new character
friends have joined Mickey Mouse for breakfast at `Ohana in Disney's
Polynesian Resort. Say "aloha" (hello) to Lilo, Stitch and Pluto ... and
say "aloha" (good-bye) to Chip, Dale and Goofy.
A hearty breakfast -- "island-style" breads, scrambled eggs, bacon and
breakfast sausage, island potatoes, biscuits, Mickey waffles, fresh
juices, milk and coffee -- is served up family style along with
character fun daily from 7 to 11 a .m. The restaurant is located on the
second floor of the resort's Great Ceremonial House.
Cost is $17.99 for guests ages 10 and up and $9.99 for ages 3-9.
Reservations can be made by calling 407/WDW-DINE.
12 October 2005: Lunch with Walt Disney World Animal Programs
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Walt Disney World guests
can get up-close-and-personal with a dolphin trainer, veterinarian or
animal curator during a new "Lunch with Walt Disney World Animal
Programs."
Each Tuesday (beginning Nov. 1), a Disney animal specialist shares
stories, passions and their background over an authentic South African
luncheon in the wine room at Jiko-The Cooking Place at Disney's Animal
Kingdom Lodge. The noon-2 p.m. experience features personalities such as
Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Animal Curator Joe Kalla -- who spent much
of his career at the San Diego zoo, traveled to Africa to study baboons
and learned Swahili to communicate with villagers.
Chef Anette Grecchi Gray serves up a traditional South African feast
with menu items that include whole wheat lavosh flat bread with Moroccan
Chermoula, organic field greens, followed by maize crusted and
pan-roasted halibut, and oven-roasted tenderloin with sweet potato and
potato gratin. For dessert: Pomegranate macerated fruit salad with
homemade yogurt.
The cost is $65 per person with a wine pairing option offered for an
additional $15. For more information, contact 407/WDW-DINE.
12 October 2005: World RUBIK'S CUBE Game Championship at Disney's Pop Century Resort
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Some of the world's best RUBIK'S CUBE solvers will compete Nov. 4-6 in the World RUBIK'S CUBE Game Championship at Disney's Pop Century Resort at Walt Disney World Resort. These "speed cubers," as they are identified in Rubik's parlance, will twist and turn the iconic puzzle in a variety of timed challenges. The championship, which coincides with the cube's 25th anniversary in the United States, includes the traditional 3x3x3 cube competition, 4x4x4 and 5x5x5 contests, and more unusual events like blindfolded cubing, one-handed cubing, foot cubing and even underwater cubing.
21 September 2005: Contemporary Resort rehab update
Thanks to Jez for the photos below of the new look Contemporary Resort rooms.
The Contemporary resort has now moved the "Atrium Club" limited concierge floor from 12 to 10. Floor 10 is now completely refurbished. They are currently working on floor 9. The photo below shows covers over floor 9 and the new doors on floor 10, compared to the old doors on the other floors.
Below you can see the balcony's have had new floor tiles put down, and new balustrades put around them. You can see the difference in balustrades, they're thicker and brown, and the balcony doors have been changed, so the glass is in three sections, and not two.
30 May 2005: Yacht Club Lighthouse work (Thanks to KeithS)
The Lighthouse at the Yacht Club Resort is currently undergoing refurbishment.
27 May 2005: Polynesian Resort new-look room photo
Further to the update below, the photo below shows one of the completed room from the the new look Polynesian Resort.
Starting in late May 2005, the rooms will be receiving new decor, bedding, furniture, artwork and carpeting. The new look and feel will retain the South Seas theme that is the hallmark of Disney's Polynesian Resort, but with a more upscale, elegant design. The renovation work will be done in phases over about a year.
18 May 2005: Rooms at Disney's Contemporary and Polynesian Resorts To Get New Décor
The guestrooms of two classic Walt Disney World resort hotels are
getting an extreme makeover.
Rooms at Disney's Contemporary Resort and Disney's Polynesian
Resort, which both opened along with Magic Kingdom in 1971, are
being given a dramatic new look with new décor, furniture,
carpeting, lighting and bathroom fixtures.
Disney's Contemporary Resort will receive the more dramatic changes.
Décor of the rooms will be changed from its current style (taken
from the bold, bright colors of Contemporary Art Masters of the '50s
and '60s) to a more upscale, elegant design that incorporates muted
color accents -- reds, greens and yellows -- with basic black and
white.
Rooms at Disney's Polynesian Resort will also get a new look, but
retain the "South Seas Islands" style that has been the Polynesian's
hallmark since 1971. Dark, hand-carved wood furniture contrasts with
tropical blues, greens and browns in bedspreads, paintings and wall
coverings. Both resorts will receive upgraded furniture elements
such as flat-screen televisions and designer bedding.
In addition to the room renovation, décor in the hallways and public
areas of the two resorts will also be updated.
The renovation of the rooms at Disney's Polynesian Resort will take
about one year, with the rooms at the Contemporary Resort taking
about six months longer. Each resort will be renovated in phases,
with a small number of rooms being renovated during each phase.
25 April 2005: Monthly Wine Dinners at Jiko-The Cooking Place
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Jiko-The Cooking Place at Disney's
Animal Kingdom Lodge has launched a monthly wine dinner, planned the
first Thursday of every month in the restaurant's private dining
room, Cape Town.
Chef Anette Grecchi Gray will step outside the menu and create
dishes from around the globe, with wines paired by sommelier Stephen
Shepherd.
"We'd like to branch out a bit," said Gray. She said she envisions
featuring an Italian-inspired dish paired with a South African
Sangiovese, or a course from the Australian outback paired with a
Shiraz from Australia and a Syrah from South Africa.
"Or perhaps French-inspired foods with a South African bordeaux, or
a hearty German meal paired with a Gewûrtstraminer from Dehlheim,"
she continued. "The sky is the limit."
The wine dinners are $130 per person. For reservations, call
407/WDW-DINE.
7 April 2005: Swan painting underway
The Swan and Dolphin Resorts are undergoing a major repainting job. As you can see from the photos below, there is quite a dramatic difference with the new paintwork contrasting the old.
3 January 2005: Award for Animal Kingdom Lodge
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Editors and writers voting in Fodor's
Travel Publications "Fodor's Choice Hotels 2005" named Disney's
Animal Kingdom Lodge among the "Top 20 Hotels of the World." Honors
went to hotels from Montreal to Maui and from Italy to Belize in the
second year of the recognition program.
Picked from among thousands of selections, the 20 hotels were chosen
as unique, unusual and not-to-be-missed experiences, said Fodor's
Travel Publications publisher Tim Jarrell. Disney's Animal Kingdom
Lodge won in "The Kids Will Love It, Too" category.
Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge features African art and artifacts,
South African-inspired cuisine and guestroom views to savannahs
teeming with exotic wildlife.
3 January 2005: Award for Victoria & Albert's
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Victoria & Albert's at Disney's Grand
Floridian Resort & Spa has been awarded a AAA Five Diamond rating
for the fifth consecutive year and is among just 57 restaurants in
North America earning AAA's highest distinction in 2005.
AAA's 65 full-time tourism editors evaluate more then 55,000 hotels
and restaurants each year, and only 0.26 percent (barely more than
one-quarter of 1 percent) earn five diamonds (85 lodgings earned the
coveted honor this year along with the 57 restaurants).
Victoria & Albert's also was awarded four stars by the 2005 Mobil
Travel Guide -- one of only two restaurants in Central Florida to
earn the honor.
Mobil Travel Guide ratings are based on cumulative scores determined
by service evaluations, unannounced inspections, published reviews
and letters from Mobil Travel Guide users.
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