Behind The Magic Podcast Recap February 6 – February 12, 2017

Behind The Magic Podcast 2017

This unique Disney podcast is hosted by Zeek, Rachel, and myself. Please join us for entertaining episodes filled with Disney information, discussions, games, and more. We’ll be surprising you each and every week with our funny stories and Disney insider knowledge. And of course, we’ll also keep you up-to-date on all of the latest Disney news and gossip.

This Week’s Episodes


Episode 2017-016 – February 9, 2017 – Diet Dozen!

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Episode 2017-015 – February 6, 2017 – Patent Whisperer!

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For more details and to listen to past episodes, please click here!
We hope you enjoy our show!

Paddlefish Now Open In Disney Springs

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Calling all seafood lovers! The long awaited transformation is complete and now the former iconic restaurant, Fulton’s Crab House, has reopened as Paddlefish at Disney Springs. Here’s everything you need to know:


Levy Restaurants is excited to announce the grand opening of Paddlefish, its newest dining experience at Disney Springs. The seafood-centric restaurant, formerly known as Fulton’s Crab House, has undergone an extensive, multimillion-dollar transformation which involved a full renovation with a brand new design (interior and exterior) that has transformed the vessel into a modern yacht experience.

paddlefish-9The aesthetic of Paddlefish was inspired by a modern, seafaring yacht with its clean lines, crisp designs, refined woods and a sophisticated color palette of blues and grays. Purposeful elements are showcased in the dining areas such as booths that are put into spaces with great views and a bar that overlooks the paddlewheel. Unique design features include opening up all of the windows for an open-air feel and bar areas decorated with brass accents that resemble fish gills.

“We’re excited to embark upon Paddlefish’s next voyage, and can’t wait for guests to share this new experience with us,” said Andy Lansing, President and CEO of Levy Restaurants. “As Disney Springs evolves and grows, we’re looking forward to sharing this newly reimagined restaurant with both vacationers and Florida locals.”

Paddlefish’s menu showcases fresh seafood including Maine lobster, King and Snow crabs and a selection of fresh fish including sea bass, catfish and salmon. Fan favorites and classic dishes from Fulton’s Crab House, such as Lobster Corn Dogs and Crab Legs, are still offered on the menu alongside new, contemporary options such as Lobster Risotto and Jambalaya. The menu also features interactive dining experiences including tableside services like Lobster Guacamole and Branzino for Two carved right at your table.

“It’s been incredible to have this opportunity to not only completely redevelop the menu, but also the kitchen design to accommodate it,” said Executive Chef Mark Boor. “I’ve put my heart and soul into creating a well-balanced menu that will have something that appeals to every palate and I’m excited to finally welcome guests onboard and see that hard work and vision come to life.”

Paddlefish also showcases unique beverage offerings. The cocktail menu was inspired by classic, turn-of-the-century American cocktails and gives them a unique, modern spin with fresh ingredients and spirits that are house made by small craft artisan distillers. “We’ve really dug deep into finding some truly rare and amazing wines and spirits along with our favorite, familiar classics,” said General Manager, Jimmy Kraus. “Our goal was to have cocktails that feel timeless, unique and balanced.”

Paddlefish is open for lunch and dinner in addition to offering a Sunday brunch. Guests have the opportunity to enjoy three unique dining room experiences on the ship, which can seat a total 760 guests. Guests can enjoy their meal in the main dining room, in the “Boil Room” where guests can create their own seafood boils or on the rooftop deck where guests can sip on shared punch bowls and snack on shared plates while soaking in the sun and views of Lake Buena Vista and Disney Springs. Paddlefish also offers versatile private dining rooms and event spaces to accommodate celebrations or meetings from 20 to 1,000 guests.  


501 WaysHeading to Disney World soon?

If you are planning a vacation to Disney World, be sure to check out these valuable resources to help you save time and money:

Are you excited to try the newly reimagined Paddlefish?
Please leave a comment; I would love to hear from you!

2017 Garden Rocks Concert Series Bands Announced

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If you plan to visit Disney World this spring during the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, here is some exciting news! Disney has just released the information about which bands will be appearing in the Garden Rocks Concert Series that runs during the festival. Here’s everything you need to know courtesy of Disney:


Sixteen music acts of multiple genres with hits spanning the past five decades will play the Garden Rocks Concert Series at the 24th Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival. Running 90 days and kicking off March 1, this year’s festival launches the concert series March 3 to showcase performers every Friday through Monday until Memorial Day, May 29. It’s the first year the Garden Rocks acts will appear every festival Monday.

berlinSimple Plan, Exposé and Berlin featuring Terri Nunn will rock Epcot audiences for the first time. Jon Secada, who first played the Garden Rocks stage in 2015, will kick off the concert series March 3.

Guests can dance in their seats each festival weekend to classic tunes at the park’s outdoor America Gardens Theatre overlooking the World Showcase Lagoon. An eclectic mix of Flower & Garden Festival fan favorites includes 1960s icons Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone, ’70s-’80s chart-toppers The Pointer Sisters and ’90s hit-makers Gin Blossoms. On Memorial Day, The Spinners will close the 90-day festival with their R&B repertoire of Billboard top hits.

Performances are at America Gardens Theatre at 5:30, 6:45 and 8pm every Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday of the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival and are included with Epcot admission. Here is this year’s lineup (subject to change without notice):

  • March 3-4: Jon Secada “Just Another Day”
  • March 5-6: Dennis DeYoung: The Music of STYX “Grand Illusion”
  • March 10-13: The Pointer Sisters “I’m So Excited”
  • March 17-18: New! Simple Plan “Welcome to My Life”
  • March 19-20: New! Plain White T’s “Hey There Delilah”
  • March 24-27: Night Ranger “Sister Christian”
  • March 31-April 3: Little River Band “Reminiscing”
  • April 7-10: Blood, Sweat & Tears featuring Bo Bice “Spinning Wheel”
  • April 14-17: Gin Blossoms “Hey Jealousy”
  • April 21-24: The Orchestra starring former members of ELO “Evil Woman”
  • April 28-29: New! Exposé “Point of No Return”
  • April 30-May 1: New! Berlin featuring Terri Nunn “Take My Breath Away”
  • May 5-8: STARSHIP starring Mickey Thomas “We Built This City”
  • May 12-15: The Guess Who “American Woman”
  • May 19-22: Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone “I’m Henry VIII I Am”
  • May 26-29: The Spinners “Working My Way Back to You”

501 WaysHeading to Disney World soon?

If you are planning a vacation to Disney World, be sure to check out these valuable resources to help you save time and money:

What band are you most excited to hear?
Please leave a comment; I would love to hear from you!

Celebrating Valentine’s Day In Walt Disney World

If you are one of those lucky people who will be celebrating your love in Walt Disney World this year on Valentine’s Day, you have lots of romantic options available. Here are just some of the many possibilities available courtesy of Disney:


nye2017Celebrate love with your significant other on Valentine’s Day and every day at the most magical place on earth, Walt Disney World Resort. Throughout the 40-square-mile playground there’s simple and luxurious splurges for couples of all ages — from moonlit strolls and stolen kisses aboard attractions to pampering spas and intimate dining for two.

The four Walt Disney World theme parks and 26 resort hotels create a perfect setting for spontaneous romance. Gazing at dazzling fireworks, a surrey bike ride for two, or a leisurely swing beachside, couples can embrace a bouquet of romantic experiences.

Here’s a few options for lovebirds:

The Couple that ‘Spas’ Together… What’s more enjoyable than a luxurious spa treatment? Imagine sharing it with that special someone.  The Senses – A Disney Spa at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and the Senses – A Disney Spa at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort, both feature a “couples room” where guests can enjoy specialized spa treatments – such as massages and facials – with the one they love. For information about spa treatments, call 407-WDW-SPAS.

Make like Aladdin and Jasmine – Fly through the sky with your special someone on an adventurous tandem parasail over Bay Lake. Those looking to soar to new heights can spend 10 minutes soaring high above Disney and get a bird’s-eye view of Magic Kingdom Park and its neighboring resorts. Contact Sammy Duvall’s Watersports Centre at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, or call 407/939-0754 for reservations for a tandem flight.

Disney Springs 3Sunset in the SkyA very different kind of flight is aboard a tethered balloon rising gently into the Florida sky. Located on the waterfront at Disney Springs, Characters in Flight gives romantics a chance to take their love to new heights. Operating daily, the giant balloon provides breathtaking sights from 400 ft. up in the air with an unparalleled, 360-degree view of the Vacation Kingdom and beyond. Flights take place between 8:30 a.m. and midnight (weather permitting) and last approximately 8-10 minutes. Romantics who time their flight to sunset or fireworks bursting above the parks are in for a special treat. Tickets can be purchased at Disney Springs West Side; tickets are $12.00 per child and $18.00 per adult (tax not included).

Polynesian Village ResortMagical ResortsFrom the tropical splendor of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort to the Victorian era of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, the mood is set for an enchanting stay at a Walt Disney World resort hotel. Disney’s fantasy hotels transport couples to faraway places with lavish theming, picturesque views and superior service. For reservations, guests may call 407-W-DISNEY (934-7639) or visit DisneyWorld.com/resorts.

The Love Boat The Grand Floridian’s Grand 1 – an elegant 52-foot yacht – can give couples, or parties up to 18, a stunning view of “Wishes” fireworks showering above Magic Kingdom during select evening cruises along Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake. Private butler service and gourmet meals also are available. Romantic evening cruises include a captain and private deck hand. Reservations may be made up to 90 days in advance by calling 407-WDW-PLAY. Callers to that same number can ask about Magic Kingdom or Epcot fireworks cruises aboard gently floating pontoon boats. To turn up the romance, lovebirds can order up champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries for their fireworks viewing.

Disney Dining Serves Romance Couples find Disney dining infused with romance in settings ranging from subdued to spectacular.

  • Indulge in a romantic dinner for two at California Grill atop Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Situated on the 15th floor of the resort, the onstage, market-inspired kitchen boasts breathtaking views of the Magic Kingdom, Seven Seas Lagoon and nightly fireworks.  The menu is creative, seasonal, sophisticated and fun.
  • Be Our Guest BreakfastBeneath shimmering chandeliers, lovebirds can dine in fairy tale elegance at Be Our Guest Restaurant in New Fantasyland. Known as the place where Belle and Beast fell in love, the grand ballroom in Beast’s Castle is the perfect setting for romance as ‘snow’ falls on the French countryside outside the windows and guests dine on French-inspired cuisine and fine wines.
  • One of the most romantic dinner spots at Walt Disney World Resort is a table for two at Victoria & Albert’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. The elegant restaurant has been honored with the Five-Diamond Award from AAA for its gourmet cuisine. Combining Royal Doulton china, Cristofle silver and personalized menus, Victoria & Albert’s is the “crown jewel” of the Grand Floridian’s dining destinations. Soft harp music fills the air in the intimate dining room. Ladies also receive a long-stemmed red rose. For the ultimate romantic experience, an evening at the Chef’s Table is unsurpassed. Couples are seated at a cozy table in Victoria & Albert’s kitchen and treated to a culinary feast custom-tailored to their palates.
  • Guests who prefer to dine in an even more intimate setting at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa need only to pick up the closest telephone. The Grand Floridian can arrange a private dinner for two, served against the elegant backdrop of the Grand Floridian beach – or aboard the Grand 1 – on a sunset excursion along Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake. Certain menu items can be specially prepared for the evening. Seven-day notice is requested.
  • France PavilionThere’s nothing more romantic than a champagne toast with classical French cuisine. Monsieur Paul restaurant at the France pavilion at Epcot pays homage to one of France’s most celebrated chefs, Paul Bocuse with upscale French creations. The second floor vantage point of the newly redesigned restaurant offers stunning views of the nightly IllumiNations fireworks display.
  • At Disney Springs, guests can satisfy their sweet tooth and find the perfect goodies for their ‘sweetie’ with many options, including The Ganachery, with Disney’s proprietary recipe for the custom-made ganache, a luxurious mixture of melted chocolate and cream. Amorette’s Patisserie features classic and contemporary pastries by the Disney chefs, with custom cakes that are works of art.

For all Walt Disney World dining information, guests can visit DisneyWorld.com/Dining or call 407-WDW-DINE (939-3463).

Valentines DayBountiful BouquetsDisney Floral & Gifts offers much more than just the traditional dozen roses. ‘Dream Makers’ can help you design a one-of-a kind experience with everything from an in-room celebration with rose petals and champagne if you’re staying at a resort hotel to a beautiful floral arrangement.

Nature Lovers A horseback ride through one of the backwoods trails at Walt Disney World Resort is just the thing for couples who share a love of nature and each other. Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground offers wrangler-led tours (45 minutes) through the deep, pine-scented woods that make up part of the Vacation Kingdom’s 40 square miles. Tours leave several times daily from Trail Blaze Corral, and may be reserved by calling 407-WDW-PLAY (939-7529).

Romantic Evening Horse-drawn carriage rides through the wilderness of Walt Disney World Resort are a romantic treat for couples looking for a secluded nighttime outing. The antique carriages depart from Pioneer Hall at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground and traverse throughout the scenic landscape of the 750-acre rustic resort. Or guests can choose a relaxing old-fashioned carriage ride through Disney’s Port Orleans Resort-Riverside with pickup at Boatwright’s Dining Hall. Each nightly excursion is 25 minutes long. For reservations, guests can call 407-WDW-PLAY (939-7529).

Wedding PavilionWeddings Around the ‘World’ The epitome of Disney romance can be summed up in four words: Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings. Since the first wedding at Disney’s Wedding Pavilion in 1995, more than 1,000 couples each year have exchanged vows at Walt Disney World Resort.

For these couples, dreams become reality. Where else but at Disney could a bride arrive for her wedding in Cinderella’s glass coach, have a handsome major domo carry wedding rings to the altar in a glass slipper, or have Mickey and Minnie greet guests at the reception?

Whether it’s an elegant ball at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, a traditional ceremony at Disney’s Wedding Pavilion or a beach-themed wedding complete with tiki torches, leis and luau on one of the Walt Disney World white-sand beaches, Disney custom designs each wedding with the famous “Disney Difference” – providing attention to the tiniest detail. Couples can even exchange vows inside Magic Kingdom Park, offering up to 100 guests a picture-perfect view of Cinderella Castle. For more information on Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings, call 321-939-4623 or visit disneyweddings.com.

And honeymooners thrive in the romantic allure of Walt Disney World Resort–a top-rated honeymoon destination, according to industry experts. To book a Disney’s Fairy Tale Honeymoon call 321-939-4623 or visit the website at disneyhoneymoons.com

Renewing Vows Many couples who’ve been married for years are coming to Walt Disney World Resort, often with their families, to renew their vows five, 10, 25 and 50 years later. A Disney vacation provides the perfect backdrop to celebrate this family milestone. Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings experts can tailor the ceremony and celebration to suit each couple.


501 WaysHeading to Disney World soon?

If you are planning a vacation to Disney World, be sure to check out these valuable resources to help you save time and money:

Will you be celebrating Valentine’s Day in Disney World?
Please leave a comment; I would love to hear from you!

Pandora – The World Of Avatar To Open May 27, 2017 At Disney’s Animal Kingdom

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Great news Avatar fans! Disney has officially announced the opening date of the highly anticipated Pandora- The World of Avatar land at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Here’s everything you need to know courtesy of Disney:


pandora-5Pandora – The World of Avatar will open at Disney’s Animal Kingdom on Saturday, May 27, it was announced today by Disney CEO Bob Iger during The Walt Disney Company Shareholders meeting.

Inspired by Academy-award winning filmmaker James Cameron’s box-office hit, “AVATAR,” the new 12-acre land will immerse guests in the lush world of Pandora about a generation after the film’s human-Na’vi conflict.

The magical new land will transport guests to a mystical world of bioluminescent rainforests, floating mountains and soaring Banshees.

Two main adventures will beckon Disney’s Animal Kingdom guests:

Riding a magnificent Mountain Banshee, guests will soar across Pandora on Avatar Flight of Passage. This high-tech adventure will offer a thrilling flight through the jungles and floating mountains, and over the majestic oceans of this colorful world.

On the family-friendly Na’vi River Journey guests will sail down a sacred river hidden within a glowing rainforest. The expedition will end in an unforgettable encounter with a Na’vi Shaman, a figure who has a deep connection to the life force of Pandora.

pandora-7Guests will also be able to dine at Satu’li Canteen, grab a drink at Pongu Pongu or shop for Na’vi cultural items, toys, science kits, and more at Windtraders.

The expansion completes the transformation of Disney’s Animal Kingdom from a day into nighttime theme park with captivating offerings and extended entertainment.

Pandora – The World of Avatar is a creative collaboration by Walt Disney Imagineering, Cameron and Lightstorm Entertainment to bring to life the mythical world of Pandora.


501 WaysHeading to Disney World soon?

If you are planning a vacation to Disney World, be sure to check out these valuable resources to help you save time and money:

What are you most looking forward to in Pandora – The World Of Avatar?
Please leave a comment; I would love to hear from you!