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15 October 2006: Il Mulino New York Trattoria opening soon at the Walt Disney World Swan Resort

"Il Mulino New York Trattoria" is coming soon to the Walt Disney World Swan Resort, in place of the now closed Palio restaurant.

The new restaurant will feature traditional Italian cuisine from the Abruzzi region of Italy, served in a lively bistro environment. It will feature a diverse offering of elegantly and bountifully presented dishes, prepared from original Italian recipes.

12 October 2006: Disney Vacation Club coming to the Animal Kingdom Lodge

Disney are expanding the popular Disney Vacation Club to the Animal Kingdom Lodge. 134 units will be converted from existing rooms on the 5th and 6th floors at the resort, and a new wing, with 324 properties will be built. The first conversions will be ready by late 2007, with the remainder built by mid 2009.

5 September 2006: Captain Cook's closed for refurbishment

Captain Cook's, the 24-hour snack bar within the Great Ceremonial House at the Polynesian Resort is currently closed for refurbishment. Service is temporarily housed at the Tangaroo Terrace. Closures include the area past Captain Cook's which formerly housed men's and ladies clothing stores.

31 August 2006: Palio closing

Palio, at the Walt Disney World Swan will be closing on September 3rd 2006 for refurbishment. It will reopen as a new restaurant. More details will be posted when available.

10 July 2006: Luna Park Playground refurbishment

The Luna Park Playground at the Boardwalk will be closed for refurbishment from July 10 2006 to July 24 2006. The Luna Park pool will remain open as normal.

7 June 2006: Wyndham Worldwide adding 400-room hotel to Bonnet Creek

Wyndham Worldwide have announced they will be adding a 400-room hotel to Bonnet Creek, the timeshare community that is very close to Disney property, in particular, the Caribbean Beach Resort and Pop Century Resort. More details can be found here http://www.bizjournals.com/orlando/stories/2006/06/05/daily13.html

31 May 2006: Hilton to open new hotels near Walt Disney World

NEW YORK, May 31 (Reuters) - Hilton Hotels Corp. (HLT.N: Quote, Profile, Research) on Wednesday said it plans to open two hotels at a new resort to be built near the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida.

The hotelier will build a 1,000-room Hilton and a 500-room Waldorf-Astoria at Bonnet Creek, it said in a statement. The project is expected to open in the summer of 2009.

24 April 2006: Picabu now open at the Walt Disney World Dolphin

Picabu, the new 24 hour self-service dining and sundries location, is now open at the Walt Disney World Dolphin. This new location replaces Tubbies.

11 March 2006: Construction project at the Contemporary Resort

The long abandoned STOL airport near to the Transportation and Ticket Centre is set to be turned over to Imagineering from September 2006 until December 2009. It is speculated that this large area will be used as a staging area for a huge construction project at the Contemporary Resort. Rumors link the construction project to a possible introduction of a Disney Vacation Club wing. This information is not yet officially confirmed, and may be subject to change.

8 March 2006: Animal Kingdom Lodge achieves Florida Green Lodging Certification

Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge became certified on the Florida Green Lodging Certification program this month. For more information about the program, see http://www.dep.state.fl.us/waste/categories/recycling/GreenLodging/
For information about the measures taken by Disney to reach this goal, see http://www.earth911.org/library/greenlodging/features.asp?locationid=140107

7 March 2006: All Star Music Family Suites

For the initial launch, about 40 suites will be available, with more opening up throughout the coming months. Current plans are for all 192 Family Suites to be available on or before January 1, 2007.

The Family Suites will be located in the Calypso and Jazz Inn Buildings. When complete:

Calypso Building 1 will have 32 suites
Calypso Building 10 will have 54 suites
Jazz Inn Building 2 will have 52 suites
Jazz Inn Building 9 will have 54 suites

The suites are located on all three floors, and will be near each other, but none will offer connecting suites. There is no price difference between the buildings.

2006 pricing will be:

$169 plus tax - Value Season (Aug 27 - Oct 4; Nov 26 - Dec 19)
$209 plus tax - Regular Season (Apr 23 - Aug 26; Oct 5 - Nov 25)
$239 plus tax - Peak Season (Mar 6* - Apr 22)
$259 plus tax Holiday Season (Dec 20 - 31)
(* once available)

For comparison, the price of a Family Suite is $9-11 more then 2 Standard Rooms, or $13-15 less the 2 Preferred Rooms, depending on season.

Currently, none of the discount promotional offers will include these suites, (ie, no passholder, FL Resident, AAA, etc) however this may change in the future once all suites are ready, based on occupancy trends.

Each room is 520 sq ft, and can sleep a maximum party of 6 Guest plus an infant age 2 or under with 1 Queen bed in the master bedroom and a Double Sleeper Sofa, Single Sleeper Chair, and a Single Sleeper Ottoman in the living room, plus room for a pack-n-play crib (available on request.) The Sleeper furniture is constructed by the same company as those found in the Disney Vacation Club Properties and are very comfortable.

The Family Suites will also include a kitchenette with an under the counter refrigerator, microwave, sink and coffee/tea maker, and two bathrooms with separate vanity areas with two sinks and a wall mounted hair dryer.

These Family Suites will offer an affordable option for larger families compared to rooms at Moderate and Deluxe Resorts and DVC Studios. Here families can be sure to be together in suite like accommodations and still enjoy separate sleeping areas with more privacy, whereas booking two adjoining/connecting rooms cannot always be guaranteed.

More information about the All Star Music Resort

29 November 2005: Swan repainting complete

Further to the 7 April 2005 update below, the Swan has now completed its repainting. The difference is quite dramatic in person, and has brought the resort back to its original condition. The Dolphin repainting is still in progress.

Above: The newly repainted building. Notice the faded looking Dolphin in the background.

13 October 2005: Lilo and Stitch join Ohana restaurant

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Some new character friends have joined Mickey Mouse for breakfast at `Ohana in Disney's Polynesian Resort. Say "aloha" (hello) to Lilo, Stitch and Pluto ... and say "aloha" (good-bye) to Chip, Dale and Goofy.

A hearty breakfast -- "island-style" breads, scrambled eggs, bacon and breakfast sausage, island potatoes, biscuits, Mickey waffles, fresh juices, milk and coffee -- is served up family style along with character fun daily from 7 to 11 a .m. The restaurant is located on the second floor of the resort's Great Ceremonial House.

Cost is $17.99 for guests ages 10 and up and $9.99 for ages 3-9. Reservations can be made by calling 407/WDW-DINE.

12 October 2005: Lunch with Walt Disney World Animal Programs

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Walt Disney World guests can get up-close-and-personal with a dolphin trainer, veterinarian or animal curator during a new "Lunch with Walt Disney World Animal Programs."

Each Tuesday (beginning Nov. 1), a Disney animal specialist shares stories, passions and their background over an authentic South African luncheon in the wine room at Jiko-The Cooking Place at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge. The noon-2 p.m. experience features personalities such as Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Animal Curator Joe Kalla -- who spent much of his career at the San Diego zoo, traveled to Africa to study baboons and learned Swahili to communicate with villagers.

Chef Anette Grecchi Gray serves up a traditional South African feast with menu items that include whole wheat lavosh flat bread with Moroccan Chermoula, organic field greens, followed by maize crusted and pan-roasted halibut, and oven-roasted tenderloin with sweet potato and potato gratin. For dessert: Pomegranate macerated fruit salad with homemade yogurt.

The cost is $65 per person with a wine pairing option offered for an additional $15. For more information, contact 407/WDW-DINE.

12 October 2005: World RUBIK'S CUBE Game Championship at Disney's Pop Century Resort

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Some of the world's best RUBIK'S CUBE solvers will compete Nov. 4-6 in the World RUBIK'S CUBE Game Championship at Disney's Pop Century Resort at Walt Disney World Resort. These "speed cubers," as they are identified in Rubik's parlance, will twist and turn the iconic puzzle in a variety of timed challenges. The championship, which coincides with the cube's 25th anniversary in the United States, includes the traditional 3x3x3 cube competition, 4x4x4 and 5x5x5 contests, and more unusual events like blindfolded cubing, one-handed cubing, foot cubing and even underwater cubing.

21 September 2005: Contemporary Resort rehab update

Thanks to Jez for the photos below of the new look Contemporary Resort rooms.

The Contemporary resort has now moved the "Atrium Club" limited concierge floor from 12 to 10. Floor 10 is now completely refurbished. They are currently working on floor 9. The photo below shows covers over floor 9 and the new doors on floor 10, compared to the old doors on the other floors.

Below you can see the balcony's have had new floor tiles put down, and new balustrades put around them. You can see the difference in balustrades, they're thicker and brown, and the balcony doors have been changed, so the glass is in three sections, and not two.

30 May 2005: Yacht Club Lighthouse work (Thanks to KeithS)

The Lighthouse at the Yacht Club Resort is currently undergoing refurbishment.

27 May 2005: Polynesian Resort new-look room photo

Further to the update below, the photo below shows one of the completed room from the the new look Polynesian Resort.

Starting in late May 2005, the rooms will be receiving new decor, bedding, furniture, artwork and carpeting. The new look and feel will retain the South Seas theme that is the hallmark of Disney's Polynesian Resort, but with a more upscale, elegant design. The renovation work will be done in phases over about a year.

18 May 2005: Rooms at Disney's Contemporary and Polynesian Resorts To Get New Dщcor

The guestrooms of two classic Walt Disney World resort hotels are getting an extreme makeover.

Rooms at Disney's Contemporary Resort and Disney's Polynesian Resort, which both opened along with Magic Kingdom in 1971, are being given a dramatic new look with new dщcor, furniture, carpeting, lighting and bathroom fixtures.

Disney's Contemporary Resort will receive the more dramatic changes. Dщcor of the rooms will be changed from its current style (taken from the bold, bright colors of Contemporary Art Masters of the '50s and '60s) to a more upscale, elegant design that incorporates muted color accents -- reds, greens and yellows -- with basic black and white.

Rooms at Disney's Polynesian Resort will also get a new look, but retain the "South Seas Islands" style that has been the Polynesian's hallmark since 1971. Dark, hand-carved wood furniture contrasts with tropical blues, greens and browns in bedspreads, paintings and wall coverings. Both resorts will receive upgraded furniture elements such as flat-screen televisions and designer bedding.

In addition to the room renovation, dщcor in the hallways and public areas of the two resorts will also be updated.

The renovation of the rooms at Disney's Polynesian Resort will take about one year, with the rooms at the Contemporary Resort taking about six months longer. Each resort will be renovated in phases, with a small number of rooms being renovated during each phase.

25 April 2005: Monthly Wine Dinners at Jiko-The Cooking Place

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Jiko-The Cooking Place at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge has launched a monthly wine dinner, planned the first Thursday of every month in the restaurant's private dining room, Cape Town.

Chef Anette Grecchi Gray will step outside the menu and create dishes from around the globe, with wines paired by sommelier Stephen Shepherd.

"We'd like to branch out a bit," said Gray. She said she envisions featuring an Italian-inspired dish paired with a South African Sangiovese, or a course from the Australian outback paired with a Shiraz from Australia and a Syrah from South Africa.

"Or perhaps French-inspired foods with a South African bordeaux, or a hearty German meal paired with a Gew√rtstraminer from Dehlheim," she continued. "The sky is the limit."

The wine dinners are $130 per person. For reservations, call 407/WDW-DINE.

7 April 2005: Swan painting underway

The Swan and Dolphin Resorts are undergoing a major repainting job. As you can see from the photos below, there is quite a dramatic difference with the new paintwork contrasting the old.

3 January 2005: Award for Animal Kingdom Lodge

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Editors and writers voting in Fodor's Travel Publications "Fodor's Choice Hotels 2005" named Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge among the "Top 20 Hotels of the World." Honors went to hotels from Montreal to Maui and from Italy to Belize in the second year of the recognition program.

Picked from among thousands of selections, the 20 hotels were chosen as unique, unusual and not-to-be-missed experiences, said Fodor's Travel Publications publisher Tim Jarrell. Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge won in "The Kids Will Love It, Too" category.

Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge features African art and artifacts, South African-inspired cuisine and guestroom views to savannahs teeming with exotic wildlife.

3 January 2005: Award for Victoria & Albert's

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Victoria & Albert's at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa has been awarded a AAA Five Diamond rating for the fifth consecutive year and is among just 57 restaurants in North America earning AAA's highest distinction in 2005.

AAA's 65 full-time tourism editors evaluate more then 55,000 hotels and restaurants each year, and only 0.26 percent (barely more than one-quarter of 1 percent) earn five diamonds (85 lodgings earned the coveted honor this year along with the 57 restaurants).

Victoria & Albert's also was awarded four stars by the 2005 Mobil Travel Guide -- one of only two restaurants in Central Florida to earn the honor.

Mobil Travel Guide ratings are based on cumulative scores determined by service evaluations, unannounced inspections, published reviews and letters from Mobil Travel Guide users.

29 September 2004: Fort Wilderness and Vero Beach update

Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground will reopen to all Guests on Wednesday, September 29 at 12 noon. Guests of Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground were temporarily re-located to other Walt Disney World Resort properties on Saturday, September 25 due to weather.

Disney's Vero Beach Resort closed due to weather on Friday, September 24. Guests holding reservations at Disney's Vero Beach Resort with arrivals through Sunday, October 31, are being contacted to rebook, cancel or move their stay.

29 September 2004

From October 1, 2004, the Mouseketeer Clubhouse at DisneyТs Contemporary Resort will no longer operate.

30 May 2004: Saratoga Springs Resort open

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (May 27, 2004) -- Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa, the latest Disney Vacation Club property, opened Thursday with resort membership sales so brisk that officials announced plans to expand the property by another 276 units.

The newest resort in the Walt Disney Company's highly rated vacation ownership program, Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa opened with its first phase already three-quarters sold out, said Walt Disney World Resort President Al Weiss.

"The guest response to Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa has been so overwhelming, we have decided to add a third phase of development to the resort," Weiss said.

The third phase of 276 units will be available in 2007 and will increase the resort room count to a total of 828 accommodations. The resort is opening with 184 units in its first phase and previously announced a second phase of 368 units in 2005.

"Guests increasingly want opportunities for ownership in our unique vacation experiences, and Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa is our latest entry in this exciting new market," Weiss said. "We bring together unparalleled guest service, outstanding attractions and accommodations second to none to create an experience that is perfect for every member of the family. Our member families have made a long-term commitment to Disney and their dedication is a testament to the enduring appeal of the Disney brand to all generations."

The seventh and largest of the growing collection of popular Disney ownership properties, Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa lies just across the lake from Downtown Disney and is near the four Walt Disney World theme parks.

"The tripling of DVC's membership to more than 81,000 member families in just over five years underscores the growing popularity of the company's vacation ownership program," said Jim Lewis, senior vice president and general manager of Disney Vacation Development, Inc. "By offering our most loyal and frequent guests a special way to enjoy our properties, we continue to generate demand for DVC and, in fact, we expect to completely sell out of the first phase by fall 2004."

All previous DVC properties are now sold out. Pre-opening membership sales for Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa began in August 2003, following the record-breaking 13-month sell-out of the Company's previous project, Disney's Beach Club Villas at Walt Disney World Resort.

From its colorful Victorian architecture to the influence of horse racing, Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa recaptures the heyday of upstate New York country retreats in the late 1800s. The resort features a full-service spa, a neighborhood eatery and market, and a spectacular rockwork theme pool.

Earlier this month, Disney Vacation Club opened its new sales headquarters located at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa. This state-of-the-art facility doubles the Company's current guest tour capacity, which was needed to meet the growing demand for Disney vacation ownership.

The current collection of Disney Vacation Club Resorts includes five locations at Walt Disney World Resort (Disney's Old Key West Resort; Disney's BoardWalk Villas; The Villas at Disney's Wilderness Lodge; Disney's Beach Club Villas and Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa), as well as Disney's first resorts beyond the theme park locations -- Disney's Vero Beach Resort located on Florida's Atlantic Coast and Disney's Hilton Head Island Resort in South Carolina.

9 May 2004: My Disney Girl's Perfectly Princess Tea Party

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- It's a tea party fit for a princess at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. Youngsters can don their favorite dress-up costumes and enjoy tea filled with fantasy and delight at the new My Disney Girl's Perfectly Princess Tea Party offered in the Garden View Lounge beginning June 10.

Every Thursday through Monday from 10:30 a.m.-noon, little princesses will get the royal treatment with tea for two, deliciously decorative princess cakes, plus a personal meet-and-greet with Princess Aurora from the classic Disney animated film "Sleeping Beauty." The enchanting tea party is hosted by "Rose Petal," a magical rose from Aurora's garden that has come to life to lead storytelling, sing-alongs and a princess parade.

But that's just the beginning of the magical experience. Guests age 3-11 also receive a "My Disney Girl" collectible doll dressed in a matching Princess Aurora gown, plus accessories. Special princesses also take home their very own sparkling tiara, silver Princess link bracelet, rose, special princess scrapbook page, and a "Best Friend" certificate.

The cost for one adult and one child, ages 3-11, is $200, including gratuity. Each additional adult is $65, and $135 for each additional child. Reservations will be accepted beginning May 26 through 407/WDW-DINE.

December 22 2003: Saratoga Springs Resort construction update (thanks Kevin)

September 11 2003: Saratoga Springs Resort construction update

September 8 2003: Saratoga Springs Resort construction update (Thanks Charles B)

January 23 2003: New bus stop at the Polynesian Resort (Thanks DisneyDentist)

January 16 2003: Coronado Springs pool rehab (thanks Tim)

"In an ongoing effort to ensure Disney's Coronado Springs Resort continues to flourish as a magical destination, it is necessary for us to make enhancements from time to time. If you have stayed with us before, you may be familiar with our "Lost City of Cibola" pool at the Dig Site. While this swimming and recreation area has provided our guests with endless enjoyment over the past five years, it is time to update some of its features. Beginning January 25, 2003 through February 11, 2003, the "Lost City of Cibola" pool will be closed to all guest.

To ensure a seamless vacation experience, our three quiet pools at the Casitas, Ranchos, and Cabana's area of the resort will be available and open for your enjoyment during this renovation period."

January 6 2003: Caribbean Beach Resort photos

A full report and photos of the new dining areas at the Caribbean Beach Resort can be found on the WDWMAGIC forum at http://forums.wdwmagic.com/showthread.php?threadid=18099

January 2 2003: Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort Adds Family Dining Option

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- A three-month refurbishment is complete at Old Port Royale, the dining and shopping area at DisneyТs Caribbean Beach Resort, and the 2,112-room resort has reopened.

A new table-service restaurant, Shutters at Old Port Royale, features American cuisine inspired by the flavors of the Caribbean -- such as Island wings, smoked prime rib, pan-seared red snapper, oven-roasted jerk chicken -- plus a full bar with tropical specialties. Dщcor reflects the colors of the Caribbean and the ambience is comfortable and cozy.
The overall renovation includes a display kitchen, enhancements to the food court and other guest amenities.

November 11 2002: Work on the new DVC resort at the former Institute site.

This is taken of the area that used to be the Disney Institute bungalows. They have demolished all of them and they are starting ground work for "Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort"

LAKE BUENA VISTA, FL (Jan. 24, 2002) -- In response to strong guest demand, Disney Vacation Development, Inc. will expand its timeshare resort presence with its next location at the Disney Institute at Walt Disney World Resort, subject to obtaining all necessary approvals. The Institute property, with its unique amenities and urban setting adjacent to the Downtown Disney resort area, made it an ideal place to expand the companyТs highly successful Disney Vacation Club business.

УThe proposed ownership resort expansion will combine one of our highly successful offerings with an exciting complement of existing resort amenities,Ф said George Aguel, Senior Vice President of Walt Disney Parks & Resorts. Guests staying in the Disney Vacation Club villas will have convenient access to the Downtown Disney resort area, including the Institute spa and recreational facilities.

The new, 192-unit development is slated to occupy a unique 16-acre site overlooking the lakefront district at Downtown Disney. Initial plans call for the construction of four residential-style buildings with studio, one- and two-bedroom villas and Grand Villa units that sleep up to 12 guests.

УWe had the opportunity to consider this location because expansion of Disney Institute programs throughout the Walt Disney World Resort reduced the need for dedicated Institute resort space,Ф Aguel said. Disney Institute programming includes professional development programs, from keynote speeches, workshops and behind the scenes tours to customized programs that help groups implement successful strategies into their own organizations.

The announcement heralds a time of exciting growth for Disney Vacation Club, which is celebrating its 10th year and now boasts a membership of more than 60,000 families from over 60 countries.

Development will begin this spring with a targeted opening of spring 2004.

October 21 2002: Polynesian Luau Rehab

The Polynesian Luau at DisneyТs Polynesian Resort will close temporarily from January 7 through February 18, allowing time to prepare for a new show. The rehab is both a change to the story/show, and the stage area.

August 6 2002: Caribbean Beach Resort rehab

Disney's Caribbean beach Resort will be totally closed for a rehab of the food court from September 8th to Christmas.

June 28 2002: DisneyТs Beach Club Villas Opening

The Atlantic seaboard-inspired DisneyТs Beach Club Villas opens July 1, 2002, giving families another Disney Vacation Club resort option. The 208-room resort is inspired by the casual elegance of Cape May homes built in the early 20th century, reflecting a light, comfortable ambiance characterized by whimsical Уstick-styleФ architecture, pastel colors, porches and other decorative elements.

The four- and five-story property offers studio, one- and two-bedroom vacation villas, each with an appealing view -- either a pool, garden or courtyard view. Additionally, the resort features a pool area, comfortable guest areas and connecting walkways providing convenient access to DisneyТs Beach Club Resort. For reservations guests can call 407/W-DISNEY.

April 30 2002: French Quarter Reopening

Visitors can now book rooms for arrival on or after May 31 2002, meaning the 3000 rooms that were closed due to previous cut backs will be reopened.

March 15 2002: Port Orleans boat to Downtown Disney to return

The boat ride from Port Orleans to Downtown Disney is about to be reintroduced within the next few weeks. (The boat trip has been closed during the recent cutbacks)

February 7 2002: Latest construction photos from the Beach Club Villas (Thanks Justin!)

24 January 2002: New DVC Resort

Disney Vacation Development, Inc., will expand its timeshare resort presence with its next location at the Disney Institute.

The 192-unit development will occupy a unique 16-acre site overlooking the lakefront district at the Downtown Disney area. Initial plans call for the construction of four residential-style buildings with studio, one- and two-bedroom villas and Grand Villa units that sleep up to 12 guests.

Beginning February 10, guests with reservations for the Disney Institute will be relocated to comparable accommodations at other Walt Disney World resorts. The spa, fitness center and Lake Buena Vista golf course will remain open.

Development work will begin this spring with anticipated completion in 2004.

24 October 2001: French Quarter Closing

Various Travel agencies are reporting that Disney has announced that Port Orleans-French Quarter will be closing after 3 November 2001, with no scheduled re-opening date.

Guests will be diverted to one of the other moderate resorts.

This information has not yet been confirmed by Disney at this time.

24 October 2001: Early Entry Update

Disney Media Relations are indicating that the cancellation of Early Entry is permanent. The reason given was that too few resort guests took advantage of it to be cost-effective, especially during the off-season. They did say that EE might be available during peak attendance, however, but nothing's been decided on that at this time.

22 October 2001: Early Entry Cancelled

According to the official website, Early Entry mornings are also now cancelled for all parks.

October 22 2001: Latest construction photos from the Beach Club Villas (Thanks Charles B)

July 13 2001: Grand Floridian Pool OPEN

Bit late on this one, but the new pool at Disney's Grand Floridian resort opened late June.

July 12 2001: Latest construction photos from the Beach Club Villas (Thanks Ben Tolman)

June 6 2001: Awards for Grand Floridian

Victoria & AlbertТs at DisneyТs Grand Floridian Resort & Spa has received the AAA Five-Diamond Award, the only restaurant in Central Florida to earn the prestigious accolade.
Chef Scott Hunnel customizes his seven-course meals daily at the elegant, 65-seat Victoria & AlbertТs. The restaurantТs intimate dining room and award-winning wine list make it one of the top dining destinations at Walt Disney World Resort.

Victoria & AlbertТs is one of only 108 lodgings and restaurants earning Five-Diamond recognition from AAA for 2001. Of more than 41,000 establishments to be listed in the 2001 AAA TourBook guides, less than one-half of 1 percent will receive the Five-Diamond Award.

May 24 2001: Latest Grand Floridian Pool shots
(Thanks to Pete for the photos)

May 21 2001: Concept Art of the new Grand Floridian Pool
(Thanks MarcH)

April 30 2001: Latest progress on the new pool at the Grand Floridian Resort

Thanks to Jeff Ambrous for the photo above

April 26 2001: Update on the construction around the Yacht and Beach Club

Thanks to Donickco for the photo above

April 9 2001: Photos of the new bridge leading to the bus stop for the Yacht and Beach Club
Thanks to Brad H for the photo

April 9 2001: Latest progress on the new pool at the Grand Floridian Resort
Thanks to Brad H for the photo

March 27 2001: Latest progress on the new pool at the Grand Floridian Resort

(Thanks to Fudgie for the photos above)

March 19 2001: Latest progress on the new pool at the Grand Floridian Resort

Thanks to Bennet for the photo above

March 2 2001: Rehab work on the Boardwalk

Thanks to Dan for the photos

Below: Work continues on the DVC Villas at the Beach Club

March 1 2001: Artist Rendering of Disney's Beach Club Villas

(May 25, 2000) Disney Vacation Development, Inc., operators of Disney Vacation Club (DVC) Ц DisneyТs innovative vacation ownership program -- announced today that it will expand its timeshare resort presence at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida by building a fourth resort, bringing the total number of DVC resorts to six. This latest development marks a time of exciting growth for the Company, which now boasts a membership of 48,000 member families from over 60 countries.

The proposed development Ц which will be called DisneyТs Beach Club Villas Ц is slated to occupy a 6-acre site next to the DisneyТs Beach Club Resort in the Epcot Theme Park Resorts area within Walt Disney World Resort. Development will begin this June with an estimated completion in the fall of 2002.

УWe are very excited about the opportunity to bring the Disney Vacation Club concept to yet another site here at Walt Disney World,Ф said Al Weiss, president of Walt Disney World Resort. УThis latest expansion of our successful vacation ownership program allows us to provide still more magical experiences for our guest and member families.Ф

Like its sister resort, DisneyТs Beach Club Villas will be designed by noted architect Robert A.M. Stern, best known for his East Coast seaside houses. The new ownership resort will be inspired by the casual elegance of Cape May oceanfront homes built in the early 20th century, reflecting a light, comfortable ambiance as characterized by the use of whimsical Уstick-styleФ architecture, pastel colors, porches and other decorative elements.

УOur Company is committed to providing innovative vacation offerings,Ф said Weiss. УWe believe that the new resort will be a great success and that the relaxed charm of this early 1900Тs eastern seaboard-inspired property will make it a great vacation option for members and guests alike.Ф

Initial plans for DisneyТs Beach Club Villas call for the development of a 205-unit, free-standing four & five-story vacation ownership resort consisting of studio, one- and two-bedroom vacation villas adjacent to DisneyТs Beach Club Resort. All units will feature either a pool, garden or courtyard view. Further development plans call for the construction of connecting walkways and full access to Disney's Yacht and Beach Club Resorts; the addition of a pool, as well as enhancements to the existing lobby/retail space and other select guest areas within DisneyТs Beach Club Resort.

As Disney Vacation Club approaches its decade mark in 2001, the Company is celebrating a number of achievements, including the expansion of its resort collection through the addition of DisneyТs Beach Club Villas and The Villas at DisneyТs Wilderness Lodge (expected opening in January 2001) -- subject to government approvals -- as well as the strong growth of its member base.

The current collection of Disney Vacation Club Resorts includes Disney's Old Key West Resort and DisneyТs BoardWalk Villas -- both located at the Walt Disney World Resort -- as well as Disney's first resorts beyond the Disney theme park locations; Disney's Vero Beach Resort on Florida's Atlantic Coast and Disney's Hilton Head Island Resort in South Carolina.

February 5 2001: Latest progress on the new pool at the Grand Floridian Resort

News from David Tomli
The Polynesian isn't the only hotel getting a new pool. The Grand Floridian
is also building a "zero depth" pool on the land between the Floridian and
the Wedding Pavilion. The zero depth means that you would be able to walk
right from the water at the beach into the pool. This seems strange considering they don't want you anywhere near the water in the lake, but that's the plan. It is supposed to be reminiscent of a hot springs retreat that would
have been popular in the Victorian era. This pool will also have a water slide.

Kasey also sent us some info taken from the Grand Floridian Christmas Newsletter.

A NEW WAVE OF RECREATION

An addition to the resort this year is a brand-new pool. Slated for
completion in the summer of 2001, this pool will be located on the beach near
the main building.

One of the many unique qualities of this new pool is its zero-depth design,
which allows guests to enter the water directly from the beach. With
5,000-square feet of watery bliss, this new pool also features a waterslide
that twists and turns through trees and a walking bridge. And in perfect
Disney style, there is a delightful kids play area where the little ones can
splash about in water that is constantly popping up from the ground.

For our sun-lovers, there is 14,000 square feet of deck space that overlooks
the gorgeous beach of the Seven Seas Lagoon. Soak up the warming rays on the
deck, with a pool bar nearby offering frozen drinks, sandwiches, and snacks.

With our business travelers in mind, there are computer hook-ups in our
relaxing cabanas, providing Internet access. And as a further convenience,
there are changing rooms with showers that late-departing guests can use to
freshen up before leaving for home.

Thanks to Fudgie for the photos below

More information of the GR rehab from Kasey.

GRAND TRANSFORMATIONS

In a tremendous effort to beautify our home, we are nearing completion on the
refurbishment of Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. What began May 2,
1999 will culminate by December 23rd of this year [note: I believe this meant
2000, not 2001], a feat we are proud to present amongst the holiday hustle
and bustle. What you'll discover is a grand vacation experience, with four
new themes for our rooms.

The Cameo room is a whimsically themed retreat incorporating favorite fairies from classic films, including Flora, Fauna, and Merryweather from "Sleeping Beauty." A beloved centerpiece of the cameo room is the teacup pillow, embroidered with characters from "Alice in Wonderland."

The Swan room, a space inspired by the children's classic "Wind in the
Willows," showcases an ornate bedspread, with Mr. Toad peeking through the waterside willows. Atop this comforter is another unique pillow, accented
with the lilting lyrics from the song, "A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes."

The third decor is themed to "Alice in Wonderland," which is evident in the
bedspread. Characters from this animated feature are found throughout the
fabric pattern.

The final theme is Floral, and in characteristic Victorian style, this room
combines many textures, patterns, and colors. Hues of pink, blue, and yellow
come together, creating a warm and cozy environment.

Let yourself be swept back into a bygone era, where grace and grandeur abound in rooms of luxurious comfort.
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SIGNATURE SUITES

When you think of Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, you surely conjure
up images of luxury, quality, and elegance. And for those who appreciate
that extra bit of lavishness, we are redesigning four signature suites.

The Presidential Suite is being refurbished with beautiful Victorian
furnishings and fixtures. This two-bedroom suite with its piano, beverage
bar, vaulted ceilings, and spacious luxury has a spectacular view of the
courtyard and the Magic Kingdom fireworks.

The Southern and Magnolia Suites will be coined the Walt Disney Suite and Roy O. Disney Suite, respectively. Each one will reflect and commemorate the personal lives of these two visionaries.

Finally, the former Floridian Suite has been renamed the Victorian Suite, and
is now available to you, our guests. With its antique Hall Tree holding
Victorian hats and a lace reticule, and two sunken wall curio cabinets
displaying portraits of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert during signature
events in their lives, this suite is a beautiful tribute to an era of posh
grandeur and elegance.

January 27 2001: Work being carried out on the Grand Floridian Beach

Thanks to Keith for the photos below

December 8 2000: Latest Pop Century Resort Construction

Thanks to John H for the photo above

August 30 2000: New bus stop at Coronado Springs (Thanks Tim)

The foundations have been laid for a fourth bus stop at Coronado Springs
at the back of the resort (between current stops #2 and #3). There is also
some building going on around El Centro's bus stop #1. It looks like an
expansion of that stop.

23 July 2000: News from Port and Dixie Resort

Effective April 1, 2001, the resorts currently known as Disney's Dixie Landings resort and Disney's Port Orleans resort will be called Disney's Port Orleans Resort. The Dixie portion will be called "The Riverside" and the Port portion will be called "The French Quarter." This announcement comes with the explanation that the resorts are in such close proximity to one another that the unification will streamline the operation. Also with this announcement came the news that Bonfammile's, the Port full service restaurant, will close on August 5. Full service dining will now only be at Boatwright's, at Dixie. Other changes include the consolidation of the Port marina---it will close at the end of summer. Rumors have persisted that the Dixie name has angered many groups, this change is said to not reflect any of those concerns, but only to make the resort more efficient.

10 June 2000: New Vacation Club Resort

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (May 25, 2000) -- Disney Vacation Development, Inc., operators of Disney Vacation Club (DVC) Ц DisneyТs innovative vacation ownership program -- announced today that it will expand its timeshare resort presence at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida by building a fourth resort, bringing the total number of DVC resorts to six. This latest development marks a time of exciting growth for the Company, which now boasts a membership of 48,000 member families from over 60 countries.

21 February 2000: Resort Construction photos, thanks Djarchtct

AK Lodge

Right: Rear elevation-note large birm near unit at left
Left: Exterior rear elevation-close

Value Resort

Left: Note Caribbean Beach Resort in background
Right: Note large birm on left side and depth of lake.

Wilderness Lodge Expansion

Left: Closeup of front facade
Right: Backside facing Bay Lake

13 November 1999: Construction of the new Vacation Club resort adjacent to Wilderness Lodge.

Thanks to Sam Shirley for the pictures above.

5 May 1999: News in from inside WDW, thanks John.

The Venetian is not between the Contemporary and the Lagoon. That area is now called "Contemporary Shores" and was the site of "Rock and Rockets" last year. The Venetian is just out of the Transportation and Ticket Center monorail station, at about pylon 20 or so. It would be another monorail serviced hotel, although I'm not sure exactly where the station would be.

25 April 1999: The long rumoured Venetian Resort may finally see construction start soon. This is to be Disney's flagship hotel, and will aim to reach the 5 star status narrowly missed by the Grand Floridian. It's location is on the Seven Seas Lagoon.

Thanks to Chuck for the following description and photo.

While taking a tour of the Fire Headquarters in Disney, I happened across a large blueprint that was titled, DISNEY'S GRAND VENEZIA RESORT. One of the firefighters described it as being "The new hotel across from the Contemporary, in the open field. It's supposed to be bigger and fancier than the Grand Floridian."

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