travel – Page 3 – Doug Travels Orlando

Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ at Disney Springs

Published on November 12, 2018 in Orlando/Walt Disney World by Crystal Boston

If you are looking for comfort food and a fun atmosphere, Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ is the place!

I have experienced Chef Art Smith’s Homcomin’ at Disney Springs several times and every time was a great experience with a welcoming host/hostess, friendly servers and amazing food too with the vast majority of ingredients sourced from local Florida farms, ranches or fisheries.

This dining venue offers both inside and outside options for dining or if you just want to stop in for drinks at the Southern Shine Bar offering signature moonshine craft cocktails!

While the majority of the menu is more traditional southern comfort food offerings it does offer healthier choices too. The Bunch of Puppies are a tasty start and served with pimento cheese and red jalapeño jelly. Main Entrees include such dishes as Art’s Famous Fried Chicken and Shrimp & Grits with the Spinach & Kale Chopped Salad with chicken for a healthier option.

And don’t forget dessert – the Hummingbird Cake is always a favorite!

Be sure to add this dining experience to your “must do’s” for your next visit to Walt Disney World Resort! Walk-up Guests can sometimes be accommodated, however, reservations are accepted and recommended. Reservations are currently available via your My Disney Experience account and some Dining Plans are accepted.

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The Edison at Disney Springs

Published on October 28, 2018 in Disney Destinations/Orlando/Stay on Property/Walt Disney World by Crystal Boston

The Edison at Disney Springs is a fun dining spot or even a great place to just stop for adult beverages. It boasts an industrial gothic-style and serves up classic American cuisine, craft cocktails and unique entertainment.

Designed to look like a 1920s electric company, The Edison offers several themed dining/lounge areas with a steady lineup of unique acts like contortionists, aerialists, live cabaret, DJs and more.

Guests arriving after 10:00 PM each night must wear venue-appropriate attire. Men may wear slacks, jeans or dress shorts. Jackets are optional. No ball caps, sleeveless shirts or flip-flops allowed. Guests also must be at least 21 years of age to enter The Edison after 10:00 PM.

We have imbibed at the lounges and dined at The Edison several times but, while I have experienced some of the entertainment, I have not yet had the opportunity to experience the ‘adults only’ nightlife – soon!

The most famous appetizer on the menu is the DB ‘Clothesline Candied Bacon’, which we order every time and always enjoy! For our main dining, we have experienced the Organic Tomato Soup and Gooey Grilled Cheese, Caesar Salad with Salmon and The Edison Burger with fries – all delicious!

You can also slip through the back passageway to Enzo’s Hideaway, a speakeasy-inspired tunnel bar, for more food and beverage.

Be sure to add this dining experience to your “must do’s” for your next visit to Walt Disney World Resort – especially for an adults only experience! Walk-up Guests can sometimes be accommodated, however, reservations are accepted and recommended. Reservations are currently available via your My Disney Experience account or Open Table and some Dining Plans are accepted.

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Maya Grill at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort

Published on October 1, 2018 in Disney Destinations/Orlando/Stay on Property/Walt Disney World by Crystal Boston

Maya Grill at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort is not new to Disney or to me but it has been several years since I have experienced this dining location and it was much too long to wait…

From the time we arrived at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort we experienced a lively atmosphere – a warm welcome from the attendant at the entrance, open hospitality at the indoor bar, Las Ventanas, and a friendly greeting from the hostess, manager and staff at Maya Grill – our experience before any food was served was exceptional.

We shared our experience with local friends celebrating their birthday and, on arriving at Maya Grill for our dinner reservation, we were met by a Hostess and the manager as well as a seater – all were very friendly and welcoming making our experience fun from the start.

On being seated, our server was quick to greet us and offered suggestions for beverages and food choices from the menu. The atmosphere of the restaurant is a casual Tex-Mex Mayan feel and you could comfortably enjoy a dinner here after coming straight from a day at the parks.

After our server brought our beverages he delivered a bread service to start, along with our appetizers – Queso Fundido and House Guacamole – everything was delicious and prepared well.

Our entrées consisted of Maya Grill’s Signature Fajita Skillet, Seafood Grill Platter (which was enough for two!), Beef Short Ribs and a Classic Caesar salad with a side of steak (for me) at the recommendation of our server – it was delicious, and I loved how it was prepared and served.

For dessert we shared the Ancho Chili Creme Brûlée and Chocolate Abuelita Panna Cotta – both were amazing – the Creme Brûlée was very light and I love everything chocolate!

And you can’t dine at Maya Grill without experiencing the Margarita Flight, which includes 5 shot glasses of specialty handcrafted Margaritas – Mango Blueberry Basil, Classic, Horchata, Pineapple and Jalapeño!

While Disney’s Coronado Springs is undergoing extensive construction, be sure to add this dining experience to your “must do’s” for your next visit to Walt Disney World Resort! Walk-up Guests can be accommodated, however, reservations are accepted and recommended. Reservations are currently available via your My Disney Experience account or Open Table and some Dining Plans are accepted.

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Universal’s Aventura Hotel NOW OPEN!

Published on August 22, 2018 in Universal Orlando by Crystal Boston

Universal’s Aventura Hotel opened August 15, 2018 and I was able to experience a bit of the hotels amenities during its first weekend.

This new hotel has a modern style and is within walking distance of Universal’s Volcano Bay and offers great views of all three Universal Orlando theme parks.

The lobby area is very stark and minimalist with concrete floors and modern furniture. Once you pass the check-in desk there is a lobby bar, barVentura, lounge seating area, Starbucks, and a quick service dining area, Urban Pantry. There is also a Universal store on the left and barVentura even offers a phone charging station while you enjoy a beverage!

Universal’s Aventura Hotel also offers a roof top bar, Bar 17 Bistro, which opens at 4 pm. To access the roof top you will need a Team Member to assist you with the express elevator, which will only take you to the 17th floor. Currently there is a host stand outside the elevator but if you don’t find anyone there, just see the front desk or Concierge for assistance.

Bar 17 Bistro sits on the left side of the roof top area and the right side offers space for private events. The bar area is also all concrete floors with modern eclectic seating arrangements and is open air. It did get quite windy while we were there, I can only imagine when it rains… And, during this time of year, one whole side of the bar area is in the sun (and heat). When we arrived, only one side of the bar was being used because no one wanted to sit on the sunny/hot side.

The views were amazing and, since there was not a private event the evening we were there, we were able to check out the views from there as well.

The menu, which is not the same at the bar as online (they have paper menus printed and we were told to not use the online menu) is an offering of small plates, featuring urban international flavors as well as classic options, and is served family style. I was with a few friends and we shared the Meat & Cheese Board, Bao Buns (you select 3 from a list of 8 options), Shrimp (which is not on the online menu, so I cannot remember the exact name of this dish) and Wagyu Beef Sliders. Everything was prepared well and we all enjoyed our selections.

As for drinks, while they do offer some specialty themed cocktails, we all ordered beer and wine so I don’t have anything to share… However, I can share that they use all plastic ware for beverages, including wine glasses, and the plates are all plastic as well. Only the silverware was “real” with paper napkins.

If you are looking for a spot to get away from the parks and just enjoy the view, Bar 17 Bistro is your spot!

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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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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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travel - page 3

Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ at Disney Springs

The Edison at Disney Springs

Maya Grill at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort

Universal’s Aventura Hotel NOW OPEN!

Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant – Disney Springs

STK Orlando – Disney Springs

Be Our Guest Restaurant – New Prix Fixe Menu

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

travel - page 3

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