Breaking News: Hurricane Helene Update 11 PM EDT – Category 4 Hurricane - Landfall Imminent - Extreme Impact on Walt Disney World and Port Canaveral Date : Thursday, September 26, 2024 Time of Update : 11 PM EDT The National Hurricane Center has released its 11 PM EDT advisory on Hurricane Helene. The storm is now an extremely dangerous Category 4 hurricane, with maximum sustained winds of 140 mph, intensifying rapidly as it nears landfall in the Florida Big Bend area. Catastrophic impacts and life-threatening conditions are expected along the Florida coast. Key Details of the Advisory Location : 75 miles northwest of Cedar Key, Florida, and 40 miles southeast of Tallahassee, Florida. Movement : North-northeast at 24 mph; expected to make landfall in the Florida Big Bend now. Winds : Maximum sustained winds of 140 mph, with hurricane-force winds extending 60 miles from the center and tropical-storm-force winds extending up to 310 miles. Walt Disney World Impact Wind : Walt Disney World Resort remains under a Tropical Storm Warning. Strong gusty winds and rain bands from Helene are affecting the area, with potential for storm surge around coastal regions near Tampa Bay, leading to localized flooding and hazardous conditions. Rainfall & Flooding : The Walt Disney World area, is expected to receive 6 to 12 inches of rain, with isolated areas possibly seeing totals of up to 20 inches. This poses significant risks of flash and urban flooding, especially in low-lying regions near the parks. Tornado Risk : The NOAA has issued a continuing tornado threat through early Friday morning across Florida, including the Walt Disney World area. Guests should be prepared for possible severe weather and follow safety procedures as advised. Walt Disney World and Cruise Port Closures Walt Disney World Closures : Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon is closed. Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party has been canceled for this evening. All nighttime shows across Disney Parks have been canceled for safety. Port Canaveral Closures : Port Canaveral is closed until further notice due to the imminent approach of Hurricane Helene. Cruise passengers should contact their cruise lines for updates on itinerary changes or cancellations. Safety and Updates The National Hurricane Center will release the next complete advisory at 2 AM EDT , with the following update at 5 AM EDT .For ongoing updates on Hurricane Helene and its impact on Central Florida, follow @PapaBestTravels  for the latest information. For those currently visiting Walt Disney World or the surrounding areas, safety is the top priority. Please heed all warnings and guidance from local authorities and Disney officials, stay informed, and take all necessary precautions to ensure your safety as conditions continue to develop. Stay Safe! - Papa

Breaking News: Hurricane Helene Update 8 PM EDT – Major Impacts for Walt Disney World and Port Canaveral Date : Thursday, September 26, 2024 Time of Update : 8 PM EDT The National Hurricane Center has released its 8 PM EDT advisory on Hurricane Helene. The storm explodes to an extremely dangerous Category 4 hurricane, with maximum sustained winds of 130 mph and continues to intensify as it nears landfall in the Florida Big Bend area. Life-threatening conditions and catastrophic impacts are expected along the Florida coast. Key Details of the Advisory Location : 80 miles west-southwest of Cedar Key, Florida, and 115 miles south of Tallahassee, Florida. Movement : North-northeast at 23 mph; expected to make landfall in the Florida Big Bend within hours. Winds : Maximum sustained winds at 130 mph, with hurricane-force winds extending 60 miles from the center and tropical-storm-force winds extending up to 310 miles. Walt Disney World Impact Wind : Walt Disney World Resort and Central Florida are currently under a Tropical Storm Warning. Strong, gusty winds and rain bands from Helene will impact the area, with potential for storm surge around coastal areas near Tampa Bay, leading to localized flooding. Rainfall & Flooding : Central Florida, including the Walt Disney World area, is expected to receive 6 to 12 inches of rain, with isolated areas possibly seeing totals up to 20 inches. This poses significant risks of flash and urban flooding, particularly in low-lying regions near the parks. Tornado Risk : The NOAA warns of a continuing tornado threat through tonight across Florida, Walt Disney World and surrounding areas are at risk and should be prepared for possible severe weather. Walt Disney World and Cruise Port Closures Walt Disney World Closures : Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon has been closed for today. Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party has been canceled for this evening. All shows across Disney Parks have been canceled for the night. Port Canaveral Closures : Port Canaveral remains closed until further notice due to the imminent approach of Hurricane Helene. Those with cruise plans should reach out to their cruise line for updates and changes to their itineraries. Safety and Updates The National Hurricane Center will release the next complete advisory at 11 PM EDT. For ongoing updates, follow @PapaBestTravels  for the latest on Hurricane Helene and its impact on Central Florida. For visitors currently at Walt Disney World or in the surrounding areas, safety is the utmost priority. Please heed the warnings and guidance from local authorities and Disney officials, and remain vigilant as conditions develop. Stay safe, stay informed, and take all necessary precautions. - Papa

New Release Alert! New Star Wars Merchandise Now Available on the Disney Store! If you're a Star Wars fan or a Walt Disney World fan, you'll be thrilled to know that the Disney Store has released some brand-new, out-of-this-galaxy items! Whether you're looking to expand your collection or get started on your journey as a Jedi (or a Sith!), there's something here for everyone. Let’s dive into some of these amazing new releases. Kyber Crystals Series 2 – Find Your Force The Kyber Crystals play a crucial role in the Star Wars galaxy, powering lightsabers and holding the essence of the Force. Now, you can harness the power of different colors from the Series 2 Kyber Crystals! These come in a variety of colors: Blue, Yellow, Red, White, Green, and Purple  - Each crystal is priced at $17.99  and comes with its own unique packaging and aura. Perfect for those looking to customize their Galaxy’s Edge lightsabers or simply want a unique Star Wars collectible to display. Light Up Your Path with the Lightsaber Blade Add some action to your Star Wars roleplay with the Lightsaber Blade (26”) . Retailing at $44.99 , this blade is perfect for those who already have the hilt and are looking for an authentic, customizable blade to complete their Jedi or Sith look. Whether for dueling or display, this piece is essential for any Star Wars enthusiast. Dive into the Knowledge of the Force – Jedi and Sith Holocrons For those who seek wisdom, there are two new Holocrons available: Jedi Holocron with Light and Sound Effects  – This cube-shaped device, priced at $49.99 , brings the knowledge and mystique of the Jedi Order to your collection. Perfect for those aligned with the Light Side. Sith Holocron with Light and Sound Effects  – Unleash the dark side with this pyramid-shaped artifact, also priced at $49.99 . With lights and sounds to match the mysterious powers of the Sith, it's a must-have for those who favor the Dark Side. Both Holocrons are beautifully designed and interact with Kyber Crystals to unlock different sound effects and phrases, allowing you to explore more of the Star Wars lore. Final Thoughts Whether you're building a lightsaber, diving into Star Wars lore with Holocrons, or looking for stylish accessories for your next Disney Parks trip, these new releases are a great addition to any Star Wars or Disney collection. Head over to the Disney Store to explore all the new arrivals! - Papa

Breaking News: Hurricane Helene Update 5 PM EDT - Walt Disney World and Port Canaveral Heavily Impacted Date:  Thursday, September 26, 2024 Time of Update:  5 PM EDT The National Hurricane Center has released its 5 PM EDT advisory with the latest updates on Hurricane Helene. The storm has intensified to a Category 3 hurricane  with maximum sustained winds of 125 mph , and is expected to strengthen further to a Category 4  before making landfall in the Florida Big Bend region this evening. The storm is large and dangerous, with life-threatening conditions expected along the Florida coast. Key Details of the Advisory: Location:  Approximately 130 miles west of Tampa, Florida , and 175 miles south of Tallahassee, Florida . Movement:  North-northeast at 23 mph , with landfall expected this evening. Winds:  Maximum sustained winds at 125 mph , with hurricane-force winds extending up to 60 miles from the center  and tropical-storm-force winds reaching up to 310 miles . Walt Disney World Impact: Wind:  Walt Disney World Resort and the greater Central Florida area are currently under a Tropical Storm Warning . Strong winds and rain bands associated with Helene are expected throughout the region, and a Storm Surge Warning  is in effect for Tampa Bay and surrounding coastal areas, posing a risk of localized flooding. Rainfall & Flooding:   6-12 inches of rainfall  is expected over portions of Central Florida . Flash flooding and urban flooding could occur in low-lying areas around the Walt Disney World Resort area, with isolated amounts up to 20 inches . Tornado Risk:  The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) warns of the potential for tornadoes across Florida, southeast Georgia, central and southern South Carolina, and southern North Carolina , which may impact Walt Disney World and surrounding regions through tonight and into Friday. Walt Disney World and Cruise Port Closures: As Hurricane Helene approaches, Walt Disney World has already closed  Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon  today, Thursday, September 26th C anceled Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party  scheduled for this evening.  Canceled all Shows At Disney Parks Tonight . Port Canaveral is closed until further notice. Safety and Updates: The National Hurricane Center will provide its next complete advisory at 11 PM EDT . Stay informed by following @PapaBestTravels  for the latest updates and advisories on Hurricane Helene. For those currently visiting Walt Disney World  or traveling in the nearby area, your safety is the top priority. Remain aware of the storm’s development, follow the guidance of Walt Disney World officials, and stay updated with local weather services. - Papa

Breaking News: Hurricane Helene Update 2 PM EDT - Walt Disney World Impacted Date: Thursday, September 26, 2024 Time of Update: 2 PM EDT The National Hurricane Center has released an intermediate advisory indicating that Hurricane Helene is strengthening as it approaches the Florida coast. With maximum sustained winds of 110 mph, Helene is now classified as a high-end Category 2 hurricane, expected to intensify to a major Category 4 hurricane before making landfall in the Florida Big Bend region this evening.  Key Details of the Advisory: Location : Approximately 195 miles southwest of Tampa, Florida Movement : North-northeast at 16 mph, with landfall expected this evening Winds : Maximum sustained at 110 mph, with hurricane-force winds extending up to 60 miles from the center and tropical-storm-force winds reaching up to 345 miles. Walt Disney World Impact: Wind : Walt Disney World Resort and the greater Central Florida area remain under a Tropical Storm Warning. Strong winds and rain are anticipated throughout the region. Storm surge warnings are in effect for Tampa Bay and coastal areas, potentially causing localized flooding. Rainfall & Flooding:  Rainfall of 18 plus inches is expected. Flash flooding and urban flooding could occur in low-lying areas around the Walt Disney World Resort area. Tornado Risk:  NOAA warns of the potential for tornadoes, particularly in northern Florida and southeastern Georgia, which may impact Walt Disney World and the surrounding region. Walt Disney World Closures: , Walt Disney World has closed Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon today Thursday, September 26th and cancelled the Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party tonight as well. Walt Disney World may elect to implement additional severe weather protocols, which could include additional park closures or modifications to operating hours. Guests staying at Disney resorts or planning visits over the next few days are encouraged to monitor official Disney updates. Safety and Updates :The National Hurricane Center will provide a complete advisory at 5 PM EDT. Stay informed by following @PapaBestTravels for the latest updates and advisories on Hurricane Helene. If you are currently visiting Walt Disney World or traveling in the nearby area, your safety is the top priority. Stay aware of the storm’s development, follow the guidance of Walt Disney World officials, and pay attention to updates from local weather services. - Calina

Breaking News: Hurricane Helene Update 11 AM EDT: Impact on Walt Disney World Date:  Thursday September 26, 2024 Time of Update:  11 AM EDT The latest advisory from the National Hurricane Center at 11 AM EDT reveals that Hurricane Helene  is continuing to strengthen as it approaches the Florida coast. With maximum sustained winds of 105 mph , Helene is classified as a major Category 2 Hurricane and is expected to make landfall in the Florida Big Bend area this evening as a major Category 4 Hurricane. This development has led to watches and warnings along the Gulf Coast, affecting parts of Florida, including Tampa Bay and areas southward. Key Details of the Advisory: Location:  Approximately 255 miles southwest of Tampa, Florida Movement:  North-northeast at 14 mph, expected to make landfall this evening Winds:  Maximum sustained at 105 mph, extending hurricane-force winds up to 60 miles from the center and tropical-storm-force winds up to 345 miles. Walt Disney World Impact: Wind:  Walt Disney World Resort and the surrounding Central Florida area are under a Tropical Storm Warning, with strong winds and rain expected. Storm surge warnings for Tampa Bay and surrounding coastal areas will result in localized flooding. Rainfall & Flooding:  Rainfall of 18 plus inches is expected. Flash flooding and urban flooding could occur in low-lying areas around the Walt Disney World Resort area. Tornado Risk:  NOAA warns of the potential for tornadoes, particularly in northern Florida and southeastern Georgia, which may impact Walt Disney World and the surrounding region. Walt Disney World Closures: , Walt Disney World has closed Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon today Thursday, September 26th and cancelled the Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party tonight as well. Walt Disney World may elect to implement additional severe weather protocols, which could include additional park closures or modifications to operating hours. Guests staying at Disney resorts or planning visits over the next few days are encouraged to monitor official Disney updates. Safety and Updates: The National Hurricane Center will issue the next intermediate advisory at 1 PM CDT, followed by a complete advisory at 4 PM CDT. Please stay tuned to @PapaBestTravels for the most up-to-date information. If you're visiting Walt Disney World or any nearby areas, your safety is paramount. Keep up to date with the storm’s progression and follow any guidance provided by Walt Disney World officials and local weather services. - Calina

Breaking News: Walt Disney World - FAA Filing Suggests New Activity at Former Reflections: A Disney Lakeside Lodge Site A recent FAA filing indicates at construction activity resuming at the site where Disney's "Reflections: A Disney Lakeside Lodge" was once planned. The filing, submitted on September 18, 2024, details the proposed use of a temporary mobile crane for a period of approximately 10 months, from October 14, 2024, to August 14, 2025. Here's a breakdown of the key details and what it could mean for the future of the site. The Location The site in question is located on the shores of Bay Lake, between Disney's Wilderness Lodge and Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, within Walt Disney World Resort. The coordinates provided (Latitude 28°24'35.20"N, Longitude 81°33'52.60"W) align with the area where "Reflections: A Disney Lakeside Lodge" was originally announced to be built. The Filing Details The FAA filing (Study ID: 2024-ASO-18022-OE) reveals: Structure Type : Mobile Crane for a 10 story Building Height and Elevation : The crane is expected to have a site elevation of 101 feet, a structure height of 240 feet, resulting in a total height of 341 feet above mean sea level (AMSL). Work Schedule : Construction is slated to occur from October 14, 2024, to August 14, 2025. The crane will be in use for a considerable duration, indicating that significant construction is expected during this period. While the filing does not explicitly state the purpose of the construction, the use of such a crane typically suggests the beginning of vertical building work or preparation for such activities. Background: Reflections – A Disney Lakeside Lodge "Reflections: A Disney Lakeside Lodge" was originally announced as a new Disney Vacation Club resort in 2018, intended to be a nature-inspired resort with about 900 rooms and villas. However, in 2020, Disney quietly removed the project from their development plans amid the operational changes and economic impact of the pandemic, leaving the future of the site uncertain. The return of construction activity, as suggested by this FAA filing, could indicate a revival of the project under the same or similar concept. Disney has yet to make any official announcements regarding this particular site or confirm what this construction will entail. What to Watch For Given the significant 10-month window that begins in a few weeks for crane use, it is likely we will soon see new developments or an announcement from Disney concerning this site. It could be a reimagined version of the "Reflections" concept or an entirely a brand-new resort. Stay tuned @PapaBestTravels as we closely monitor any updates or official announcements from Disney regarding the site’s development. - Calina

Beaches & Cream Soda Shop at Disney's Beach Club Resort and Disney’s Beach Club Villas - Review and BEST-Rated If you're looking for a blend of classic comfort food and a playful, retro atmosphere, then Beaches & Cream Soda Shop at Disney's Beach Club Resort is a must-visit dining spot. This cozy diner has a charming throwback feel, capturing the essence of an old-fashioned soda fountain, and is known for its fun ambiance, delicious food, and sweet treats. The Food:  Beaches & Cream Grilled Cheese with Bacon and Tots: I ordered the Beaches & Cream Grilled Cheese , adding bacon for an extra savory kick. The sandwich was perfectly toasted, with golden-brown crispy bread, packed with gooey, melted cheese, and a generous layer of bacon, which added a smoky flavor. The sandwich was complemented well by the tater tots, which were crunchy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.  The classic pairing of the rich grilled cheese and salty bacon made this meal both satisfying and nostalgic, offering comfort food at its best. You can also choose to have your grilled cheese served with creamy tomato soup, french fries, or fresh fruit as a side, allowing you to customize your meal. The bacon was a great addition, and while it came at an additional $5, the flavor it brought to the dish was worth the upgrade. Atmosphere and Decor  The decor inside Beaches & Cream is a delightful nod to a 1950s soda shop. With pastel-colored tiles lining the walls, globe-like pendant lights hanging overhead, and vintage-style decor, the restaurant feels lively and warm. The open kitchen design lets you watch the magic unfold as the team prepares delicious sundaes, shakes, and comfort dishes right before your eyes, adding to the interactive feel of the space. Overall Experience  The fun and lively environment of Beaches & Cream makes it an ideal spot for a family dinner or a casual meal to fuel up during your Disney vacation. The vibrant, relaxed vibes, combined with the tasty comfort food offerings, make it a highly recommended stop at Walt Disney World. BEST-Rated Grilled Cheese with Bacon & Tots : 8.65 Overall Experience at Beaches & Cream Soda Shop : 8.97 Whether you’re craving a hearty grilled cheese, an indulgent sundae, or just looking to soak in the nostalgic atmosphere, Beaches & Cream Soda Shop is a fantastic choice for a classic and memorable meal. Note: Make sure to book a reservation in advance, as this spot tends to be quite popular with both guests staying at the resort and those just visiting for a meal. - Calina

Breaking News: 8 AM EDT NOAA Update on Hurricane Helene Impacting Walt Disney World Helene Strengthens to Category 2 Hurricane; Florida Landfall Expected Tonight As of the 8 AM EDT update from NOAA, Hurricane Helene has rapidly intensified into a Category 2 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 100 mph. The storm is currently located about 320 miles southwest of Tampa, Florida, moving north-northeast at 12 mph. Helene is expected to make landfall in Florida's Big Bend area this evening or early Friday morning as a Category 4 Hurricane, with significant strengthening anticipated before landfall. Walt Disney World Impact: Wind:  Walt Disney World Resort and the surrounding Central Florida area are under a Tropical Storm Warning, with strong winds and rain expected to begin later today. Storm surge warnings for Tampa Bay and surrounding coastal areas may result in localized flooding. Rainfall & Flooding:  Rainfall of 6-12 inches is expected, with isolated totals up to 18 inches. Flash flooding and urban flooding could occur in low-lying areas around the Walt Disney World Resort area. Tornado Risk:  NOAA warns of the potential for tornadoes, particularly in northern Florida and southeastern Georgia, which may impact Walt Disney World and the surrounding region. Walt Disney World Closures: , Walt Disney World has closed Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon today Thursday, September 26th and cancelled the Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party tonight as well. Walt Disney World may elect to implement additional severe weather protocols, which could include additional park closures or modifications to operating hours. Guests staying at Disney resorts or planning visits over the next few days are encouraged to monitor official Disney updates. Next Update:  The next complete advisory from NOAA will be issued at 11 AM EDT. Stay tuned @PapaBestTravels for updates on local conditions and impacts on Walt Disney World operations. - Calina

Breaking News: 5 AM EDT Hurricane Helene Update - Walt Disney World Impact Update Date/Time: 5 AM EDT Next Update Time: 8 AM EDT Hurricane Helene has continued to strengthen, now bringing potentially catastrophic winds and life-threatening storm surge to the Northeastern Gulf Coast. Walt Disney World remains on alert, monitoring the storm closely. The Walt Disney World area is expected to experience strong winds, heavy rains, and possible tornado activity may affect the region later today and into Friday. Current Status (5 AM EDT): Location:  350 miles SW of Tampa, FL Movement:  NNE at 12 mph Maximum Winds:  90 mph (Category 1 Hurricane), expected to strengthen to Category 4 before landfall Warnings in Effect:  Tropical Storm Warning for Tampa Bay area, possible flooding and hazardous winds inland. Impact on Walt Disney World: Weather Conditions:  Heavy rains, potential for tropical storm-force winds starting later today. Walt Disney World Closures: , Walt Disney World has closed Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon today Thursday, September 26th and cancelled the Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party tonight as well. Walt Disney World may elect to implement additional severe weather protocols, which could include additional park closures or modifications to operating hours. Guests staying at Disney resorts or planning visits over the next few days are encouraged to monitor official Disney updates closely and follow local authorities' instructions for safety. Preparedness: Safety Measures:  Visitors in the area are urged to stay updated through local weather alerts and park announcements. Be prepared for possible delays or disruptions to travel plans. For further updates, stay tuned to @PapaBestTravels and official Walt Disney World announcements as Hurricane Helene continues to progress. - Papa