Adventures by Disney Announces Scotland Adventure Inspired by Pixar’s ‘Brave’

Step out of the theater and become immersed in the world of Brave with Adventures by Disney’s first-ever Pixar-inspired itinerary, ‘Scotland: A Brave Adventure. Disney/Pixar’s Brave tells the tale of the courageous Merida, the film’s headstrong teenage protagonist, who defies ancient tradition and challenges destiny to change her fate. This 9-day, 8-night quest through Edinburgh, the Isle of Skye, the Isle of Lewis and Inverness takes families through the rugged Highlands, allowing them to experience first-hand the history, culture, nature, legends and lore of Scotland that inspired Merida’s story of bravery.

Adventures by Disney is a leader in the group guided-tour industry – sharing the stories of the world through 20+ international itineraries. For ‘Scotland: A Brave Adventure,’ Adventures by Disney’s trip-planning specialists worked directly with the expert storytellers on Pixar’s Brave production team to incorporate the castles, landscapes and legends that inspired the lush settings and memorable characters in the film – creating a Scotland experience that could only come from Disney. Guests will discover locations that inspired Pixar’s creative spark during visits to the historic Black House of Arnol and the Gearrannan Blackhouse Village, both of which served as reference for the Witch’s cottage, and Dunnottar Castle, one of the inspirations for the DunBroch family’s home.

Beyond the drawing board, the culture of the Scottish Highlands will come to life through authentic, hands-on activities – a hallmark of Adventures by Disney itineraries. On the Isle of Skye, adventurers will partake in traditional highland games, make Scottish pastries – a favorite treat of Merida’s triplet brothers – and take lessons in Celtic music and dance. While traveling through Inverness, guests will participate in two of Merida’s favorite activities – horseback riding through the Caledonian Forest and archery at Glamis Castle. In Edinburgh, families will learn the art of tapestry-making at Dovecot Studios.

Another signature of an Adventures by Disney vacation, families will visit the country’s most treasured historical sites – including Eilean Donan and Edinburgh Castles, the ancient Callanish Standing Stones and Dun Carloway Broch on the Isle of Lewis – but in unique ways that only Disney could dream up. Rather than just walking the shores of Loch Ness, guests will go on a canoe expedition where they will search for ‘Nessie’ and discover the picture-perfect Urquhart Castle.

In the capital city, travelers will tour the Royal Mile, including privately-guided visits to the Palace of Holyroodhouse – the Scottish home of the Royal Family – and the National Museum of Scotland, where they will learn fascinating details of the ancient period in which Brave is set. Each departure features two knowledgeable Adventure Guides who will serve as leaders, storytellers, companions and personal concierge – taking care of all the details for a truly hassle-free travel experience.

‘”Scotland: A Brave Adventure” combines the creative genius of Pixar Animation Studios with Disney’s ability to bring iconic stories to life with in a whole new way,’ said Josh D’Amaro, Vice President, Adventures by Disney. “For the first time ever, our guests will be fully immersed in the legends and locations that inspired the film. ‘Brave’ is the perfect tale for Adventures by Disney to share; Merida’s experience speaks to the importance of the family bond – a cornerstone of any Disney vacation.”

Also new for 2013, Adventures by Disney has announced a Southeast Asia itinerary. Featuring Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia, the 12-day, 11-night itinerary will give travelers the opportunity to experience some of Asia’s most exotic and culturally-rich cities – including Saigon, Hanoi, Hoi An, Luang Prabang, Siem Reap and Angkor Wat.

For more information on ‘Scotland: A Brave Adventure,’ visit www.AdventuresbyDisney.com/Brave or contact the reservations center at 1-877-728-7282.

Adventures By Disney Announces New and Enhanced Itineraries for 2012

Adventures by Disney, the leader in guided family travel, announces the addition of two new destinations to its repertoire of immersive family vacations – Greece: “Greek Odyssey” and Northern France: “Esprit de France ” – available to travelers in 2012. The adventure continues in Egypt with “Pyramids, Pharaohs & Ancient Treasures,” an unforgettable expedition. New for 2012, Adventures by Disney will feature distinct enhancements to its Australia, London and Paris and Galapagos Islands departures – details, dates and rates are available at www.AdventuresbyDisney.com.

Over the last six years, Adventures by Disney has developed a collection of exhilarating tours with one goal in mind: help families experience the most sought-after and culturally stimulating destinations in the world. Led by knowledgeable Adventure Guides and authentic local experts, families unlock the wonders and stories of the world through unparalleled excursions and engaging activities designed for all ages and activity levels such as pizza-making at a farm in Italy, spending the night at a German castle and playing the role of an art detective at the Louvre. With the smallest details planned in advance, it’s easy for parents to relax and immerse themselves in the most valuable experience of all – quality time with their family.

“Through our dedication to storytelling and exclusive hands-on experiences, families can get a glimpse of the history and beauty synonymous with Greece, France, Egypt and every vacation destination on our roster,” said Josh D’Amaro, Vice President, Adventures by Disney. “We are in the business of creating unforgettable, VIP hassle-free itineraries so guests can focus on discovering and exploring a new world and creating priceless vacation memories that last a lifetime.”

Adventures by Disney presents three featured adventures for 2012:

“Greek Odyssey” Athens, Santorini and Crete – the adventure starts in Athens where Greek mythology comes to life through moonlight storytelling at the Parthenon and sporting games at the home of the modern Olympics, Panathinaiko Stadium. Discovery continues on the volcanic island of Santorini where kids go feet-first into Greek grape stomping while adults enjoy a wine tasting at Volcan winery. After sailing the azure waters of the Aegean Sea, families travel to Crete and are immersed in mountain culture with local expert-led lessons in Tsatziki cheese making and Greek dancing.

“Pyramids, Pharaohs & Ancient Treasures ” Cairo, Aswan, Luxor, the Nile and Sharm El Sheikh – uncover an ancient world of pyramids, mummies and man-made marvels as this expedition kicks off with a camelback tour of the Great Pyramids of Giza and a Nile River cruise to Luxor. Families will be in awe of the architectural wonder of the Sphinx and experience the secrets of Tutankhamen’s tomb in the Valley of the Kings with a Junior Adventurer scavenger hunt at the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities. Activities like papyrus making, traditional cooking, and hieroglyphic writing give guests a first-hand view of life in ancient Egypt.

” Esprit de France ” Paris, Normandy and Loire Valley – perfect for families looking to experience the arts, this itinerary features a drawing activity in Monet’s Gardens, a visit to Château du Clos Luce, the last known residence of Leonardo da Vinci, and a private dinner at the Louvre in Paris. A true taste of the French countryside, adventurers learn of the art of brandy-making on the Normandy Cider Route; enjoy a picturesque country bike ride and spend the night in an authentic Château. Guests continue the adventure with visits to Versailles, Mont Saint-Michel monastery, Omaha Beach and a viewing of the Bayeux Tapestry.

Adventures by Disney unveils three enhanced itineraries for 2012:

“Discovery Down Under” Australia and Tasmania – the action-packed Australian adventure will now include a visit to the island of Tasmania featuring a Eucalyptus forest zipline experience, an introduction to traditional cuisine at Kate’s Berry Farm and Meadowbank Winery as well as a visit to the Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary to meet the infamous Tasmanian Devil.

“Grandiosos Galapagos” Galapagos Islands – Now families can spend more time discovering the flora and fauna of Darwin’s famous islands with seven nights aboard the Galapagos Explorer cruise ship. Guests will have the opportunity to swim and snorkel with sea lions and penguins and come face to face with giant tortoises.

“Cities of Knights and Lights” London and Paris – Adventures by Disney’s classic European itinerary now features an exquisite trip to the British Countryside where guests can play British lawn games and receive royal treatment on a privately-guided tour of Windsor Castle.

From VIP experiences and world-class accommodations to add-on excursions, Adventures by Disney has a quest to suit any traveler. For more information on Adventures by Disney, visit www.AdventuresbyDisney.com.

Adventures by Disney to Launch Rewards Program ‘Adventure Insiders’

We have learned that on August 30, 2011, in addition to the 2012 itineraries, Adventures by Disney plans to unveil a rewards program titled ‘Adventure Insiders.’ The program, which is scheduled to begin on August 30, is open to any adult residing in the United States who has completed travel on any Adventures by Disney guided group family vacation (excluding specialty departures as determined by ABD) on or after January 1, 2005.

The program promises that its members will ‘receive special surprises and gifts throughout the year, “insider” news and more. Beyond that, what the program plans to offer its members specifically is unknown (other than they have no cash value from a legal perspective), but it’s likely to be along the lines of what Disney Cruise Line offers its Castaway Club members, which is a tiered system that offers benefits such as the ability to create earlier reservations for excursions and services than non-members can, as well as return gifts exclusive to the membership level.