News Round Up 2016

[rteetz]

New aardvark at rafikis planet watch

http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/bl...-willie-the-aardvark-at-rafikis-planet-watch/

 

[rteetz]

Micechat universal photo update

http://micechat.com/118424-universal-orlando-2016-kong-and-construction-walls/

 

[MommaBerd]

I feel like I'm alone in this BUT I like the look of the Swan & Dolphin. They are unique in their architecture and design, which is why they hired Michael Graves to do it. I guess I don't understand why everyone is so "down" on them. I might feel differently if they were built on Seven Seas Lagoon, but there are so many different styles of architecture across Disney property, I think there's a place for them.

 

[Eoghann]

I feel like I'm alone in this BUT I like the look of the Swan & Dolphin. They are unique in their architecture and design, which is why they hired Michael Graves to do it. I guess I don't understand why everyone is so "down" on them. I might feel differently if they were built on Seven Seas Lagoon, but there are so many different styles of architecture across Disney property, I think there's a place for them.

They are certainly different. I'm not a huge fan of the giant statues, they just look oversized and dropped on top, but I wouldn't categorize them as eyesores.

 

[nkosiek]

I feel like I'm alone in this BUT I like the look of the Swan & Dolphin. They are unique in their architecture and design, which is why they hired Michael Graves to do it. I guess I don't understand why everyone is so "down" on them. I might feel differently if they were built on Seven Seas Lagoon, but there are so many different styles of architecture across Disney property, I think there's a place for them.

It's a carp, not a dolphin, that's why I hate it.

 

[Eoghann]

It's a carp, not a dolphin, that's why I hate it.

I think they used the nautical symbol didn't they?

 

[rteetz]

Monorail closures during the day through March

http://www.wdwmagic.com/transportat...orail-closures-in-effect-through-to-march.htm

 

[MommaBerd]

It's a carp, not a dolphin, that's why I hate it.

Maybe they are dolphin fish not dolphin mammals?

 

[rteetz]

Maybe they are dolphin fish not dolphin mammals?

Yes I believe they are supposed to be dolphin fish not actual dolphins.

 

[skier_pete]

Yes I believe they are supposed to be dolphin fish not actual dolphins.

I've always thought that too until someone I said that to sent me a picture of a "Dolphin" fish.

Now I have no idea what those things on the Dolphin are...

 

[Whatsthegoodword]

I feel like I'm alone in this BUT I like the look of the Swan & Dolphin. They are unique in their architecture and design, which is why they hired Michael Graves to do it. I guess I don't understand why everyone is so "down" on them. I might feel differently if they were built on Seven Seas Lagoon, but there are so many different styles of architecture across Disney property, I think there's a place for them.

They're fine, and I would stay there, but they're not operated by Disney. When you're walking about in them, you feel like you're in a nice hotel that could be anywhere. They don't seem to have that "magic." ...but they are significantly cheaper...especially when you consider the awesome location.

 

[Eoghann]

I've always thought that too until someone I said that to sent me a picture of a "Dolphin" fish.

Now I have no idea what those things on the Dolphin are...

They are apparently inspired by the symbols used on old nautical maps so they are not intended to be biologically accurate.

Basically its a case of them being too clever for their own good, because almost nobody recognizes it.

 

[Planogirl]

I've always thought that too until someone I said that to sent me a picture of a "Dolphin" fish.

Now I have no idea what those things on the Dolphin are...

Would anyone want THAT on top of those buildings? Personally I wish that they had used dolphins instead of what they used. Otherwise I like the look of the resorts.

 

[Planogirl]

Micechat universal photo update

http://micechat.com/118424-universal-orlando-2016-kong-and-construction-walls/

Great pictures! I can't get over how huge Kong looks.

 

[HopperFan]

Height test balloons spotted!

http://www.wdwmagic.com/recreation/...ns-over-fantasia-gardens-parking-lot-area.htm

Article says bulk of balloons over tennis court area, which is a completely different land parcel from where Fantasia, parking and undeveloped land are located. None of the area is included in all the Florida Water permits filed in relation to DHS. Do those tennis courts get used? Mystery balloons. Maybe it's a decoy plan.

Magic Bands will not be part of Disney's newest park.
http://www.**************.net/2016/01/magic-wristbands-will-not-be-used-in-shanghai-disney-resort/

I would have been totally shocked if the Chinese allowed MagicBands, with their ability to track, be used.

Marriot is also building on the flamingo crossings site on Disney property.

Not really on Disney property. Disney sold the property to the hotel group. They have also sold land to Walgreens and Hess. Don't think their long term plan is to own any of that property, just control the development of it as it becomes non-Disney property, but within Reedy Creek.

Any chance they are roughly the size and shape of a giant sorcerors hat? I think they may have access to an older one that is in need of a new home...

All the kings horses and all the kings men couldn't put that hat back together again. They destroyed it.

 

[rteetz]

Article says bulk of balloons over tennis court area, which is a completely different land parcel from where Fantasia, parking and undeveloped land are located. None of the area is included in all the Florida Water permits filed in relation to DHS. Do those tennis courts get used? Mystery balloons. Maybe it's a decoy plan.

From what I have seen a third tower of sorts is seriously being considered for the swan and dolphin complex.

Not really on Disney property. Disney sold the property to the hotel group. They have also sold land to Walgreens and Hess. Don't think their long term plan is to own any of that property, just control the development of it as it becomes non-Disney property, but within Reedy Creek.

Well, yes you are correct but it is within the disney bubble of sorts. They may not own the physical land but its like you said still within Reedy creek.

 

[rteetz]

Planet Hollywood construction is well underway

http://www.wdwmagic.com/dining/plan...on-into-the-observatory-at-disney-springs.htm

 

[jlundeen]

Maybe they are dolphin fish not dolphin mammals?

We've always called that resort the "Squished Fish" - I agree though - that statue does look more like a carp.

 

[Ursula's Apprentice]

We've always called that resort the "Squished Fish" - I agree though - that statue does look more like a carp.

I've always called it the Chicken & Tuna. My aunt called it that as a joke I guess, and it just kind of stuck.

 

[sachilles]

A third Tower at Swan/Dolphin is plausible, I just find the tennis court area as an unlikely spot for it. It would be functionally separated. I think it would need to be on the Dolphin side of the parcel to be practical.
In the small parcel with the mini golf and tennis courts is another building, that looks almost open air. What is that, and who owns it?