This past week, April 25-29, 2022, if you happened to be visiting Walt Disney World Resort you may have seen groups of our agents walking through the parks, or around the resorts, sporting their favorite MMV Shirts!!! 45 of our agents were honored to attend an “MMV Exclusive Diamond Conference”. Take a journey with us as we tell you all about the fun… I mean learning, that was to be had during our week at the Walt Disney World Resort! Hold on tight because this is a jam-packed blog with lots of information!

THE RESORTS

While all of our agents had the pleasure of staying at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge during the event itself, many of our agents arrived a day, or two, prior while others decided they didn’t want to leave… this meant agents got to explore more resorts!! Take a look at several of the resorts our agents experienced before, during, and after the AEP:

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Standard Rooms

This amazing deluxe resort was our agents’ home for the duration of the conference! With views of various wild animals, including giraffes, zebras, and ostrich to name a few, this African-themed resort makes you feel part of the Lion King story! Check out some of the rooms and views various agents experienced during their stay. Savannah View rooms are a bookable category but many agents were able to see the wild African animals from the balcony of their standard view rooms!

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Club Level Room

Step into the wilderness of log cabins and bears at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge!! This resort is located in the Magic Kingdom area and offers short boat rides to/from the main attraction! While bears may not be roaming around as the giraffes do at Animal Kingdom, Wilderness Lodge still offers an amazing array of amenities and enticements, including the option to book a Club Level room, with access to the Concierge Lounge, like some of our agents did for their pre-conference stay!

Concierge Lounge (Club Level) amenities:

Disney’s Copper Creek 2 Bedroom Villa:

Located within Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, this amazing 2-bedroom villa offers lots of space for up to 8 guests! The specific one our agents stayed in had a pool view and a balcony large enough to enjoy the cool evening air and pool view!

Disney‘s Beach Club 2 Bedroom Villa:

A group of our agents stayed an extra night and enjoyed Disney’s Beach Club Resort. They were able to stay in a 2 bedroom Villa and enjoyed a Cabana at Stormalong Bay for the day!

Disney’s Saratoga Springs Preferred 1 Bedroom Villa:

This resort is within a short walk (or boat) ride to Disney Springs giving you quick access to great dining and shopping! This resort’s villas have recently been updated and offer guests space to spread out while in their resort room!

DAY 1 – WELCOME EVENT, EPCOT

Once we all checked into Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge for their 4-night stay, they headed out to EPCOT to get the party on… I mean training, started!!! First up, a private dining experience! As a Diamond-level agency, agents were treated to a meal where they were able to enjoy the company of Cast Member Brent who oversees the Disney Cruise Line’s Groups Department! While watching a sunset view over Spaceship Earth we learned about the new Disney Cruise Line Groups offerings that will be released to us to book for clients!

Harmonious Dessert Party

Once dinner was over, we all headed out to the Showcase Lagoon to enjoy the Harmonious Dessert Party in front of The World Showcase Lagoon – totally amazing view of the show being front and center. Ask your agent about how to book this – who doesn’t want great desserts with an awesome show!!!

Deluxe Guest Extended Hours

After Harmonious, many of our agents took advantage of the Extended Hours offered to guests staying at deluxe resorts guests and headed over to the Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure in the France Pavilion of the World Showcase! Some even manage to take a spin on Test Track!

DAY 2 – CLASSROOM TIME & the MAGIC KINGDOM

The next morning we all gathered together first thing in the morning to head over to a Disney Institute Training!! The agents all enjoyed the hospitality of Disney’s Contemporary Resort Convention Center! We were super excited to learn first-hand from Disney Cast Member Experts who talked to us about “Disney’s Approach to Qualify Service.” The bonus piece of this training was the tour through the backstage area of the Magic Kingdom’s Main Street! We can’t reveal the secrets of the Utilidors but you can book a “Keys to the Kingdom” tour to see them for yourself!

Lunch at Steakhouse 71 at Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Excellent Service! Fantastic food!!!! Wonderful ambiance! A definite “must-do” to add to your Disney World Experience list!

Animal Kingdom Lodge’s Starlight Safari

Some of our agents participated in the Starlight Safari! Here’s what they had to say about it:

“It was a very cool experience. We were so close to the zebras we could’ve easily <have> touched them but of course, that is not allowed. Just warn clients to bring bug spray.” This special behind-the-scenes tour is a bookable event for any guests!

DAY 3 – LEARNING IN A GALAXY FAR, FAR AWAY

Before the sun rose, we headed to Hollywood Studios to board Rise of the Resistance as the first guests of the day!!! After a quick group shot in front of Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, we saved the galaxy from the First Order, then headed over to Battuu’s Docking Bay 7 for a catered breakfast. Our agents spent the rest of the day learning how to use Genie+, exploring more of Hollywood Studios, and enjoying Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge resort amenities.

Even though Day 3 saw a super early start time… some of our agents “toughed it out” and took advantage of the Extended Hours at Magic Kingdom!

Beautiful views of Cinderella’s Castle are to be had late at night!

Fun times on rides with super low waits during the Extended Hours offered to guests staying at Disney’s Deluxe Resorts!

Our agents almost didn’t make it out of the park awake!

DAY 4 – “See Ya’ Real Soon”

Closing Dinner, Napa at California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Disney Destinations treated us to a super special event held in Disney’s Fairytales & Weddings venue, Napa, located just off of California Grill on the top floor of Disney’s Contemporary Resort. This special venue allowed us an amazing view of the Magic Kingdom’s closing show, Enchanted. It was an amazing experience, especially when we had the opportunity to meet Mickey Mouse himself in his special 50th Anniversary suit!

From left to right:

Rob Cook, Disney Destinations Sales Business Development Manager, Travel Agency Sales

Jodi Bainter, Disney Destinations Director Travel Agency Sales

Mickey Mouse!

Jen Kistler, Owner Magical Moments Vacations

Mike Paradiso, Business Manager Magical Moments Vacations

Enchantment Viewing from the <almost> Rooftop

CANDID FUN SHOTS OF OUR AGENTS!

Closing out with the fun “Magic Shots” Disney offers via Genie+!

MMV Agent Blog

All aboard the monorail. It’s time to take a trip back to one of the “OG” Walt Disney World hotels. Located just a short ride or stroll from the Most Magical Place on Earth, the Magic Kingdom, you’ll find Disney’s Contemporary Resort. It’s one of three resorts that is home to the monorail system, and one of Walt Disney World’s most loved hotels. If you’re planning your next vacation to WDW and are contemplating which resort to give a try, we’ll lay out a few reasons why Disney’s Contemporary may just be the right choice. So, sit back, have fun, and please stand clear of the doors.

The Breakdown…

Staying at the Contemporary Resort can be pretty Incredible… and we mean that literally because that brings us to an important category of rooms that you and your family of heroes can stay at.

Photos Courtesy of Walt Disney Travel Company

Located in the Main Tower/Atrium of Disney’s Contemporary Resort is where you’ll find the newly reimagined Incredibles themed rooms that sleep up to 5 adults. They’re so “super,” even Edna Mode would say, “Marvelous, dahling.” Featuring a modern feel and Incredible nods, you’ll wake up each morning ready to fight crime and tackle the parks.

Venturing out into other parts of the resort, you can expect to see rooms with a modern twist. You’ll find categories like “Garden Wing – Standard View” all the way to “Theme Park View- Two Bedroom Suite- Club Level.” These rooms offer ranges of occupancy from 2 to 10 adults so, no matter if it’s just an adult getaway or a multigenerational gathering, you’re ready to go.

Photos Courtesy of Walt Disney Travel Company

Tasty Treats

If you’re looking for a great meal, Disney’s Contemporary Resort has you covered! Sure, it has a great quick service option (Contempo Cafe) where you can get the perfect to-go meal, cupcake, and multiple pool bar options …but this resort is also home to not 1, not 2, but 3 highly sought-after restaurants. So, let’s dig in deep and take a look at those.

Steakhouse 71

Formerly The Wave, this newly reimagined restaurant takes you back to the original days of Walt Disney World. If you’re thinking to yourself, “Doesn’t Disneyland have a Steakhouse 55? Why’s the name different?” The answer is quite simple. Each restaurant was given their name based on the year the resorts opened in those locations. Not only is the restaurant name an ode to the history of Walt Disney World, but the menu was actually inspired by Walt Disney himself! Here you can try the Steakhouse 71 Feast or Walt’s Prime Rib Hash for breakfast and French Onion Soup, Prime Rib, 6-oz Filet Mignon, or Dry-aged Bone-In Pork Chop for lunch or dinner. The options are so tasty here, you’d call the 5-second rule if you drop it on the ground. **Here’s a tip: don’t forget to try the rolls and the massive chocolate cake.**

California Grill

If you’re feeling fancy, you’ll want to snag an Advanced Dining Reservation for this location. This signature dining experience offers an amazing menu with killer views. HELLO MAGIC KINGDOM! And if you want to “plus up” your experience, snagging a dining reservation during the nighttime spectacular at the Magic Kingdom means a perfect view of the fireworks. California Grill is currently offering a Limited Time, 3 course 50th Anniversary Menu that is a fixed rate of $89 per adult and $39 per child (price does not include taxes or gratuities).

A couple of special things to note about California Grill. First, you’ll find the check-in for this dining destination on the 2nd floor of the Contemporary. There you’ll hop into a special elevator that will take you up to the 15th floor of the hotel, to the restaurant itself. Secondly, this is a signature dining experience. Therefore, a dress code is in place. While you don’t have to show up dressed like it’s a black-tie affair, you’ll want to skip the flip-flops, cut-off shorts, and tank tops here. You can find the full dress code recommendations on the Walt Disney World website.

Photos courtesy of Magical Moments Vacations Agents

Chef Mickey’s

This brings us to the star of the show… one of the most loved character meals within the whole of the Walt Disney World Resort, Chef Mickey’s. Maybe it’s the unique view of watching the monorail come through the Contemporary, the tasty meals you can enjoy, or the fact that Mickey and the gang are all there to say “Hi” in their chef attire, this restaurant is known for making some magical moments. If you’re hoping to take in this experience, you’ll want to grab an Advanced Dining Reservation at the 60-day mark when dining reservations open for your travel dates.

Here are some of our agents and their littles living their best lives at Chef Mickey’s

Photos courtesy of Magical Moments Vacations Agents

The 4-1-1 on Everything Else

Here’s some other great things to know about staying at this resort!

• Getting around to the parks is easy peasy at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. If you’re headed to the Magic Kingdom or EPCOT, you’ll want to head to the Grand Canyon Concourse, aka the 4th floor, to climb aboard the monorail. If you’re looking to get to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Disney Springs, or one of the water parks you’ll want to head outside through the lobby to get to the buses. Like to walk? Head out the lobby front doors and the right for a short walk to the Magic Kingdom.

• Disney’s Contemporary Resort offers a wide range of recreational activities, so at this resort, you’ll never get bored.

• If you are wanting a balcony, you’ll want to skip the “Garden Wing” rooms, as only the first floor has a patio.

• While you’re hanging out on the 4th floor, make sure to check out the huge Mary Blair tile mural. It’s quite a beauty and see if you can find the 5-legged goat. It’s an important touch to this masterpiece. If you know anything about Mary Blair, you’ll know she’s one of the artistic masterminds behind It’s a Small World. She created this 5-legged friend as a tribute to the Native American spirit, which believes that nothing man creates is ever “perfect.”

More photos of the food and fun from Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Photos courtesy of Magical Moments Vacations Agents

Ready to plan your next trip to the Walt Disney World Resort? Request a quote from your MMV agent to get planning.

Need to keep this info handy? Pin this for later!

MMV Agent Blog

One wonderful thing about Disney Destinations is the amount of thought and planning that goes into creating a new project. Whether it’s a new ride, a new “land,” or even a new resort, Disney Imagineers pour their hearts into the research needed to bring these exciting places and things to life. Disney’s Riviera Resort is no exception to this rule. Most start with (as Figment would say) “a spark of imagination” and for this resort, they didn’t need to look any further than Walt Disney himself. You see, the European Riviera was a place that Walt very much loved. So, Imagineers took that love and helped create a resort that captured the beauty and charm that once captured Walt’s heart.

The Breakdown

Disney’s Riviera Resort is home to 300 gorgeous villas. Within those 300 rooms, you’ll find categories like Tower Studios that hold 2 adults all the way to the stunning 3-bedroom Grand Villa (which sleeps up to 12 adults).

Photos of 1 Bedroom Villa Courtesy of Walt Disney Travel Company

It really is all about the details…

Sure, these rooms are cozy, and yes, the jacuzzi tub found in the larger villas will change your entire vibe, but one of the things that we love most about these fantastic rooms is the art! From Remy to Tiana, you never know who you may spot hiding in these European/Disney mashups.

In fact, the entire resort is filled with some stunning works of art. So, if you’re staying at Disney’s Riviera Resort, we suggest taking a stroll to check out all the eye candy you can find hiding all around you. Here’s a quick look at just a few you may see:

But the real showstoppers can be found while taking a walk to hop on the Skyliner. They’re so amazing they may inspire you to strike a pose, just like some of our agents. Picture this: two perfectly pieced together mosaics of one of your favorite scenes from Peter Pan and Tangled.

As the kids say, this resort “be bussin'”…

That’s slang for “really good” …. or at least that’s what our kids say it means. Gen Z lingo aside, this resort is fun! So, let’s check out some of the highlights.

Pools

Needing a little aqua therapy? This resort has you covered. The main pool, properly named the Riviera pool, is everything you hope for in a family pool, to be able to float and just have some fun. There’s also a quiet pool, Beau Soleil Pool, that is just that… quiet. The littles of your family will also be happy to know that they can splash around at S’il Vous Play (pictured to the left). It’s a Fantasia inspired interactive play area, which is a great way to let them run off that last amount of energy after a day in the parks.

Food

If you’re looking to grab a bite at Disney’s Riviera Resort, you’ll have 3 choices plus a pool bar option.

Le Petit Café

Here you can find coffee, pastries, late-night drinks, and small plates. So, if you’re sweet tooth is talking, head to this spot.

Primo Piatto

This is the quick service option of this resort. From sandwiches to burgers to pizza, it’s an easy option to fill up before heading out for more fun.

Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera

Topolino’s (which translates to little or baby mouse) is easily the heavy hitter of the resort. First and foremost, please note Advanced Dining Reservations are HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. This eatery is open for breakfast and dinner. By morning, it’s a character dining experience. At night, it’s an upscale dining option for those who love French and Italian cuisine.

Aren’t they adorable?

If you’d like to enjoy an adult drink and kick up your feet, head over to Bar Riva, the resort’s pool bar. **Note: Pool bar is a loose term here. Bar Riva is actually OUTSIDE of the pool area near the main pool and kid’s water area.

Voyageurs’ Lounge

Another place you’ll want to take a moment to see is Voyageurs’ Lounge. Simply put it’s a quiet room to hang out in near the lobby. What makes it special is all the amazing things showcased inside this special place.

Other fun facts you should know:

• Disney’s Riviera Resort is a Skyliner Resort! So getting to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios from this resort is quick and easy. Just make sure to load on the correct side of the Skyliner platform.

• Outside in the courtyard, not only can you soak up some sun, but you can play a round of Bocce Ball, Cornhole, Connect 4, or Chess.

• This resort is practically connected to the back end of Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort. So, if you are looking to take a stroll or a run, you’ve got plenty of room to do so. Plus, that means you’re steps away from Sebastian’s (which is another great table service option on Disney property).

• Character sightings do take place at this resort. Typically it is Goofy and Pluto. Keep your eyes peeled!

• This resort offers a great view of EPCOT’s nighttime spectacular, especially from Topolino’s Terrace.

Make sure to contact your MMV agent when you want to plan your next magical trip to Disney’s Riviera Resort!

Need to keep this info handy? Pin this for later!

MMV Agent Blog

What do you get when you mix the charm of a New England coastal town and the formal grace of a boat retreat? You get Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resort. This set of sister resorts sits in the middle of Walt Disney World Resort and packs a 1-2 punch when it comes to some of the best stays on the resort property. That’s why the Yacht and Beach Club are up next on our Walt Disney World Resort(s) showcase.

No need for a pun. We beach you to it.

Starting off with Disney’s Beach Club Resort, the first thing we should point out is this resort is part Disney hotel and part Disney Vacation Club Resort. That means whether you’re a party of 4 or a party of 8, there is a room that can fit your family and friends’ needs.

Photos Courtesy of Walt Disney Travel Company

Decorated in cool, coastal colors, the Beach Club is the perfect, laid-back stay for those who enjoy life by the sea… and while you’re technically not on the ocean, you can still take in a beautiful view of Cresent Lake, which is perfectly surrounded by Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club, Disney’s Boardwalk Inn, and the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin. Another great perk of this resort is you’re practically neighbors with EPCOT, so no need for a bus or a boat. You can just pretend like you’re doing the “Cha Cha Slide” and sliiiiide to the left and walk a short distance right into the back entrance of the World Showcase!

Plus, that view… it’s the perfect sunset to the perfect “Disney” day.

Time to eat! (Dining Locations INSIDE Disney’s Beach Club)

If you’re a seafood lover, you’re in luck. Cape May Cafe is the place to be for anyone who loves combining the words “all you can eat” and “shrimp” together because its buffet is just that… an “endless” supply of Peel-n-Eat Shrimp, Cape May Clams, Oven Roasted Lemon Chicken and Slow-roasted Strip Loin. You can even step it up a notch on the Fancy Scale and order Snow Crab legs by the pound and whole Lobster. ** This restaurant is also home to a wonderful breakfast buffet! So, don’t worry… Mickey Waffles are just around the corner! Literally. …It’s right beside the lobby.** Advanced Dining Reservations are recommended at this location.

Photo Courtesy of Disney Parks Blog

Whether it’s Wine Wednesday or any day that ends in “y,” if you’re looking to have a toast and take in a glass of wine or a draft beer, Martha’s Vineyard is a lowkey place to do so on property in the evenings. Here you can have a glass of your favorite imported wine and an appetizer, while you kick back and think about the magic you’ve experienced that day.

Lastly if you’re needing a meal on the run, a bottle of water for the hot day ahead, or a sweet snack you can slide on into Beach Club Marketplace. It’s open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner so if you’re spending the day at the resort, it’s the quickest place to curb your appetite.

You thought the sea jokes were over? They’re knot. We’re only halfway done.

Moving on to Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, you’ll find that not only has the color scheme changed, but the mood has changed too… and we’re feeling sophisticated.

Photos Courtesy of Walt Disney Travel Company

Disney’s Yacht Club rooms hold parties of 4-6, with most rooms having either a King/daybed set up or 2 queens and a day bed. These rooms have a sleek, neutral color palette. While the rooms tend to be a little more simplistic, you don’t want to overlook the amazing curtains that are covered in constellations of some of your favorite Disney characters. Details like this are what adds a little touch of magic to a Walt Disney World stay.

I’m still hungry! (Dining options INSIDE Disney’s Yacht Club)

Like at Disney’s Beach Club Resort next door, if you suddenly realize “it’s five o’clock somewhere,” Disney’s Yacht Club has 2 places to help you pass the time. Just stroll into the Crew’s Cup Lounge or the Ale & Compass Lounge, which is part of the Ale & Compass Restaurant. For a quick meal on the go, you’ll want to visit The Market at Ale & Compass. **Special note: While the quick service offering shares a name with the lounge and the restaurant, this dining destination is actually located across the lobby and slightly down the hall.**

As mentioned above, unique to Disney’s Yacht Club is the Ale & Compass Restaurant. This table service dining location offers New England comfort food and meals for even the pickiest taste buds. While an advanced dining reservation is recommended, this is the type of place where it’s much easier to hop on a waiting list. Plus, while you wait you can grab a drink at its lounge to pass the time.

However, the star of the dining show at the Yacht Club is the Yachtsman Steakhouse. Here you can find a high-end, premium menu full of things like dry-aged pork chops and mouth-watering steaks, as well as a dessert menu fit for a queen… or should we say captain?

Sharing is caring.

While Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club have many different things going for them, some of the best features of these resorts are things they share! Beaches and Cream Soda Shop

Step back in time and enjoy something yummy like a burger and fries, but make sure you to save room for the “real reason” to come to this hoppin’ place… dessert! Most famously known for its “Kitchen Sink,” this dessert seems like it never ends. Made with 8 scoops of ice cream and every topping you can imagine; you’ll leave feeling like Vanelope Von Schweetz!

The other heavy-hitter desserts at Beaches and Cream are the shakes. These guys are basically multiple desserts, combined into one. Just make sure to have those nails painted. You’ll definitely be posting these on social media when they arrive at the table. We could seriously write you a book about the desserts here, so let’s just make the point with a series of pictures that showcase the goods.

Stormalong Bay

The most important thing to showcase at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club is the PHENOMENAL pool. Welcome to Stormalong Bay.

Don’t be fooled, this is not your average resort pool. We’re talking a 750,000-gallon central Florida escape. It’s got sand-bottomed swimming areas for the kids, a pirate-themed slide for the big kids, multiple hot tubs for the adults, and a lazy river. **Note: this lazy river is much deeper than the average. If you are on the short side, the water will go over your head. Use caution.**

It’s the perfect place to catch some rays, read a good book, or take a nap. Plus, if you find yourself needing a snack or a drink, you’re in luck. The cutest little pool bar around, Hurricane Hanna’s Grill, is just a few steps away!

If you want to make your time at the pool extra special, you can actually rent a cabana to have some privacy. It features things like cocktail service, a stocked mini-fridge and a ceiling fan! Make sure to talk to your MMV agent about getting one booked for you.

Another thing to note about Stormalong Bay is a wrist band per person is required for entry. To get your wristband simply visit the Cast Member at the pool entry and they will scan your magic band. Once you are verified as an onsite guest (done daily), they’ll receive your band for the day.

A few other key things to note…

• Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club are Skyliner resorts. That means if you need a quick lift to Hollywood Studios or another Skyliner resort, you’ve got a quick ride to your destination.

• There are also boats that can take you to and from Disney’s Hollywood Studios and EPCOT.

• Buses are utilized for Disney’s Magic Kingdom and Disney’s Animal Kingdom

• Keep your eyes peeled for characters to come by. Goofy and Pluto have been known to pop in and out of the pool area during the day.

• If you fall in love with the lobby smell, it’s Green Clover and Aloe. (You’re Welcome!) Slide on over to Disney Springs and check out Marketplace CoOp. You can actually purchase a candle and oils that match the smell.

• During the holidays, Disney’s Beach Club gets an annual carousel made completely out of gingerbread. That means book your stay early.

• This resort is a great place to get married. We specifically mention this because one of our agents did just that. Did you know that MMV can help get you set up with a “Fairy God Mother” who can help all your Disney wedding dreams come true? We sure can!

We know you will love this resort as much as we do! So, when you are ready to book your Yacht or Beach Club adventure contact your MMV agent to get booking.

Need to keep this info handy? Pin this for later!

MMV Agent Blog