“We want to be the restaurant that’s available for that adult experience,” said general manager Israel Perez.  What would Walt think?

While I can certainly understand providing a variety of dining experiences to meet the needs of different guests, didn’t Walt Disney originally develop the Disney theme parks to be a place that parents and children can enjoy together?  Regardless of the fact that Victoria & Albert’s is Disney’s only five-star, AAA-rated restaurant, I think banning children runs counter to the entire purpose of Disney.

Rosemary Rose, Disney’s vice president of food, beverage and merchandise operations said only about three families a month brought young children to Victoria & Albert’s.  So what’s the big deal? 

I’m always shocked and disheartened when I’m at Walt Disney World and I hear adults complaining about children.  I want to ask them, “What are you doing in Disney if kids bother you?”  I just don’t get this decision by Disney.  Walt would be so disappointed.

What do you think?  Did you ever think you’d hear the words “Disney” and “bans children” in the same sentence?

Post from: The Disney Traveler

Each session includes a consultation prior to the actual photo shoot where guests can discuss wardrobe, photo locations, themes and more.  During the Portrait Session, a Disney PhotoPass photographer will lead guests throughout the Grand Floridian to some of its most beautiful spots for what I can only imagine will be beautiful pictures.

Currently, guests can choose between two Portrait Session packages.  A single sitting is just $49.95, or for $124.95, guests can get their sitting and all the pictures taken by Disney PhotoPass photographers throughout their stay at Walt Disney World on a PhotoPass CD.

I think a Portrait Session sounds like a great way to get a special picture of your entire family, which would look great displayed in your home or on a holiday greeting card!

Post from: The Disney Traveler

Children are encouraged to dress in their favorite princess attire for this special event.  As each small princess enters the Garden View Tea Lounge, she is announced as if she is attending a royal ball.  Rose petals are thrown at her feet, and undoubtedly, she will feel like royalty herself.  She and her adult companion will enjoy a menu of sandwiches, cheese, fruit and cake along with their tea.  Throughout the party, a costumed Disney cast member named Rose Petal tells stories and leads the guests in songs.  Princess Aurora from Disney’s “Sleeping Beauty” makes a grand appearance as well.

Each child receives several gifts just for coming to the Perfectly Princess Tea Party, which according to the Walt Disney World website, currently include a ribbon tiara, a silver princess link bracelet, a fresh rose, a princess scrapbook set and a “Best Friend” certificate.  Best of all, each child is presented with their own 18” My Disney Girl doll dressed in a Princess Aurora gown including accessories.

 The price of the tea party for one child and one adult is extravagant at $225 (including the gratuity but not tax).  An additional adult can join the party for $75 (plus tax), and an additional child can participate for $150 (plus tax).  For that steep price, guests receive royal treatment and delicious food and a variety of special gifts for the little princess to take home and enjoy. 

I have not attended the Perfectly Princess Tea Party, but I’ve watched it.  I’m not convinced that $225 is worth it for this party, but it would be a very special memory for a mother and daughter to share.  If you can afford it or just want to create a lifelong memory with your little princess, this could be the perfect party for you.

Post from: The Disney Traveler