(January 3, 2013) Walt Disney World in Orlando, Fla., has completed its largest expansion ever, and New Fantasyland is now open to delight visitors of all ages. New Fantasyland features two new and amazingly detailed themed areas: the Enchanted Forest and Storybook Circus.
In the Enchanted Forest, you’ll meet favorite Disney characters in a way that immerses you in their stories. For example, at the “Enchanted Tales with Belle” attraction, you’ll step through Belle’s mirror into the library of the Beast. There, you’ll get a hug from Belle, talk with Lumiere and Madame Wardrobe, and re-enact the timeless tale of how Beauty and the Beast met. The “Under the Sea” attraction is hosted by Ariel, everyone’s favorite mermaid princess. Board a clamshell boat and sail through Ariel’s Grotto, populated by 180 animatronic characters for your entertainment.
Storybook Circus is inspired by Dumbo, the beloved and adorable flying elephant. This theme area recalls a time when traveling circuses would raise the Big Top and attract audiences from far and wide. There’s a new and larger Dumbo ride (still one of the most popular rides at California’s Disneyland since that park opened in 1955); the Barnstormer rollercoaster, where you can share in the adventures of the Great Goofini; and a circus-themed play area.
The new Be Our Guest Restaurant brings a new sophistication to dining choices within the park. Lunch features quick-service salads and sandwiches with a French flair. At dinner time, the elegant restaurant switches to table service with a choice of appetizers, entrees such as sautéed shrimp and layered ratatouille, and gourmet cupcakes for dessert. Adults can enjoy a glass of wine or beer with dinner – a first at Disney World – while the kids gaze out the windows at a gentle snowfall over the French countryside.
New Fantasyland will introduce new features and details through 2014. Watch for Princess Fairytale Hall, a royal court for Disney princesses, to open in 2013; the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train coaster will open in 2014.
To make your plans to take in New Fantasyland and all that Disney World has to offer, talk with your travel professional.
This travel column was written by BlueRibbonNews.com special contributor Robbert van Bloemendaal, an experienced world traveler, native of Australia, an Ambassador with the Rowlett Chamber of Commerce, and president of Travel Leaders of Rowlett.
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