Crystal Boston

Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant – Disney Springs

Published on August 12, 2018 in Walt Disney World by Crystal Boston

Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant has been at Disney Springs for many years, but I recently had the opportunity to visit this dining and entertainment venue again. With new menu items and entertainment since my last visit, it was like a whole new experience!

We started with adult beverages at just one of the 4 bars. With a fun assortment of themed cocktails and a wide offering of Irish, European and American beers, including local and craft varieties, there is something for every taste.

Following our “cocktail hour” we were seated for our reservation. The menu offers traditional Irish options—from Atlantic fish & chips to classics like Shepherd’s Pie—as well as several not-so-Irish options.

We enjoyed wings and scallops to start and our main dishes were traditional Irish options of fish & chips and shepherd’s pie as well as a not-so-traditional Red quinoa and white bean burger with Smokey Bacon and Almond-roasted Brussels Sprouts.

And, of course, dessert is a must… The Chef’s Dessert Flight offered a small taste of everything delicious!

Entertainment is offered daily from 4:30 pm until 1 am. There is a main stage and a patio stage with live music, dance shows and bands.

The Rhythms of Raglan Dance Show is the all-new entertainment featuring 90-minutes of live Irish music and dance presented by a talented mix of performers.

And, during each performance, kids are invited to join the dancers on stage and even receive a signed certificate of achievement.

We enjoyed a very entertaining and fun evening as well as great food and drinks! Reservations are accepted starting at 180 days but walk-ups are welcome as well, based on availability. Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant also offers a Saturday and Sunday Brunch.

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STK Orlando – Disney Springs

Published on August 6, 2018 in Orlando/Walt Disney World by Crystal Boston

STK Orlando at Disney Springs opened its doors May 25, 2016 but I was just able to experience it for the first time.

STK Orlando is an interesting place… The outside style reminds me of The Hangar Bar or The Edison – more industrial brick and beams with a casual feel – and the front patio would be a relaxing spot to people watch.

Once you step inside you feel as if you are about to enjoy an intimate dining experience – it’s dark with pops of light with a warm inviting feeling.

However, the experience is anything but intimate due to the very loud nonstop music – top 40 tunes and classics from decades past. While the music choice was to my liking, the volume was not conducive for an intimate experience and gave it a more club like vibe rather than a signature dining experience feel as we are accustomed to with Disney (think California Grill or Flying Fish). It was a challenge to have a conversation with our dinner partners and a bit hard to even hear what our server was saying at times.

Regardless of the ‘club vibe’, the food lived up to the reviews and our expectations as did the service! Something to remember before you go, the menu is à la carte but a delicious bread service is included.

We waited for our table in the lounge area and the bartender was very accommodating, answering our questions and offering tastings and her personal experience to help me choose a wine. The drink menu offers some interesting cocktails that I will need to go back and try another time and they carry a few Florida beers that my husband tried. They also offer a full wine list to choose from.

We enjoyed the Double Smoked Bacon – more like large chunks of fatty pork but very tasty once you cut the fat off (IMO) – for a starter as well as the Shaved Brussels Sprouts for a salad.

While STK is known for its steaks, they serve an amazing Scottish Salmon too. With your steaks you can choose various sauces and/or toppings (for an additional charge) and there are several delicious sides to compliment your protein as well. The sides are priced a bit on the high side, but they are large enough to share – the problem is that you want to try them all!

Dessert also did not disappoint, we ordered the Warm Baked Cookie with chocolate sauce, caramel and vanilla ice cream. Again, large enough to share.

STK Orlando currently offers a Social Hour, weekdays 3:30 – 6 pm, and Thursday – Saturday, 10 pm to close. In addition, you can reserve the venue, or parts of it, for private events. On the evening we were there we were not able to go to the rooftop dining area due to a private event.

While they do seat walk-up Guests, reservations are accepted and recommended. They currently accept reservations via your My Disney Experience account or Open Table. Some Dining Plans are accepted and this is a Signature Dining experience, requiring 2 Table Service Credits per person.

Overall, if you are looking for a fun place with great food and service that is geared more towards an adult experience rather than a family experience, I would recommend STK Orlando, just be prepared for the loud music and club vibe.

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Be Our Guest Restaurant – New Prix Fixe Menu

Published on July 30, 2018 in Orlando/Walt Disney World by Crystal Boston

On Friday, July 27, 2018 Be Our Guest Restaurant debuted its new prix fixe menu for dinner and I was there to experience it!

The new prix fixe, 3-course menu features French-inspired dishes and includes an appetizer, main entrée and a trio dessert as well as non-alcoholic beverages and bread service. Adult beverages may be purchased for an additional charge.

For our appetizers we chose the Maine Lobster Bisque and Assorted Meats and Artisanal Cheese Selection. Both were very good, and the meat and cheese tray was much better than the previous cheese plate they offered at dinner service.

While all of the new menu items sounded amazing, we chose the Spice-Dusted Lamb Chops and Saffron-Infused Seafood Bouillabaisse as our entrées. Both were delicious and prepared to perfection! I am looking forward to trying other entrée options available on the menu.

Dessert is an amazing trio served on a platter with a ‘stained glass’ overlay that is edible. Every single bite was oh so delicious – but I do love my desserts!

And, for everyone wanting to know… The Beast still receives Guests in the library following dinner but, as many have anticipated, Belle was not one of the new additions to this Signature Dining experience.

I highly recommend the new prix fixe menu, my only disappointment was that they no longer do the “rose” napkins…

For dinner service, Be Our Guest Restaurant is a Signature Dining experience which requires 2 Table Service Credits when using the Disney Dining Plan. Current pricing, when not using a Dining Plan, is $55.00 for adults ages 10+ and $35 for children ages 3-9, tax and gratuity are not included. Breakfast and Lunch are still Quick Service options but do require reservations as well.

And here’s a little tip – if you reserve your dinner about 1 ½ hours before ‘Happily Ever After’ you will be able to view the fireworks show from the bridge just as you are leaving the Beasts’ Castle! #wishtips

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Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante at Disney Springs

Published on July 23, 2018 in Walt Disney World by Crystal Boston

Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante opened early January 2018 and started serving Sunday Brunch shortly before the Easter holiday. I was just able to enjoy my first experience at Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante and I chose the Sunday Brunch.

The restaurant theming is set in an airline terminal from the 1930s. On arrival you “check-in” and are then escorted down a flight of stairs where the dining area is a large airy space with floor-to-ceiling views of Lake Buena Vista.

Flight memorabilia, including vintage maps and artifacts, are on display throughout the dining room to provide the aviation theme.

The Sunday Brunch includes Prix Fixe buffet selections for your starter, entree, and dessert. The Salami and Cheese Station was delicious as well as the Antipasti Station. Entrees included with your Sunday Brunch are Spaghetti alla Carbonara, New York Strip Steak and Eggs and Poached Hen Egg and Quinoa-Kale Salad in addition to a few other selections.
The dessert was a delicious chocolate fountain with fresh dried fruits and tasty sweets to cover with chocolate! You can also choose other breakfast/lunch menu items for an additional charge, including Endless Mimosas or Bellini for just $15.00!

The current (July 22, 2018) cost is $35 per adult and kids eat free.

If you are looking for a relaxed yet unique Sunday Brunch experience, Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante is a great experience. Advance reservations are highly recommended and can be made online or by calling (407) 939-3463. Same day seating without reservations was a one hour wait time on the day I experienced Sunday Brunch but we had no wait time at all with our confirmed reservation.

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2019 Walt Disney World Vacation Packages Open June 19, 2018!

Published on June 8, 2018 in Walt Disney World by Crystal Boston

Are you thinking about a 2019 Walt Disney World vacation?

NOW is the time to request your quote! Resort Packages open June 19, 2018!

Check out reviews from my clients that have booked through me >>> travel reviews

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UP! A Great Bird Adventure at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park

Published on May 21, 2018 in Orlando/Walt Disney World by Crystal Boston

The newest attraction at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, ‘UP! A Great Bird Adventure’, is located at the Caravan Stage in Asia, former home of Flights of Wonder, and debuted April 22nd for the 20th Anniversary celebration.

Similar to Flights of Wonder, this new show entertains with bird species from South America, North America, India, Africa, and other locations around the globe, but now also features Russell and Dug from ‘UP’.

During this 25-minute show you will join Senior Wilderness Explorer Russell and his furry friend Dug for an all-new adventure as they discover bird species from around the world.

More than 15 different species of birds make an appearance, including parrots, toucans, macaws, and a marabou stork that flaunts a magnificent 10-foot wingspan!

‘UP! A Great Bird Adventure’ is now performing daily at Disney’s Animal Kingdom park and you can experience the show as standby or with FastPass+ access.

After the show, head on over to Discovery Island for a meet & greet with Russell and Dug!

*Park tickets required to experience this show.

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Why You Should Use a Vacation Planner that Specializes in Disney Destinations

Published on May 1, 2018 in Disney Destinations by Crystal Boston

A Disney vacation is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a magical experience. It’s the ideal location for any life celebration – family vacations, honeymoons, couples getaways, graduation and more! Planning any vacation, especially a Disney vacation, can be a complex endeavor. During your planning you’ll make many decisions that will affect all aspects of your vacation. Throw in the complexities of the many varied promotional offers and it can become an intimidating experience. That’s why it’s highly recommended that you use an Authorized Disney Vacation Agency with knowledgeable agents Specializing in Disney Destinations and I am a Travel Agent with such an agency and knowledge! Here are my top reasons to use a Vacation Planner that Specializes in Disney Destinations…

Less Stress

Using a Vacation Planner that Specializes in Disney Destinations can take all of the stress out of planning your Disney Destination vacation. I will guide you to the right decisions, using my extensive knowledge of all things Disney and offering tips and tricks for the optimal experience for you and your family. When you book your vacation through me you are able to do as much or as little of the planning as YOU want. The only thing that must go through me are payments. Some people feel that they lose control when booking with a Travel Agent, however that is not true at all… As your Vacation Planner Specializing in Disney Destinations I will never make changes without your permission, so you control what happens 100%.

I KNOW Disney

Unlike traditional Travel Agents or online self-serve websites, I have completed training specifically designed for Travel Agents Specializing in Disney Destinations by the Disney Travel Company, as well as continuing education including online training, resort tours, ship tours, personal experiences and more!

I LOVE Disney

I became a Vacation Planner Specializing in Disney Destinations because I love all things Disney and I love planning Disney vacations. I have planned many Disney vacations of my own and my experience, knowledge and LOVE of all things Disney always goes into my planning for every Guest.

I Am Knowledgeable About Disney

While I do book and plan other vacation destinations, my passion and focus is Disney and I am very knowledgeable when it comes to booking and planning a Disney vacation. I strive to stay current with everything new and exciting happening at all Disney theme parks as well as other Disney Destinations.

No Extra Fees

There’s no cost to you! As a Vacation Planner Specializing in Disney Destinations, I am paid a commission by Disney Travel Company for the vacations I book. Neither Disney nor I will add any extra fees to your cost when you book and plan through me! So you pay the same if you book on your own BUT you gain the benefit of my knowledge and expertise of all things Disney when you book through me!

You Save Time & Money

As your Vacation Planner Specializing in Disney Destinations my planning services save you time and money and I watch out for you! I will help with all of your planning including assistance with advance dining reservations and FastPass+ selections, touring tips, and more. PLUS, I know when new promotional offers become available and will automatically apply the best offer you qualify for, even if you are due a refund.

Award Winning Service / Knowledgeable Team

I work for an Earmarked Agency for Disney Destinations and there are only a select group in this elite classification of Authorized Disney Vacation Agencies. While other agencies may have one or two individuals with Disney experience, Authorized Disney Vacation Agencies have a large number of agents with extensive Disney experience so you will always benefit from a team of knowledgeable professionals when you book and plan through me. I am proud to be a member of this distinguished group and strive to meet the high expectations of every family that entrusts me to help book and plan their vacation!

So let me help you with your Disney vacation plans, Check out reviews from my clients that have booked through me >>> travel reviews

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The Disney Wonder

Published on March 26, 2018 in Disney Cruise Line by Crystal Boston

I recently returned from my first experience on the Disney Wonder, this was my final new Disney Cruise ship experience until the new ships debut in 2021, 2022, and 2023.

There are so many things that I enjoy about sailing with Disney Cruise Line… large staterooms with under-bed space, exceptional dining experiences, friendly and accommodating crew, brilliant Broadway-like entertainment, Castaway Cay and I can’t forget the Towel Art – a fun treat when you return to your stateroom each evening!
On a Disney Cruise, you experience rotational dining. I enjoy getting to know the dining team while also being able to experience different dining options. As this was my first experience on the Disney Wonder, I also enjoyed 2 new dining experiences – Triton’s and Tiana’s Place. While Animator’s Palette is still my favorite of the rotational dining options, Triton’s and Tiana’s Place did not disappoint. I dined at Animator’s Palette on my final night so breakfast on disembark day was also at Animator’s Palette.
While I have toured the other stateroom types, we have always chosen a Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah and we prefer the starboard side so that we have a great view of the island when we arrive at Castaway Cay. The staterooms are good sized with under-bed storage for your luggage. We have never felt crowded in our stateroom when cruising with Disney – and the Disney Wonder was no exception. This was a 3-night cruise, but I still enjoyed 2 ports of call – Nassau and Castaway Cay. Castaway Cay is always my favorite port of call and I especially love the “double-dip” sailings that offer 2 full days at Castaway Cay – I will need to get back on one of those sailings soon! And, if you have read some of my other blogs, fireworks are a big deal to me, Disney is the only cruise line that is granted permission to display fireworks at sea.

While I did not have a day at sea during this cruise, I was still able to enjoy the ship – character meet & greets that you often cannot find at the parks, recently released movies, pools, water slides, walk up dining, entertainment, deck parties, dance clubs, karaoke, trivia, unlimited room service – it’s all included!! The onboard Pub even offers a buffet of light snacks early evening with another buffet for late night snacks later each night. There is definitely enough to keep you busy on a Disney Cruise if you aren’t the lounging at the pool or beach type and you won’t go hungry!

As I mentioned, Castaway Cay is my favorite port of call when cruising with Disney and it was a perfect island day – not too hot, sunny skies and low wind!! The tide even washed out a bit to create a sand bar that was easily reachable by walking into the ocean and we were able to see beautiful starfish and stingray there!
Castaway Cay is Disney’s private island and is consistently rated by Disney Guests as their favorite port of call and it’s reserved exclusively for Disney cruisers. The ships will dock right at the island to allow you to come and go as you please while enjoying experiences such as snorkeling, boating, swimming and sunbathing. Bicycles can also be rented if you want to explore the island’s nature trails. While all areas of the island can be reached by walking, an island tram offers four stops to help you easily get where you want to go. Dining is also included at Castaway Cay as part of your cruise package with covered outdoor restaurants serving burgers, BBQ chicken and ribs and alcoholic beverages are available for purchase. And there are even some special character meet & greets on the island too!
I am a runner and, weather permitting, Disney Cruise Line offers a 5K on every stop at Castaway Cay. It’s very informal but you do get race bibs and a medal at the finish line. If you want to participate in the 5K on Castaway Cay, you can register at Guest Services once onboard your cruise. Your registration ticket, “Key to the World” and photo ID are required the day of your event to participate. The 3.1-mile out-and-back event is free and family friendly; it’s open to walkers and runners ages 10 and older. The race takes place first thing in the morning on the island, typically with a meeting time onboard of 8 am, and participants are the first Guests off the ship at Castaway Cay This is a very casual fun experience worth the early wake-up!
Families can have fun together at the Castaway Family Beach and, if you are traveling without children, Disney offers a secluded beach exclusively for adults – Serenity Bay. Your “Key to the World” card works for all purchases on Castaway Cay except at the local post office where you can send mail to your loved ones back home with a Bahamian postage stamp; the post card postage rate is approximately $0.65 USD each.

Cruising with Disney is a very casual experience – I wear sun dresses and flip flops while my husband wears shorts and polos – we do dress up a bit for dinner but “cruise casual” attire is appropriate for dinner. The only exceptions are if you reserve adult only dining experiences at Palo or Remy which both have dress codes.

Are you ready for YOUR Disney Cruise experience?

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Frozen Ever After Dessert Party at Epcot World Showcase

Published on March 21, 2018 in Walt Disney World by Crystal Boston

The Frozen Ever After Dessert Party was introduced at Walt Disney world last July and, while I always try to explore new experiences as soon as they are available, I was just able to experience this event for the first time!

This special ticketed event is sold separately, and theme park admission is required in addition to your party ticket. You can arrive for check-in at any time but it’s best to arrive early to get the most out of your party experience.

At check-in, you will receive a sparkly wristband [the MagicBand is mine] when you check-in and the “doors” officially open at 7:45 pm and tables are assigned so if you are a smaller party, like me and my husband, you will be seated with other Guests that you may not know.

Once seated you can partake of the food and beverage buffets set up throughout the reserved party area.

From fresh fruits and breads with cheese fondue to sweet treats specially designed with a ‘Frozen’ theme, the buffet also included warm pudding treats [with ice cream if you like] and fun Freeze Fried Salted Caramel Popcorn at the Nitro Station. In addition, there were specialty Frozen-themed beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, as well as beer and wine.

Then, from the special VIP reserved viewing area we were able to get an amazing view of IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth. It seemed as if the fireworks were right above our heads – and with our reserved seating, we were able to enjoy the fireworks display comfortably without anyone blocking our view. They even gave us all special viewing glasses that made the fireworks look like they had snowflakes around them – I wish I could have gotten a photo of that for you!!

After the fireworks ended, we were then escorted to the Frozen Ever After ride for a private, no waiting experience!

If you or your little ones love Frozen, I highly recommend this reserved experience.
Check My Disney Experience for more information or to reserve your experience online > Frozen Ever After Dessert Party at Epcot World Showcase

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Toy Story Land – Opening June 30, 2018

Published on March 14, 2018 in Walt Disney World by Crystal Boston

This Summer, Get Ready to Play Big in a New Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios!

I was invited to a special industry showcase hosted by the Walt Disney Company to learn all about the park-wide reimagination for Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Orlando.

In this NEW eleven-acre playland in the larger-than-life setting of Andy’s imagination, Andy has designed the perfect play space decorated with more than 400 toy blocks and towering toys from the hit Toy Story franchise.

Toy Story Land also brings the addition of new attractions to Disney’s Hollywood Studios…

Slinky Dog Dash, with a 38” height requirement, this is a family-friendly toy-filled coaster that twists around curves, hills and drops.

Alien Swirling Saucers, with a height requirement of 32”, is designed to be your very own toy rocket. Hang on tight as the Aliens take you on a spin through space. But, watch out, you may be “chosen” by the Claw!

BOTH of these new attractions will be eligible for FastPass+

The entrance to Toy Story Land is near Toy Story Mania!, which remains one of the top attractions at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and the Toy Story experience that stared it all!

And don’t forget about the food… As “honorary toys” you can enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner at Woody’s Lunch Box. This new dining experience will be a Quick Service option and will accept the Disney Dining Plans. Woody’s Lunch Box features classic American fare, old-fashioned soda floats and other Toy Story-themed specialties with tasty treats like three-cheese grilled cheese and a banana split parfait. Be sure to check My Disney Experience for updated menu information.

So buckle up your space ranger utility belt, set your lasers for big fun and get ready for the biggest play date of all time – June 30, 2018!

Toy Story Land—where kids of all ages can play and experience new adventures.

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LOTS OF DISNEY, ORLANDO AND PLACES THEREABOUTS !!

Crystal Boston - page 7

Crystal Boston has 90 articles published.

Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant – Disney Springs

STK Orlando – Disney Springs

Be Our Guest Restaurant – New Prix Fixe Menu

Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante at Disney Springs

2019 Walt Disney World Vacation Packages Open June 19, 2018!

UP! A Great Bird Adventure at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park

Why You Should Use a Vacation Planner that Specializes in Disney Destinations

The Disney Wonder

Frozen Ever After Dessert Party at Epcot World Showcase

Toy Story Land – Opening June 30, 2018

Crystal Boston - page 7

Crystal Boston has 90 articles published.

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