GEO-82: Details Revealed for Spaceship Earth Lounge

Can you name a place at Walt Disney World where you can spend an elegant time indulging in modern cocktails, taking in views of sprawling World Celebration gardens and World Showcase Lagoon from inside a world-famous icon? I can – and that place is GEO-82, the all-new lounge coming to EPCOT. Inside GEO-82: An Adults-Only Lounge When GEO-82 opens this year, the location will offer reservations for guests 21 and older. This lounge will be the ultimate spot to toast to a trip around EPCOT with innovative cocktails and globally influenced small plates while you take in spectacular park views. With this new lounge, you’ll feel like you’re discovering an all-new part of Spaceship Earth – GEO-82 will surround you with iconic shapes and intricate structures inspired by the park’s instantly-recognizable icon. You’ll sit amid rich textures and warm, metallic tones that echo Spaceship Earth in an elegant and intimate setting. Designing the Future of Lounges at Walt Disney World When it opens, GEO-82 will be the first of two new lounges coming to Walt Disney World this year. For those interested in discovering fun beverages for the whole family, keep an eye (and perhaps a telescope!) out for more news about the Pirates of the Caribbean-inspired tavern coming to Magic Kingdom Park later this year. Stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog for more information. We can’t wait to share more about this experience, including when you can make reservations, the opening date, and what kinds of delicious drinks and bites will be part of the GEO-82 story … and if you can read the menu, thank the Phoenicians! The post GEO-82: Details Revealed for Spaceship Earth Lounge appeared first on Disney Parks Blog.

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30 Years of Innovation: Topiaries at EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival

For 30 years, the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival has brought Disney characters to life in topiary form in new and innovative ways. Disney Imagineers work hand in hand with Disney horticulture to design and create topiaries at EPCOT that are not only impressive floral feats but also authentically represent some of Disney’s most beloved characters known worldwide. Harnessing the latest advances in technology, Imagineers set out each year to expand the level of detail and storytelling possible in a topiary by seamlessly fusing creative and technical elements within the organic medium of plants. This process of constant innovation fuels our desire for creativity. Let’s take a look behind the scenes to see how Imagineers and horticulture cast members have been pushing the bounds of topiary innovation. Sculpting Topiaries with Clay If you take a close look at Beast’s face, you will see that it is made of organic dried plant material. While this dried plant material perfectly forms his chestnut-colored fur, Imagineers needed a new method to recreate Belle’s intricate facial features. Clay was the solution. “We began sculpting with clay to create even more detailed facial features that would not have been possible using only natural plant material,” said Senior Production Designer Chris Nawara. “For Princess Belle, our sculpting artist created a traditional clay sculpt of her face using the character reference model from Walt Disney Animation Studios to complete the character’s iconic silhouette.” The introduction of hand-sculpted elements to create character faces significantly expanded the level of detail that could be represented in our topiaries. However, this is no tale as old as time, as Imagineers are constantly creating new methods to expand the possibilities of storytelling. The Perfect Print Princess Tiana was one of our first topiaries to incorporate 3D printed elements, paving the way for us to add even greater depth and detail to our characters. “The medium of 3D printing introduced the digital component to topiary production, allowing us to create more complex geometries and intricate features,” shared Senior Industrial Designer Steven Montalvo. Another example of this technology in use is Maui’s fishhook – the largest 3D printed element ever incorporated into an EPCOT topiary. The printed product is then hand-textured using traditional clay and sculpting elements to further enhance each character’s specific details and features. “The fusion of authentic character representation with the natural horticultural elements is what really brings our topiaries to life,” Art Director Brittany Smith explained. “The charming part about sculpting within the horticultural medium is that the topiaries are allowed to be beautifully textured and uniquely irregular, just as plants are in nature, making them unlike any other icons across the property.” Special Effects in EPCOT Topiaries Just as topiary technology has evolved throughout the years from traditional planted faces to hand-sculpting and 3D printing, Imagineers have also added impressive special effects to some of our newer topiaries, such as Cogsworth’s swinging pendulum, the Norway troll’s glowing lantern, and Star’s glistening celestial dust. Disney horticulture has also elevated the show by testing new plant species that provide us with a variety of colors and textures that bring our topiaries to life. And new to this year’s festival are Moana and Maui complete with their glowing oar and fishhook, just like in Disney Animation’s Moana 2. “We work closely with our horticulture partners from the very beginning to lean into similar effects that you might see in the character’s movie,” explained Senior Special Effects Designer Josh Harrison. “It’s all about adding that dynamic component to make the characters come to life, and the special effects provide that ‘wow factor’ to make this possible.” Across three decades, Disney horticulture and Walt Disney Imagineering have worked together to weave art, technology, and nature to create the impressive topiary displays seen throughout the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival, now through June 2. The post 30 Years of Innovation: Topiaries at EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival appeared first on Disney Parks Blog.

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CELEBRITY MARCH

N O T H I N G COMES CLOSE TO OUR BIGGEST SALE OF THE Y E A R There’s no better time to plan the vacation you deserve than during our biggest sale of the year. For a limited time, get 75% off your second guest’s fare and save up to an additional $600 per room or get up to $500 per room to spend on board. Book today and discover why you’ll never want to vacation any other way. *Cruise must be booked Dec.10, 2024 through Apr. 07, 2025 (the “Offer Period”) and applies to select sailings 3-nights and longer departing Dec.10, 2024 – May 10, 2027 as well as 9-Night and longer Alaska Cruisetours on Celebrity Summit sailings departing May 09, 2025 – Sept. 05, 2025 (the “Offer Cruise”). Promo code not required. Full deposit must be paid by deposit payment required due date. Standard full deposit penalty is applied if booking is cancelled within final payment period; see CEL’s cancellation policy for details. Non-Refundable Deposit Bookings (“NRDB”): To qualify for the lowest available cruise fare, guest must choose a non-refundable deposit. All deposit payments for NRDB made after 03/02/23 are non- refundable from the time of booking. NRDB are applicable to groups at prevailing rates. Not applicable to incentive, contract, or charter groups. Nonrefundable deposit offers are applicable to sailings within final payment, however full deposit is due at time of booking. BOGO 50% Off 2nd Guest Offer is for Refundable Fares only, applies to new, individual bookings at standard rates during the Offer Period, and provides 50% off refundable cruise fares on the 2nd guest only in the same stateroom as the first full fare guest on an Offer Cruise, excluding Galapagos. All other charges, including but not limited to, taxes, fees and port expenses are additional and apply to all guests. BOGO 75% Off 2nd Guest Offer is for Non-Refundable Fares only, applies to new, individual bookings at standard rates during the Offer Period, and provides 75% off nonrefundable cruise fares on the 2nd guest only in the same stateroom as the first full fare guest on an Offer Cruise, excluding Galapagos. All other charges, including but not limited to, taxes, fees and port expenses are additional and apply to all guests. Combinability: BOGO 50% Off 2nd Guest for Refundable Fares and BOGO 75% Off 2nd Guest for Non-Refundable Fares Offers will be automatically applied at checkout and are combinable with Savings Offer and All Included or No Perk Rate. BOGO 50% Off 2nd Guest for Refundable Fares and BOGO 75% Off 2nd Guest for Non-Refundable Fares Offers do not apply to Group X Rates, single occupancy guests, charters or contracted groups and are not combinable with Travel Agent, Interline, or Net Rates, Exciting Deals, or worker cabins. BONUS SAVINGS/OBC OFFERS Up to $600 Savings Offer applies to new, individual bookings at standard and prevailing or closed group standard or GroupX rates on an Offer Cruise, excluding Galapagos, and provides cruise fare savings per stateroom varying by stateroom category and length of voyage booked: 3 to 5 nights, savings of $75 USD for inside and ocean view, $150 USD for verandas, Concierge Class, AquaClass® and $300 USD for Suites; 6 nights or longer, savings of $150 USD for inside and ocean view, $300 USD for verandas, Concierge Class, AquaClass® and $600 USD for Suites. Up to $500 Savings Offer applies to new, individual bookings at standard and prevailing or closed group standard or GroupX rates on an Offer Cruise, excluding Galapagos, and provides cruise fare savings per stateroom varying by stateroom category and length of voyage booked: 3 to 5 nights, savings of $50 USD for inside and ocean view, $100 USD for verandas, Concierge Class, AquaClass® and $250 USD for Suites; 6 nights or longer, savings of $100 USD for inside and ocean view, $200 USD for verandas, Concierge Class, AquaClass® and $500 USD for Suites. Up to $500 Onboard Credit (OBC) Offer applies to new, individual bookings at standard and prevailing or closed group standard or GroupX rates on an Offer Cruise, excluding Galapagos, and provides onboard credit (OBC) per stateroom varying by stateroom category and length of voyage booked: 3 to 5 nights, OBC of $50 USD for inside and ocean view, $100 USD for verandas, Concierge Class, AquaClass® and $250 USD for Suites; 6 nights or longer, OBC of $100 USD for inside and ocean view, $200 USD for verandas, Concierge Class, AquaClass® and $500 USD for Suites. Combinability: Savings or OBC Offer is combinable with BOGO 50% Off 2nd Guest for Refundable Fares or BOGO 75% Off 2nd Guest for Non-Refundable Fares Offers, All Included or No Perk Rate, and Alaska Cruisetours and will be automatically applied at checkout. Individual reservations can be transferred into an existing group, certain restrictions apply. Single occupancy guests paying 200% cruise fare are eligible. All offers are capacity controlled; availability varies by sailing, and eligible staterooms may sell out. All offers are non-transferable and applicable only to the Offer Cruise. Changes to booking may result in removal of offers. Prices and offers are subject to availability and change without notice, capacity controlled and may be withdrawn at any time. Refer to Cruise Ticket Contract for additional terms and conditions. Celebrity reserves the right to cancel the offer(s) at any time, correct any errors, inaccuracies, or omissions, and change or update fares, fees and surcharges at any time without prior notice. ©2024 Celebrity Cruises Inc. Ships’ registry: Malta and Ecuador.

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Cruising 101: What First-Timers Need to Know

Cruising offers a one-of-a-kind travel experience—an all-in-one vacation featuring world-class dining, entertainment, and the thrill of waking up in a new destination each day. This type of travel brings its own special magic: the awe of the ocean, a unique sense of freedom, and a renewed appreciation for both travel and the beauty of the world. What to Expect? For first-time cruisers, excitement often comes with a bit of uncertainty. What should you expect? How can you make the most of your time both onboard and in port? What should you pack? We’ve got you covered with everything you need to know before your first cruise. This guide is just the start of an ongoing series, designed not only for first-time cruisers but also for those looking to enhance their cruise experience. Stay tuned for more in-depth articles on cruising and shore excursions! Understanding the Cruise Lifestyle Cruising is more than just a mode of transportation — it’s an immersive vacation experience. For many, it becomes something they can’t wait to do again and again. Here’s what you can expect: A floating resort: Cruise ships are designed to offer the comforts of a high-end resort, from pools and spas to Broadway-style shows and specialty dining. Diverse activities: Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, foodie, or culture enthusiast, cruises offer something for everyone. Port excursions: While onboard activities are fantastic, the real magic happens when you step off the ship and explore new destinations. To really get into the cruise vibe, mix in plenty of downtime on board with shore excursions that let you explore local cultures and take in stunning views. How to Prepare Mentally for Your First Cruise It’s easy to get caught up in the logistics of packing and planning, but preparing mentally is just as important. Here’s what to keep in mind: Pace yourself: With so much to do, it’s tempting to try and do it all. But don’t overextend yourself — leave some room for spontaneity and relaxation. Embrace the unexpected: Weather changes, itinerary adjustments, and new experiences are part of the adventure. Shore excursions are key: Some of the most unforgettable moments happen off the ship. Booking the right excursions will turn your trip into something extraordinary. Debunking Common Cruise Myths If you’re hesitant about cruising because of common misconceptions, let’s set the record straight: “Cruises are just for older people” – Cruises offer something for every age group, from kid-friendly zones to late-night entertainment for adults. In fact, Millennials and Gen-Z are the fastest-growing cruising demographics. “You’ll be stuck on a boat” – With daily port stops and diverse activities, you’ll never feel confined. “Shore excursions are overpriced” – While cruise-line-sponsored tours can be pricey, independent providers like Shore Excursions Group offer more affordable, intimate experiences. What First-Time Cruisers Often Wish They Knew Before Sailing Seasoned cruisers often have a few lessons learned along the way. Here are some tips they wish they had known before setting sail: Book Shore Excursions in Advance Popular tours sell out quickly, so be sure to plan ahead. For an unforgettable experience when visiting Costa Maya, consider the Caribbean Snorkeling and Boat Tour. You’ll glide across the Mexican Caribbean’s crystal-clear waters before diving into an underwater world full of vibrant marine life. After snorkeling, enjoy a relaxing stroll along Mahahual Beach — an idyllic way to experience Costa Maya’s beauty. Plan for Days in Port Your time in port is limited, so make every moment count. Rather than wandering around aimlessly, book excursions that immerse you in the local culture and scenery. If you’re visiting Alaska, one top choice is the Juneau Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier Tour. This half-day excursion includes a scenic boat ride where you’re guaranteed to spot magnificent whales. Afterward, you’ll head to Alaska’s famous Mendenhall Glacier for breathtaking views and exploration along the many photogenic hiking paths, including the Photo Point Trail. Try Something Unforgettable A cruise is the perfect opportunity to step outside your comfort zone. Is the Bahamas on your traveling shortlist? Then you won’t want to miss the Swimming Pigs, Snorkeling, and Sun excursion. Swim alongside friendly pigs at the secluded Pigs Beach on Athol Island, then snorkel along Nassau’s amazing reefs, where colorful fish swim up to greet you. It’s an experience you’ll be talking about for years to come. Don’t Overpack These days, cruisers on mainstream lines tend to dress casually. However, many cruise lines do offer a special dinner night or certain restaurants where you can break out that swanky dress or sharp suit if you so desire. Just double-check with your cruise line before you zip up that suitcase. While it’s tempting to bring your entire wardrobe, remember that cabins have limited space. Opt for versatile clothing and comfortable footwear for excursions, and consider your destination—shorts for the Caribbean, long pants for cooler destinations. For women, a maxi sundress or skirt is always a solid choice. For men, chinos and a casual collared shirt (like a polo) are dependable options. Layers are your best friend when it comes to packing, offering both style and comfort flexibility. Lightweight tops, like tank tops or tees, are space-savers that can be dressed up or warmed up with a shirt or light sweater. A lightweight waterproof jacket is a must-have for windy deck nights or rainy excursions. Remember to bring a cover-up for your swimsuit, as many cruise lines require one when leaving the pool area, and some destinations expect it once you’re off the beach. Religious sites often have dress codes that require covering your shoulders and knees. Here are a few items that can make your cruise experience even simpler and more enjoyable: Bring a small carry-on on embarkation day — Having a small bag with your essentials will help you get settled and ready to explore the ship once you board. Lanyards — These are a convenient way to keep your cruise room key card with you at all times. Magnetic hooks — Great for hanging up jackets,

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First Look: Walt Disney World Nighttime Parade ‘Coco’ Float and Official Poster

We’re just a few months away from the debut of “Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away,” an all-new nighttime parade that will light up the streets of Magic Kingdom Park this summer! To get ready for the big day, the Disney Live Entertainment team has been busy designing and choreographing in Florida, recording music in London and checking in on float construction across the U.S. And to get you ready, we’re sharing some exciting updates you won’t want to miss. “Disney Starlight” Official Poster Let’s kick things off with a first look at the official poster for “Disney Starlight.” This design, which will take its place amongst the iconic artwork below the Main Street, U.S.A. train station, captures the creative vision for the parade by showcasing both modern stories and familiar nostalgia. And if you’ve been following our “Disney Starlight” updates closely on the Disney Parks Blog, you may notice some friends on the poster who we haven’t talked about yet. “Disney Starlight” Coco Float “Disney Starlight” will get un poco loco with a new Coco float at Magic Kingdom! In a celebration of the Pixar Animation Studios film, sounds of Mariachi music will announce the arrival of a larger-than-life Pepita, wings spread above the parade route. Below, Miguel will strum his guitar at the foot of a marigold bridge to the Land of the Dead, complete with sugar skull fireworks. This new Coco float is an explosion of color and light you won’t want to miss. Other “Disney Starlight” Floats and Can’t-Miss Details All the “Disney Starlight” floats from our poster may now be revealed, but there are more surprises in store — including a few details you may have missed! The very first float sets the tone for our star-kissed constellation of Disney dreams, all brought to life by the magic of the Blue Fairy. See that glowing star at the end of the Blue Fairy’s wand? To paraphrase a fan-favorite Magic Kingdom nighttime spectacular, that’s actually the “first star you’ll see tonight.” You’ll be invited to wish upon this very bright star to kick off our parade. Keep an eye out for Peter Pan, Wendy and Elsa on their own floats too! We can’t wait for Isabela to make her Magic Kingdom debut alongside her fellow Madrigal family members in the Encanto portion of “Disney Starlight.” In true Isabela fashion, she’ll swing on floral vines just like she does in the film. Main Street, U.S.A. will also “make way” for a Moana float, complete with gorgeous, luminescent waves. While Moana takes center stage, if you look closely, you’ll notice Pua, HeiHei, and even a manta ray representing Gramma Tala joining her journey. We’ve already shared a peek at the “Disney Starlight!” princess float, which revealed the influence of Disney Legend and artist Mary Blair on the unit’s design. This float will feature beloved princes and princesses like Aurora and Prince Phillip, Tiana and Prince Naveen, Belle and the Beast, and Cinderella and Prince Charming. But what you don’t see in the artwork are the royal court dancers who will bookend this princess segment – one of many references to the classic “Main Street Electrical Parade.” Our waltzing princesses aren’t the only royalty you’ll see in “Disney Starlight,” but that’s enough for today! Keep checking back here on the Disney Parks Blog and follow @DisneyLiveEntertainment on Instagram. We’ll have more to share in the coming months! The post First Look: Walt Disney World Nighttime Parade ‘Coco’ Float and Official Poster appeared first on Disney Parks Blog.

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SXSW: Go Off-Roading with New Vehicles for Cars Ride

Life is an off-road rally race, and Lightning McQueen, Mater, and the rest of the cars from Pixar Animation Studios’ Cars are going to ride it all night long. First announced at last year’s D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, a brand-new Cars themed area is speeding in to Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World. Here, the Cars crew leaves Radiator Springs behind and heads off into the frontier to put their wheels to the test. Now at The Future of World-Building at Disney panel at SXSW, Pixar Chief Creative Officer Pete Docter, and Imagineer Michael Hundgen teased that guests will need to strap in because they’re in the process of creating a new type of ride vehicle for this experience. “Our primary goal is creating an emotional experience for our guests,” Hundgen told the crowd. “For this Cars attraction, we need to invent a new type of ride vehicle. No one builds these in a factory because it has to do so much more than just carrying you from one place to another. We have to create a car that conveys a feeling when you ride in it.” The team took a trip out to the Arizona desert to jump in a real off-road vehicle to see what it felt like driving over the rocky terrain. These are all things Lightning McQueen and Mater haven’t experienced before, like racing over rocky terrain, ascending to mountain peaks, and dodging around geysers — how do you take these real-world elements and put a Cars spin on it? From there, the Imagineers worked with a motocross company to build a real dirt track to race around on and took that data back to begin work on creating how the ride vehicles will eventually move and race. “We’re using a customized production vehicle,” Hundgen continued. “It has sensors all over it, and we’re taking it for test drives on our dirt track to gather data on how the vehicle responds to different terrain. This is where we turn that feeling we want into real-world engineering,” Michael explained. But all this talk about cars, what do they look like? That’s where the Pixar team steps in. For some show and tell to get the crowd revved up, Docter shared some early concept sketches with the audience, teasing that they’re creating “new race car personalities for this attraction. Each vehicle in the ride will have its own name and number, just like a real race.” @disneyparks Real-world engineering meets Disney magic. Off-road testing is underway for the new Cars attraction coming to Magic Kingdom at Disney World. #SXSW #Cars #Disney #DisneyParks #MagicKingdom #DisneyNews ♬ original sound – Disney Parks Miss any Disney Experiences updates from SXSW? Catch up on all the exciting announcements now! But do you want more Imagineering? We’ve got more Imagineering. Come along as we pull back the curtain on the latest episode of “We Call It Imagineering,” and take you behind the scenes of the Ride Studio. What’s the Ride Studio? Great question — it’s the birthplace of many vehicles just seen in the SXSW presentation in a space dedicated to design and engineering. Join us as we take a deeper dive into the evolution of some of the most beloved attractions, from Haunted Mansion to the upcoming Cars attraction! Catch a brand-new episode this Monday only on the Walt Disney Imagineering YouTube. The post SXSW: Go Off-Roading with New Vehicles for Cars Ride appeared first on Disney Parks Blog.

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SXSW: Scary-Good New Monsters, Inc. Coaster Includes Vertical Lift

When the team at Pixar Animation Studios start dreaming up new worlds and places to visit in the movies, there’s a little voice inside their head (an emotion, maybe) asking, “Is this something Imagineers could create, and we could walk into?” If the answer is no, they keep working. But if the answer is yes… well it’s time to partner with the team at Walt Disney Imagineering to see if it’s possible to bring that space to life in one of the Disney Parks around the world. Taking to the stage during The Future of World-Building at Disney panel at SXSW, Pixar Chief Creative Officer Pete Docter and Imagineer Michael Hundgen walked the crowd through their latest upcoming immersive space to occupy Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Monstropolis. First announced at last year’s D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, Imagineers are hard at work bringing the world of Pixar Animation Studios’ Monsters, Inc. to life — and that includes its monster inhabitants, James P. Sullivan, Mike Wazowski, and more. While getting to walk through the streets of Monstropolis is exciting enough, the land will include a signature attraction where guests embark on a thrilling roller coaster ride through the Monsters, Inc. door vault. “Imagineers have been itching to turn that moment into an attraction ever since we saw it for the first time,” Hundgen teased. While many details about the attraction are still locked up in a laugh canister, the Imagineering team is ready to reveal the load area for the attraction. The upcoming door ride will feature the first-ever suspended coaster at a Disney Park, and the first-ever vertical lift. Get ready to scream — not out of fright, but fun. Showing off a new animatic of the attraction, guests will board the vehicle before being hoisted into the air (just like in the movie!) to zoom into the door vault. It’s going to be, “an experience that’s as memorable and fun as the film,” Hundgen continued. “I can tell you that everyone at Pixar is excited about how this is coming together,” Docter told the crowd. “It really is like a dream come true for us.” @disneyparks POV: You’re a Monsters, Inc. door on the first-ever vertical lift coaster coming to Monstropolis at Disney’s Hollywood Studios! #DisneyWorld #MonstersInc #DisneyParks #SXSW #Pixar ♬ original sound – Disney Parks Miss any Disney Experiences updates from SXSW? Catch up on all the exciting announcements now! But do you want more Imagineering? We’ve got more Imagineering. Come along as we pull back the curtain on the latest episode of “We Call It Imagineering,” and take you behind the scenes of the Ride Studio. What’s the Ride Studio? Great question — it’s the birthplace of many vehicles just seen in the SXSW presentation in a space dedicated to design and engineering. Join us as we take a deeper dive into the evolution of some of the most beloved attractions, from Haunted Mansion to the upcoming Monsters, Inc. coaster. Catch a brand-new episode this Monday only on the Walt Disney Imagineering YouTube. The post SXSW: Scary-Good New Monsters, Inc. Coaster Includes Vertical Lift appeared first on Disney Parks Blog.

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Things to Know Before Going to Mykonos

One of Greece‘s most famous islands, Mykonos, is a sun-drenched paradise known for its whitewashed buildings, vibrant nightlife, and stunning beaches. It is also a party hotspot in the Cycladic islands. Whether you’re exploring the charming streets of Mykonos Town (Chora), soaking in the Aegean views from Little Venice, or uncovering the island’s rich history, there’s something for every traveler. As a key stop on many cruise itineraries, Mykonos is a favorite destination for those seeking a mix of cultural heritage and scenic beauty. Why Mykonos is a Must-Visit Destination From its lively atmosphere to its picturesque landscapes, Mykonos offers an experience that blends relaxation and adventure. The narrow, cobbled streets and white-washed buildings adorned with colorful shutters are a photographer’s dream. Visitors can indulge in delicious Greek cuisine, explore historical sites like Delos, or simply unwind on the island’s golden beaches. Its iconic windmills and legendary sunset views are major draws, enchanting visitors at every turn. Planning Your Trip With a variety of shore excursions tailored to different interests, it’s important to decide what type of experience you’re looking for before you arrive. Whether you want to immerse yourself in the island’s culture, go on a scenic adventure, or relax by the sea, there are plenty of options to choose from. Below, we break down the key aspects of planning your visit, from when to go to how to get around. Best Time to Visit The best time to visit Mykonos is between May and October, with peak tourist season occurring in July and August. During these months, you can expect warm temperatures and a lively atmosphere. However, if you prefer fewer crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder season (April to May, or September to October), when the weather is still warm but the island is less crowded. How to Get There All cruise ships dock at Tourlos, Mykonos’ main port, located just a short drive from Mykonos Town. How long do cruise ships stay in Mykonos? Typically, cruise ships dock for about 8-10 hours, while some ships may dock overnight. Be sure to reference your cruise itinerary when booking shore excursions. Getting Around in Mykonos What is the best way to get around Mykonos? Walking is the best way to explore Mykonos Town, as many areas are pedestrian-friendly and best explored on foot. For longer distances, taxis and public buses are plentiful, though they can be limited during peak season. Private tours and excursions — such as those provided by Shore Excursions Group — often provide comfortable transportation, ensuring you maximize your time on the island. Essential Travel Information Knowing a few key travel essentials can make your time in Mykonos hassle-free. From currency to safety tips, here’s what you need to know before you go. Entry Requirements Do I need a visa to visit Mykonos on a cruise? No, most cruise passengers do not need a visa for short stays in Greece. Since Greece is part of the Schengen Zone, most visitors from the U.S., Canada, and the EU do not require a visa for short stays. Passengers generally do not need to carry their passports off the ship, as cruise lines handle entry requirements in advance. However, it’s always a good idea to bring a photo ID when going ashore. Currency What currency should I bring? The Euro (EUR) is the official currency, and credit cards are widely accepted. Having some cash on hand is recommended, especially for taxis and some smaller establishments that only take cash. ATMs are available throughout Mykonos Town. Keep in mind that Mykonos can be on the pricey side when it comes to the Greek islands, especially in the summertime. Health and Safety Vaccinations and Health Precautions: No special vaccinations are required for Greece, but staying up-to-date with routine vaccines is recommended. Local Emergency Services: Dial 112 for emergency assistance. Safety Tips: Mykonos is generally safe for tourists, but as with any popular destination, be mindful of pickpockets in crowded areas. Top Excursions and Tours Exploring Mykonos through a shore excursion is the best way to experience the island’s beauty and culture. Shore Excursions Group offers a variety of tours catering to different interests. Scenic and Cultural Excursions Can I visit Delos from Mykonos? Yes, several excursions, including our Ancient Delos Tour, allow you to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site. For those looking to capture the essence of Mykonos, scenic and cultural excursions provide a perfect blend of history and breathtaking views. Exclusive Mykonos Old and New: Escape the large crowds and uncover both the historic and modern sides of Mykonos on this in-depth excursion. Tour the Panagia Tourliani Monastery and witness traditional Greek village life in Ano Mera — a serene contrast to the party vibes of Mykonos. Highlights of Mykonos: This half-day adventure takes you through the island’s most photogenic locations including Agios Ioannis, Kalafatis, and Ano Mera, where you can explore the 16th century Panagia Tourliani monastery. Authentic Mykonos: Experience the island from a local’s perspective with stops at traditional villages and scenic overlooks. Tour the famed monastery of Panagia Tourliani. Visit the Mykonian Spiti farm to see traditional farming techniques (and try your hand at them, if you want!) and enjoy a delicious snack or lunch. Adventure and Nature Tours For those seeking a more active experience, adventure tours allow you to explore Mykonos’ natural beauty and history. Panoramic Mykonos 4×4 SUV Adventure: Take a thrilling off-road journey in an adventure-style SUV through Mykonos’ rugged landscapes. From St. Ioannis port and hidden beaches to the quaint Ano Mera village with its impressive monastery, you’ll want your camera for this one! Ancient Delos and Rhenia Island by Boat: Explore historical ruins and pristine beaches on this boat tour. You’ll visit the “Cycladic sisters” — Mykonos, Delos, and Rhenia Islands — where temple ruins and untouched beauty await. Little Venice & Agios Stefanos Daily Cruise: Relax on a scenic cruise along the southern beaches of Mykonos, admire the Panagia Paraportiani Church and other landmarks along the way.

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Baby Bakso Delights Wilderness Explorers at Animal Kingdom

The wilderness must be explored! Caw, Caw, ROAR! Some of our favorite pals from Disney·Pixar’s UP just went on a wild adventure through the jungles of Asia. While exploring, Dug, Russell and Carl caught a glimpse of Bakso, the adorable Sumatran tiger cub, and his mom, Sohni. The trio watched in awe as mother and cub playfully pounced and prowled together in their lush habitat filled with cascading waterfalls, trees, hills and logs that provide natural opportunities for the big cats to communicate, rest, hide and explore. Much like our friends in Up, young adventurers visiting Disney’s Animal Kingdom can embark on their own wild adventure. Through the Wilderness Explorers program, guests can earn more than 20 badges as they explore nature’s wonders, learn about threatened and endangered species, and discover Disney’s commitment to conservation across the globe. One of the badges Guests can earn at Disney’s Animal Kingdom is the mighty tiger badge, found near Bakso’s home on Maharajah Jungle Trek. At this particular location, guests can learn about the unique striped pattern of Sumatran tigers and the challenges these big cats face in the wild. Bakso is the first tiger cub born at Disney’s Animal Kingdom in seven years. While small in size, he serves as an ambassador for his declining population of less than 600 Sumatran tigers left in the wild. Since his debut, thousands of our guests have trekked over to the trail to catch a glimpse of this critically endangered cub. His playful and curious personality has drawn excitement from crowds and won over the hearts of all who visit him, including Dug, Carl and Russell! Seeing Bakso and hundreds of other animals at Disney’s Animal Kingdom is just one of the wild and memorable moments you and your family can delight in throughout your visit. Walt Disney World offers the perfect place for every explorer – young and old! If your family is seeking their own ultimate adventure, a trip to Walt Disney World is a magical vacation like no other. Whether you’re navigating the waters of Jungle Cruise at Magic Kingdom Park, exploring the big blue world at The Seas with Nemo & Friends at EPCOT or simply relaxing at one of our Disney Resorts — there’s something for every little adventurer out there. Our value resorts bring the legendary Disney storytelling, incredible attention to detail, and exceptional service you’ll find in the heart of the theme parks – at an unforgettable price. With rooms starting around $100 a night during quieter times of the year, you can save money for even more family fun! As an added bonus – staying at a Walt Disney World Resort gets you wild perks like being close to the incredible theme parks, complimentary transportation, and early access to dining reservations – your family’s journey will be filled with surprises around every corner! View this post on Instagram A post shared by Disney Parks (@disneyparks) So, pack your adventure book, gather your family and get ready for unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. To learn more about Bakso and all the other amazing animals at Walt Disney World Resort, follow Dr. Mark on Instagram and Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment Facebook page. The post Baby Bakso Delights Wilderness Explorers at Animal Kingdom appeared first on Disney Parks Blog.

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Check-in & Check it Out: All-Star and Pop Century Resort Refurbishments

Staying at a Disney Resort hotel is about more than just having a place to rest after a day in the parks—it’s about stepping into a world where every detail tells a story. From whimsical character murals to hidden design Easter eggs, each resort offers a unique experience that brings Disney magic to life, even outside the theme parks. Consider this the first in a series of go-to guides for all things Disney World resort refurbishments. From fresh looks to insider details, we’ll keep you in the loop with the latest updates on changes to accommodations, amenities, and more. Disney’s Value Resorts—All-Star Movies, Music, and Sports, as well as Pop Century and Art of Animation—have always been beloved for their bold theming, playful energy and immersive storytelling. And now, thanks to a few recent refreshes, these fan-favorite resorts have even more magic woven into every moment. A Picture-Perfect Welcome with New Character Murals One of the first things guests notice upon arrival is how each resort immediately transports them into a world of animation and fun. At Disney’s All-Star Resorts, that welcome has become even more delightful with brand-new character murals that add humor, charm and plenty of hidden details for Disney fans to discover. “The mural designs have so much whimsy and humor injected into them. You can’t take a few steps without finding a new funny gag moment,” shared one of the Disney Imagineers behind the project. Each mural sets the stage for an unforgettable stay—whether it’s Goofy hyping up the crowd at All-Star Sports, Mickey conducting a grand orchestra at All-Star Music, or Donald embracing his time in the spotlight at All-Star Movies. And for those who love a good Disney Easter egg, a grilling bear has managed to sneak into the band at All-Star Music, blending right into the fun! More than a Meal—Dining with a Story at All-Star Movies The food courts at Disney’s Value Resorts have always been more than just a place to grab a bite—they’re part of the immersive experience. At Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort, the World Premiere Food Court has been reimagined with a fresh new look while staying true to its classic movie theater theming. Here, Mickey and friends take center stage in brand-new parody movie posters, each one a playful nod to Disney’s storytelling tradition. Meanwhile, film strip-inspired tiling and open sightlines make for an even more comfortable, Hollywood-inspired atmosphere. Whether you’re fueling up for a day of adventures or winding down with a late-night treat, it’s all part of the show! A Playful Refresh at Sports Goofy Gifts & Sundries At Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort, Sports Goofy Gifts & Sundries has received a fresh update, bringing in a bright new look while keeping the fun, sporty spirit guests love. One of the standout touches is the addition of brand-new hardwood floors designed to feel like stepping onto your favorite court, adding to the energetic atmosphere. And for an extra dash of Disney fun, guests can now spot playful graphics of Goofy on top of the displays, showing off his best (and often wackiest) moves in different sports. Whether he’s swinging for a home run, scoring a goal, or going for a slam dunk, Goofy brings his signature charm to the shopping experience—making even a quick stop for souvenirs feel like part of the adventure! A Nostalgic Pop of Color at Pop Century Disney’s Pop Century Resort is a time capsule of pop culture through the decades, where guests can walk past larger-than-life icons of yesteryear, from Rubik’s cubes to Play-Doh containers. The resort’s Everything POP Shopping & Dining has always been a hub of vibrant energy, and now, with a fresh color scheme and bold new seating areas, it’s even more inviting. According to Disney Imagineering, the updates to Everything POP were inspired by the resort’s bold exterior. “Taking point from the over-the-top and colorful outdoor elements, we worked on making the inside of the resort as fun as the outside!” one shared. This vision extends to every corner of the redesign, creating an experience that’s just as lively as the resort’s iconic larger-than-life icons. “We’re revisiting these decades in a fresh, fun, and very ‘Disney’ way. Throughout the renovation, we made sure to keep the visuals engaging and energetic, creating a joyful, family-friendly experience.” Beyond the refreshed look, a brand-new coffee shop is also joining the lineup, offering specialty beverages that are sure to perk up guests throughout the day. More Magic, More Value, More Disney Disney’s Value Resorts have always been known for their larger-than-life icons, playful themes and affordable way to stay immersed in Disney magic. These latest updates bring even more energy and charm to the experience, making every moment—from check-in to check-out—feel extra special. Beyond the fresh new murals and redesigned spaces, guests can still enjoy everything that makes a Disney Resort stay truly unique—like fun recreational activities, themed pools with Disney music playing underwater and cast members who bring the magic to life in unexpected ways. Plus, staying at a Disney Resort hotel comes with exclusive benefits like early theme park entry, complimentary transportation and parking and admission to a Disney water park on check-in day. Whether you’re reliving pop culture favorites at Pop Century or soaking up the animated fun at All-Star Resorts, these resorts continue to be a place where the magic doesn’t stop when you leave the parks—it follows you all the way back to your resort. So next time you visit Walt Disney World, be sure to check out all the fun waiting at these fan-favorite resorts—where new memories and timeless Disney magic are always waiting to be discovered! Stay tuned to Disney Parks Blog for the latest on upcoming resort refurbishment announcements, behind-the-scenes details from cast and Imagineers, and exclusive first looks at resort enhancements. The post Check-in & Check it Out: All-Star and Pop Century Resort Refurbishments appeared first on Disney Parks Blog.

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