Thursday, March 24, 2016

Awesome Shanghaî Disneyland Week-End Update ! Edited With the Best SDL Aerial Pictures We Ever Had !

Spring is arriving at Shanghaî Disneyland and here is the awaited Shanghaî Disneyland week-end update that i post a little bit more early this week as i'm working on another post that will be online tomorrow, and it's something that you don't want to miss, so make sure to be back on D&M this week-end! As usual i've found for you great pictures, and the four first pictures are the best aerial "crystal clear" pictures we ever had! Others have apparently been shot a few weeks ago but they're great anyway!

Next pictures show Shanghaî Disneyland Enchanted Storybook Castle, including the unusual one above in B&W. All picture below were posted either on Weibo or by HNBTV in China.

By the way, if you wonder how looks SDL Castle from outside the park, the picture below brings the answer. It was shot from behind Disney Town, you can see the back of Disney Town buildings in the foreground.

Behind the castle there is the Journey to Crystal Grotto ride and the two pictures below shows Aladdin Genie and The Little Mermaid scenes.

We stay near the castle for a series of pictures showing SDL workers at work on the giant Red Queen head in the Alice in Wonderland Maze.

Always in the Alice in Wonderland Maze...

The next picture below shows a building most probably in Fantasyland, but which one? I put my bets - wrong or right - to one in the Winnie the Pooh area.

Let's move to Treasure Cove with a picture of the wrecked ship and we learn that this one had for name "La Belle France" (!)

Next is a picture of Adventure Isle Roaring Rapids mountain shot with a telelens, from outside the park.

A mural that could be located in Treasure Cove...

Next is a great picture showing the parking lot and entrance of the Shanghaî Disneyland Hotel. I still don't like the red roofs but i'm not Chinese, so hopefully the Chinese will like it...

The two next pictures are showing the entrance signs of the Shanghaî Disneyland Hotel and the Toy Story Hotel.

The last picture of this update shows one of the entrance of Shanghaî Disneyland train station, probably the first thing that most of you will see when you'll come to visit the park!

We'll end with a Chinese video showing workers at work on pieces for SDL Enchanted Sytorybook Castle!

See you soon for a new Shanghaî Disneyland update, and make sure to come back tomorrow on D&M!

Pictures: copyright dfic.cn, hnbtv

First Picture of the Stunning Lobby of Shanghaî Disneyland Hotel - And: All You Need to Know To Purchase SDL tickets !

The Shanghaî Disneyland picture of the day is a great picture showing the stunning art-nouveau lobby of the Shanghaî Disneyland Hotel!

I will post my Shanghaî Disneyland week-end update tomorrow Friday, but in the meantime here is a Q&A list released by Shanghaî Disneyland - more precise than the one i've posted yesterday - that will be precious for all of you who intend to go at SDL as soon as it opens and also to roder tickets when they will finally be on sale Monday March 28. And the list include Q&A for SDL Hotels reservations as well as for The Lion King show.

An important thing you need to know: if you don't live in China you can pay with your credit card ( Visa, Master Card, JCB or Diner's but not American Express ). You cannot pay with Paypal. Once your reservation will be done they will send you by email a reservation code / number. They will NOT send you the tickets, and you better don't lose the code as you'll need it to get the tickets when you'll drive at the park, as well as the ID of the person who purchased the tickets. Why don't they send you the tickets? Most probably to avoid China's famous black market. On another hand it means that you better come at the park early as i predict long lines of guests all with their reservation number wanting their tickets, i'm curious to see how SDL is gonna deal with that...

Q: When do ticket sales start for Shanghai Disneyland?

Shanghai Disneyland park ticket sales begin on March 28 at the following times:

12:01am at Shanghai Disney Resort’s official website (http://www.shanghaidisneyresort.com)
12:01am at the official Shanghai Disney Resort store on Alitrip
12:01am at Shanghai Disney Resort’s official WeChat account
8:00am at the Shanghai Disney Resort Reservation Center 400-180-0000 or +86-21-31580000.

Also, a full list of Shanghai Disney Resort authorized travel partners can be found on the Shanghai Disney Resort website.

Q: How many types of tickets are available?

Shanghai Disneyland park offers both regular and peak-priced tickets, with regular pricing set at ¥370 and peak pricing for high-demand dates set at ¥499. Pricing during the Grand Opening period (June 16-30, 2016) is set at ¥499. Please refer to the calendar on the Shanghai Disney Resort official website for regular and peak dates. All tickets are date-specific.

Special pricing will be provided to many of our guests, including children, seniors and guests with disabilities (eligibility criteria defined on website). Children 1.0M and below are admitted free. A two-day ticket will also be available at a discount. A detailed price listing can be found on the Shanghai Disney Resort official website.

Q: What is a dated ticket?

Tickets will be date-specific and valid for admission only for the date shown on the ticket. Guests with valid admission will be guaranteed entry into Shanghai Disneyland Park for the date shown on the ticket. To guarantee access to the theme park, it is recommended that guests plan the trip in advance and purchase tickets accordingly, in advance.

Q: Do children need tickets, too?

Children 1.0M and below, accompanied by a responsible adult with a paid admission ticket, receive free admission to Shanghai Disneyland park.

Guests (1.4M and below) can purchase child tickets. Guests who are height above 1.4M and below 65 years old need to purchase regular admission.

Guest must be at least 16 years of age to purchase tickets on their own to Shanghai Disneyland park. Guests under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a guest age 16 or older to enter the park.

Q: Are there any age limitations for purchasing tickets?

Guest must be at least 16 years of age to purchase tickets on their own to the Shanghai Disneyland theme park. Guests under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a guest aged 16 or older to enter the park.

Q: Are there maximum purchase quantities?

Guests may purchase a maximum of five tickets per government ID.

Q: What kind of payment methods can I use to purchase tickets to Shanghai Disneyland park?

Shanghai Disney Resort official sales channels accept the following payment methods:

Shanghai Disney Resort official website (www.shanghaidisneyresort.com) accepts domestic cards with China UnionPay, and foreign Visa, MasterCard, JCB and Diners Club cards, as well as Alipay.

Shanghai Disney Resort Reservation Center accepts domestic cards with China UnionPay, and foreign Visa, MasterCard, JCB and Diners Club cards.

Shanghai Disney Resort official Wechat account accepts Wechat Tenpay.

The official Shanghai Disney Resort store on Alitrip accepts Alipay.

For payments to authorized travel partners, please contact them directly for details.

Q: How do I know that my purchase has been successfully completed?

Upon completion of the order and payment, the guest will receive a confirmation notice:

For tickets purchased from the Shanghai Disney Resort Reservation Center, guests will receive an email confirmation.

For tickets purchased on the Shanghai Disney Resort website, guests will have the choice of receiving either an email or an SMS text message.

For tickets purchased on Shanghai Disney Resort official WeChat account and Alitrip store, guests will receive a confirmation according to the respective process.

For tickets purchased from authorized partner channels, please contact them directly for details.

Q: How can I tell if a ticket is real or counterfeit?

To guarantee that guests purchase official and valid tickets to Shanghai Disneyland, guests should only purchase park tickets from the following authorized channels:

Shanghai Disney Resort direct channels:

Shanghai Disney Resort official website (www.shanghaidisneyresort.com)
Shanghai Disney Resort Reservation Center at 400-180-0000 or +86-21-31580000
Official Shanghai Disney Resort store on Alitrip
Shanghai Disney Resort official Wechat account

A full list of official travel partners can be found on the Shanghai Disney Resort website.

Upon completion of the order and payment, the guest will receive a confirmation and it is the guest's sole responsibility to ensure their confirmation is stored in a safe place that cannot be stolen or copied.

Should guests have any questions or concerns, they may contact Shanghai Disney Resort Reservation Center at 400-180-0000 or +86-21-31580000.

Q: What documents are required to enter Shanghai Disneyland park?

To guarantee access to the theme park, please make sure to do the following:

Bring ticket confirmation.

Bring the identification document used to purchase the tickets.

When entering Shanghai Disneyland park, the holder of the identification document should enter the park with the entire travel party. For example, if the father purchases three tickets for his family using his government ID, the father must enter the park with his government ID together with his family.

Q: Can minors enter Shanghai Disneyland park by themselves?

Guests under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a responsible adult age 16 or older when entering the park.

Q: Do I have to purchase tickets in advance? Can I buy tickets on site?

Yes, subject to availability. To guarantee access to the theme park, it is recommended that guests purchase tickets through our official channels in advance.

Q: Are there any refunds or exchanges available if I’m unable to use my pre-purchased tickets? Are there any cancellation or change fees?

Once a ticket has been purchased, guests can change the date of the ticket once. Changes must be made at least 48 hours in advance of the ticket validity date. Park tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable. All date changes are subject to availability.

Q: How do I purchase tickets for seniors, children and guests with disabilities?

Guests can purchase senior and child tickets through our official channels.

To purchase tickets for guests with disabilities, please call Shanghai Disney Resort Reservation Center at 400-180-0000 or +86-21-31580000.

Q: Can I purchase a ticket and give it to another guest as a gift?

Tickets may be purchased as a gift. However, the recipient's identification information must be entered into the system at the time of purchase. Please note the recipient’s identification documents will be required at the time of park entry.

Q: Where can I find the hours of operation for the date I am visiting?

For 06/16 Grand Opening day, Shanghai Disneyland park will start operation at 12:00 pm and close at 10:00 pm.

Guests may refer to the Shanghai Disney Resort official website for the park hours on future dates.

Q: Can one get access to all the attractions in Shanghai Disneyland park with one ticket?

A ticket to the theme park will provide a full day of world-class family entertainment and immersive storytelling experiences. One ticket provides admission and access to all of the attractions and entertainment inside Shanghai Disneyland park. THE LION KING production at the Walt Disney Grand Theatre at Disneytown, Shanghai Disney Resort’s shopping, dining and entertainment area, is a separately ticketed event.

About Hotel Reservations

Q: How can guests make reservations for Shanghai Disneyland Hotel and/or Toy Story Hotel, at Shanghai Disney Resort?

Reservations for Shanghai Disney Resort hotels may be made beginning March 28 through the following channels:

Beginning at 12:01 am at the Shanghai Disney Resort official website (www.ShanghaiDisneyResort.com)
Beginning at 12:01 am at SHDR flagship store on Alitrip
Beginning at 8:00 am at Shanghai Disney Resort Reservation Center at 400-180-0000 or +86-21-31580000
Guest can also make reservations through SHDR’s official travel providers. A complete list can be found at www.shanghaidisneyresort.com.

Q: What is the maximum capacity of a resort hotel room at Shanghai Disney Resort?

The maximum capacity per hotel room varies from three to five guests, depending on the room type. Room rates are based on two adults, and an additional CNY200+15% per person will be applied for each additional person thereafter. Children under the age of 12 sharing a room with their parents may stay free of charge. Exceeding the maximum room capacity is strictly prohibited.

Q: How many rooms can a guest book under one online reservation?

Guests may book one room per online reservation. Guests may book a maximum of three rooms per guest name.

Q: What are the terms and conditions for no-shows, cancellations, upgrades, reservation date changes and other changes?

Guests who book their stay through Shanghai Disney Resort website or the Shanghai Disney Resort Reservation Center and wish to make any changes or cancellations to their reservation must call the Shanghai Disney Resort Reservation Center.
Guests who book their stay through a registered third-party partner must call that third party to notify them of the change request or cancellation.
Cancellations and changes must be made at least 48 hours prior to the check-in date. Change of room type is subject to availability.
Room upgrades are subject to availability. Additional charges may apply.
Terms for no shows: Guests will be charged for the first night’s stay.

Q: If I made a reservation at one of the resort hotels on site, does that mean I get free access to Shanghai Disneyland?

A hotel reservation does not include park entrance. Tickets to the Shanghai Disneyland theme park must be purchased in addition to resort hotel reservations.

Q: I have successfully booked a hotel room at Shanghai Disney Resort hotels. Am I guaranteed to be able to purchase park tickets?

YES. Both Shanghai Disneyland Hotel and Toy Story Hotel will sell admission tickets to the Shanghai Disneyland theme park. All ticket types will be available for purchase at the hotels, and registered hotel guests will be guaranteed admission upon purchase.

Q: What is the price for Shanghai Disney Resort hotels?

The price of Shanghai Disney Resort hotels will vary based on the season. Detailed pricing information will be available through our official and authorized sales channels sales beginning March 28th.

About THE LION KING TICKETS

Q: When do tickets for THE LION KING musical start to go on sale?

Tickets for The Lion King show will go on sale beginning Mar. 28.

Q: What is the price for THE LION KING show?

Ticket prices for The LION KING show will vary based on the season and the sections of the theater. Detailed pricing information will be available through official Shanghai Disney Resort channels on Mar. 28th.

Q: Will THE LION KING at Shanghai Disney Resort be performed only in Chinese?

Yes. Shanghai Disney Resort proudly presents the first-ever Mandarin stage production of the Broadway hit, THE LION KING. African phrases used in the Broadway production will remain in their original language.

Q: Will children be able to understand THE LION KING??

Although THE LION KING is a family show, we recommend it for children age 6 and older.

Q: Do children need tickets for the show?

All audience members for THE LION KING musical require tickets, including children. Seat prices in different sections vary. Detailed pricing information will be available through Shanghai Disney Resort official channels beginning March 28th.

Q: Where can one buy THE LION KING tickets?

THE LION KING tickets can be purchased through the Shanghai Disney Resort official website, the Shanghai Disney Resort Reservation Center and the Walt Disney Grand Theatre Box Office.

Q: How many tickets can one buy per order?

Guests may purchase five tickets per order through the Shanghai Disney Resort official sales channels.

Q: How will I receive my ticket?

The E-ticket will be sent to your mobile phone or email after the order is successfully processed.

Q: Where I can find the calendar for THE LION KING?

The calendar for THE LION KING musical will be announced through Shanghai Disney Resort official channels on March 28.

Q: What is the modification and cancellation policy for THE LION KING?

THE LION KING musical tickets cannot be exchanged or refunded after they are sold.

Q: Is the Walt Disney Grand Theatre accessible for guests with disabilities?

Yes. Walt Disney Grand Theatre at Shanghai Disney Resort is fully accessible for guests with disabilities. Please contact the Disney Reservation Center at 400-180-0000 or +86-21-31580000 for more details.

Universal Orlando Reveal The Creatures of Islands of Adventure Skull island : Reign of Kong

Universal Orlando released a new video and Gifs files showing the "unimaginable creatures" that guests of Skull Island will face off at Universal Orlando Islands of Adventure!

When you embark this summer at Universal’s Islands of Adventure, you won’t be alone.
Here you’ll come face to face with unimaginable creatures that prowl this mysterious and foreboding world.

Massive winged beasts that hunt from the skies. Serpentine predators that burrow through the earth and attack from below. Giant insects that infest the jungles. These are just a few of the deadly creatures you’ll encounter on Skull Island: Reign of Kong.

Arachno-claw

These carnivorous arachnids move throughout the swampy underworld of the island’s dark caverns, foraging for dead or injured creatures. The six-legged scavenger uses its crab-like claws to crush its prey before feasting on the remains.

Carnictis

The giant, slug-like Carnictis lacks eyes or facial features. But its gaping, oozing mouth—ringed with sharp, jagged teeth—is a distinguishing feature that allows this slow but relentless creature to feed on dead and wounded beings that have succumbed to the wretched, murky chasms of the island.

Decarnocimex

One of the largest and most aggressive cave-dwelling inhabitants on the island, the Decarnocimex will attack anything smaller or weaker that dares to cross its path. These vicious insects tear apart their prey with their razor-sharp mandibles and two-bladed forearms.

Terapusmordax

These are the largest flying predators on the island, with wingspans up to 10 feet. They live in colonies within the island’s interior caverns and are easily provoked. Spearing victims with lethal talons, they use large carnivorous fangs to penetrate anything—or anyone—caught in their jaws of death.

Vastatosaurus rex

The V. Rex is the largest, most intimidating dinosaur that roams the island’s dense jungles. Despite its large, bulky head and tough leathery skin, it’s an agile predator, changing direction at high speeds and ripping into its prey with razor-sharp teeth.

Are you ready to face them all?

To learn more about what else awaits you at Skull Island: Reign of Kong, stay tuned to the blog or sign up for email updates.

And, you can tune into Syfy on March 30 at 9/8c to see a whole new side to these terrifying creatures on the hit special effects makeup show, Face Off.

Pictures and video: copyright Universal Orlando

Wednesday, March 23, 2016

First Night Picture of Shanghai Disneyland Enchanted Storybook Castle!

The Shanghaî Disneyland picture of the day is the first night picture of Shanghai Disneyland castle with lighting on the castle and in the lampposts! Not sure that this kind of TOT color will be the final color for the castle lighting, they may be still in test mode.

Thanks to This Is Mr B for the pic, and for those of you who want to order SDL tickets as soon as they will be available - starting March 28 - here is all you need to know, from the SDR website:

When will tickets go on sale?
Tickets will go on sale on Monday, March 28, 2016.

What is the price of theme park admission?
We offer both regular and peak-priced tickets, with regular pricing set at ¥370 and peak pricing set at ¥499. Pricing during the grand opening period (June 16-30, 2016) is set at ¥499. Special pricing (discounts of 25%) will be provided to many of our guests, including children, seniors and our guests with disabilities. Infants receive free admission. A two-day ticket will be available at a 5% discount.

What are dated tickets?
Tickets will be date-specific and valid for admission only for the date purchased. Guests with valid admission will be guaranteed entry into Shanghai Disneyland for the date purchased.

What does the ticket price include?
A ticket to the park will provide a full day of world-class family entertainment and immersive storytelling experiences. One ticket provides admission and access to all of Shanghai Disneyland’s attractions and entertainment inside the theme park. THE LION KING production at the Walt Disney Grand Theatre at Disneytown, Shanghai Disney Resort’s shopping, dining and entertainment area, is a separately ticketed event.

Where can guests purchase tickets?
On March 28, 2016, guests can obtain information and purchase tickets through several official channels. To ensure access to the theme park, guests should only purchase tickets from these authorized official channels:
The newly updated website of Shanghai Disney Resort, www.shanghaidisneyresort.com
The Shanghai Disney Resort Reservation Center at 400-180-0000 or 86-21-31580000
Shanghai Disney Resort Alitrip Flagship Store http://shdr.alitrip.com/
Our official travel partners. A listing of official travel partners can be found here.
Other authorized official channels, including the resort’s official mobile app and onsite ticket sales at the resort will be available at a later date to be announced soon.

What are the limits on quantity for purchasing Shanghai Disneyland tickets?
There is a maximum of 5 tickets available for purchase.

Can guests change the admission date on their ticket once purchased?
Yes, subject to availability. Guests can visit our website or call the Disney Reservation Center for more information.

When can guests purchase tickets for THE LION KING production at Disneytown and book stays in your resort hotels?
Resort hotel rooms and tickets for THE LION KING show at the Walt Disney Grand Theatre in Disneytown can be booked beginning March 28, 2016 through all authorized official channels. Pricing and room rates will be available at that time.

Do guests need an admission ticket to visit Wishing Star Park or Disneytown?
No admission tickets are required for guests to visit Wishing Star Park or Disneytown. Paid admission tickets are required for guests to attend THE LION KING production at the Walt Disney Grand Theatre.

Will there be complimentary tickets to Shanghai Disneyland?
Infants 1.0M and below, accompanied by a responsible adult with a paid admission ticket, receive free admission to Shanghai Disneyland. There are no other complimentary ticket categories, and all other guests are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance using one of our official channels.

Why do you have a regular ticket price and a peak ticket price?
This is one way we are managing the extraordinary demand we anticipate for our park in order to deliver a world-class experience for our guests. Our ticketing options could help spread out visitation throughout the year, putting choices in the hands of the guests. To avoid days with high demand, guests may want to consider visiting during our regular priced periods.

Will there be a maximum number of guests allowed in the park at one time?
Yes. Just as we do at all of our destinations around the world, we take great care to ensure a magical guest experience in our parks each day. All of our tickets will be date specific. Shanghai Disneyland will also follow all local guest capacity regulations.

Do you anticipate any changes to your pricing or ticket structure in the near future?
We will continue to evaluate our various ticket options and may in the future make adjustments. We will also continue to think about ways to manage the extraordinary demand we anticipate for our attractions and entertainment at Shanghai Disney Resort in order to deliver a world-class experience for our guests.

What is the Shanghai Disney Resort Reservation Center?
The Shanghai Disney Resort Reservation Center is a platform for guest reservation and resort experience inquiries. Beginning March 28, guests can contact the reservation center at 400-180-0000 or 86-21-31580000 to purchase theme park tickets, make resort hotel reservations or book tickets to THE LION KING production at the Walt Disney Grand Theatre in Disneytown.

Dubai Parks and Resorts Announces 27 Rides and Attractions for Motion Gate Theme Park

We have news from Dubai Parks and Resorts about the attractions of the Motion Gate theme park currently in construction and they've announced a starting slate of 27 rides and attractions set to populate its movie-inspired grounds.

Motiongate is part of the Dh10.5 billion Dubai Parks and Resorts, a 2.3 million square metres development off Sheikh Zayed Road opposite the Palm Jebel Ali.

“We are taking guests beyond the screen, into a world of cinematic adventure at Motiongate Dubai with an action-packed line-up of Hollywood-inspired rides and attractions, from fast-paced roller coasters and multisensory theatre shows to imaginative play areas," said Guido Zucchi, Motiongate general manager.

Inspired by films from DreamWorks Animation, Sony Pictures Studios, and Lionsgate, the new roller coasters, theater shows, and play areas at motiongate Dubai, as part of Dubai Parks and Resorts, are designed to hit a large slate of park goers across all age brackets.

The park will be split into five zones: Studio Central, the park’s entry boulevard, is designed to replicate a working movie set in New York City; Sony Pictures Studios features seven attractions with a Hotel Transylvania dark rides, a Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs rapids water ride, Ghostbusters and a Green Hornet roller coaster.

Dreamworks has 12 attractions inspired by How to Train your Dragon, Kung Fu Panda, Madagascar and Shrek, including two roller coasters — Madagascar Mad Pursuit, the park’s fastest, and Dragon Glides, a suspended roller coaster in the vein of How to Train Your Dragon.

Lionsgate has the world’s first theme park attractions based on The Hunger Games, a Capitol Bullet Train roller coaster.

The Smurfs Village has five attractions geared to younger visitors, including a Smurfs Village Express train. Other attractions include stage shows of Zombieland and play areas themed around Shrek, Smurfs, Dragon, and Cloudy.

Elaine Hinds, the park’s director of entertainment, said “Each ride is different and offers something for everyone. The movie studios themselves are excited about the park," she said. The year-round venue has the potential to expand in future as more films are produced. “Once the park opens I’m sure we will have sequels so we can introduce new rides and other entertainment," Ms Hinds said.

“Movies are a favorite leisure pursuit in this region, and motiongate Dubai is combining the best of Hollywood cinema, theme parks and live entertainment to create an amazing experience for our guests throughout their journey at Dubai Parks and Resorts,” said Dubai Parks and Resorts COO Stanford Pino in a press statement.

Motion gate will open this October, the same day as the others separate parks dedicated to Bollywood ( picture above ) and Legoland. More infos about Motion Gate on the official site HERE and for the complete list of rides and attractions, jump to Screamscape HERE.

Pictures: copyright Dubai Parks and Resorts, Dreamworks, Sony

Tuesday, March 22, 2016

Terrorist Attacks Hits Brussels

Terrorist attacks happened today in Brussels, two bombs exploded at Brussels Airport then one hour later one more bomb exploded in Brussels subway. 31 people have been killed and 270 wounded. After Paris last November, innocent people of Brussels have paid the price of their life due to the incredible stupidity of a bunch of terrorists bastards who probably think their actions will bring a change when in fact they are going nowhere, except right into hell. Today's Brussels attacks are obviously a revenge to the capture of Salah Abdeslam three days ago and most probably another terrorists group thinking they might be arrested soon have decided to blow it all.

Disney and more stands in solidarity with our friends in Belgium and the attacks victims. Belgium is also the country where comic book art was born and famous Belgium artists have posted today plenty of drawings in solidarity to the victims. Hergé, legendary creator of Tintin - Belgium most iconic comic book hero - died more than 30 years ago, but one has posted the picture above showing Tintin crying for his beloved people and country.

Monday, March 21, 2016

All About Disneyland Paris Villages Nature Project

Here is an article for those of you who think that there is nothing new happening at Disneyland Paris, except parks renovations, and it is about DLP Villages Nature, the huge project currently being built and scheduled, to open next year if there is no delay. Strangely, i thought i did an article about Villages Nature before until i realized that it was not the case, so it was about time doing one about this major DLP project on which WDI Imaginers also worked, as you'll see. This article is in two parts the first one will show you the project with infos and concept-arts coming from the official site, and the second part include insiders infos that you won't find on the official site. And, good news, i have two great exclusive pictures of the construction site for you.

First, Villages Nature is located six kilometers from Disneyland Paris park, on the other side of the highway and next door to Disneyland Paris Davy Crockett Ranch.

So, what is Villages Nature, you ask? Well, in the early 2000s, Euro Disney was about to open DLP second theme park, Walt Disney Studios, in 2002 and started to think about a new tourist destination. Meanwhile Pierre & Vacances a famous french real estate company has just decided to build an Adagio Aparthotel in Val d’Europe, the town developed by Euro Disney. The two groups started talking and before long the seed is sown for an all new project, one based on the values of Nature, education, sport and innovation.

In 2003, Euro Disney created a research firm as an equal joint venture with Pierre & Vacances – which has just acquired Dutch group Center Parcs – to study the possibility of building ‘nature villages’ near Disneyland Paris and Val d’Europe. The site for the project is identified based on its specific geographic, geological, topographic and scenic characteristics, including large tracts of forest, a major underground geothermal aquifer and excellent transport access. These factors were considered crucial to achieve the project’s goals of sustainable development, interaction with Nature and pan-European attractiveness.

More from the official site: "Villages Nature applies the principles of sustainable development in both its concept and its operations, while reinventing the guest experience around joy, wonder and reconnection. Sustainable development is an attitude. It’s an optimistic way of looking at the world that comes from immersion in the amazing possibilities created when Man and Nature work together.
This experience will be transformative, inspiring guests to participate in their communities and change things together, one step at a time. It will invite them to imagine a better world – a dream that is already within reach, here and now. This is an innovative, optimistic, responsible vision for tourism that is better adapted to the planet’s new environmental challenges.
Villages Nature represents a new era of environmental tourism projects that can meet all the requirements for preserving sensitive natural areas and the biodiversity they harbour.

Villages Nature vision of sustainable development is based on three pillars:
Celebration and protection of Nature, not just as an obligation but out of a desire to continue enjoying it with all our senses, in all its seasons

Imagination, because sustainable development also means being able to look at our environment differently and enjoy unexpected experiences, either alone or with others

Proximity, because Villages Nature is made possible by its unique location connecting the outskirts of Paris and the spectacular wooded ranges of Seine-et-Marne

At Villages Nature, less than 10% of the total site is made up of buildings, and even they seem to flow into the surrounding plant life, generously incorporating natural elements such as wood, green walls and hanging gardens.

Villages Nature began with a question: What does it take to completely switch off and escape the daily grind, when there’s limited time available? It was important to make it immediately clear that Villages Nature is another world where Man and Nature are intricately connected, a new world where the human-made and the nature-made work together seamlessly.

Design movements from the early 20th century such as Arts & Crafts, Art Nouveau and Jugendstil, which were greatly influenced by the natural world and saw architecture as a way to connect Man and Nature, enhancing Nature in the process

More contemporary designs, in particular those by:
American architect Frank Lloyd Wright, who coined the term ‘organic architecture’
Austria’s Friedensreich Hundertwasser, the visionary artist of green architecture who designed the famous Krawina Haus in Vienna

Their aim has been not just to make Nature central to architecture once again, but to take the concept even further. This was how the concept of incorporating plants into the very architecture was born, giving pride of place to natural materials such as wood, green walls and hanging gardens. This innovative architectural design gives Villages Nature a unique ability to change with the seasons and offer different pleasures as the year progresses.

The project’s artistic direction is a collaboration between:
Walt Disney Imagineering, the division responsible for designing Disney theme parks and hotels worldwide, led by Senior Vice President Joe Rohde

French landscape architect and urban planner Thierry Huau, founder and Managing Director of Interscène, which designed the nature amusement park Terra Botanica in Angers, France

To design its recreational facilities and creative residences, Villages Nature turned to three shining stars of French architecture:

Jacques Ferrier, designer of the French Pavilion at the 2010 Shanghai World Fair, for the Aqualagoon pyramid

Jean de Gastines, who helped design Center Parcs and collaborated with Shigeru Ban on the eco-design of the Centre Pompidou-Metz, for the cottages and apartments

Lionel de Segonzac for the Farm . All three worked closely with WDI Imagineer Joe Rohde and Thierry Huau to turn the Villages Nature dream into a strong, inspiring representation of the original concept.

Flowers and vines tumble gracefully down from the balconies overlooking the Lakeside Promenade. The Hanging Gardens embody the garden metaphor that is at the core of the destination’s concept, and provide a verdant background for lakeside activities. Thierry Huau and Jean de Gastines brought their talents together to create this architectural and environmental delight stretching some 20 metres high, which turns the four-storey buildings of ‘Bulle’ apartments into a vertical garden. Covered in green and divided into four separate blocks, the apartments simply merge into the landscape.

The Hanging Gardens feature plants not only on the building facades but also on their roofs, as well as towering trees on the terraces. At the foot of it all, the Lakeside Promenade is dotted with shops and theme restaurants that will provide plenty of entertainment all day long and well into the evening.

And now let's talk about Village Nature "Attractions": Yes, Villages Nature do have attractions but don't expect "rides" here as it is a different kind of attractions that will await the guests.

The Aqualagoon is the most awaited one and is in fact two attractions in one. The 2,500 m² open-air Lagoon, heated to over 30°C for year-round swimming, is connected to one of Europe’s largest indoor water parks (9,000 m²). The park’s iconic pyramid design is the creation of architect Jacques Ferrier.

Sunny and southwest-facing, the geothermal Lagoon features waterfalls and eddies where young and old alike can splash, play and experience new sensations in every season. Although separate from the Lake, the Lagoon seems to extend out into it. An ‘active river’ winds its way from the centre of the Water Park out to the Lagoon, bringing with it a rush of thrills and surprises.

Cascading down the pyramid’s tiers into plant-edged pools, the water makes its way from the Water Park to the Lagoon before emptying into the Lake. Geothermal energy offers Villages Nature guests a sensory experience that is unique in Europe. Relax, renew, play and push your limits in these water features inspired and heated by the Dogger’s energy.

As the aquifer’s water is unsuitable for swimming due to its corrosive nature, the Aqualagoon is filled by the potable water system of the local Val d’Europe municipality, which includes the towns of Bailly-Romainvilliers, Chessy, Coupvray, Magny-le-Hongre and Serris. No groundwater bodies will be tapped.

For an original way to enjoy the spectacular vistas at Villages Nature, Thierry Huau has designed a winding trail that climbs some twenty metres to the top of the Water Park. From this vantage point above the treetops, guests can look down on the Lake and the Hanging Gardens, and admire the entire destination and its surrounding forests.

Beneath the Hanging Gardens, the Lakeside Promenade is the centre of life at Villages Nature. Guests can enjoy a wealth of shopping and dining options, stroll along the boardwalk and enjoy views of the Aqualagoon and Lake. The restaurants and shops offer new culinary and taste experiences featuring fresh, local, organic seasonal products.
This expansive walkway stretching along the entire northern bank of the lake is also the natural route to the Aqualagoon.

The Lakeside Promenade also offers indoor spaces for gathering in the evenings or in inclement weather:
The Kids Club, where our youngest guests can enjoy fun activities, sports and arts and crafts
The Bowling Alley, for lively afternoons and evenings with friends and family
The Playhouse, where guests of all ages can relax and play in a laid-back space that incorporates a lounge/café and a library

At the centre of Villages Nature, the Lake offers a variety of boating activities allowing guests to relax, explore the beautiful surroundings or get a closer look at the plant and animal life. They can rent rowboats, pedal boats and small electric boats from the Enchanted Forest dock on the south bank of the Lake.

The Farm at Villages Nature is much more than a petting farm. It is educational and interactive, with a production element as well. It can be managed by any local farmer interested in sharing his or her love of animals and the earth, perhaps in cooperation with other farms in the region.

Local architect Lionel de Segonzac has created an authentic Farm inspired by those of the Brie region, where the entire family can experience and interact with the animals, crops and traditional local products. Children and adults alike can enter the animals’ pens, feed them, pet them and help care for them. The adventure continues in the orchard or the vegetable garden, and in fun educational activities about products such as milk, apples and berries. These are experiences that engage all the senses.

Guests can also come to the Farm at any time of the day to sample simple meals made from fresh, natural products. Kids can play to their hearts’ content in the Barn’s huge playground while their parents look on, and at the Pony Club they can rent ponies for rides through the surrounding pastures and woods. Naturally the Farm has a Market attached, where Villages Nature guests can meet local producers and sample traditional Brie cuisine.

But there is more and it is "The Enchanted Forest": Children ages 2-14 will love the Enchanted Forest, a fantastical world created around the legends and spirits of the forest. Rope bridges, nets, tunnels, caves, platforms and treehouses built at different heights transform 6.2 acres (2.5 ha) of woods into a magical realm. Hours of fun and enchantment await in this unforgettable adventure. The Enchanted Island also has its own restaurant, which opens onto the Lake at its southern tip, and a mini golf course in the woods.

Adults and teens will also get their adrenaline fix in the treetops of the Active Forest. A sky course, trees fitted with climbing holds, bungee jumping, zip lines and a giant net will offer endless opportunities to push your limits, explore the treetops, improve your agility and defy the law of gravity. Set in a forest of hundred-year-old oaks on the western side of the resort, the Active Forest is being developed on the existing site of an aerial adventure course used by guests at Disneyland Paris’ Davy Crockett Ranch."

Everyone wishing to live at Villages Nature can buy a "cottage", as they call them, and as it is said above all have been done to include them in the vegetation.

Let's move now to the second part of this article with infos that you won't find on the official site: First, as you've read above Villages Nature use Geothermics. In fact, Villages Nature water park is heated thanks to hot water located deep under ground. And this natural hot water is coming through a one mile deep pipe going deep under earth to find hot water bubble located at this depth. The pipe was drilled in at 70 meters a day which is quite a lot in current standards. Actually there are in fact two pipes, one at 94 degrees for getting the water out, and one for returning the water at a temperature of 34-37 degrees. This natural hot water will heat all of Villages Nature and since recently the connection was made with Disneyland Paris for heating 40% of DLP Hotels!

Above: a panoramic picture of the Aqualagoon currently under construction.

The Children’s farm located quite near the currently build main entrance has a food plaza in it where children can work with animals and handle fresh products which they can cook and eat at the food plaza. This was decided recently because in a recent poll it turned out that the french children could not even draw a leek because they don't know anymore where products and dairy are coming from!

Villages Nature which is equaly shared by Pierre & Vacances and EDL at 50/50 select the retailers which will be inside Villages Nature shopping part. These need to meet Villages Nature standards to "fit" into the storyline and have a "Nature" public appearance. The companies in the park shopping part are all special and need to be in line with the story - in two words: you won't find a McDonalds at Villages Nature!

Above, a view of the shopping area of Villages Nature currently under construction.

There will be a full service from the closest airport to Villages Nature to accompany the guests renting the appartements travelling from outside France. There will be also a full electric car service - this one being available for all guests at Villages Nature - and this is done of course because of the ecological side of Villages Nature.

A variety of show elements will be displayed over the water park and the beach side as well as on the shopping area.

They go really the distance on saving as much trees as possible, and they even removed the main entrance for just one tree! It is really important that current nature status stays in place as much as it can be.

The exact opening date has not been announced yet but Phase One of Villages Nature should open between May and July 2017. The reason for withholding the exact date is apparently because they want to have the latest reports on all works and building companies before announcing it.

There might be a "special" 3 day offer in the tryout phase early next year for around 50 euros for DLP hotels guests, but this needs to be confirmed.

Villages Nature is really a huge project in the leisure industry, it is truly one of industries finest and groundbreaking parks.

And that's it for this Villages Nature special article. I hope you are as excited as me to discover this whole new part of DLP which, even if it won't be a theme park, should be really enjoyable!