Show 235 - Cruising and Walt Disney World Mash Up

Welcome to the show notes for the Disney Dream Girls Podcast, show number 235 for Sunday 11th November 2018.  If you want to listen, whilst reading these notes, just click the player below or alternatively find us in iTunes, Libsyn, on Stitcher Radio or via any good podcast catching app.

On this weeks show, Michelle is joined by first time guests Emily and Alex to talk about their recent mother/son Disney Cruise Line experience and then to look forwards to their Thanksgiving trip to Walt Disney World. For the purposes of this blog, we will focus on the Cruise Line element of the show.

Emily and Michelle on the Disney Fantasy

Michelle actually got to meet Emily whilst onboard and the story of the meet up is shared on the show.    

How did Alex spend his cruise time?  
Alex talked on the show about being able to check himself in and out of the childrens club (as being ten years old, this is something he was able to do).

Disney provides kids clubs for different age groups:

• "its a Small World" nursery
• Disney's Oceaneer Club and Lab (for 3-12 year olds)
• Edge (for tweens)
• Vibe (for teens)

Alex spent his time betwwen the Oceaneer Club and Lab and he really liked the ability to 'pilot' the Millenium Falcon. There was lots of other activities in the clubs and he was able to make new friends and hang out with them at other parts of the ship with them.

A big favourite was popping by the self serve ice-cream area and grabbing a snack before heading to the Donald's pool to watch a movie on the funnel vision TV.

How did Emily spend her cruise time?
At the end of each day a new navigator was put in their stateroom. This document listed all the activities for the following day. Additionally, this information was available on the Disney Cruise Line app (sadly only goes 'live' once onboard your cruise).

Using these documents, Emily was able to schedule trivia quizzes in between time spent at one of the the adult only pool areas. Additionally, she bought day passes to the Rain Forest Spa and once there she was able to relax even further using the facilities. 

How did the pair keep in touch?
Emily was able to loan Alex a phone and then they were able to communicate via the messaging facility on the cruise line app. Alex would simply message his mum and state where he was.

Positives for the cruise
There were so many! However,  they both felt they were able to get the most out of their holiday. Emily had peace of mind Alex was going to be entertained and she found lots to keep herself busy.

Another positive was Castaway Cay! The family beach was packed with things to do but they caution that the shallower water did get murky quickly due to the numbers of people using it. However, the tranquil bliss of the adults beach compensated Emily for this and even with just an hour here, she loved it!

Negatives
They chose the later dinner and they felt that this led to Alex missing out on some of the kids club activities and they were very hungry by the time they got to eat. 

If you want to know about their plans for Thanksgiving plus lots more information about their trip - make sure you listen to the podcast!

As usual you can contact the show:

Email us info@disneydreamgirls.com 
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Show 234 - Disney, Marvel and Beaches & Cream

Welcome to the show notes for the Disney Dream Girls Podcast, show number 234 for Sunday 4th November 2018.  If you want to listen, whilst reading these notes, just click the player below or alternatively find us in iTunes, Libsyn, on Stitcher Radio or via any good podcast catching app.

Coming up on this weeks show, Michelle is joined by Kat and Lewis from Dis Down Under.

On this show,  Michelle takes the opportunity of having this duo of Marvel fans on the show to chat about some news and developments that are coming to the parks. 

Then, the trio review the very popular eatery - Beaches and Cream. This table service restaurant can be found at the Beach Club Resort and is open from 11am to 11pm daily. A reservation is highly recommended and we advise that you try to book yours as soon as the 180 day booking window opens. However, if you are unable to grab an Advanced Dining Reservation (ADR) they also have a take out counter.

The design is that of a boardwalk style ice cream shop, with its own jukebox and peach and blue colour scheme. On the menu you will find a range of classic burgers, sandwiches and a mouthwatering range of different ice-cream offerings. 

Michelle with a No Way Jose!

On the show, the trio discuss what they ate and the fabulous interactions they had with the cast members that work there.

One thing this eatery is renown for is the Kitchen Sink Challenge. This is a literal kitchen sink filled with ice-cream and a variety of toppings - its quite the challenge!

So that's about it for this weeks post. If you want to get in touch with us here's how; 

Email us info@disneydreamgirls.com 
Follow our posts on Twitter @DisDreamGirls
and Instagram @DisDreamGirls 
Join in our chat on Facebook DisneyDreamGirlsPodcast

And finally, you can support the show financially by visiting https://www.patreon.com/DisneyDreamGirls

DDG 233 - Ice-Creaming Around The World

Welcome to the show notes for the Disney Dream Girls Podcast, show number 233 for Sunday 28th October 2018.  If you want to listen, whilst reading these notes, just click the player below or alternatively find us in iTunes, Libsyn, on Stitcher Radio or via any good podcast catching app.

Coming up on todays show, Michelle and Jayne bring forward two news items, a main feature and a rapid trio of dining reviews!

We start the show with a couple of news items. Michelle chats about the recent talk in the media about certain famous actresses not allowing their children to watch certain Disney princess films. Michelle has her opinions especially as one of the films mentioned is her favourite, Snow White. Have a listen and see whether you agree with the girls.

Next Jayne has a look at some upcoming 'sweet treats' due out in November at Walt Disney World. Now our Jayne is not one for too much sweetness but some of these offerings may have more style over substance than anything else. The girls have a chat but what do you think - do these offerings sound appealing or are they just another 'instagram' moment?


Our main feature this week has the girls imaginations working as they come up with some ice-cream flavours to represent each country of World Showcase at Epcot. We have suggestions from apple pie & cheese flavour to maple syrup & bacon and many more! Some more ridiculous than others!

We finish this weeks show with some quick fire food reports from Michelle following her latest visit to Walt Disney World. We have the The Polite Pig in Disney Springs;

Followed by the Tune In Lounge at Disney's Hollywood Studios;

And then Trader Sam's Grog Grotto at the Polynesian resort;

So that's about it for this weeks post. If you want to get in touch with us here's how; 

Email us info@disneydreamgirls.com 
Follow our posts on Twitter @DisDreamGirls
and Instagram @DisDreamGirls 
Join in our chat on Facebook DisneyDreamGirlsPodcast

And finally, you can support the show financially by visiting https://www.patreon.com/DisneyDreamGirls

DDG 232 - WDW DCL Happy Place Chat

Welcome to the show notes for the Disney Dream Girls Podcast, show number 232 for Sunday 21st October 2018.  If you want to listen, whilst reading these notes, just click the player below or alternatively find us in iTunes, Libsyn, on Stitcher Radio or via any good podcast catching app.

On this weeks show, Michelle is joined by fellow podcaster, Ashley Kennedy Turner to chat through some news and views about the Disney Cruise Line. 

Is this for adults?
Yes! We have many friends who have been on Disney Cruises as adults and each and everyone will concur and say a resounding yes. 

Skyline

Whilst Disney is renown for being a family orientated brand, the cruise line has so many adult only areas and entertainment it is a big hit with adults. From fine dining in restaurants like Palo and Remy, to lounges such as Meridian and Skyline and with adult only pools and deck areas it is fabulous!

What is Platinum?
Once you have taken your first Disney cruise, you become a silver member of the Castaway Club. Once you have been on 5 cruises, you become a Gold member and after 10 you become a platinum member. 

These levels enable you to book entertainment/dining earlier and to book the actual cruises earlier - thus ensuring you get the very best price and availabiliity of cabin. 

Castaway Cay
For many, the highlight of a cruise is a stop at Disneys' private island - Castaway Cay. Again, as an adult you have the ability to utilise the adult only beach. 

On the show, Ashley explained about her next cruise. She chose it specifically because it has two days at Castaway Cay.

What is Concierge like on the Cruise Line?
Ashley explained why she chose to add this option to her cruise and the benefits for her personally. From being able to embark earlier to a concierge only lounge (with food and beverage items exclusively available) Ashley felt it was the cherry on her Disney Cruise. 

In addition, there is a private sunbathing area with hot tub and from booking, she had a dedicated person to ensure the process went smoothly. Once on-board, concierge hosts were available to assist in anyway they could.
 

So that's about it for this weeks post. If you want to get in touch with us here's how; 
Email us info@disneydreamgirls.com 
Follow our posts on Twitter @DisDreamGirls
and Instagram @DisDreamGirls 
Join in our chat on Facebook DisneyDreamGirlsPodcast


And finally, support the show financially by visiting https://www.patreon.com/DisneyDreamGirls

DDG 231 - Dining on the Disney Cruise Line Remy Review

Welcome to the show notes for the Disney Dream Girls Podcast, show 231 for Sunday 14th October 2018. If you want to listen, whilst reading these notes, just click the player below or alternatively find us in iTunes, Libsyn, on Stitcher Radio or via any good podcast catching app.

On this weeks show, Michelle is joined by fellow podcasters and holiday buddies Kat & Lewis Sutton from Dis Down Under podcast.

Part of Michelle's last trip to Walt Disney World included a week sailing on the Disney Fantasy where she was joined by Kat & Lewis. Here they all reminisce about their dining experience at Remy.

Welcome cocktail

This was a very high end dining experience and one that was enjoyed by all. The experience started with a choice; the french menu or the US menu...oh and don't forget the water menu!!

Water menus - still & sparking of course!

Michelle chose the US menu and experienced everything from langoustine to halibut to pork to beef and chocolate soup!

French or US??

Halibut

Pork

Beef

Chocolate!!!!

And if that wasn't enough the meal started with some 'Amuse Bouche'...

Parsnip & black pepper crisp

Savoury bites - cauliflowe & Foie gras

...and finished with some sweet treats.

The whole experience was topped off with excellent customer service, beautiful surroundings and some wonderful memories.

So that's about it for this weeks post. If you want to get in touch with us here's how; 
Email us info@disneydreamgirls.com 
Follow our posts on Twitter @DisDreamGirls
and Instagram @DisDreamGirls 
Join in our chat on Facebook DisneyDreamGirlsPodcast

And finally, support the show financially by visiting https://www.patreon.com/DisneyDreamGirls

DDG 230 - The Good, The Pricey and The Snails

Welcome to the show notes for the Disney Dream Girls Podcast, show number 230 for Sunday 7th October 2018. If you want to listen, whilst reading these notes, just click the player below or alternatively find us in iTunes, Libsyn, on Stitcher Radio or via any good podcast catching app.

This week we have some Disney news chat, Ciaran has 'This Week in Disney History' for us and Michelle makes Jayne guess some foodie prices following recent changes in snack option prices.

Michelle then takes us on a gastronomic tour of 'Be Our Guest' restaurant from her recent Walt Disney World vacation.

If dining here you have a few choices of seating and Michelle lets you know where she thinks is best to sit, along with a reminder that the menu here is now 'Fixed Price'.

The menu comprises of a choice of appetisers and entrees but the dessert has only one option; a trio of dessert selection.

Now the question is did Michelle try the escargot? After some convincing from Lewis Sutton along with a little wine her guard was down and this happened...Michelle versus Snails

Here's  a link to the menu for 'Be Our Guest'. Michelle went for the 'assorted meats and cheeses' for her appetiser and then for her entree she decided on filet mignon.

The presentation for the 'Trio of Desserts' was beautifull but was it worth it...best have a listen to see what Michelle thought. The trio consisted of Almond Macaron, Dark Chocolate Truffle and a very small but cute White Chocolate 'Chip' Cup.

So was this dining experience worth the cost? Would Michelle recommend it or would it be better to go for one of the quick service options (but remember to order in advance online to save time!).

So that's about it for this weeks post. If you want to get in touch with us here's how; 
Email us info@disneydreamgirls.com 
Follow our posts on Twitter @DisDreamGirls
and Instagram @DisDreamGirls 
Join in our chat on Facebook DisneyDreamGirlsPodcast

And finally, support the show financially by visiting https://www.patreon.com/DisneyDreamGirls

DDG 229 - A Magical 47th to The Magic Kingdom

Welcome to the show notes of the Disney Dream Girls podcast, show number 229 for Sunday 30th September 2018. If you want to listen, whilst reading these notes, you can find us on iTunes, Libsyn, Stitcher Radio or any good podcast catching place. Or you can click the link below and listen straight away!


This week we celebrate the Magic Kingdom turning 47 years young.

Michelle at Magic Kingdom earlier this year

The Magic Kingdom opened it's gates for the first time on 1st October 1971, although it wasn't officially dedicated until 25th October which was officiated by Walt's brother Roy O Disney.

'Walt Disney World is a tribute to the philosophy and life of Walter Elias Disney...and to the talents, the dedication, and the loyalty of the entire Disney organisation that made Walt Disney's dream come true. May Walt Disney World bring joy and inspiration and new knowledge to all who come to this happy place...a Magic Kingdom where the young at heart of all ages can laugh and play and learn - together'

We take a look at the opening day attractions and ask which attractions will stand the test of time and still be with us in years to come. As well as sharing some memories of attractions gone but not forgotten.

Jayne on her last visit to Magic Kingdom, back in 2013

So just what was there on opening day...

Walt Disney World Railroad
Main Street Transportation
Jungle Cruise
Swiss Family Tree House
Tropical Serenade
Country Bear Jamboree
Dumbo Flying Elephants
Mad Tea Party
Snow White's Adventures
Cinderella's Golden Carousel
Mr Toad's Wild Ride
Mickey Mouse Revue
It'a a Small World
Skyway 
Frontier Shooting Gallery
Mike Fink Keel Boats
Diamond Horseshoe Revue
Hall of Presidents
Haunted Mansion
Grand Prix Raceway

So that's about it for this weeks post. If you want to get in touch with us here's how; 
Email us info@disneydreamgirls.com 
Follow our posts on Twitter @DisDreamGirls
and Instagram @DisDreamGirls 
Join in our chat on Facebook DisneyDreamGirlsPodcast
And finally, support the show financially by visiting https://www.patreon.com/DisneyDreamGirls