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<< Introduction >>

It may be hot outside, but never fear, the Insider is here to bring you an avalanche of cool tips and ideas. In this edition we check out the latest deals, take a look at this month’s hot topics, run down a slew of new dining options coming to Disney World , get the latest timeshare tips and countdown the best places to cool off.  If that wasn’t enough, we also kick-off a new monthly column that takes a look back at monumental Disney milestones & we welcome two new Sponsors to the 'COT.

It’s Insider Time!

<< Disney Deals >>

- Late Summer Savings –

The Walt Disney World Resort has released additional specials for guests vacationing July 29 - September 29, 2007. Create a perfect vacation with a Room-Only discount or Magic Your Way Package at select Walt Disney World hotels. These offers must be booked by July 28, 2007. Availability is extremely limited. For details on these 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.

Magical Journeys http://www.yourmagicaljourneys.com

Details & Discussion http://www.intercot.com/discussion/showthread.php?t=108669

<< INTERCOT Hot Topics >>

Lots of last minute advice is being shared for those Summer Vacations, let’s look at the Hot Topics for July 2007.

- Where do you keep your tickets? -

apequet asked INTERCOTees how they hang onto their park passes while out and about the parks.  Here’s some of the opinions INTERCOTee’s shared:

“I kept all of our 'keys to the world' together in a pocket in my fanny pack.” -- starrmomof2

“A lot of the pin stands also sell the lanyard that has a plastic zip-lock type pouch just big enough for your key and FastPasses etc. I think we got them for $10. Also, someone in my family broke his and they replaced it no questions asked.”-- PrincessEmmasMommy

“Last year I found a FastPass holder at Magic Kingdom in the shop the people mover goes through. It has a silver Mickey head about 2 inches across the top of the ears with a insert where the face should be. It has a retractable cord that attaches to the sealable plastic top loading holder.  I was able to put all of our roomkey/tickets (3) inside with no problem. There is a plastic divider inside to the pouch also so you can separate the FastPasses and the tickets.  It has a "alligator" clip that pivots on the back to the head to clip onto belt loops, clothes etc.  I think it was less that $5.00..”-- hnybear22

-Princess Storybook Lunch?-

crazykids wanted to know other INTERCOTees’ opinions on the Princess Storybook Lunch held at Epcot’s Akershus Royal Banquet Hall.  Here’s some of the opinions INTERCOTee’s shared:

“We did the princess lunch there last week and enjoyed it. … There is a huge appetizer salad bar that you'll go to before you get whatever you order. You'll find something you like on the menu.” --Becky'sMom

“Dear Husband & I took our niece (age 5 at the time) to this lunch in 2006. While the characters were great, the food was not. Dear Husband & niece are more adventurous eaters than me but we all left hungry. We were happy with the characters and interaction but not the food.” -- auntbaloo

“We have been there two times and now think it is a must do every trip. We are picky eaters and really liked the food. It is a little different but it is good. The character interaction can't be beat.”-- DawsonAR

“Tried the lunch last trip. We really didn't like it. We were still starving afterward and we are not huge meal eaters.”-- r4kids

“We have eaten lunch there the past two years, most recently last week. We enjoy the food and the princesses. I think it was our favorite princess meal this last time. … I think Akershus was great. The food is real good. I, Dear Daughter (5) and Dear Son (9) really enjoyed it.” --jedi jen

- Value Resorts - Standard or Preferred? -

Texas Tinkerbell Too inquired if INTERCOTees thought that the preferred room option at Disney’s value resorts was worth the extra cost.  Here’s what some INTERCOTee’s offered:

“Completely worth it!!! It's more convenient when you have to go to the food court and will pay for itself when you DON'T have to walk a mile to your room at the end of the night.”-- jedigrrrl

“I am kind of on the fence. We stayed at a preferred room at POP once and really did not see any difference vs a standard room. Being one building closer to the food court was about all we could come up with. We have always booked a standard room since that time.” -- Vinny

“It's a little extra money, but at the end of the day you'll consider it money well worth spent!!! Some rooms at the values can be literally a hike from the bus stop!”— LudwigVonDrake

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

<< Around the World >>

- New Dining for Late 2007 & 2008 -

The Walt Disney World resort is a dynamic place and its dining options are no different.  Starting late this year and running through 2008, the Walt Disney World resort will unveil a smorgasbord of new dining opportunities. 

Epcot’s World Showcase is reinventing several of its table service mainstays.  The Patina Restaurant Group will open new restaurant replacing L'Originale Alfredo di Roma Ristorante in the Italy pavilion in.  The California-based Patina Restaurant Group will open a new restaurant in the same spot in Fall 2008. Patina will open Tutto Italia in September 2007 as a temporary option until the new restaurant debuts. Japan's Tempura Kiku and Matsunoma Lounge will be replaced in Fall 2007 with a the new Tokyo Dining.  The popular Teppanyaki Dining room will be renamed Teppan Edo Fall 2007, but the change is in name only.  In the China, the Nine Dragons table-service restaurant will close in Early 2008 for renovations that will add interactive dining options.  In Mexico, a 50- to 60-seat tequila bar will replace a retail shop in the pavilion's spacious indoor courtyard in Summer 2007. Additionally, Mexico’s waterfront Cantina de San Angel is expanding with more seating with optimal views of World Showcase, and will offer a new menu by Summer 2008.

The Animal Kingdom will soon be offering Guests new dining experience to discover.  This November, guests who travel to the land of Asia will encounter Landry’s Yak & Yeti Restaurant. It will seat 250 inside for table-service dining and 350 in a quick-service courtyard.  Tusker House Restaurant will reopen in November 2007 as a buffet restaurant that featuring Donald's Safari Breakfast. The new buffet restaurant will sill feature both indoor and outdoor seating.

Downtown Disney is getting ready to dig up a way to satisfy its Guests Dino-sized appetites.  In early 2008 at Downtown Disney will debut T-Rex: A Prehistoric Family Adventure, A Place to Eat, Shop, Explore and Discover.   Landry’s second Downtown Disney dining location will combine table-service dining and retail in an interactive prehistoric environment built around water, fire and ice.

Details & Discussion http://www.intercot.com/discussion/showthread.php?t=110544

<< Timeshare Tips from The Timeshare Store >>

A few frequently asked questions about Disney Vacation Club resale purchases from INTERCOT's Sponsor - The Timeshare Store:

Q: Why should I buy a Disney vacation club membership through the timeshare store?

A: The reason is simple....SAVINGS.  On average, our customers save $10 to $15 per point when buying a resale rather than purchasing directly from the Disney Vacation Club.  Also, the deeded real estate interest (membership) that you purchase through The Timeshare Store is exactly the same as if you purchased directly from DVC.

Q: Will I receive the same treatment as DVC members who purchase direct through Disney?

A: Absolutely.  Our customers receive the same first rate treatment as those members who purchase direct from the Disney Vacation Club.

Q: How do I know how many DVC points to purchase?

A: The answer to this question really depends on your personal vacation habits.  There are a number of options available to you when you purchase an interest in the Disney Vacation Club.  Your points can be used at any DVC Resort (Old Key West, Boardwalk Villas, Hilton Head Island, Vero Beach Resort, Beach Club Villas, Villas at Wilderness Lodge and Saratoga Springs Resort). You can view the DVC Point Charts (on our website at www.dvc-resales.com) to anticipate how many points you would use at different times of the year, and at different DVC resorts. This is especially useful in helping you determine how many points you may need to purchase.

Q: Can I use my points to stay at resorts other than Walt Disney World?

A: Yes.  Your Disney Vacation Club Membership allows you great flexibility to enjoy resorts all over the world.  Your vacations may include Disney Resort Hotels around the world, non-Disney resorts hotels in the Concierge Collection.  You can also use your points in the Member Getaway Collection, reserving a timeshare in over 500 locations world wide through Interval International.  Disney has added the Disney Cruise Line to the long list of choices that DVC members have. 

Q: How long has the Timeshare Store been in business?

A: The Timeshare Store sold their first Disney Vacation Club resale in 1994 and had only 2 employees. Today, The Timeshare Store, Inc. has 5 full-time licensed real estate associates, 2 full-time administrative assistants, 2 part-time administrative assistants and Tom Yeary is the broker. You will never “talk to a machine” when calling The Timeshare Store during business hours. We are open 7 days a week and pride ourselves in always being available to answer your questions and present offers.

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 has many magical vacations for years to come.

Timeshare Store http://www.dvc-resales.com

<< INTERCOTee Top 5 … Resort Pools >>

Summer is well underway and that means big time heat is here as well.  There’s no better way to cool off during these hot days than a dip in a cool pool.  The Insider has revisited the topic of the “cool-est” Disney resort pools and have tabulated the INTERCOTee Top 5 Favorite Walt Disney World Resort Pools.
 
Coming in at number 5 … Uzima Springs

The Uzima Springs at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge resort lets guests get wet on the wild side. This 11,000 square foot pool is surrounded by fascinating red rocks and the resort’s savannahs giving pool-goers quite the unique experience. For those seeking adventure, there is a 67 foot water slide that blasts riders into this African watering hole. The zero entry feature and nearby splash pool, make this area a big hit with the littler pool goers. For those seeking relaxation, Uzima Springs offers two hot tubs and a pool side bar/snackery that shares the same name as the area.

Coming in at number 4 … The Dig Site

The Dig Site at Disney’s Coronado Springs resort offers guests a cool archeological experience. These watery Mayan ruins feature a 46 ft tall pyramid, a 123 ft long water slide, a splash pool and a hot tub. If you feel like a cool drink while lounging poolside there is Siesta’s Pool Bar. If the hustle and bustle of the cool-seeking adventurers is too much, there are three other quite pools spread about the resort for a more relaxing pool experience.

Coming in at number 3 … Luna Park

Luna Park at Disney’s Boardwalk resort up splish splash’n fun with a 1920’s flare. This pool translates the fun and excitement of a Roaring ‘20s amusement park.  The centerpiece is the Keister Coaster slide that shoots Guests down its winding, watery path in to the 190,000-gallon pool.  The resort also offers two Quite Pools for those who would prefer to cool off in a less roaring environment.   One is located near Community Hall and the other is nestled in the resort’s Rose Courtyard.

Coming in at number 2 … Nanea Volcano

The Nanea Volcano pool at Disney’s Polynesian resort cools off guests in South Pacific style. This pool sits at the base of the 40 ft tall Nanea volcano and features a 120 ft water slide that shoots riders through the volcano itself. The sounds of the South Pacific never have to leave guests of this pool, as music is actually pumped into the pool itself giving guests the music of the islands even when they are underwater. For the littler pool goers, the Nanea Volcano features a zero entry area, a kids water play area and a splash pool. For guests seeking a true island reprieve they can take in a cool beverage at the Barefoot pool bar or visit the Quiet pool located between the Samoa and Tokelau longhouses.

And coming in at number 1 … Stormalong Bay

Stormalong Bay at Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club resorts packs a water park punch into a resort sized pool area. This three-acre, sand bottomed pool is divided into three unique areas each to fulfill a different type of cool seeking guest. For Adventurous pool-goers, there is the shipwreck area. Here guests will find a 230 ft water slide that shoots riders through the hull of a large shipwreck and also a sand bottomed whirlpool that literally takes guests for a cool spin. For those seeking relaxation, there is the lazy river area. Grab an inner tube and float along this more peaceful section of the “bay”. Additionally for the relaxation minded guest, there are a number of secluded hot tubs scattered along Stormalong Bay. For little ones, there is the shallows area. This sandy area features splash pools and even a kiddie water slide. If you looking for something to wet your whistle after you wet yourself, you can stop by Hurricane Hannah’s for a cool beverage. The Beach Club and Yacht Club each also feature quite pools tucked away in alcoves of their respective resort buildings for those looking for the ultimate in secluded pool lounging.

That’s it for the countdown, hope it’s given you some cool reasons to pick out a place to stay on your next trip.

<< Welcome to Our New Sponsors >>

A hearty INTERCOT welcome to two great new sponsors who help us bring the magic to you by sponsoring the site.  Please check them out and use their services if you have a need - and tell them INTERCOT sent you. 

Mandara Spa at the Walt Disney World Dolphin

The name Mandara comes from an ancient Sanskrit legend about
the gods’ quest to find the elixir of immortality and eternal youth. With roots in Bali and Indonesia and influences from North America, our exotic spa treatments reflect the beauty, spirit and traditions of both Eastern and Western cultures.

To ensure you begin your therapies calm and relaxed, Mandara Spa
at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin features a Meditation
Garden featuring a mystical Meru Temple. Throughout Asia, the Meru
Temple is symbolic of the mythological Meru Mountain, the most
sacred center of the universe and abode of the gods.

In Zen Buddhism, the Tea Ceremony is a meditation ritual of the Zen
Master. In honor of this ancient philosophy, Mandara Spa has created a Tea Garden that features an Asian Bale. Here guests can sip refreshments and enjoy the mystical ambiance while waiting for their treatments.

Our specialized treatments include Aroma Stone Therapy, Massage, Miracle Micro Therapy, European Facials, Body Wraps, Body Scrubs, Private couples Jacuzzi and massage rooms. Great Lengths Hair Extensions, Nova Lash Eyelash Extensions and a Full Service Salon which includes manicure, pedicure , hair cut, color and style.

INTERCOT August Special : 20% off all services and retail product purchases - Offer valid from 8/1/07-8/31/07 - Complimentary Valet Parking.  Please mention INTERCOT to receive this offer.

Website: http://www.swandolphin.com/activities/spa.html
 

Buena Vista Scooters

The Buena Vista companies have been providing quality products and services to Walt Disney World Resort guests since 1995 and have built their reputation on three things Quality, Integrity and Reliability.

Sometimes it really is all about location. As the only provider located on Disney property, Buena Vista Scooter Rentals can provide Disney guests with service and support unmatched by our competitors. Contact us to find out how we can help you more fully enjoy your Walt Disney World vacation.

Website: http://www.buenavistascooters.com

<< This Month in Disney History with vizsla >>

Magical Disney Milestones for the Month of July:

1932 – Disney’s Silly Symphony cartoon “Flowers and Trees” was released on July 20th.

1955 – The Candy Palace opened on Main Street in Disneyland on July 22nd.

1989 – Tony’s Town Square Restaurant opened in the Magic Kingdom on July 24th.

1995 – Disney’s live stage show “Beauty and the Beast” opened its 1st international show on July 8th at The Princess Theatre, in Melbourne, Australia.

1998 – Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” broke the record on July 7th for the longest-running show on Broadway with its 1,762nd performance at the Palace Theatre in N.Y.C.

2000 – To mark the 1st anniversary of the Rock’n’RollerCoaster, Walt Disney World took 80 corvettes and formed the signature guitar in the MGM Studios parking lot on July 29th.

2002 – Disney’s Beach Club Villas opened on July 1st to Guest at Walt Disney World.

2004 – The “One Man’s Dream II – The Magic Lives On” show opened on July 3rd at Tokyo Disneyland.

2005 – Disneyland received the coveted Award of Excellence Star on July 14th in recognition of its 50th anniversary. The dedication took place on Hollywood Blvd. in front of the El Capitan Theatre.

<< Conclusion >>

That wraps up this issue. Hope all these cool info and tips has been a bit of a reprieve from this hot, hot Summer weather.  All these new Dining developments that start this fall are sure exciting, and you can count on the Insider to keep you up–to-date as they open.  We’ll be back in a few weeks with our regular monthly columns.  See ya real soon!

<< Thank You To Our Sponsors! >>

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/

Stan Kelley Photography
Ever wish you could be in the picture? Stan Kelley Photography takes quality family portraits of your Orlando dream vacation that you'll treasure forever.
Website: http://www.flmemories.com/

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/

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