Tag Archives: Tips & Tricks

Jul 1 2015

Last Chance – 501 Ways To Make The Most Of Your Walt Disney World Vacation Giveaway

Last Chance

Wednesday, July 1 is the last day to enter to win a copy of my new book “501 Ways To Make The Most Of Your Walt Disney World Vacation“!

What People Are Saying About “501 Ways”

“501 Ways… is a great book for planners, an easy read and it’s the type of book you can pick up to read in-between errands, waiting at appointments, while taking a work break, etc. It’s very easy to pick-up where you left off and continue expanding your Disney knowledge!”
– Terri of WDW Hints

“Kristi’s book is a great resource for Walt Disney World novices, as well as experienced travelers. Those of us who’ve been to Walt Disney World can attest – you can NEVER know everything about the parks, touring, planning, etc. and having a resource like 501 Ways is a great way to learn more about Walt Disney World, and also get yourself excited for your upcoming trip! And I have to say, Kristi’s final tip in the book is my absolute favorite; you’ll have to get a copy yourself to see what that is!”
– Katie of The Most Delightful Place

“If you are planning a Walt Disney World vacation, you probably are a bit overwhelmed. I am a firm believer in that you can never have enough knowledge. I would recommend that you pick up Kristi’s book today, while you will never know all there is to know about Walt Disney World, this book will assist you in having an AMAZING Walt Disney World experience.”
– Jason of Man of the Mouse

“This little book is chock full of nifty and useful tips for a Walt Disney World vacation.”
– Amazon Customer Review

“This book is one of the best Disney World books that I’ve come across. Just exceptional! There’s so much information packed in it that everyone is bound to learn something that they didn’t know before.”
– Amazon Customer Review

“It is full of practical tips and is written to be both informative and entertaining as the author shares some of her family’s personal experiences.”
– Amazon Customer Review

“I’ve been to Walt Disney World somewhere between 20-30 times in the last 15 years, and even as a frequent visitor (who you might think “knows it all” – I don’t!), I got a lot of great tips and information from Kristi’s book.”
– Amazon Customer Review

A Little About “501 Ways” – From The Back Cover

The difference between an average and a fantastic Walt Disney World vacation is in the details. And no matter how much you know, there’s still a lot you don’t know. Kristi Fredericks helps close the knowledge gap with her 501 ways to save money, time, and sanity while at the happiest place on Earth.

Just a minute, you say. You’ve heard all the tips, you’ve read all the sites and all the books that promise to help you “make the most of” your Walt Disney World vacation. Are there really any new tips in here?

TouringPlans.com blogger Kristi Fredericks has come up with the Disney World travel tips book for people who are sick of Disney World travel tips books. Her 501 ways to make the most of your Disney vacation include:

  • How to ensure your trip will be a success before you leave home, by packing cheap, never-thought-of essentials from your local dollar store, setting up your iPhone as a personal Disney assistant, and much more
  • How to make the most of the four theme parks, by finding the best parade and photo-op spots, keeping little kids enchanted by Epcot, beating the crowds out of the parks, and much more
  • How to never run out of pixie dust, by keeping the kids entertained in lines, creating your own park “challenges”, treating the resort hotels as a fifth theme park, and many other “Mousecellaneous” tips
  • How Kristi herself used many of the tips and techniques in this book during her countless visits to Walt Disney World, as recounted in her humorous stories and anecdotes

You’re just 501 ways from the best Disney World vacation of your life!

The Giveaway

Until midnight Wednesday, July 1, 2015, you can enter to win a copy of my new book “501 Ways To Make The Most Of Your Walt Disney World Vacation“. Just click the image below and follow the instructions to be entered into the giveaway. Be sure to take advantage of the bonus entries, and please feel free to share with your friends and family!  

501 Ways

Can’t wait and need to get the book right away?
Please click this link to purchase your copy today!

The Winner

Please check back on Thursday, July 2, 2015 for the announcement of the winner! If you entered to win, be sure to check your email (including your Junk Folder) for a message with the subject line “501 Ways To Make The Most Of Your Walt Disney World Vacation Winner”!

Are you planning a trip to Disney World soon? Are you entering to win?
Please leave a comment and good luck, everyone!

Jun 25 2015

Helpful Information For Your November 2015 Disney World Vacation

Disney World Thanksgiving

So you are planning a vacation to Disney World in November 2015? November is a wonderful time of year to visit Walt Disney World. The weather is beautiful and the crowds are manageable.

Weather

The weather in Disney World during November is mild and mostly dry. The average high is about 78 degrees, the average low is about 58 degrees and the average rainfall is about 2.14 inches. The evenings can get a little chilly, so be sure to pack a few clothes for cooler weather, too.

Crowds

The crowds in November are fairly moderate with the exception of Thanksgiving week.

November 1 – November 7 – Average Crowd Level 4.9 out of 10
November 8 – November 14 – Average Crowd Level 5.6 out of 10
November 15 – November 21 – Average Crowd Level 3.9 out of 10
November 22 – November 28 – Average Crowd Level 7.4 out of 10
November 29 – November 30 – Average Crowd Level 5.0 out of 10

Park Hours

Magic Kingdom ClockThe Parks continue to be open several hours per day during the fall season.

  • Magic Kingdom: Open most days from 9am – 10pm (plus Extra Magic Hours)
  • Epcot: Open from 9am – 9pm (plus Extra Magic Hours)
  • Hollywood Studios: Open most days from 9am – 8pm (plus Extra Magic Hours)
  • Animal Kingdom: Open most days from 9am – 6pm (plus Extra Magic Hours)

For specific hours on each day during November, please click this link. Remember that park hours are subject to change and are often adjusted two weeks prior.

Events

HalloweenOn November 1, the final Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party of 2015 will be held at Magic Kingdom. This party is a lively, light-hearted, family friendly event. There are special parades, exciting dance parties, stunning fireworks and tons of trick-or-treating stations filled with candy for everyone! Adults and children alike really get into the spirit of the event by dressing in costume, trick-or-treating and dancing the night away with all of the characters. For more information including pricing, please click here.

Wine and Dine Half MarathonOn November 6 and 7, the Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend will be held. This event includes kids races, a 5K run, an expo, a finish line party, as well as the half marathon. The big race itself has little impact on other non-running visitors to Disney World, because it is held at night. For more information, please visit the runDisney site by clicking here.

ChristmasBeginning on November 8 and running through December 18, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party will be held on select nights at Magic Kingdom. This party is a festive and heart warming experience for the entire family. There is a special holiday parade, entertaining shows, spectacular fireworks, hot chocolate and cookies, character dance parties, and even snow on Main Street! For more information including dates and pricing, please click here.

Epcot International Food & Wine FestivalOne of the best things about visiting Disney World in November is the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival. This fabulous celebration runs through November 16 and features more than 25 food and beverage marketplaces scattered around World Showcase, signature dining experiences, food and beverage demonstrations, and music concerts. The first details for the 2015 event have been released; please click here for more information.

Turkey LegFor Thanksgiving, several Disney World restaurants serve a traditional holiday feast. For more details and information about this year’s celebration, please click here. If you have your heart set on eating at a particular restaurant for Thanksgiving, be sure to make your dining reservation right away, because holidays do fill up quickly. Disney World dining reservations can be made by clicking here. If all else fails, you can always grab one of those famous Disney turkey legs. Don’t know what I’m talking about? Check out this article!

Disney World Holiday DecorationsEvery year at Epcot, the holiday season is celebrated with a special event called Holidays Around The World. This year the festive happening will be held from November 27 through December 30. It is filled with yummy food, joyful music and wonderful traditions from countries around the globe. For more information and reservations, please click here! 

Refurbishments

Periodically throughout the year, Disney closes attractions for refurbishments and enhancements. Here are the scheduled closures during November (subject to change without notice):

Magic Kingdom

  • Diamond Horseshoe: August 2 – November 19, 2015
  • Liberty Tree Tavern: July 6 – November 20, 2015
  • Peter Pan’s Flight: November 2 – November 7, 2015
  • Walt Disney World Railroad: October 12 – November 20, 2015

Epcot

  • Frozen Ever After: October 5 – May 1, 2016
  • Sum of All Thrills: November 30 – December 4, 2015

Hollywood Studios

  • Catalina Eddie’s: October 11 – November 19, 2015
  • Jedi Training Academy: October 5 – November 30, 2015
  • Rosie’s All-American Café: October 11 – November 19, 2015
  • Star Wars Land: Opening TBD
  • Toy Story Land: Opening TBD
  • Walt Disney: One Man’s Dream (Finale only): October 16 – December 5, 2015

Animal Kingdom

Water Parks

  • Blizzard Beach: Park Closed October 4 – January 2, 2016

Downtown Disney

  • Downtown Disney is undergoing a major transformation to become the reimagined Disney Springs. Construction will be finished in phases with the final completion date set for Fall 2016.

Resort Hotels

  • All Star Sports: Grand Slam Pool October 26 – December 18, 2015
  • Boardwalk Inn: Exterior Painting August 17, 2015 – May 5, 2016
  • Caribbean Beach Resort: Bridges Connecting Aruba and Jamaica to Old Port Royale October – November 27, 2015
  • Coronado Springs: Ranchos Village Quiet Pool November 2 – 3, 2015
  • Polynesian Village Resort: Polynesian East Pool To Be Completed In 2016
  • Pop Century: Computer Pool November 30 – December 3, 2015
  • Port Orleans French Quarter: Kiddie Pool September 8 – December 23, 2015
  • Walt Disney World Swan: Ongoing Guest Room Refurbishments To Be Completed In 2015
  • Wilderness Lodge: Hidden Springs Quiet Pool, Resort Beach, Playground and Fire Pit To Be Completed In 2017

Planning Tips

If you are traveling to Disney World in November 2015, your planning is probably well under way at this point. Here’s a checklist to make sure you are on track:

  • Make sure you have created your My Disney Experience account. If you haven’t, click here to sign up now.
  • If you haven’t already made your dining reservations, be sure to make them now by clicking here, especially if you are trying to book a special dinner for Thanksgiving.
  • Magic Your Band 1If you are staying on site, be sure to customize your MagicBand on your My Disney Experience account by picking the color and adding your name. And if you really want to make your MagicBand special, personalize it with your own custom designed MagicBand Skin from Magic YOUR Band. Click here to get started!
  • Now is a great time to research what attractions you and your family would like to see at the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom. Because Walt Disney World is so large, it is very difficult to see everything during one trip, so be sure to get everyone’s top priorities. This is also a great time to begin looking at menus for counter service restaurants so that you have an idea of which locations serve foods that your entire family will enjoy.
  • Whether you are staying on site or off-property, be sure to purchase your admission tickets and link them to your My Disney Experience account.
  • 501 WaysOnce your tickets are linked and at exactly 60 days in advance of your check in date (midnight EST time) if you are staying on site or 30 days in advance for all other guests, login to your My Disney Experience account and book your Fastpass+ reservations.
  • If you are staying on site, be sure to check in online at 60 days out from your arrival date.
  • Double check your flight times and if you will be using Disney’s Magical Express for your airport transportation make your reservation at least 60 days in advance by clicking here.
  • It’s never too early to start creating a packing list so that you don’t forget anything.
  • Need more help planning? Please check out my new book 501 Ways to Make the Most of Your Walt Disney World Vacation, for hundreds of insider tips and secrets for having the most magical Disney World vacation possible!

Special Offers

If you haven’t already made your November 2015 reservations, be sure to check out these valuable resources to help you save money:

Join The Fun

Next Disney VacationDisney Vacation Planner Jennifer Hardy and I have teamed up to create a new Facebook Group called Next Disney Vacation! It is the perfect place to talk about your next Disney vacation, ask your questions, get them answered, and share the magic. Everyday you’ll find posts, photos, trivia, tips, and more that we find all throughout the Disney Universe. If you’re counting the days until your next Disney vacation or just dreaming of one, we would love to have you join in the fun! Please click here to be a part of our group!

Have a magical vacation!

Jun 17 2015

501 Ways To Make The Most Of Your Walt Disney World Vacation Giveaway

Enter Daily To Win

I am giving away a copy of my new book “501 Ways To Make The Most Of Your Walt Disney World Vacation“!

What People Are Saying About “501 Ways”

“501 Ways… is a great book for planners, an easy read and it’s the type of book you can pick up to read in-between errands, waiting at appointments, while taking a work break, etc. It’s very easy to pick-up where you left off and continue expanding your Disney knowledge!”
– Terri of WDW Hints

“Kristi’s book is a great resource for Walt Disney World novices, as well as experienced travelers. Those of us who’ve been to Walt Disney World can attest – you can NEVER know everything about the parks, touring, planning, etc. and having a resource like 501 Ways is a great way to learn more about Walt Disney World, and also get yourself excited for your upcoming trip! And I have to say, Kristi’s final tip in the book is my absolute favorite; you’ll have to get a copy yourself to see what that is!”
– Katie of The Most Delightful Place

“If you are planning a Walt Disney World vacation, you probably are a bit overwhelmed. I am a firm believer in that you can never have enough knowledge. I would recommend that you pick up Kristi’s book today, while you will never know all there is to know about Walt Disney World, this book will assist you in having an AMAZING Walt Disney World experience.”
– Jason of Man of the Mouse

“This little book is chock full of nifty and useful tips for a Walt Disney World vacation.”
– Amazon Customer Review

“This book is one of the best Disney World books that I’ve come across. Just exceptional! There’s so much information packed in it that everyone is bound to learn something that they didn’t know before.”
– Amazon Customer Review

“It is full of practical tips and is written to be both informative and entertaining as the author shares some of her family’s personal experiences.”
– Amazon Customer Review

“I’ve been to Walt Disney World somewhere between 20-30 times in the last 15 years, and even as a frequent visitor (who you might think “knows it all” – I don’t!), I got a lot of great tips and information from Kristi’s book.”
– Amazon Customer Review

A Little About “501 Ways” – From The Back Cover

The difference between an average and a fantastic Walt Disney World vacation is in the details. And no matter how much you know, there’s still a lot you don’t know. Kristi Fredericks helps close the knowledge gap with her 501 ways to save money, time, and sanity while at the happiest place on Earth.

Just a minute, you say. You’ve heard all the tips, you’ve read all the sites and all the books that promise to help you “make the most of” your Walt Disney World vacation. Are there really any new tips in here?

TouringPlans.com blogger Kristi Fredericks has come up with the Disney World travel tips book for people who are sick of Disney World travel tips books. Her 501 ways to make the most of your Disney vacation include:

  • How to ensure your trip will be a success before you leave home, by packing cheap, never-thought-of essentials from your local dollar store, setting up your iPhone as a personal Disney assistant, and much more
  • How to make the most of the four theme parks, by finding the best parade and photo-op spots, keeping little kids enchanted by Epcot, beating the crowds out of the parks, and much more
  • How to never run out of pixie dust, by keeping the kids entertained in lines, creating your own park “challenges”, treating the resort hotels as a fifth theme park, and many other “Mousecellaneous” tips
  • How Kristi herself used many of the tips and techniques in this book during her countless visits to Walt Disney World, as recounted in her humorous stories and anecdotes

You’re just 501 ways from the best Disney World vacation of your life!

The Giveaway

From now through Wednesday, July 1, 2015, please enter daily to win a copy of my new book “501 Ways To Make The Most Of Your Walt Disney World Vacation“. Just click the image below and follow the instructions to be entered into the giveaway. Be sure to take advantage of the bonus entries, and please feel free to share with your friends and family!  

501 Ways

Can’t wait and need to get the book right away?
Please click this link to purchase your copy today!

Are you planning a trip to Disney World soon? Are you entering to win?
Please leave a comment and good luck, everyone!

Jun 4 2015

My Interview With Behind The Magic Podcast Plus An Exciting Announcement

The Snack Credit of Podcasts

My Interview

Have you had a chance to listen to Behind The Magic Podcast yet? This unique 15-minute daily Disney podcast is hosted by my friends Zeek, Rachel and Tim. Every day Monday through Friday you can join the Behind The Magic Podcast crew for entertaining Disney discussions, news, guests, and games. I recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Zeek and Rachel to discuss my books – A Tale of Two Resorts and 501 Ways to Make the Most of Your Walt Disney World Vacation. I had such a blast hanging out with the gang and you can listen to our chat here!

Mouse WhisperAn Exciting Announcement

And now for an exciting announcement…Beginning on Friday, July 3, I will be joining the Behind The Magic Podcast cast! Each week I’ll be coming on with “Mouse Whispers” where we’ll dish about all of the latest Disney gossip and rumors. If you love my Rumors vs. Reality articles, you’ll love “Mouse Whispers”! Be sure to check out my new Podcast Page where you can now find links to all of the fabulous Behind The Magic Podcast episodes.

Are you a fan of Disney podcasts? Are you excited for “Mouse Whispers”?
Please leave a comment!

May 31 2015

Disney World Enthusiast Weekly Round Up May 31, 2015

Here’s the Disney World Enthusiast Weekly Round Up for May 31, 2015!

Latest Disney World Enthusiast Articles

Disney World Mickey Mouse EarsDisney Did You Know

When laid end to end, there are enough of the famous “Mouse Ear” hats sold each year to stretch 175 miles or cover the head of every man, woman and child in Orange County, Florida.

Tip Of The Week

Spaceship Earth at NightIf you will be visiting the theme parks on your day of arrival before checking into your hotel, save your parking receipt. With a valid receipt, Guest Services at your resort hotel will reimburse your parking fees once you check in.

Walt’s Words

“She believed in dreams, all right, but she also believed in doing something about them. When Prince Charming didn’t come along, she went over to the palace and got him.”

For Your Listening Pleasure

Geekin' on WDWHave you had a chance to listen to the Geekin’ On WDW podcast yet? This family friendly show is hosted by a father/daughter team of Disney fans – Curt and Lindsay Stone. Each week you can join these two Disney geeks sharing stories about all things Disney. I recently sat down with Curt and Lindsay to discuss my books – A Tale of Two Resorts and 501 Ways to Make the Most of Your Walt Disney World Vacation. We were having a great time and talked so much that Curt split our conversation into two episodes! Please click here to listen to Part 1 and click here for Part 2. I had a wonderful time chatting with Curt and Lindsay and hope to visit their show again in the future!

You’re Invited

Next Disney VacationJennifer Hardy, from Destinations in Florida, and I have teamed up to create a new Facebook Group called Next Disney Vacation! It is the perfect place to talk about your next Disney vacation, ask your questions, get them answered, and share the magic. Whether it’s Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World, or the Disney Cruise Line, Jennifer and I are ready to help. Everyday you’ll find posts, photos, trivia, tips, and more that we find all throughout the Disney Universe. If your counting the days until your next Disney vacation or just dreaming of one, we would love to have you join in the fun! Please click here to be a part of our group!

Featured Advertiser

Joffrey's Coffee

Joffrey’s Coffee
 Imagine waking up every day with a little taste of Disney right at home! Joffrey’s Coffee can be found in-room where coffee is served and in most restaurants at Disney World and Disneyland. Their roastmaster worked closely with Disney’s world-class chefs to create exclusive blends for Disney’s fine dining establishments. You can enjoy the entire Disney Parks and Resorts Specialty Coffee Collection at home while counting the days until your next vacation. Joffrey’s is offering 20% off your first online order with Coupon Code DWE plus free shipping on orders of $50 or more. For more information and to check out the 19 Disney blends, please click here.

Featured Book

501 Ways“501 Ways to Make the Most of Your Walt Disney World Vacation”
The difference between an average and an outstanding Walt Disney World trip is in the details. Kristi Fredericks helps make your dream vacation a reality with her numerous tips and tricks to save money, time, and sanity while at the happiest place on earth in her new book “501 Ways To Make The Most Of Your Walt Disney World Vacation”. For more information, to read an excerpt, or to purchase, please click here.

Disney World Enthusiast Giveaway

Disney Gift CardLook for a new giveaway, this time a $25 Disney gift card sponsored by my friend Jennifer Hardy of Destinations in Florida travel agency, beginning Monday, June 1. Good luck, everyone!

Do you have a question or article idea?
Please leave a comment!