DGTG Readers: Win a 3 Night Vacation or a $200.- Disney Gift Card

I have 2 very exciting giveaways going on here at Disney Go To Girl!!! First, I have teamed up with Golden Ears Travel to offer a $200 Disney Gift Card which can be used at Disney Parks, Disney Destinations, and Disney Parks among others!  Hurry because this unbelievable giveaway ends August 3.

The second giveaway is for a 4 Day / 3 Night vacation at Caribe Cove Resort Orlando!  This is a fabulous villa resort located minutes from Walt Disney World! Click here for the contest!

Both Giveaways use the new Rafflecopter widget, so entering is easy!  Good Luck, and be sure to check my Giveaways page often for fabulous Disney-related giveaways!

DGTG Splurge: Mickey's "Spooktacular" In-Room Celebrations Available this Fall at Wwalt Disney World

It was announced via the Disney Parks Blog that Mickey's "Spooktacular" In-Room Celebration will be available again this year at the Walt Disney World Resort.  Disney Floral and Gifts always does such a great job of putting together special surprises, but THIS one was voted as a favorite by Disney Resort guests!

The spooktacular experience begins before your little one even enters the room, because she will discover that Mickey has paid a visit and has left cobwebs and a Halloween-inspired sash on the doorknob.  Once inside the room, she will discover that not only has Mickey been there, but he has left a bounty of Not-so-Scary Halloween gifts, specially personalized for your little one!

I know Halloween is still months away, but if you're interested in this "Spooktacular" Expereince, you shouldn't hesitate.  This was so popular last year, that it sold out before Halloween!  The Disney Floral and Gifts department will create a personalized celebration for your family...one that has something for everyone, regardless of age! 

If you're headed to the Walt Disney World Resort this Fall, be sure to call Disney Floral and Gifts to book this exclusive package before they are sold out!  Mickey's Spooktacular In-Room Celebration costs $375 and can be ordered by calling a Dream Maker at (407)WDW-GIFT.

Epcot Food and Wine Fest 'Dessert Alert'-- A Sweet Tooth's Paradise

Those with Sweet Teeth will rejoice at Epcot's Food and Wine Festival this Fall!  Chefs from around the globe will unite to create tantalizing desserts sure to wow every taste bud!  Here's a sneak peek of what you can expect:

 

Sweet Treat From Belgium: Berry Good Waffles -- Dessert Alert! More than 25 international tasting marketplaces at the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival shine a spotlight on traditional ethnic foods like Belgian Waffles with Berry Compote and Whipped Cream. Winemakers, brew masters and chefs from Disney and around the world welcome guests to sip and savor during the 45-day Epcot event at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla.

Dessert Trio--Three new desserts are standouts this year at the Dessert and Champagne marketplace during the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. The trio of tastes includes White Chocolate Macadamia Mousse with Dark Chocolate Pearls, Tres Leches Verrine and Lemon Chiffon

DGTG News Flash: Celebrities Team Up With Disney Junior UK and YOU to Collect 1,000,000 Memories for Children's Hospital

DISNEY UK MAGIC AIMS TO TURN A MILLION MEMORIES INTO £1MILLION FOR GREAT ORMOND STREET HOSPITAL CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL

A host of stars including Sir Michael Cane, Thandie Newton, Jason Isaacs, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Julie Walters CBE, Lewis Hamilton , Mel C, Ben Price, Fay Ripley and Dermot O’Leary have joined Disney Junior UK in a bid to collect a million Disney memories in aid of Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity.

I was just contacted with this information and am excited to share this with you!  This is HOT off the press guys:

The public are being asked to head over to www.facebook.com/disneyjunioruk and donate their first Disney memory to the campaign, which Disney will turn into £1million for the hospital when they hit the magic number of 1,000,000 memories.

Sir Michael Caine says: “I remember crying my eyes out when Bambi died and laughing my head off at the Seven Dwarfs. My favourite Disney villain? The Wicked Witch in Snow White. My First hero was Mickey Mouse and he’s my favourite.”





Sophie Ellis-Bextor says: “I remember watching Mary Poppins over and over and over when I was five or six. Even now I could probably turn down the sound and recite all the songs. I think Disney is something that we’ve all grown up with and it’s so nice now, being a parent, that my two sons can enjoy all the characters that I have enjoyed, so we share it together. 

Disney Junior’s Million Disney Memories campaign was created following new research, which found that 92% of UK parents and grandparents believe memories of Disney characters stay with you for life and more than half of the British Public have shared their own Disney memories with their family. 

Mel C. who ‘donated’ her memory says: “I think Disney is something that we’ve all grown up with and it’s so nice now, being a parent, that my daughter can enjoy all the characters that I have enjoyed, so we share it together. 

Getting involved is really simple – you tell Disney Junior your memory and once they have collected a million, these memories will turn into money for Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity. It’s a great cause so I urge everyone to share their Disney memories to help us reach our target.”

Please help out with this AMAZING and MAGICAL Cause! Head over to www.facebook.com/disneyjunioruk to leave your favorite Disney Memory!

Be Our Guest Restaurant - Coming to a Fantasyland Near You!

Magic Kingdom guests will feast in regal surroundings in the Be Our Guest Restaurant, featuring a lavish dining experience in the elegant ballroom, gallery, and mysterious “West Wing” of the castle of the Beast. The 550-seat dining facility, which will offer “great food fast” service by day and full table service dining in the evening, is part of the Beauty and The Beast “neighborhood” in a huge expansion of Fantasyland opening in phases beginning in 2012 at Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista, Fla.

It is rumoured that Lumiere, of Beauty and the Beast, will be wheeled around greeting guests similar to the meet and greet experience with Remy at Epcot's Les Chefs de France, and also that it will "snow" around the clock in the dining room!

I did a vlog post about this back in May when I first saw this rendering on the Fantasyland Construction walls, but do you notice the wine glasses and martinis on the tables?  Could this mean alcohol is coming to the Magic Kingdom!?  What are your thoughts on this?  I don't know if I like that idea! What do you think?

DGTG Splurge: Luxury Experiences Deliver Fun for the Most Discerning Disney Guests

Been there, done that? Maybe, but did you know that inside Walt Disney World Resort lies a whole other Walt Disney World Resort?  One in which you can…

•“Hang 10″ and learn to surf
•Set sail on a pirate adventure for buried treasure
•Get nose to, well, bottlenose with Bottlenose dolphins
•Be pampered in a “couples massage”
•Dine with an actual Disney Imagineer
Beyond traditional theme park-going, these options and more are available to guests booking premium, add-on experiences at Walt Disney World Resort. Among a whole “world” of choices (prices exclude tax except where indicated):

Snacks "To Go": Best use of Last Minute Disney Dining Plan Snack Credits

Yesterday, I gave you guys a look into my list of "Go To" Walt Disney World Snacks, and I'm continuing that conversation today but with a different angle!  As I stated before, I usually purchasing the Deluxe Disney Dining Plan which  entitles me to 2 snacks each day, so during a week's stay, I will receive 14 snack credits per person...Multiply that by 3 of us... that equals 42 snacks!

We NEVER use all of our snack credits... In fact, we usually have a dozen or more left over.  This brings us to a great subject, "What to do with your leftover snack credits"... Well you certainly won't want to forfeit them.  I can usually be found spending my final moments at WDW in the Main Street Confectionery, looking to spend those last credits on items that I can easily pack and take home!  Main Street Confectionery, located n the Magic Kingdom is a probably the best place to spend your remaining snack credits...and you can do it all in one place!

Here is a list of what I spend my leftover snack credits on before leaving WDW:

1. Goofy's Candy Co. Packaged Candy

One of my favorite snacks at WDW (which I forgot to list yesterday) is ANYTHING Goofy's Candy Co.  I especially love the character-shaped gummies and sour gummy worms.  They are so soft and fresh!  The zip-lock sealed packaging makes these candies a perfect take-home treat!  I actually keep the drawer in my night stand stocked with my stash of Goofy's Candy Co. gummies!






2. Fudge

Although fudge can be purchased in many places throughout WDW, it is kinda one of my departing traditions to stock up on fudge and other items from Main Street USA! This fudge is made 'round the clock and is always fresh and tasty.  The fudge will be packaged in a cute little box which protects it during travel!




3. Mickey Krispy Treats

On my last visit to WDW I literally left with a dozen of these babies!  They are delicious souvenirs of Walt Disney World they even freeze well.  These Mickey-shaped Rice Krispy treats can be found all over the place and are available plain or with chocolate dipped ears!  They are packaged in a plastic wrapper, perfect for packing!









4. English Toffee Slab

This is a big slab of crunchy, buttery English Toffee topped with almond pieces...very similar to Almond Roca or Heath Bars.  As far as I'm aware, the English Toffee Slab is only available at the Main Street confectionery.  It IS chocolate, which is not the most ideal "take home" snack, but if you ask the CM's to wrap it up good, you'll be fine!  Mine survived a 5 hour car ride from Orlando to SC.


 5. Minnie's Bake Shop Cookies

The smaller boxes of Minnie's Bake Shop cookies are included in the Snack Plan.  There are a few different varieties to choose from and the kid's LOVE them! These are great treats for your long car ride home as they come in a handy resealable box. Minnie's Bake Shop items can found in many places throughout the resort.





So in closing, Main Street Confectionery is a one-stop-shop for all of your leftover Disney Dining Plan Snack Credits!  Be sure to stock up on all of your Disney favorites and save them for that rainy day when you really need a dose of Disney! If you missed yesterday's "Go To" Snacks Article, be sure to check it out!

DGTG News: Characters from "Cars" and "Up" Now Greet Guests at Disney's California Adventure

Exciting changes are taking place at California Adventure as guests of all ages can take part in all new character meet and greets with a few of their favorite Disney-Pixar characters.

Russell, along with his friendly dog pal, Dug of Disney-Pixar's "Up" will greet guests in the new Wilderness Explorer area of the Redwood Creek Challenge Trail featuring Ahwahnee Camp Circle, a themed area where guests can interact with Russell and even participate in a special ceremony in which they can earn Senior Wilderness Explorer Badges!



And don't forget about your good ol' pal Lightning McQueen, the 4-Wheeled star of Disney-Pixar's "Cars" movies.  Guests can visit with Lightning near the entrance to the soon-to-be Cars Land!

For up date meet and greet schedules and locations, please consult a Times Guide as you enter the park!

Fun Facts: 16th Annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival by the Numbers

900,000 Tasty Festival Treats + 33,000 Bottles of Wine & Champagne = 1 Fun-Fact-Filled Festival at Walt Disney World

Walt Disney World guests can sip great wines, savor new tastes and enjoy live entertainment all day long as the 16^th Epcot International Food & Wine Festival offers a “Passport to a World of Flavors” Sept. 30-Nov. 13.

The 45-day outdoor festival at Disney’s Epcot theme park serves up authentic cuisine; wine, beer and inventive new cocktails; entertainment; and cultural exhibits of more than 25 international regions.  Exotic marketplaces from Hawaii to Portugal offer exciting taste treats.  The festival is believed to be the largest food and wine event of its kind in the world, beginning at the Festival Welcome Center in Future World and fanning around the promenade encircling World Showcase Lagoon.
Here are some facts about the 16th annual event:

• More than 300 national and international wines

• 45 fabulous days long

• More than 76 kinds of international foods, each appetizer-sized portion priced $3-$8

• 160 of America’s most celebrated chefs and Walt Disney World chefs

• Over 300 wine and beer seminars

• More than 1,200 fireworks rockets exploding each night over World Showcase Lagoon in   “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth”         grand finale to the festival

• 135 Eat to the Beat! concerts performed

• 33,000 bottles of wine and champagne

• 289,000 servings of beer

• 900,000 sumptuous samplings

• 338,000 wine glasses

• 100,000 desserts including freshly baked waffles with berry compote and whipped cream (Belgium marketplace), white chocolate macadamia mousse with dark chocolate pearls (Desserts & Champagne marketplace) and chocolate cannoli (Italy marketplace).

• 4,000 pounds of lobster for Linda Bean’s Perfect Maine Lobster Rolls and Linda Bean’s Lobster Claw Cuddlers at the Hops & Barley marketplace plus Lobster and Scallop Fisherman’s Pie at the Ireland marketplace.

HGTV Celebrities to Host Entertaining Seminars at 16th Epcot International Food & Wine Festival

Seven popular HGTV celebrities will offer the inside scoop on home entertaining at weekend seminars during the 45-day Epcot International Food & Wine Festival running Sept. 30-Nov. 13.  Each Friday, Saturday and Sunday of the festival a top HGTV personality will appear at The Festival Center in Future World to share his or her own secrets to throwing a perfect party.

“Design stars from the network will talk about home entertaining,” said Michael Jenner, festival manager. “Think about the way interior decorators design a room … and imagine that same creative process brought to the dinner table. It’ll be a great way to get ready for all the holidays coming up.”

Here’s the lineup (subject to change):

• Sept. 30-Oct. 2 – Vern Yip, “HGTV Design Star” and “HGTV Urban Oasis”
• Oct. 7-9 – Monica Pedersen, “Designed to Sell”
• Oct. 14-16 – Erin Loechner, “Design Happens”
• Oct. 21-23 – Taniya Nayak, “Designed to Sell”
• Oct. 28-30 – Kim Stoegbauer, “On-line Party Inspiration”
• Nov. 4-6 – Lisa LaPorta, “Designed to Sell”
• Nov. 11-13 – Emily Henderson, “Secrets From a Stylist” and “HGTV Design Star,” winner Season 5 “Design Star”

The appearances are included with Epcot admission

My "Go To" Snacks at Walt Disney World

I am a huge proponent of the Disney Dining Plan...in fact I always upgrade to the Deluxe option which includes 3 snack credits per day!  Snacks at Walt Disney World come in all shapes and sizes, and some of the best ones can be purchased with a single snack entitlement from the Disney Dining Plan!

Christmas in July: A Disney Family's Holiday Traditions

Hi there and welcome to the Christmas in July Blog Hop hosted by the wonderful Mama of All Trades!  Welcome to those of you just joining in and to those of you visiting from MomJovi.com.

Today, it is Christmas... Christmas in July, that is, and we are celebrating in true Disney Fashion!

Kona Cafe: My "Go To" Spot for Breakfast at Walt Disney World

OK, so I'll admit it... I'm not much of a breakfast person.  In fact, I am normally completely satisfied with nothing more than a good Latte (3 Raw Sugars and 1/4 inch foam).  The key word here is normally...

When I'm at Walt Disney World, I jump out of the box and indulge to the fullest extent.  I always choose the Disney Deluxe Dining Plan which affords me breakfast each and every day!  As I stated earlier, I'd be content with a strong cup 'a' Joe, but why skip breakfast when it's already paid for!?

I have eaten at nearly every table service breakfast establishment in all of Walt Disney World and my favorite spot for "the most important meal of the day" is Kona Cafe, located at the Polynesian.

Since I have come clean about not being a "non-breakfast eating caffeine freak"  I may as well go ahead and disclose the fact that I am not the earliest riser at WDW.  I don't sleep until noon...EVER... but it's realistic to say that I will not book an ADR before 9:30 AM.

Many experienced Disney vacation planners will argue that 9:30 is a late start, and I don't completely disagree, but it would be impossible for my family to arrive at breakfast any earlier... This is why I choose to eat Breakfast at Kona Cafe several times each trip.  The breakfast options are over-the-top, and delicious and if you're not on the Disney Dining Plan, the price points are quite attractive.

Be sure to grab a lei from Auntie Kau'l as you enter the tropically-themed lobby... it's a great way to start your day!  Hop on the elevator or hit the stairs to the 2nd floor where you can take in the relaxing sound of running water, the island music, the smell of the freshly brewed coffee and "that other smell"... I don't know what to call it, but you know what I'm talking about... It's "that other smell"...The smell of the Polynesian.  Anytime I think of this magical resort, I can smell it in my mind.  I think it has to do with the waterfalls in the lobby, because it is reminiscent of the smell on Pirates of the Caribbean...  Oh wow, I'm rambling and now you probably all think I'm crazy, but if you know what I'm talking about, please comment below to let me know I'm not the only one!

OK, so getting back to Kona Cafe, it is a great spot for a quick, inexpensive meal in a laid-back atmosphere.  The Polynesian is also an ideal jumping off point for the day, as it is serviced by the monorail and only a short, shady stroll away from the TTC if you're headed to Epcot.  Plus, the Poly's parking lot is "right there"... I believe it may be the closest in proximity to the main building, out of all the resorts.

Kona is rarely ever packed.  In fact, I have shown up with no reservation on several occasions and have been seated within 15 minutes every time with no problem, however, as always, advanced reservations are always recommended.

The breakfast menu at Kona Cafe consists of all the traditional favorites as well dishes with a South Pacific twist.  The most pricey item on the menu is Steak and Eggs which is around $14.  Most items range from $9 to $11.

Kona offers a fun children's breakfast menu featuring entrees inspired by the Fab 5 such as Goofy's Toast and Minnie's Pancakes.

For those of you who require a jump-start in the morning, Kona offers a delicious press-pot of 100% Kona Coffee which serves 2 (or 3) as well as Mimosas and Bloody Marys.

My Tip: Order a Mimosa with Lilikoi Juice (Pineapple, Orange, Guava) instead of OJ.  It's not on the menu, but they'll make it if you ask!

Tonga Toast - $10

My choice for breakfast at Kona is ALWAYS... you can probably guess... TONGA TOAST!  This Kona Cafe entree has a cult-following and it's no secret why.  Tonga Toast is a huge, thick piece of sourdough bread stuffed with bananas, and coated with cinnamon sugar.  It's a big block of crispy-deliciousness and quite frankly one of the most tasty, addictive dishes I have ever tasted... I may have just drooled on my keyboard a little.  To some, Tonga Toast may be more like dessert, but for me it hits the spot.  Tonga Toast is served with your choice of meat (bacon, ham, or sausage) and strawberry compote on the side (I use maple syrup instead).

Big Kahuna - $11.99

My husband's choice is also a ritual: The Big Kahuna.  This massive breakfast entree consists of French Toast AND (yes, AND) Pancakes topped with Macadamia Nut Butter and Pineapple Puree, 2 eggs, home fries, with bacon, ham AND sausage (yes again, AND)... all for only $11.99.  The Macadamia Nut Butter and Pineapple sauce take this meal from ordinary to Polynesian perfect...I could probably eat a bowl of it by itself.

Fruit Plate - $8.99

Looking for something lighter?  Don't under estimate Kona's Fruit Plate!  This beautifully presented bounty of fresh melon, kiwi, strawberries, and more is served in a hollowed out pineapple and accompanied by a slice of yummy banana nut bread and macadamia nut butter.  I was lucky enough to snap this shot while dining at Kona with good friend and fellow Disney Blogger Ami of Disney Goddess.  This was her choice, and I was kinda wishing I'd sprung for this healthier option as well once I saw how fresh and delicious it was!

So, in review, the Polynesian Resort's Kona Cafe is a Disney breakfast destination that should not be overlooked!  This casual eatery aims to please and offers something for everyone with prices that won't hurt the wallet.  Combined with a laid-back ambiance and convenient location, Kona is my #1 pick for breakfast at Walt Disney World!

Amanda Ficili is the creator of Disney Go To Girl, a travel blog promoting Disney Resorts as luxury vacation destinations.  She can also be found on Twitter and Facebook.

Please visit Disney Go To Girl for all the latest in Disney News, Fashion, Dining Reviews, Eco-Friendly Travel Tips, Wine Wednesdays, and Fabulous Disney and Travel related giveaways

The Alexa Mystery

You have probably heard about the Alexa Page Rank phenomenon sweeping the online community, but have you actually acquainted yourself with Alexa? Have you discovered the importance of your Alexa Page Rank?

For those of you who aren't familiar with Alexa, let me fill you in.  The Alexa Page Rank system computes each website's traffic rank by verifying web usage from different sources including that from web surfers using Alexa's Toolbar searches, as well as other reputable web traffic sources.

In layman's terms, Alexa Page Rank scores your website based on the traffic it receives, and then assigns you a number rank based on those hits.  The lower your rank, the better.

I am curious as to how much goes into assigning Alexa Page Rank.  Mine seems to drastically fluctuate on a daily basis.  A week ago, My Alexa Page Rank worldwide was under 400,00 and under 100,00 US.  As you can see, My Alexa Page Rank is currently 681,000 Worldwide... 6,000 higher than it was this morning, even though I have had increased site traffic this week due to popular giveaways!

Why do I care? Your Alexa Page Rank is basically your website's reputation in a number.  Companies looking to do business will commonly refer to Alexa Page Rank to find reputable sites to deal with.  You could say that your Alexa Page Rank puts a value on your site as sponsors will typically pay more to those with a lower Alexa Page Rank.

I would recommend you become very friendly with Alexa and check on your page rank daily to see what's happening!  Alexa Page Rank is especially crucial to bloggers since your number can help you RISE or lead to your demise! I know I will be learning as MUCH as I can about Alexa in the near future!

I would also advise downloading the Alexa Toolbar so you can track your own hits to your blog... I know that I hit my own page several times when publishing. You should also consider adding the Alexa Page Rank widget to your sidebar to help improve your rank... not sure if that helps, but I've heard it can!

I guess it's all a big mystery.  I would be curious to hear from those of you who have input on Alexa Page Rank.  Maybe together, we can solve The Alexa Mystery!

CLOSED: Win 4-Day / 3-Night Stay at Caribe Cove Resort Orlando

Many of you will remember my post last month highlighting Caribe Cove Resort in Orlando, Florida.  After the article went live, I received numerous emails from readers who were interested in this beautiful resort. I am pleased to tell you that one very lucky DGTG reader will win a 4 day / 3 night stay at Caribe Cove compliments of the Resort!

Caribe Cove is located minutes from Walt Disney World and is also convenient to other Orlando area attractions.  This stunning resort is situated in the middle of the magic and offers guests relaxing, luxury villa accommodations for less money than the average hotel.  Even though Caribe Cove is located right off of Hwy. 192, the property is situated in it's own private, quiet corner...A Tropical Oasis awaits you!

I was invited to spend some time at Caribe Cove in May, so everything I'm telling you is first hand.  This luxurious all-suites resort is beautifully maintained and has a tropical plantation vibe.  Caribe Cove offers 2 and 3 bedroom luxury villas tastefully decorated with a laid-back island theme.  Our 3 bedroom villa had a King Bed, a Queen Bed, and 2 Singles plus 2 full baths.  The master suite bath is equipped with a deep soaking tub as well as a separate shower. The living room is huge with comfy chairs and couches.  It was great to be able to return from the parks and have plenty of room to stretch our legs.

Each villa has a fully-equipped kitchen with everything you need to whip up a home cooked meal as well as a laundry room with full-size washer and dryer.  If you have kids, you understand the importance of being able to wash clothes on vacation!

I almost forgot... one thing that makes Caribe Cove Resort very unique is the fact that every villa includes a relaxing screened in porch with patio furniture.  It was fabulous to return home in the evenings and relax on the patio without having to worry about bugs! The screen-porch also serves as a great spot for a quick breakfast before a day of park-hopping!

Caribe Cove offers plenty of on-site amenities for guests including a gorgeous heated infinty pool surrounded by lush landscaped grounds overlooking a beautiful pond.  A large sundeck wraps around the pool area offering an ideal spot for sunbathing. Seeking the ultimate in relaxtion?  The staff at Caribe Cove is happy to arrange an in-room massage at your request!

For the fitness-minded, Caribe Cove offers a 24 hour fitness center complete with lockers and showers and if you plan to mix business with pleasure, as I often do, fear not... you can send faxes and make copies complimentary in the lobby!

Caribe Cove is a great choice for families searching for an upscale yet relaxed atmosphere on their Orlando vacation.  The luxury villas at Caribe Cove have lots of elbow room and ameneties to suit every need not to mention a location that is convenient to the Magic!

For more information or to book a stay at this beautiful Orlando area resort, please visit the resort's site at http://www.caribecove.com/.

Now for the giveaway:

One lucky DGTG reader will receive a 4-Day / 3-Night Stay at Caribe Cove Resort in Orlando.  Contest ends at 12:01 am on 8/19/2011.

DGTG Wine Wednesday: Kir Royale- A Bubbly Disney Cocktail

If you read my blog regularly, the fact that I'm a Champagne lover will undoubtedly come as no surprise!  I'm a true "bubbly girl" and that doesn't change when I'm at Disney!

One of my favorite stops in Epcot is the Champagne Kiosk located near Les Chefs de France in the France Pavilion of the World Showcase.  A few months ago, I gave you a peek into this kiosk which serves French wines, champagne, and liquor-based slushies!

In that article, you may remember, I introduced you to my must-have Disney cocktail, The Kir Royale. This traditional French wine cocktail is composed of Champagne and Creme de Cassis, a black currant liqueur and is now one of my favorite drinks of all time! This delicious bubbly beverage can be purchased at the kiosk as well as at Les Chefs de France. Hungry? Read my review of Les Chefs HERE!

Since moving to the Northern California Wine Country, I have been extremely impressed at the availability of the Kir Royale... This bubbly pink cocktail appears in the boutique section of nearly every wine list, which allows me to get my Disney fix any time!

I was also able to find Creme de Cassis at a local gas station... yes, I said gas station... things are really different out here... this little country gas station happens to have a gourmet restaurant in back as well as one of the finest wine selections in the area!!! Gotta love California!
Anyway, as I was saying, I was able to buy Creme de Cassis and a local Sparkling Wine to make the Kir Royal at home and now you can too!!! This drink is perfect for dinner parties or girls' nights!  Please enjoy and drink responsible!

Kir Royale Recipe:

• Bottle of good Champagne or Sparkling Wine (Epcot uses Pommery. I use Roederer Estate Brut)
• 1 oz Creme de Cassis
• Lemon slice (optional)
• Sugar Cube (optional)

Pour approx. 1 oz Creme de Cassis into fluted wine glass.  Fill the glass with Champagne, drop in sugar cube and garnish with lemon.  Enjoy!

What's your "Go To" Disney Beverage? (doesn't have to be alcohol)

Wordless Wednesday: Where in WDW am I?

Here is another "Where in WDW am I" Quiz!

Where am I, and what am I?

(I'll admit, I don't know exactly what this is, hoping you will!)

A Taste of the World: A Very Fine Food and Wine Festival is on Epcot's Horizon

The 16th annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Sept. 30-Nov. 13 will feature wine regions from around the world and international marketplaces with tastes that include artisan cheeses and savory bites from more than 25 countries and regions including Hawaii, Scandinavia, South Korea, the Caribbean islands and Portugal.

Guests can sample wine from regions around the world Food & Wine Festival at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. One of 25 international marketplace kiosks serves artisan cheeses, and special Cheese Seminars are scheduled each Saturday during the festival

Festival Fun Fact: More than 33,000 bottles of Champagne and wine from around the world will be uncorked  Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Guests can sip and graze at more than 25 international marketplaces along the park’s World Showcase promenade. Wine seminars, culinary demonstrations and other special programs are available by reservation