Just a few weeks ago it seemed the Gondola system for Walt Disney World was just about to become a reality when Imagineering filed permits to start building. Today, through the media the Reedy Creek Improvement District confirmed that the Gondola system rumored for months is coming to Walt Disney World.
The route which was picked up in a permit filed just a few weeks ago will connect Epcot's International Gateway, Disney's Hollywood Studios, Disney's Caribbean Beach, and stop by Disney's Pop Century and Disney's Art of Animation. Rumors have been saying this will be completed by 2019 but I believe this will be done closer to the 50th Anniversary in 2021. Stay tuned for details on Walt Disney World's new transportation system.
Exclusive Star Wars Resort on the Way?:
A survey is being conducted by a contracted third party of Disney asking guests about letting them stay in an actual Star Wars starship. This was first reported by WDW News Today. The survey includes concept art and details on what would be an all-inclusive resort. Here is what the resort would include:
- The opportunity to experience a 2-day story set in the the Star Wars universe
- Be surrounded in a continuous, story-driven entertainment experience as it unfolds over the course of the 2-night stay
- Have personal interactions with Star Wars characters, live performers throughout the starship (experience the story or simply observe the action according to personal preference)
- Engage in the story with programs such as flight training, ship exploration, lightsaber training, and personalized secret missions (both on the starship and throughout the Star Wars themed planet)
The all-inclusive resort would include meals that would include buffets for breakfast and lunch and a signature dining event. It will also include featured entertainment and dinner shows and exclusive park admission to Star Wars Land that will open in 2019. Amenities will include a pool, fitness area, a Cantina-themed area for snacks outside of meal times, and robotic droid butlers.
Right now the Star Wars hotel and experience would cost roughly between $900-$1000 a night. While this is not confirmed the concept art being added to the survey seems to make this a serious project under consideration. As always stay tuned.
Walt Disney Archives to Celebrate Pirates of the Caribbean at D23 Expo:
Today, the Disney Parks Blog announced that the Walt Disney Archives will be paying tribute to the 50th Anniversary of Pirates of the Caribbean at this year's D23 Expo. This year's pavilion will be titled, "A Pirate's Life for Me: Disney Rascals, Scoundrels and Really Bag Eggs." The exhibit will pay tribute to Disney's most memorable pirates from Captain Hook to Captain Jack Sparrow.
The Pirates of the Caribbean attraction, beloved around the world from Anaheim and Orlando to Paris, Tokyo and Shanghai, will have its own section featuring iconic props, Audio-Animatronics and ephemera. Along with some familiar figures, look for concept art for the Disneyland park attraction, classic merchandise items, and canons from the original attraction.This year's D23 Expo will be held July 14 through July 16, 2017 at the Anaheim Convention Center across from Disneyland.
Source: Disney Parks Blog
