Latest news with #Disney-themed
Scottish Sun
3 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Inside the real-life town that Disneyland Paris built – with Italian-copycat homes and no rubbish on the streets
Plus, the Center Parcs village in the town that is undergoing an expansion PARK UP Inside the real-life town that Disneyland Paris built – with Italian-copycat homes and no rubbish on the streets Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) LOVE Disneyland Paris so much you could live there? That's not actually impossible… Because the much-loved European theme park has built its own town called Val D'Europe - which is only a six-minute drive from the theme park. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 8 The second half of Disneyland Paris' town is now being developed Credit: Disney 8 The town which is called Val d'Europe will eventually home up to 80,000 people Credit: Getty 8 There is lots to do in the town itself including two shopping centres Credit: Alamy Just like any normal town, there are thousands of homes, offices, restaurants, schools, supermarkets and even a hospital. Essentially, it has everything you'd ever need... just with a world-class theme park on the doorstep. It all started back in 1987, when Disney started to build Euro Disney, which is now known as Disneyland Paris. Working with the French Government, the park was sold the surrounding land and it soon began to build its own town for people to live in. Today, more than 50,000 people have set up home in the town, with houses selling from €250,000 (£215,521) to €465,000 (£400,869). Many of the houses and buildings town were inspired by both Regent's Park in London and Tuscany in Italy, according to The Times. Frank Hetherton, one of Disney's leading architects, admitted: "We did borrow from there. It's an authentic style." As the town rose from the ground, Disney had grand ambitions for it, like a job for every resident. They're big on cleanliness to, with visitors claiming they never see any Ideals rubbish or graffiti on the streets. And locals are overwhelmingly satisfied with the town, scoring 90 percent on happiness with their surroundings in previous surveys among residents. Disney Music Festival If you are a Disney mega fan, you definitely won't want to miss exploring the town as it is home to many Disney-themed locations. Elsewhere in Val d'Europe you can explore a large shopping centre with lots of French brands but household favourites too like H&M. Just nine-minutes walking from the shopping centre is one of the many hotels in the town - the Relais Spa Val d'Europe. Inside guests can enjoy a serene spa, with an indoor pool, hot tub, sauna and steam room, and stay costs from £135 per night. Or you could opt to stay at the Grand Magic Hotel, which is sat next to a park overlooking a pond. The fantasy-themed hotel even has it's own character named Monsieur Maurice who looks after all the hotel has to offer including flamboyant interiors, a Grand Hall and immersive animations. Back into the town, there is also La Vallée Village, which is home to different outlet stores offering designer items at discounted prices. The destination is owned by the same company as Bicester Village found in Oxford, UK and at La Vallée visitors will find similar brands, as well as more local designers. 8 The first half of the town has already been completed with shops, hotels and other amenities Credit: Disney 8 It also has some historic spots including Château de Chessy Credit: Alamy For a little history hunting, you can head to Château de Chessy, where you will find a pretty castle in the middle of an expansive park with a lake. And if you are looking or a bite to eat, you won't be short of options. You could head to the classic french spot, Le Diplomate Cafe and Bar, which has a range of cocktails, organic wine and champagne. Dishes include grilled aubergine and beef tartare. Alternatively, head to Wonderwoods Restauran, which features a fun interior that looks more like an enchanted woodland. The immersive restaurant features fairy creatures, mushrooms and woodland paths. You could experience snails or opt for a classic truffle pasta, or even treat yourself to afternoon tea. 8 The second half of the development will add 1,800 hotel rooms by 2040 Credit: Disney The entire town is split into six communes, each with different places, attractions and spots to eat worth exploring including multiple green spaces and bicycle paths. For those living there, it has been designed so that everything they could ever need is within a 10-15minute walk. And across the entire development there are no high rises, as it was designed to be a very liveable community that wasn't overdeveloped. That isn't the end either, as over the next 15 years Val d'Europe will double in size. By 2040, there will be even more shops, restaurant and 1,800 more hotel rooms. And by then, 80,000 people are expected to live there thanks to over 6,000 new homes, 1,880 new residences and more office spaces. Philippe Descrouet, mayor of Serris and president of Val d'Europe Agglomeration told Envie de Villes: "We are only halfway through the development of this new city. "The first part of the story, written over the past 35 years, has been a success. 8 Throughout Val d'Europe, there is a 'neo-traditional' design Credit: Disney "The second part will bring us to 100,000 inhabitants and the development of 350,000m² of office space as well as 300,000m² of additional activities." Nearby, Center Parcs' Villages Nature site is also undergoing development which is expected to be completed by 2037. Visitors will be able to enjoy 170 new holiday homes, making there a total of 1,100 at the site. Closer to 2037, there will also be 1,500 more places to stay in the park, leading to 3,000 in total by 2037. Eventually, the village will have new restaurants, shops and leisure activities too. A Sun reporter also recently went behind the scenes of Disneyland Paris' huge park expansion – with a new Frozen land and first ever Lion King ride. Plus, the ground-breaking new Disneyland Paris show that makes you feel like you're inside a Disney movie.
Powys County Times
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Powys County Times
Headteacher celebrates 'rollercoaster' 15 years at school
PUPILS at a Powys primary school have thrown their departing headteacher a special rollercoaster-themed farewell, to honour his love of theme parks. Adam Shearman has been the headteacher of Llanelwedd Church in Wales Primary School, near Builth Wells, for 15 years, but is heading to another school in the county in September. Llanelwedd deputy head Satu Haikala said staff and pupils 'brought Disneyworld to Llanelwedd' as a way of giving Mr Shearman a fitting send-off at the end of term. Members of staff planned a special surprise to honour Mr Shearman's love of theme parks with a surprise roller coaster ride around the school grounds. The playground was decorated as a theme park and a special cart had been designed as a 'rollercoaster', where children in Year 6 pushed Mr Shearman through specially decorated theme lands that included references to his favourite theme parks; as well as to the other schools that he has supported over the last 15 years. All the pupils wore Disney-themed outfits and lined up in rows for Mr Shearman to be pushed through. They waved, cheered, threw streamers and joined in the fun. Mr Shearman had no idea that staff and pupils had conspired to organise the leaving party. 'I didn't have a clue,' he said. 'Bearing in mind we have 113 children, not one of them said a word. They knew it was a secret. 'When I walked into school I was met by our deputy headteacher, dressed as one of Snow White's dwarves. 'I then walked into assembly to see the whole school dressed as Disney characters. The staff were dressed as Snow White and her dwarves.' Another teacher, Paul Walby, who is also leaving this term, was dressed as Snow White herself. Ms Haikala, the school's deputy head, said: 'We had a collection and didn't make enough to send Mr Shearman to Disneyworld, so we brought Disneyworld to Llanelwedd.' The children also sang songs from their recent production of the Wizard of Oz. Mr Shearman joined the school in 2010, when it had just 43 children; he now leaves the school with 94 pupils, with a further 19 in the school-based pre-school setting. On the school's Facebook page he said: 'I find myself reflecting on the journey we've shared. 'Llanelwedd school has never been just a place of learning, it has been a living, breathing community where curiosity is encouraged, resilience is built and compassion is celebrated. 'Together, we've weathered challenges (and flooding), embraced change and created a culture that values both academic achievements and empathy. 'Over the years the school has grown and developed, but at its heart is the children. The children at Llanelwedd are like family.' The was described as 'thriving' by Church in Wales inspectors who visited just before Easter. 'The true legacy of a school lies not in its buildings or measured by the awards it wins but is in the hearts and minds of those who pass through its doors,' added Mr Shearman. 'As I move on to new adventures, I leave with immense pride and unwavering hope for the future of this remarkable school. 'I know the school is in very safe hands with the new headteacher, Ms Haikala, and the wonderful staff team here. 'I would like to thank the whole school community for their support, good wishes and contributions. It has truly been an honour to serve as the headteacher of this very special place.'
The Irish Sun
07-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
‘She looks thrilled', gush fans as Vogue Williams shares glimpse at daughter Gigi's magical Disney birthday bash
VOGUE Williams has given fans a glimpse inside the dreamy Disney-themed celebration she threw for her daughter's fifth birthday. The Irish model and her reality star husband are parents to three kids, Theodore, five, Gigi, four, and three-year-old Otto. Advertisement 3 Vogue threw a Disney-themed party for her daughter Credit: Instagram 3 Gigi is turning five this month Credit: Instagram 3 The doting mum shared snippets of the birthday bash Credit: Instagram Today, the mum-of-three took to her Instagram to reveal that her daughter, Gigi, is turning five this month. Wanting to mark the occasion before the school holidays, the doting mum decided to throw her little one an early birthday party. The Advertisement READ MORE ON VOGUE WILLIAMS She posted sweet snippets from the celebration and gave fans a look at the stunning decorations. The party setup featured a colourful balloon display, Disney princess cut-outs, a two-tier pink cake and a face painting station. Gigi looked adorable on the day, dressed in a beautiful white dress and a sparkly tiara. Vogue captioned her post: "Early birthday party for Gigi before school finishes for summer. Advertisement MOST READ IN THE IRISH SUN Exclusive Exclusive "26 children running around our apartment having the time of their lives! Gigi had so much fun… "I love at home parties and have people I use time and again because they are brilliant so wanted to shout them out… (not an ad just great small business)." Vogue Williams shows off her wedding outfit Fans and friends flocked to the comments to gush over the sweet post and wish Gigi a happy birthday. One fan wrote: "Adore the palm neon pink tablecloth! What a fabulous set up." Advertisement Sophie commented: "You do the best kiddie bday parties! She looks thrilled with herself." Sarah said: "Happy Birthday Gigi! What a fun day!" Emma gushed: "Looks stunning. Smiles all round." CUTE COUPLE Another added: "Absolutely wonderful." Advertisement Vogue recently paid tribute to her husband in a The Irish model, 39, has been married to Made in Chelsea star The couple tied the knot in a secret ceremony at Spencer's 10,000-acre family estate in Advertisement The mum-of-three shared some loved-up snaps of the pair looking happier than ever. The Howth native stunned in a beautiful yellow dress while Spencer was sporting a black suit.
Time of India
05-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Disneyland in Gurgaon: Haryana CM says talks on for India's first Mickey Mouse & Co park near Manesar
Gurgaon may soon have India's first Disneyland. The Haryana government is discussing the project with Disney. A 500-acre site near Manesar has been identified. The amusement park is expected to boost tourism and create jobs. It will be located near the KMP Expressway. The government also plans to expand other tourist events. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Strategic location near KMP Expressway Disneyland plan may bring wide-ranging benefits Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Plans to boost other tourist events too Past attempts and political response Gurgaon may soon become home to India's first Disneyland amusement park. Haryana chief minister Nayab Singh Saini on Wednesday said the state government is in talks with Disney officials and has identified 500 acres of land near Pachgaon Chowk in Manesar for the project, a TOI report a meeting with Union culture and tourism minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in Delhi, the CM said the planned amusement park would be a significant boost to the region's tourism and economy. 'The project will generate thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities and bring major changes to the area. It will attract international tourists too,' Saini said Gurgaon was selected as the location because of its economic importance and infrastructure. 'The upcoming Global City project in Gurgaon will be another milestone for the region. Hence, Gurgaon is the most suitable location for Disneyland. The site in Manesar is strategically located along KMP Expressway and Haryana Orbital Rail Corridor (HORC). People from across NCR can easily visit,' he Global City project is a 1,000-acre planned mini-city spread across sectors 36, 36B, 37 and 37B. It will include links to Delhi-Gurgaon and Dwarka expressways, and follow a walk-to-work model with access to all essential CM said the Disneyland-style entertainment hub would deliver economic, cultural, and social benefits to both the state and the country. 'The project will generate thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities and bring major changes to the area,' he it materialises, this will be Disney's first amusement park in India developed through official collaboration. In February this year, the Maharashtra government had announced a similar plan for a Disney-themed park in Navi from the Disneyland proposal, Saini said the Haryana government is looking to expand the annual International Gita Mahotsav in Kurukshetra. He added that the popular Surajkund Mela may also be held three times a year.'Considering the popularity of the Surajkund Mela, govt is planning to organise a Diwali mela and a book fair at Surajkund as well… We have also sought support from the Union tourism ministry and the central govt to organise Gita Mahotsav on a grand scale,' he said.A similar proposal was made in 1989 by then Haryana CM Om Prakash Chautala to bring Disneyland to Gurgaon. However, the project was shelved following opposition from political parties and land-owning Thursday, INLD national president Abhay Singh Chautala raised questions over the current government's stand. 'BJP was supporting INLD govt in 1989 but it sided with Congress to oppose the project back then,' Abhay said.
Hindustan Times
04-07-2025
- Business
- Hindustan Times
Manesar to get a Disneyland: Saini
The National Capital Region (NCR) is set to become home to India's first Disneyland Park, with the Haryana government proposing a 500-acre amusement and entertainment destination in Manesar, chief minister Nayab Singh Saini announced on Thursday. The Haryana government has proposed a 500-acre amusement and entertainment destination in Manesar, chief minister Nayab Singh Saini announced on Thursday. (HT PHOTO) The proposed park will be located along the Kundli-Manesar-Palwal (KMP) Expressway and the Haryana Orbital Rail Corridor, ensuring seamless access from Delhi and other major centres. The plan, which officials said is part of the state's broader strategy to transform itself into a global tourism hub, aims to position Haryana alongside global destinations like Paris, Tokyo, and California that host similar Disney-themed parks. Saini described the project as a 'game-changer' for Haryana's tourism and economy. 'This entertainment hub will bring economic, cultural, and social benefits not only to Haryana but to the entire country,' said Saini, following discussions with Union culture and tourism minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in Delhi. 'Manesar's proximity to Delhi, its infrastructure, and corporate presence make it the perfect location.' State tourism officials aware of the project's details said the move is expected to drastically alter the region's tourism profile. It is likely to attract massive private investment, boost infrastructure, create thousands of direct and indirect jobs, and catalyse growth in the hospitality, entertainment, and real estate sectors in and around Manesar and Pachgaon. The announcement is being seen as an effort to fill the entertainment void left by the shuttering of Gurugram's Kingdom of Dreams in 2022, which had once promised to be India's collapsed amid mounting financial losses and disputes between its promoters and state authorities. 'This project will mark a turning point for Haryana's tourism economy,' said a senior tourism department official. 'Disneyland's global brand value, combined with Haryana's expressways and mega infrastructure projects like the Global City, will elevate the entire NCR as a destination for tourists and investors alike.' Owned by the Walt Disney Company, there are five Disneylands across the world — in California and Florida in the United States, Paris (France), Tokyo (Japan), and Hong Kong. On asked if the project has been cleared by Disney, a senior state government official, requesting anonymity, said, 'The project was announced only after all necessary communications were completed and after receiving the proposal from all concerned parties. However, Disney has not issued an official statement yet.' As part of its holistic tourism push, the Haryana government is also expanding its cultural calendar. The Surajkund Crafts Mela, traditionally held once a year, will now be hosted thrice annually with the addition of a Diwali Fair and a Book Fair. The expanded calendar is aimed at offering broader platforms for artisans, performers, and writers, and drawing larger tourist footfalls. Saini also urged the Centre to extend financial support for scaling up the annual International Gita Mahotsav, a Kurukshetra-based celebration of the Bhagavad Gita's teachings. 'Projects like Disneyland, Surajkund expansion, and Gita Mahotsav will redefine Haryana's global image. We're committed to building a world-class cultural and tourism ecosystem,' he said. Tourism industry experts welcomed the integrated approach, saying that blending heritage, entertainment, and infrastructure could significantly increase Haryana's tourist inflow. Officials added that land acquisition and administrative work for the Disneyland project is already underway, and discussions with global partners are progressing. Groundwork is expected to begin in the coming months. However, the announcement has stirred political memories of an earlier, unsuccessful attempt. In 1989, the Om Prakash Chautala-led Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) government had proposed a Disney-style park over 28,000 acres in Gurugram. The project was scrapped following intense farmer protests over land acquisition, turning it into a politically sensitive issue. Abhay Singh Chautala, INLD's national president, lashed out at the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), accusing it of hypocrisy. 'The BJP vehemently opposed the 1989 proposal and even a plan for a casino in 2000. They must now explain what has changed,' he said. BJP, however, leaders defended the new project, drawing a distinction between past and present. 'Our opposition in 1989 was against the forcible acquisition of thousands of acres of farmers' land. This project is limited to 500 acres and will be executed in a manner that respects farmers' interests while promoting development,' said Arun Yadav, BJP social media head.
