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Ears the News: June 1, 2018 Edition


Welcome to the latest edition of Ears the News

Brought to you by our friends at WDWMagic.com.


Disney has revealed some new concept art and a name for the village in Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge - Black Spire Outpost.

The largest settlement on the planet Batuu, Black Spire Outpost is an infamous stop for traders, adventurers, and smugglers traveling around the Outer Rim and Wild Space. Off the beaten path, this outpost has become a haven for the galaxy’s most colorful — and notorious — characters. Widely known for the petrified remains of its once towering ancient trees, the spires now stand guard across the river valleys and plains and have long captured the imagination of travelers to this planet. To the first settlers, these petrified spires became more than just landmarks; they became the heart of the outpost itself.

Concept art courtesy of Disney

The closure of the FriendShip boat service at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin has been extended into early June 2018.

Originally expected to reopen to guests on May 26, it is now planned to reopen on June 2, 2018.
Photo courtesy of WDWMagic.com


During the refurbishment of the dock, bus service will be available to Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios, and the walkway will remain open.

This boat dock refurbishment is in addition to the work taking place on the nearby bridge that has suspended boat service to Disney's Hollywood Studios.

The Kylo Ren meet and greet experience at Disney's Hollywood Studios for Disney Visa card is now available to more members.

Previously only available to Disney Visa credit card holders, those with Disney Visa debit cards can now also take part in the exclusive experience.

You can find the meet and greet at the Star Wars Launch Bay in the Animation Courtyard.

Disney has officially confirmed that the upcoming Star Wars Resort will be located on the south side of Disney’s Hollywood Studios, just east of World Drive.

According to a post on the official Disney Parks Blog, "This location will allow the experience to be seamlessly connected to the highly-anticipated Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, enabling guests to fully immerse themselves in the story of Star Wars."
Concept art courtesy of Disney


Information on the new resort is scarce, but Disney says "Families visiting this destination will board a starship that comes alive with characters and stories that unfold all around them during their voyage through the galaxy – and every cabin window has views of space! Guests visiting the multi-day adventure will also be welcome to participate as a resident of the Galaxy by dressing in Star Wars-inspired attire."

Disney's Animal Kingdom will begin testing a new stroller parking system from June 1, 2018, aimed at improving the experience for guests.

When arriving at specific shows and rides, guests will receive a colored tag which corresponds to one of three stroller parking areas. Tags can be reused at other attractions, or a new tag picked up at each location.

Participating attractions in the test include:
  • Kilimanjaro Safaris 
  • It’s Tough to be a Bug 
  • Kali River Rapids 
  • Finding Nemo – The Musical 
  • Festival of the Lion King 
  • Wildlife Express Train 
  • Rivers of Light

Looking to plan your next trip to Walt Disney World? Contact the agents at Kingdom Konsultant Travel to help you plan your dream vacation. Email vacations@kingdomkonsultant.com for a free quote today.

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