Today's podcast is a look at the restaurants that I personally am not that fond of, and probably won't return to - given the plethora of choices that exist around the resort. Its not that any of them are bad, its about the bang for the buck, given my tastes and what they offer. Its really about how, IMHO, they miss the mark in some way. For some of them, its the way they use their space, for some its the food, and for a few the "experience" is great but its off for some reason. Now I know that -...
Apr 07, 2019•27 min
In Walt Disney World, from 1986 to 1992, the Country Bears went on vacation, and had a celebratory hoedown. This is the audio from that version of the attraction. Also, I have added some technical facts that describe how the show works. I hope you enjoy!
Apr 07, 2019•24 min
This podcast is the full audio from the show before the changes that were made at the end of last year. And of course, I have to provide some context about the show - how did it all start? who was the imagineer behind it? And who are all the bears anyway? Sit back and just enjoy the Country Bear Jamboree!
Apr 07, 2019•27 min
On today's podcast, I have a number of things to talk about. Starting with the Star Wars franchise, the rumors about Cars Land, new things to do and see at Walt Disney World, and lots, lots more! I also talk about Tony Baxter retiring, Disney's effort to buy the Scripps Network, information about a company Digital Domain, and I end with a discussion about "Escape from Tomorrow" a movie made surreptitiously at Disney World.
Apr 07, 2019•27 min
Today's podcast explores topics from previous podcasts. First, there is a more expansive discussion about how to save on your Disney vacation (from podcast #123). Yes, you can save if you look for some discounts or "bundle" tickets, meals, and hotel. And you really should consult with an authorized Disney travel agent such as Destinations in Florida Next, I look at MyMagic+, now that there are more details emerging....I spoke about this on podcast #124. I've got some new information I recently l...
Apr 07, 2019•30 min
On today's podcast, Gary Miceli is back to cohost with me as we go through the Top 10 things you should do when you arrive at the parks. Maybe you are a new visitor, or haven't visited in a long time. We give you some tips to make things flow a little bit easier, and hopefully help you to relax and enjoy your vacation. If you are interested, you can find Gary on Facebook. Now each of us has about five things to share, and while this list is by no means comprehensive, it does give a flavor for th...
Apr 07, 2019•29 min
Today's podcast is the audio of the show that was re-written in 1993 to slightly revise the historical nature of our nation's history. And some might say its more than "slightly" because it talks about a more politically correct late 20th century version of history than maybe Walt would have liked. But it still has a certain sentiment that makes it special and unique. It features poet Maya Angelou as the narrator. And for the first time, you hear a president speak in his own voice....
Apr 07, 2019•21 min
The presidential inauguration is coming up soon, so I wanted to continue to look at the Hall of Presidents. Previously, I played the audio from the current show (check out podcast 74). And then on episode 116, I delved the history of the show. On episode 117, I played the original audio from the show (as it was heard from 1971-1993). Welcome to "part 2" of the Hall of Presidents retrospective. Today, I take you through the show, and explain the script and its relevance...and how it changed/evolv...
Apr 07, 2019•27 min
Today's podcast is somewhat of a rant. I have some thoughts about FastPass+ and MyMagic, and the potential for Disney to differentiate service, though not necessarily in a good way. I am curious what you think, so please send me an email davesdisneyview@gmail.com, or post a response on blogger, twitter, or Facebook. And for the record, I was trying really hard to not be overly critical, but I felt the need to say *something* because I see a trend that's emerging, and it bothers me......
Apr 07, 2019•20 min
Dave is back to answer your Disney questions! You can send me your questions by email at davesdisneyview@gmail.com, or on twitter, facebook, or as a comment on the blog. This round of questions include: What to do at Disney World with a soon-to-be graduating teen, minigolf at Disney, seeing the Hoop De Doo musical (and getting there), FastPass+ and its impact on a trip, and saving money at Disney
Apr 07, 2019•29 min
Back in May, I took a trip to the parks. I drove up from South Florida, arriving at about 9 and started a 4-park adventure. Now, I did spend the night at the All-Star Sports, so I took advantage of that fact to grab a quick nap in the middle of the day. So come along and listen to my 3-part podcast as I wander through the parks. On this podcast, I head over to the Magic Kingdom and end my day by riding the monorail back to my car. Of course you will hear some of my stories as I tool around. Enjo...
Apr 07, 2019•30 min
Back in May, I took a trip to the parks. I drove up from South Florida, arriving at about 9 and started a 4-park adventure. Now, I did spend the night at the All-Star Sports, so I took advantage of that fact to grab a quick nap in the middle of the day. So come along and listen to my 3-part podcast as I wander through the parks. On this podcast, you'll hear me head over to the Studios, then head for a quick nap - and then its off to the Animal Kingdom I tell you all about what;s going on, and ha...
Apr 07, 2019•25 min
Back in May, I took a trip to the parks. I drove up from South Florida, arriving at about 9 and started a 4-park adventure. Now, I did spend the night at the All-Star Sports, so I took advantage of that fact to grab a quick nap in the middle of the day. So come along and listen to my 3-part podcast as I wander through the parks. On this podcast, you'll hear me as I start out at Kouzzina on the Boardwalk, and then I head into Epcot and over to the Studios. I tell you all about what;s going on, an...
Apr 07, 2019•24 min
Today's podcast focuses in on all the big changes that are now open at Fantasyland. Come listen as a yak about all the new, fun stuff to see and do at the Magic Kingdom's largest expansion! Here's a link to an article with pictures and descriptions.... http://micechat.com/16734-magic-kingdom-new-fantasyland/
Apr 07, 2019•28 min
On today's podcast, its a look at some Disney news, including some information about Fantasyland, including alcohol in the Magic Kingdom?, Belles Magic Mirror, the acquisition of LucasFilm, Tom Hanks as Walt, a few words about Tim Allen as Buzz Lightyear, Big Thunder Mountain, possible new additions to the parks, and a whole lot more!
Apr 07, 2019•31 min
Today, I present the audio from the Hall of Presidents, as it existed from 1971-1993. It is narrated by Lawrence Dobkin, and provides an interesting - and very Walt like - view back into the history of our great country. If its your first time hearing it, see if you don't learn something. And if you remember it from the past, see if there are moments that seem to be part of our collective consciousness, and our understanding of history. This version is ca 1973, and the last president listed in N...
Apr 07, 2019•25 min
In honor of the Presidential election, today's episode is a retrospective on the Hall of Presidents. I take a look back at the history of the attraction, and how it came to be - and why. Its an interesting look back into Walt's personal history and into the history of Disney World. Note: My thanks to Widen Your World for some thoughts about the Hall of Presidents.
Apr 07, 2019•29 min
Today's show focuses on a live show that holds a unique place in Disney history. The show is Doug Live! and its unique because it was not based on a Disney property - it was based on a Nickelodeon show that was bought out by Disney, and appeared on ABC morning. Joining me to discuss it is Gary Miceli, a lover of the show and a Doug Live! specialist...you can find Gary on Facebook. Feel free to contact him with any questions you might have about the show... A promotional item from Disney in 1999 ...
Apr 07, 2019•28 min
Its Halloween time again and friend-of-the-show Kristi is back to talk about the Haunted Mansion, and beyond. Come and take a listen to the darker side of the park, and hear some fun ghost-oriented stories. (with apologies, the podcast this week is a little long at 41 minutes, but I think you will find its well worth your time!) These are the scenes from the Haunted Mansion that we discuss: Kristi references a video of the haunted mansion with some alterations. You can see "The Haunted Mansion: ...
Apr 07, 2019•41 min
Today's podcast is a look back at opening day in EPCOT. I have audio from then-chairman of the board E Cardon "Card" Walker, standing in front of a crowd offering a short dedication ceremony, some audio from the actual park opening - and that includes music and an introduction by Jack Wagner. And then, I present part of the audio from a live TV feed from EPCOT that was shown on CBS to promote its opening. If you're interested in watching the whole video - including some of the cheesy scenes, amu...
Apr 07, 2019•29 min
Continuing a celebration of EPCOT, on this podcast I have a guest who was on the construction crew and who was there for opening day as a CastMember. My friend Charles is my guest, and we chat about his memories of that time and he gives you a feeling for what that time was like, and I set some context for what it was like for those of us who saw it from the outside. I hope you enjoy this retrospective. Curious as to what a "dragline" is? Check out this wikipedia entry...
Apr 07, 2019•29 min
As Epcot prepares to celebrate its 30th year, I wanted to look back at Walt's vision, and what was constructed on the Florida property. I delve into the backstory, and what was originally progress city, and how that evolved over time. I hope you take a listen, and learn some new things about the history of the park.
Apr 07, 2019•26 min
On today's show, I'm delighted to talk about my new affiliation with Destinations in Florida, an authorized Disney Vacation Planner. Now when someone asks if I can direct them to an agency, I have an answer! Joining me to talk about the service - and Disney of course - is Shannon, one of the friendly and knowledgeable travel planners. Get to know her a little, and learn a little about what they offer, and of course we'll talk about some Disney Magic. Now I have to tell you that I really had some...
Apr 07, 2019•28 min
On today's podcast, I talk about the ins and outs of working in the Emporium. I talk about its size, how much money is handled, and how it manages to work. I explain how the stock is maintained, and how the finances work. Its sort of an insiders look at the store.
Apr 07, 2019•35 min
Dave is back to answer your Disney questions! Is Wi-fi available? What do you do when it rains in the water parks? In the other parks? What do CastMembers do for vacations? Help with park tickets. And some cruise tips. MouseSavers.com Ticket Questions Hidden Mickeys iPhone app Hidden Mickeys iPad app Pin trading app (iPhone & iPad)...
Apr 07, 2019•29 min
I've been doing this for a while now, and one thing that's missing is a bit of a social conscience. I figure we all should do some good for others, and that's what I aim to do. Now I know this is not my greatest work. Believe me when I say I had a lot of trouble deciding on an approach for this podcast. But I believe that what it lacks in overall production quality is offset by its purpose. You see, I have a friend who has a child diagnosed with autism. He wanted to take a trip to Disney, and re...
Apr 07, 2019•20 min
Today's podcast pays homage to the park that started it all. Curt was in DisneyLand shortly after CarsLand opened, and he's here to tell us all about it. Yeah, I know, the podcast runs a little long, but it covers a lot of ground and he gives his impressions as a DisneyWorld guy.
Apr 07, 2019•40 min
Its a dose of Disney news! Included are an update on Fast Pass Plus, The Legend of Jack Sparrow, FantasyLand, Agent P, AvatarLand, updates to Soarin'? And more! Tune in and enjoy!
Apr 07, 2019•30 min
Today, I explore the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror. First, I provide some background on the attraction - how did it come to be? What's the back story? And then, come along and take a walk through the outside and queue of the attraction, followed by a ride on it. Its a little love to an attraction that most people run to for the thrill aspect. But the story is actually pretty interesting.
Apr 07, 2019•33 min
On today's podcast, I am in the Magic Kingdom, checking out the Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom. Its a fun, interactive experience. Join me as I describe the experience, how it works, and set out to save the kingdom! First things first. I play part of an interview that Rick Brigante did with Imagineer Jonathan Ackley. I provide it for context, but want to give full credit to Rick. You should visit his site and check out his work. He provides a thorough look at all things Disney... Inside the Magi...
Apr 07, 2019•31 min