Disney World expanding Fantasyland

DISNEY RENOVATING MAGIC KINGDOM

Walt Disney World's Fantasyland is undergoing a substantial renovation that will almost double the size of its wing in the Magic Kingdom by 2013.

The new features planned include: A "major" attraction featuring Ariel of "The Little Mermaid," a storytelling experience starring Belle of "Beauty and the Beast" and a new roller coaster - The Seven Dwarfs Mine Train.

And for princess-lovers, Cinderella, Aurora and other Disney royalty will hold court in a designated space within Fantasyland. (Translation: It'll be easier to get a photo op.)

According to Disney, construction is under way now with some attractions opening in late 2012.

SOUTHWEST FREQUENT FLIER UPGRADES

Good news for Long Island's Southwest devotees - the airline is revamping its frequent flier program. Starting March 1, Rapid Rewards members will begin earning points for flights that are based on ticket cost and category, as opposed to the current generic one-credit-per-flight program. Under the new system, points can be redeemed for any available seat on the airline's domestic or international flights (no blackout dates, either) - a generous perk, indeed.