"It's a small world" to become a "larger world"

The happiest cruise in the world is getting a makeover. Personal photo, 2004.

"It's a small world," the classic Fantasyland attraction, will close come January 2008 for 10 months of refurbishing, leading to rumors of an an obesity related problem. More specifically, as the average person has become larger, the boats begin to handle less and less.

However, Disney is denying these rumors, with one spokesman stating the problem "has nothing to do with weight" in an interview with the New York Times.

With this renovation, Disneyland fans are hoping the small boats will be more accommodating for any 'larger' guests who happen to ride.

What do you all think about this? Do you think the problem is construction related, or is the weight of guests really to blame?

More winter decorations

MousePlanet recently published more pictures of the holiday decorations at Disneyland, and as you can see, they're more gorgeous than ever imagined!

Don't you want to go back to Disneyland now?

It's the most wonderful time of the year

Sleeping Beauty Castle covered in a blanket of snow. Darkbeer/David Michael, 2007.

The always reliable Darkbeer/David Michael recently snapped some great pictures of the new Christmas decorations up at Disneyland for us fans, and as always they're breathtaking. This year brings new surprises and, as usual, leaves all of us wanting to visit the park. Or is that just me?

New Orleans Square all lit up and ready to go. Darkbeer/David Michael, 2007.

Disneyland feels effects of fire

You've undoubtedly heard about the recent Southern California fires, whether it's through television or the countless newspaper articles in the past week. The destroyed homes, evacuation centers, and raging flames have all had their share of press coverage, but what about our beloved Disneyland?

Well, there's no need to worry - the park is perfectly safe from the fires. However, side effects of fire, such as poor air quality, have taken over Disneyland and left guests running to their hotel rooms for safety.

The fires rage on. Associated Press, 2007.

Additionally, fireworks and some live performances in the park have been canceled. This is purely for safety reasons, and the park hours are still at normal times.

Even with the fear of a fire spreading to the park over, many guests have decided to skip the trip to Disneyland. A user on MousePlanet.com said the park was "dead" and the line for Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage, typically a two hour wait, was a mere 30 minutes.

If you are heading to Disneyland within the next few days, plan on bringing plenty of water, sunscreen, sunglasses, and chapstick, along with a mask if needed. And most importantly, leave the park if you're feeling sick from the smoky air.

On a different note, the Walt Disney Company announced today that they will donate $2,000,000 to "aid towards relief efforts for victims of the wildfires sweeping the area."

Dreams really do come true

A drawing depicting the newly announced apartment. Disney, 2007.

Ever wanted to stay in Walter Disney's apartment? Well, now you've got a chance to spend a night in the closest thing to: A brand new apartment in New Orleans Square, taking up what used to be the Disney Gallery.

Back in August, the famed attraction closed suddenly, leaving fans everywhere wondering what would become of the large building. In a recent announcement, Disney has confirmed that an apartment for the 2008 Disney Dreams Giveaway will fill its place.

Described as an "elegant in-Park apartment," the Disneyland Dream Suite will open to guests starting January 31, 2008. A different winner will be selected most days until December 31, 2008, and will be allowed to invite up to five guests to spend the night with them in the undoubtedly gorgeous apartment. There will even be a private balcony where you can observe fellow guests and watch the fireworks at night.

If you're interested, a complete list of Rules & Regulations is available on Disney's official website. I know I would treasure a stay in what will surely be a piece of Disney history!