Just returned...some observations and thoughts

[iron shemp]

Just got back from a week long stay. This was our first trip since January 1999. My wife and I went to celebrate our 25th anniversary (this was our 4th trip togther...the last two with our son but this time alone).
Some random comments about the trip....maybe for some newbies about what thay may see or expect. In no particular order....
-we will NOT go again in the summer. Waaaaay too hot and humid!!!! The MK wasn't too bad as any stores/attractions with AC are relatively close together so it's not a long walk to find some relief from the heat. Epcot in comparison, has just a lot of concrete between the attractions and we just found the heat and humidity much more draining there. We did stay for the fireworks which were awesome!! AK had a lot of shade but not as many AC buildings to go in to escape the heat.
-we expected there would be a LOT of crabby out-of-control hyper bratty kids and adults there. And there were......
-I was AMAZED at what parents let their kids eat for breakfast. We saw kids loading up on Coke and desserts at 8:30 for breakfast. No wonder these kids and/or parents were overweight.... (also see above observation).
- the Crocs we bought were GREAT!!!!!! I wore my New Balance running shoes twice and had very sore, achy feet by the end of the day. Still saw ladies wearing heels at the parks though (even at Typoon Lagoon a woman was trying to walk through the sand wearing 3" heels).
-I did the Richard Petty Driving Experience. I just did the 'ride-along'. It was pretty cool but over with much too quick. For $100+ they should do more than 3 laps. It was good but over-priced for what you actually get.
-We stayed at the Pop Century. It was just OK. Our room was actually quite noisy. We could hear people talking in the ajoining room (on our first night, the guests next door to us were having an arguement!!). We could ALWAYS hear the plumbing being used. Even though our room was a no-smoking room, we certainly could smell smoke. We thought it was from the sheets but we determined it probably came from the vent in the bathroom.
-We saw a family waiting in a bus line-up with a stroller AND a wagon!!!!! We had already boarded our bus (I think this was an Epcot or MGM bus) when we saw them in line but I'm not sure the driver would even allow a wagon on as you can not fold it up like a stroller. I think it would just block the aisle for everyone else (the wagon was loaded with several cooler bags of stuff).
-We saw lots of fat people at the water parks (well actually we saw fat people everywhere). Unless you are an Olympic swimmer, DO NOT even THINK about wearing a Speedo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! My eyes will never be the same after seeing some fat guys wearing those things last week. AMAZING!!!!!!
-The Dining Plan was excellent!! Eating at WDW seems to be the most expensive part of the trip. On past trips, we had never made dinner reservations before as we felt that we wanted to have a totally open itenerary and not plan too much. We found out very quick that we could not do that as the crowds were so large. So we phoned the reservations desk on the second day to make our dining reservations for the rest of the week.
-Cell phones......... we saw a LOT of people on their phones. Two days in a row we had boarded our bus with the same family going to one of the parks. BOTH times, the guy was on the phone constantly the whole trip working!! While waiting one morning I heard another guy on the phone saying "Well, just e-mail it to me and I'll head back to the room this afternoon to work on it". People, this is a V A C A T I O N with your family!!! Does your family really appreciated you leaving them while you head back to the room to work for an afternoon????????????? Leave the work alone for the week!!! I left all instructions with my co-workers. I will deal with any situations at work when I return but until then, I'm on vacation!!!!
-I know this will be a touchy subject on these boards, but do infants and babies really get anything out of a trip to WDW?????????????? I wonder just how much work is involved in looking after an infant or caring for a hot, cranky and tired toddler???? Our son was 7 the first time we took him to WDW. He truly had fun, did not need any looking after and appreciated and understood what was involved with such a trip. An out-of-control 2 or 3 year old honestly has no idea what the trip is about and how their tantrums or screaming/crying can ruin the experience for the parents and others around them. A parent cannot force their kid to have fun if they are hot, tired, hyped up from sugar or in such a mood that they just don't see straight anymore. I saw several mutual meltdowns with babies and toddlers with their parents. Is this really fun and healthy for them and other patrons around them???? No it isn't. Some parents just give up and let their kids go wild and don't say anything cause it's easier than trying to control them.

It was a great trip overall but too hot, humid and crowded. Next time will be a spring or fall trip.

Just my two cents, now flame away if you must. I'm ready for them..... :wave2:

[lauren_elizabeth]

Thanks for sharing! :)

[Yzma and Kronk]

Interesting observations on your recent trip.

Thanks for sharing!

[chigirl]

Iron shemp,
I 100% agree with everything you posted!
I was SHOCKED at the amount of seriously overweight children & adults at the parks/resorts on my trip last Sept. Especially the ones riding the electric chair scooter things whose only "handicap" was being morbidly obese. Don't get me wrong, I am a size 12. I am 5'8 and 175 pounds, but my cholesterol is great and my resting heart rate is like 58, I am in shape, but solid and my DH is a bigger guy, but these huge people shocked me, especially how poorly they allowed their obese kids to eat. Plus, I know I will get flamed, but I was pretty ticked at the extra load times for the busses for the electric chair people who were obese...I know they paid their money just as I did and have rights, but come on, get up and get some exercise! Plus, don't tell me about hormones & thyroids. I once weighed 128 pounds and was a size 3....I am the size I am because I eat more and exercise less, period.

Also agree 100% with the babies/small toddlers at WDW. Maybe all these people have tons of money to blow $3-5k on a trip that kids will never, ever remember? Seems a waste and stress, stress, stress filled! Glad we were forced to wait until our kids were older, we got a lot out of the trip.

The heat when we went last Sept was in the high 90's and like 80% humidity with a 66 dew point or something, hot and humid like Chicago. We drank a ton of water and had sprat bottles filled, but we were so happy to be on our first trip, we were just thrilled!

Also, I observed a lot of blue state vs. red state stuff between guests. My DH had an Old Navy t-shirt on that had a "Waynes Beer Delivery Waco, Texas" logo on it and I hear a family from NY call us "Hick Texans". We chuckled because we are from Chicago!!! Also the heckling from Red Staters at Clinton and from blue staters at Bush in Hall of Presidents. There are some serious wounds out there among our fellow US citizens...tons more examples like that, but who wants to go into that?

Overall, though, we ran into way more amazing CM's and guests that made our trip magical.

I know I am a sarcastic, cynical Chicagoan, but we still had an awesome time filled with pixie dust and look forward to it again this year!!!

[keliblue]

Personally, I think you spent way to much time observing others rather then enjoying your own vacation ...why ?. Also, Large people can enjoy their vaction too.. and shouldn't have to worry about others making remarks as to what they are wearing, eating or doing. I do believe that there are alot of thin parents with over weight children also.

[Mara]

Yes, I most definately agree about fat people and speedos do NOT go together. Or, for that matter, fat people in bikinis. =/

Anyway, about toddlers in Disney... last trip I went on with my family, my youngest brother was about 2 years old (2 and 3/4, to be more precise). It was NOT wasted on him. He loved it, and he remembers it (he's 4 now). He was even couragous enough to go on many of the rides, and enjoyed them. (He wanted to go on the Barnstormer, but calmly decided not to when given the chance)

(note, I didn't mean any offense. I am not bothered by overweight people usually, 'tis just... wearing almost nothing is bad enough on average folks, but... nyeh.)

[waltfan1957]

Plus, I know I will get flamed, but I was pretty ticked at the extra load times for the busses for the electric chair people who were obese...

you forgot to mention you are a medical profesional and can tell at a glance what is wrong with people :sad2: . its a pity these people held you up for minutes and ruined your stay, I bet they would have liked to be staring at you being loaded in a wheelchair
l

[mozzman]

i to am not sure why people go in july august :confused3 most reports i see say too hot too humid its got to be for people who can't go at any other time due to holidays and work commitments,i dont want to mention weight as i might be rather large myself after the food and beer i plan to devour,if anyone see's me after the first 10 days go easy on me ;)

[gonemousin']

I too returned this morning from our 9 day stay at Pop. I can't say I observed the same things as you. In my opinion, the heat and humidity was not nearly as bad as we anticipated. In fact, the first two nights of our stay were announced by the news as record lows for the state - and yesterday afternoon, at 4pm, was 73 degrees. My DH is not a warm weather kind of guy and even he was pleasantly pleased. There were a few tough days in the middle of the week, but other than that, I thought the weather was about 10 degrees cooler than a typical August visit.

As for the toddlers - I can certainly appreciate your frustration with cranky toddlers, but please understand that unruly toddlers are typically linked directly to their unruly parents. I'm proud to say that my almost 3 year old did not have ONE single melt down on our vacation. We maintained her normal sleep/nap schedule and she thoroughly enjoyed every moment of our trip. If you happened to be on any of the same buses we were on, you would have recognized her as the little, blonde, pony-tailed girl singing on the way to the parks AND on the way back from the parks...smiling, giggling, and trying to capture your attention in an effort to make you join in on her fun. I could never explain in one short sentence why I think bringing a 2-3 year old to WDW is so incredibly worthwhile in my opinion, but I will say that I enjoy every moment I spend with my DD's. Whether my youngest DD remembers her trip for the rest of her life is not important to my DH and I. What I want her to remember for the rest of her life is that she lives in a happy, loving, stable household where we treasure our time with each other as a family. Many people have very specific feelings on when to take a child to WDW for the first time. I think you should do what works for you and not judge others. I'm grateful that my DH and I have been fortunate enough to share family vacations with our two girls.

No flaming - just another opinion.

[Alicnwondrln]

my two year did not have many melt down but does have a tendency to scream and screach loudly as he has a speech issue
when he would do it i would get his focus and get hm back on track
there were time people were staring at us and i thought it was rude

i try not to judge others

[pixiechick]

We were with friends who have a 10 year old, an 8 year old and 2 year old. Should they leave they two year old at home? Does she not deserve to vacation with the rest of the family? Or should the other two not vacation until she's older?

We have an only child who started travelling extensively at age 5. We are very fortunate that vacationing is so easy. I was in awe of the extra work our friends had to go through to take their entire family on a great vacation. More power to those who can do so. :sunny:

[Laurajean1014]

Iron shemp,
I 100% agree with everything you posted!
I was SHOCKED at the amount of seriously overweight children & adults at the parks/resorts on my trip last Sept. Especially the ones riding the electric chair scooter things whose only "handicap" was being morbidly obese. Don't get me wrong, I am a size 12. I am 5'8 and 175 pounds, but my cholesterol is great and my resting heart rate is like 58, I am in shape, but solid and my DH is a bigger guy, but these huge people shocked me, especially how poorly they allowed their obese kids to eat. Plus, I know I will get flamed, but I was pretty ticked at the extra load times for the busses for the electric chair people who were obese...I know they paid their money just as I did and have rights, but come on, get up and get some exercise! Plus, don't tell me about hormones & thyroids. I once weighed 128 pounds and was a size 3....I am the size I am because I eat more and exercise less, period.

Also agree 100% with the babies/small toddlers at WDW. Maybe all these people have tons of money to blow $3-5k on a trip that kids will never, ever remember? Seems a waste and stress, stress, stress filled! Glad we were forced to wait until our kids were older, we got a lot out of the trip.

The heat when we went last Sept was in the high 90's and like 80% humidity with a 66 dew point or something, hot and humid like Chicago. We drank a ton of water and had sprat bottles filled, but we were so happy to be on our first trip, we were just thrilled!

Also, I observed a lot of blue state vs. red state stuff between guests. My DH had an Old Navy t-shirt on that had a "Waynes Beer Delivery Waco, Texas" logo on it and I hear a family from NY call us "Hick Texans". We chuckled because we are from Chicago!!! Also the heckling from Red Staters at Clinton and from blue staters at Bush in Hall of Presidents. There are some serious wounds out there among our fellow US citizens...tons more examples like that, but who wants to go into that?

Overall, though, we ran into way more amazing CM's and guests that made our trip magical.

I know I am a sarcastic, cynical Chicagoan, but we still had an awesome time filled with pixie dust and look forward to it again this year!!!


:tiptoe: :tiptoe: :tiptoe: :tiptoe:

[TigerLaw]

As an overweight person my whole life, let me tell you I am SHOCKED to see the comments on this thread. Do I support overweight persons wearing speedos - of course not! But w/o giving you 2 hours of all the things I missed out on in life due to my size (and folks, trust me, if it was as simple as not eating don't you think everyone would be skinny) WDW is the one place where I DON'T feel like I'm an outcast - that everyone is welcome.

I'm truly sorry all of us fat people appearantly ruined your trip, but given what you wrote, if you were grossed out or made to wait even a second more than necessary, I couldn't be happier, as it really must be nice for you to be so perfect!

[sorul82?]

Ok, OP, here come the flames!

1. MIL was one of those in a scooter...yes, I think she is lazy, but she also has a host of other problems. I would certainly have enjoyed my vacation more if we didn't have to wait for that darn thing to be loaded and unloaded all of the time. I have a new appreciation for my working legs and being able to go where I want.

2. Grandma also was in a wheel chair, but she is 78. She's not lazy, far from it, she's obviously worn out from her hard years on the farm.

3. You were probably smelling BIL smoke. Believe me, he received enough grief from the rest of us, and he is quitting.

4. My hubby was on the phone several times with his business partner....as in the OTHER employee of their two person business. Oh how nice it must be to be in corporate America where you can just leave work when you want. I think he "worked" a total of two hours on our trip. But, no worky, no paychecky!

[iron shemp]

Ok...I should clarify what I wrote earlier today.
We truly enjoyed our trip and are looking forward to heading back. The attractions have always been first rate (except maybe 'Sounds Dangerous with Drew Carey' at MGM...basically sitting in the dark with headphones for 10 minutes listening to Drew chase down some bad guys....the only clunker we've experienced at WDW). We still loved to see Muppet Vision 3D, Tower of Terror, Pirates of the Caribbean (my wife loved the new Jack Sparrow figures), The Adventurers Club is still a hoot, Thunder Mountain Railroad, the wave pool at Typhoon Lagoon, etc etc... All of those are wonderful!! The meals we had were terrific. The Disney cast members were always polite and helpful.
I just wanted to pass on some observations. WDW is a great place to people watch. You'll see and hear just about everything.
The whole weight thing is not just a WDW occurance. It's just a reflection of what our western society is moving towards. Our kids spend more time on their backsides on the computer or Playstations than ever before. They just are not getting the physical activity they should have. It would not surprise me to find out that their trips to the water parks are the most exercise they get all year. At Pop Century, the food court has many fruit cups, fresh fruit and juices to start your day with and it was sad to see so many kids head straight for the desserts and sodas. They'll be eating enough of that during the day, how about at least starting them off with something healthy??
Also, I never said anything about needing to wait while the buses load guests with disabilities or on scooters. WDW is exceptionally accomodating when it comes to people with disabilities. I honestly don't think anyone minds waiting while a driver assists someone boarding the bus first. We spend all day waiting in lines so what is a couple of minutes extra??
Our vacation was not ruined in the least (actually it was comical watching a woman with 3" heels trying to walk through the sand at Typhoon Lagoon). As I said above, we live in a heavy society (I need to lose 25 pounds myself). I was just making observations of what I saw. I was not being judgmental or critical (well trying not to be anyways).
People watching is great at WDW. Sit at a bench for a while and watch and listen to the world pass by. It's interesting. I'm sure any cast members who read these boards can tell dozens of stories of what they encounter daily while working there.

[makinorlando]

Personally, I think you spent way to much time observing others rather then enjoying your own vacation ...why ?. Also, Large people can enjoy their vaction too.. and shouldn't have to worry about others making remarks as to what they are wearing, eating or doing. I do believe that there are alot of thin parents with over weight children also.


:thumbsup2 What you said! I never get why folks have to worry about what other people are wearing, or what they look like. Why most people judge others due to the way they look or what they wear. If you were to make comments like this about any ethnic group in general, whether they be green, purple, yellow, etc. people would be appalled, but it's okay to comment on the size of people.

I normally don't bother even replying to these types of posts, but I have seen SOOOO many lately that I had to add my two cents - just once.

[noseybuddy]

I have to agree about the scooter use. I have no problem when DISABLED people use the scooters. But i do think there are people who take advantage of using these scooters when they really don't need them. I am not one to really WATCH people when I go to WDW. I just got back also and I have to say that I did notice very many overweight people, especially whole families. Also, the toddler issue. I took my kids to WDW when they were 5 and 3. I never had a problem with mine having melt downs. Just lucky I guess. But I did see a lot of this there and the funny thing is the parents were having the melt down with them. Not really funny, kinda sad actually. With the heat and everyone being tired it is bound to happen.

[UtahMama]

I am SOOO glad you explained yourself!
I noticed you are new here. I asume you "lurked" a while?
I need to lose 30 pounds myself, but this isnt the Weight Watchers web site. You offended ALOT of people with the Fat cracks alone! People of size have the right to go on vacation too, believe it or not. Fat people have the right to wear a Speedo or Bikini even if it offends your eyes. I choose not to wear a bikini (You're Welcome!) but if I did, I would hope no one would be judging me and posting it on the DIS.
Another thing that ruffled my feathers a little was you judging people's parenting style. I am the best mother ever (ok, that's just my opinion, of course!) but my last child is a little pill (to be nice) but I am not going to stay home because she might offend someone. I properly "deal" with her and have a wonderful vacation! There's SO much enrichment for babies and toddlers at Walt Disney World! (Plus she's free!!!! :thumbsup2 ) But that's my opinion. Your opinion works for YOUR family. And that's fine.
All flaming aside, I am glad you guys had a nice vacation! Maybe go for X-mas one year to avoid the heat a little? Also, a moderate or deluxe resort should be alot quieter.

[Disneyland_Mama]

I just wanted to comment on your views of bringing small toddlers/babies to WDW. I struggled with this myself, being a mother of a DD4 and DS2. Why should I spend 4-5K on a vacation they won't even remember? My father told me this: "You aren't taking the children for a vacation they'll remember.. you're taking them on a vacation YOU'LL remember. They will love WDW, they love all things Disney. They will live in the moment and love every moment they are there and YOU will remember this vacation for the rest of your life and remembering every expression and every moment of joy."
Let me tell you, that sold me. I book our vacation that day. So, if I chose to spend my money on my kids, that my business.
Now, unruly, cranky kids.... this is not the kids fault. This is the parents poor timing and the Dumbo or Die attitude. If more people had the "We will not see and do everything on this trip, then they wouldn't have to deal with cranky toddlers!
Also your comments about "fat" people, weren't nice and just for that if I want to wear a LIME green bikini to TL, I can! But I wouldn't.
Anyway, hope you had a great trip and :welcome:

[teentoddlermom]

I took my 18 month old on vacation in 1992, not because he would enjoy it, but because I needed to be in WDW, and he was my responsibility now that I was a parent! He came, acted like a 2 year old, and dosen't remember it. But I remember that trip fondly, and being happy makes me a better parent! Case closed!

[Bay in TN]

People watching is great at WDW. Sit at a bench for a while and watch and listen to the world pass by. It's interesting. I'm sure any cast members who read these boards can tell dozens of stories of what they encounter daily while working there.

I'll agree with the statement above. I love people-watching at WDW. I love watching happy people being happy. I love watching young couples in love, old couples enjoying the fireworks arm-in-arm, little children at play, and adults who are enjoying the peculiarly grown-up delights of the World. I love watching people rush for their favorite attractions while other people stroll by and enjoy the ambience. I love watching the CM's make guests happy. I love watching that expression of recognition pass over a woman's face when she realizes the music playing on Main Street was a song in the musical during which she met her husband 20 years ago.

I love watching children spy a bunny on the lawn in front of the Plaza Restaurant. I love watching parade performers as they smile and wave at guests. I love watching kids when they get their first taste of a Mickey bar -- or the shocked disappointment that comes when they drop their ice cream, and then the expression of happiness when they're soothed by their parents over the mishap. I love watching people's mouths drop open in wonder when they examine the carvings on the Tree of Life. I love watching everyone -- young, old, and in-between -- point and gasp when they see the tigers on the Maharaja Jungle Trek. I love watching entire families laugh and talk about their day so far while they ride the train to Toon Town Fair.

I love, love, *love* seeing a child's face when she finally gets to hug Cinderalla. I love watching children run out of the exit from Buzz Lightyear, yelling at their parents about how *cool* the ride is. I love watching the CM's at the Haunted Mansion as they cast their spell over guests waiting to enter the doors. I absolutely adore the way the whole audience slowly turns around to face the back wall at the end of Mickey's Philharmagic as it dawns on them that there's something important going on back there.

I love people watching at WDW.

I can't wait to get back there, myself.

--Bay

[kmk160]

I too must chime in on the children issue in Disney. I just returned from a weeks stay with a 3yo and a 5 month old. My 3yo son has been to Disney now 3 times, the first being at 18 months.
He now notices EVERYTHING there and appreciates the trip in each way that a 3yo can. My 5 month old dd was an angel. Didnt whine, fuss, cry. Instead, she went with the flow and enjoyed her first magical trip.
Will she remember it? Never in a million years. But I teared up each time I saw her and my son in the best place on earth. Its a kids' place, for big and small alike!!!!

[dana1003]

thanks about the reply about the toddlers..we're bringing 3 year old twin toddlers an i think they're gonna love it. myhusband thinks its a waste of time blah blah blah...but thankfully we have 5 adults going so the stress can be divided. thanks for the positive outlook :)

[LindaBabe]

this isnt the Weight Watchers web site. You offended ALOT of people with the Fat cracks alone! People of size have the right to go on vacation too, believe it or not.

Believe me, If I could weigh a lot less, I would, JOYFULLY. If I could have normal lung capacity, and a strong painfree body, I would leave the ecv behind, HAPPILY!

Using an ecv makes it possible for me to enjoy a vacation at Disney World, with my family and friends (and yes, I have LOTS of them, despite being overweight and mobility impaired.)

My Disney trip has a lot of views of other peoples behinds and cigarettes in their cupped hands down at child eye level. I've learned that even waiting my turn at a character or event, I often get overlooked because I'm not at the cm's eye level. I've learned there's a lot of rudeness at Disney as well as a lot of kindness.

My message to YOU, OP, is - before Someone greater than all of us judges YOU - you might want to learn NOT to judge others until you walk a mile in their shoes.

[OhMari]

I would truly like to lock this thread, but I think the OP came back and explained himself, and he also received some great replies, especially the very positive ones, "why you attend WDW". Let's let this thread go, otherwise it will turn into a huge debate, and this is not a debate board, it's a Trip Report Board and sometimes we have to take the good with the some times not so good.

Ohmari
Trip Report Moderator.

[SueM in MN]

I have to agree about the scooter use. I have no problem when DISABLED people use the scooters. But i do think there are people who take advantage of using these scooters when they really don't need them.
I just wanted to say that the word "advantage" often comes up when people are talking about others using a scooter or wheelchair.
Many people seem to think that there is some great advantage to using wheelchairs or ECVs (scooters), like getting to the front of lines.
People think that, but that doesn't make it so.
People using wheelchairs or ECVs don't get out of waiting in line.
Most of the lines at WDW are wheelchair accessible, so there are very few situations where someone actually goes thru a wheelchair entrance. In most cases, they wait in the same line with everyone else. For a very few attractions, there is an alternate entrace because the regular one isn't accessible and was not able to be made accessible (most in MK or Epcot since they were built before accessibility was thought of). There are some others, where the boarding area is not accessible and wheelchair/ECV users wait in the regular or Fastpass line and then are pulled into a different area for loading (Buzz Lightyear, Haunted Mansion and Splash Mountain are examples).

One of the other things that people who don't use wheelchairs don't know is where people with wheelchairs go when they are taken out of the line. They assume those people who 'disappear' from the line are boarding right away, but that is not usually the case.
If they can't board at the regular boarding spot, they are pulled out of the line - usually just before the regular line gets to the boarding area (so they have already waited as long as everyone that got in the line the same time as they did).
For example, at Buzz Lightyear, the 'pull off point' is after you have gone thru the room with the large Buzz Lightyear, near the point where regular line is beginning to enter the actual boarding area. Guests with wheelchairs/ ECVs are pulled out of line at that point and sent to the exit - not to board right away, but to wait. If there are too many people with disabilities already on the attraction, you have to wait for some to get off (for fire safetly and evacuation reasons). Because our DD can't get out of her wheelchair easily, we have to wait extra for a special car that the wheelchair can be loaded on. We usually see the people who were right ahead of us in line getting off after riding while we are still waiting to board. In some rides, boarding at the accessible area means you miss part of the attraction; for example, at Haunted Mansion, you miss the entire 'stretching room' part of the attraction.

The Safari at AK is notorious for extra waits for people with disabilities. Our longest wait there was an EXTRA 40 minutes at a time when the regular line was walk on and Safari Trams were pulling out partially loaded because people were not walking up fast enough to fill them.

Spaceship Earth is a ride with a handicapped entrance, but during times when other passengers are able to walk right on, our wait is usually 20-30 minutes.

AK and the Studio were built with what are called 'Mainstream Lines'. These are lines where the regular line is wheelchair/ECV accessible and a person using a wheelchair or ECV waits in the same line with everyone else.

Here's what it says in the official WDW Guidebook for Guests with Disabilities about Mainstream Lines and the list of attractions with Mainstream Queues:
As you can see, most of the lines are Mainstream Queues:

Magic Kingdom® Park
Ariel's Grotto
Astro Orbiter
Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin
Donald's Boat
Judge's Tent
Mickey's Country House
Mickey's PhilharMagic
Mike Fink Keelboats (seasonal)
Minnie's Country House
Pirates of the Caribbean
Space Mountain®
Splash Mountain®
Stitch's Great Escape!™
The Barnstormer at Goofy's Wiseacres Farm
"The Enchanted Tiki Room Under New Management"
The Hall of Presidents
The Magic Carpets of Aladdin
The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
The Timekeeper (seasonal)
Tomorrowland® Indy Speedway
Toontown Hall of Fame
Walt Disney's Carousel of Progress (seasonal)

Epcot®
FUTURE WORLD
Imagination!: All Attractions
Innoventions East
Innoventions West
Mission: SPACE
Test Track
The Living Seas: All Attractions
The Land: All Attractions
Universe of Energy: "Ellen's Energy Adventure"
Wonders of Life: All Attractions (seasonal)

WORLD SHOWCASE
China: "Reflections of China"
France: "Impressions de France"
FriendShip Boats
Norway: Maelstrom
The American Adventure: "The American Adventure"

Disney-MGM Studios
Disney-MGM Studios Backlot Tour
Fantasmic!
Lights, Motors, Action!™ Extreme Stunt Show
Muppet*Vision 3D
Playhouse Disney - Live On Stage!
Rock 'n' Roller Coaster® Starring Aerosmith
Sounds Dangerous - Starring Drew Carey
Star Tours
The Great Movie Ride
The Magic of Disney Animation
"The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror™"
Voyage of the Little Mermaid
Walt Disney: One Man's Dream
Who Wants To Be A Millionaire - Play It!

Disney's Animal Kingdom® Theme Park
Caravan Stage: "Flights of Wonder"
DINOSAUR
Grandmother Willow's Grove: "Pocahontas and Her forest friends"
It's Tough To Be A Bug
Kali River Rapids
Kilimanjaro Safaris
Lion King Theater: "Festival of the Lion King"
Maharajah Jungle Trek
Primeval Whirl
Theater in the Wild: "Tarzan Rocks!"
The Boneyard
TriceraTop Spin

I wanted to add that Soarin' and EE are missing from the list. They are both Mainstream Access.
And, some attractions have limited number of spots for wheelchairs. We have already shown up for shows where there was still room for ambulatory people, but the wheelchair spots were already filled for that show and we had to wait for the next one (Voyage of the Little Mermaid, where we had Fastpasses; and ITTBAB, where the CMs were practically begging people to come into the queue because there was no wait in the standby line.

So, the biggest advantage to using a wheelchair or ECV is having a spot to sit while you are waiting. People who write about wheelchair/ECV 'abuse' usually add something like this:
I have to agree about the scooter use. I have no problem when DISABLED people use the scooters.
First, since there is little advantage to using them, why does it really matter to anyone besides the person who is shelling out the money - not cheap - $10.00 rental a day (wheelchairs); $35.00 rental a day + $5.00 deposit (ECVs).
The second reason is that you can't tell by looking who is DISABLED or not. While we have been resting at WDW, with DD out of her wheelchair, sitting on a bench, we have heard people say she was "one of those people, cheating with a wheelchair" to get ahead in line. That was said because the person saw her out of her wheelchair and decided that meant she didn't really need it. That's despite the true fact that my DD can't walk unless someone is standing behind her holding her up and is not even able to get from the wheelchair to a bench without a great deal of assistance (she can't even walk with a traditional walker and needs something more supportive called a gait trainer that takes 2 people to put her in).

[Ladybugsy]

My message to YOU, OP, is - before Someone greater than all of us judges YOU - you might want to learn NOT to judge others until you walk a mile in their shoes.

Couldn't have said it better myself. It's too bad that character flaws are not physically visable. Wouldn't it be nice if child molesters had big moles on the end of their noses so we could snub them. Wouldn't it be nice if abusers had hairy warts on their hands so we could identify them? And if gossipers had green and purple lips? Yet characterless people talk about others they don't even know, or have any idea of what goes on in their life like they have the right to judge them. Fat, disabled, not well behaved, whatever their 'flaw'...they all paid for their trips the same as everyone else and deserve to be treated with just a tad of RESPECT. It's just shameful when people think they are better because of such trivial things. When in fact, it's just none of your business in the least! Enjoy your vacation and let others enjoy theirs. If what you SEE bothers you...go somewhere else. :confused3

[Sooze]

I love people-watching at WDW. I love watching happy people being happy. I love watching young couples in love, old couples enjoying the fireworks arm-in-arm, little children at play, and adults who are enjoying the peculiarly grown-up delights of the World. I love watching people rush for their favorite attractions while other people stroll by and enjoy the ambience. I love watching the CM's make guests happy. I love watching that expression of recognition pass over a woman's face when she realizes the music playing on Main Street was a song in the musical during which she met her husband 20 years ago.

I love watching children spy a bunny on the lawn in front of the Plaza Restaurant. I love watching parade performers as they smile and wave at guests. I love watching kids when they get their first taste of a Mickey bar -- or the shocked disappointment that comes when they drop their ice cream, and then the expression of happiness when they're soothed by their parents over the mishap. I love watching people's mouths drop open in wonder when they examine the carvings on the Tree of Life. I love watching everyone -- young, old, and in-between -- point and gasp when they see the tigers on the Maharaja Jungle Trek. I love watching entire families laugh and talk about their day so far while they ride the train to Toon Town Fair.

I love, love, *love* seeing a child's face when she finally gets to hug Cinderalla. I love watching children run out of the exit from Buzz Lightyear, yelling at their parents about how *cool* the ride is. I love watching the CM's at the Haunted Mansion as they cast their spell over guests waiting to enter the doors. I absolutely adore the way the whole audience slowly turns around to face the back wall at the end of Mickey's Philharmagic as it dawns on them that there's something important going on back there.


--Bay

That was amazing :goodvibes . Thanks for that!!

[sorul82?]

This was my first time experiencing Disney from the disabled point of view. We got FP's for Kali. We entered through the FP line, but near the ride entrance, we had to go over to the handicap entrance. Here we waited an additional 30 minutes. A few times we waited an hour for buses because either the lines were too long and we didn't want to roll up ahead of those who had been waiting, or there were already chairs in line, so even though the bus was not full, we had to wait for another bus. Some rides require EVC riders to transfer to a wheelchair. This sometimes added 15 minutes to our already long wait while the CM went to hunt down a wheelchair. At shows, wheelchairs sit at the very back, so hopefully they have good eyesight. If the wheelchair bound can't transfer to a seat, they miss bugs running under their fannies, and mice between their legs. I personally did not find one perk that went along with EVC's.

[SueM in MN]

This was my first time experiencing Disney from the disabled point of view. We got FP's for Kali. We entered through the FP line, but near the ride entrance, we had to go over to the handicap entrance. Here we waited an additional 30 minutes.
welcome to our world. :wave:
Thanks for your report about the realities of travel with an ECV.

[JillL.]

WOW!

I'm so glad walt didnt share some of these opinions!!! :tink:

we took our 10 month old with us last year...he had a blast! when one particularly Grumpy lady at work asked "why do you take your children to disney while they are so young and espeacially taking a baby! what a waste they will never remember it!"

I told her 3 things:

1. How could I go on family vacation and leave part of my family at home?

2. at the age my kids are at (3 kids under 7) the magic is real..that is cinderella..that is mickey mouse :smickey: !

3. I take them because i will remember. did she not get christmas gifts from santa or take her kids to sit on his lap :santa: untill they were 5 or 6 because they wouldnt remember...does them not remembering make the wonder of christmas through their eyes a waste!?

Disney Is like christmas morning to us! seeing the wonder and joy in their faces is worth the schedule to fit in naps and taking it slower! pixiedust:

[UtahMama]

WOW!

I'm so glad walt didnt share some of these opinions!!! :tink:

we took our 10 month old with us last year...he had a blast! when one particularly Grumpy lady at work asked "why do you take your children to disney while they are so young and espeacially taking a baby! what a waste they will never remember it!"

I told her 3 things:

1. How could I go on family vacation and leave part of my family at home?

2. at the age my kids are at (3 kids under 7) the magic is real..that is cinderella..that is mickey mouse :smickey: !

3. I take them because i will remember. did she not get christmas gifts from santa or take her kids to sit on his lap :santa: untill they were 5 or 6 because they wouldnt remember...does them not remembering make the wonder of christmas through their eyes a waste!?

Disney Is like christmas morning to us! seeing the wonder and joy in their faces is worth the schedule to fit in naps and taking it slower! pixiedust:


:goodvibes Good Post! I am getting SOOO excited to take my 2 year old! She likes Minnie and Rella-Rella! They are real to her and Disney IS like Christmas morning for all of us! Probably even the OP!

[chigirl]

Ok...I should clarify what I wrote earlier today.
We truly enjoyed our trip and are looking forward to heading back. The attractions have always been first rate (except maybe 'Sounds Dangerous with Drew Carey' at MGM...basically sitting in the dark with headphones for 10 minutes listening to Drew chase down some bad guys....the only clunker we've experienced at WDW). We still loved to see Muppet Vision 3D, Tower of Terror, Pirates of the Caribbean (my wife loved the new Jack Sparrow figures), The Adventurers Club is still a hoot, Thunder Mountain Railroad, the wave pool at Typhoon Lagoon, etc etc... All of those are wonderful!! The meals we had were terrific. The Disney cast members were always polite and helpful.
I just wanted to pass on some observations. WDW is a great place to people watch. You'll see and hear just about everything.
The whole weight thing is not just a WDW occurance. It's just a reflection of what our western society is moving towards. Our kids spend more time on their backsides on the computer or Playstations than ever before. They just are not getting the physical activity they should have. It would not surprise me to find out that their trips to the water parks are the most exercise they get all year. At Pop Century, the food court has many fruit cups, fresh fruit and juices to start your day with and it was sad to see so many kids head straight for the desserts and sodas. They'll be eating enough of that during the day, how about at least starting them off with something healthy??
Also, I never said anything about needing to wait while the buses load guests with disabilities or on scooters. WDW is exceptionally accomodating when it comes to people with disabilities. I honestly don't think anyone minds waiting while a driver assists someone boarding the bus first. We spend all day waiting in lines so what is a couple of minutes extra??
Our vacation was not ruined in the least (actually it was comical watching a woman with 3" heels trying to walk through the sand at Typhoon Lagoon). As I said above, we live in a heavy society (I need to lose 25 pounds myself). I was just making observations of what I saw. I was not being judgmental or critical (well trying not to be anyways).
People watching is great at WDW. Sit at a bench for a while and watch and listen to the world pass by. It's interesting. I'm sure any cast members who read these boards can tell dozens of stories of what they encounter daily while working there.


Unfortunately, Iron Shemp...
on any discussion board of any kind, as in politics, they thoughtful sharing of opinions and different views is unexceptable. People want it their way or the highway.

Plus, sarcasm is NEVER appreciated! I should know, as 99.5 % of my posts are taken the wrong way. I am glad you enjoyed your trip!

[S.Poppins]

Plus, sarcasm is NEVER appreciated! I should know, as 99.5 % of my posts are taken the wrong way. I am glad you enjoyed your trip![/QUOTE]

Wow, that should tell you something. Some sarcasm is fun and witty and I think people appreciate it. But I found your comments more offensive than the OP. My MIL and FIL both used ECVs last year. One was overweight with bad knees and one has diabetes and a heart problem. I did not enjoy traveling with ECVs, if you thought it was frustrating to have to wait an extra few minutes for the bus, you should have tried all the waiting we did all day. We missed the beginning of attractions, sat in the back of theaters, dealt with rude people making unnecessary sarcastic comments, etc... Not to mention the expense of 2 ECVs per day. It made me very thankful that I can walk for hours at WDW. To me it was sad that the OP only focused on the negative aspects of his trip. I had much rather focus on the fun. :)

[SleepingBeautyDreamr]

WOW!

I'm so glad walt didnt share some of these opinions!!! :tink:

we took our 10 month old with us last year...he had a blast! when one particularly Grumpy lady at work asked "why do you take your children to disney while they are so young and espeacially taking a baby! what a waste they will never remember it!"

I told her 3 things:

1. How could I go on family vacation and leave part of my family at home?

2. at the age my kids are at (3 kids under 7) the magic is real..that is cinderella..that is mickey mouse :smickey: !

3. I take them because i will remember. did she not get christmas gifts from santa or take her kids to sit on his lap :santa: untill they were 5 or 6 because they wouldnt remember...does them not remembering make the wonder of christmas through their eyes a waste!?

Disney Is like christmas morning to us! seeing the wonder and joy in their faces is worth the schedule to fit in naps and taking it slower! pixiedust:
I am glad you posted this. But I can tell you from experience don't count out your children remembering any of it. I was taken to DL when I was 2 and I have 2 very good memories of it 32 years later. So they may just remember more than you think they will :thumbsup2

[diz8297]

Pardon me, but you didn't just "people watch". In your original post you passed judgement on overweight people and commented on their attire for the entertainment of those who might read your post. How sad. I certainly hope that you never have a condition where you look or act different from other people-from what you consider to be "normal". Trust me-I'ld give my eye teeth to be thin. Do you think all overweight people just sit around eating oreos?? You have no idea. Also, people bring their children to Disney World because they love them and want to spend time with them. We started taking our children when they were 13 months old and I hope that they will always want to come with us. If they bring their kids, we'll really tick you off-me overweight, my mother in an ecv, and little ones in tow.
But hey-we're happy and we respect other people. Can you say the same??

[Patsfan7]

I thank you for your observations. I also thank the people that have given reasons why I take my little ones, why people of size go to WDW, and what underlying health problems that you may not see of which people in the ECV's may have. I think that others have addressed what may not be realized in a moments observation.

I wanted to post a story to explain why some people have to work while on vacation.

I would love for my husband to have been able not to work while on vacation, heck, who wouldn't??? But, he was the operations manager for a telecommunications company responsible for a few states worth of business customers. When I had my first child, he took a week off to be with me. I mean really took a week off, (checked in once to make sure things were running smoothly as I recall). Do you know what was waiting for him when he returned? Two "write ups" for things that his team of 12 did not address while he was out. (We were at home, our phone worked, but nobody called for assistance, nor did the management call to alert him of any problems.) After two write ups, the next step is termination! A nice new baby at home, and return to the realization that you could be fired at any moment.


I am trying to bring to light, that although nobody WANTS to work during vacation, sometimes, if you want to return to a job, you had best work during vacation, or suffer the severe consequences-the possibility of coming home to no job at all. (which is exactly what happened when I was three months pregnant with #2)

(also have a story on why to read the paper and check your stocks every day of vacation.... or else you come home to a crash you never knew about!)

[Hoosier Mom]

well, I just have to chime in about the breakfast observation.....

You suggested fruit & fruit juice instead of dessert & coke.

While fruit & fruit juice does have more nutritional value, it still is a surge of sugar. It would probably have the same effect that the dessert & coke has.

The mickey waffles and pancakes are pretty much a dessert too. The same for poptarts and donuts too.

When I had gestional diabetes even cherios and milk would cause my sugar to rise significantly.

Glad you enjoyed your trip. We'll be there next month and we're taking our 18 month old. I'm sure he'll have a grand time.

[iron shemp]

Boy oh boy.... I feel like I've been barbequed with all the flames. But that's OK with me. :thumbsup2
I was just stating what I saw. I could absolutley make the same observations of people in my hometown..at the airport where we flew out of...at my workplace... The media is full of articles and reports of the obesity crisis facing North Americans. It's just a fact without any judgments entering into the discussion. But in the posts I saw following my trip report and also in private e-mails I received, not one person defended or even commented on my observation of kids drinking sodas and having doughnuts for breakfast. In my view that is the worst thing I saw. With all of the fresh fruits and much healthier breakfast foods availabe in the food courts, is it OK for kids to start their days with that in their bellys??
Anyway, this is obviously a very touchy subject and this thread will probably be locked by the moderator because of the controversy. So, can we please move on????
I do have a question of a much less sensitive nature though if I may.
I did mention in my second post that we did have a terrific time in spite of what some people may think. WDW has always got top marks for their rides and attractions but I was disappointed in one. 'Sounds Dangerous with Drew Carey' at MGM was pretty lame. Has anyone been disappointed by anything at WDW?? We are all fans of WDW (yes even me) and many people have been a great number of times. But has anyone come off a ride or exited an attraction and thought "What's up with that??"
Just wondering......

[WDW Poly Princess]

Just to put a different perspective on it - If I had to choose between doing some work over the phone or having to stay home from the trip, I'd do the work over the phone!

If I had to choose between taking a very young child along even though they may not "enjoy" it, or having to skip the trip for a few years until they were older? I'd take the small child.

The fruit for breakfast you mention is also loaded with sugar- off the top of my head, I can't think of any super-healthy breakfast options there. Our theory has always been "It's vacation, eat whatever you want!" Letting the kids eat horrible food for a few days on vacation won't kill them, as long as things are kept healthy at home.

It seems like there are rumors of Sounds Dangerous being replaced sometime soon? I really wish that had gone away instead of Millionare!

[tmarquez]

The best thing about going to Disney with a very young child is that you spend all your time watching the child enjoy and take in all the magic around you...instead of being bothered by how total strangers look or what they are doing while on your vacation. :sunny:

[mrFDNY]

Hi all,
I think the op was just writing his opinions,which btw is different for person to person. You get no flames from me,I'm not the flamming type.
One point i wanted to make i think certain issues here on this thread comes from where you grew up and that too is different from person to person. I hear many peolple on this board complain that pop is crowed or very loud. I have stayed at pop 3 different times and did not find that,however i was born and raised and still live in nyc,brooklyn to be exact.We are the city that never sleeps and its true,there is always noise here eithier its a car horn or people talking outside at 3 or 4 am.Its not uncommon to have a traffic jam in front of my house at 2am or 3 or 4 am.Walking the streets in the afternoon it can be you and 200 other people walking the same street with you.So i think while i can see how the crowds and noise might bother some,me and my family are just used to it,we see and hear it daily,so at wdw its no big deal and we don't even notice it,unless we look for it.Anyway just a point i wanted to share with you all.Have a great day all,and get along with each other,please.

[frijole]

Well I agree that most overweight people have a medical condition. The majority of them suffer from that awful hand to mouth disease....

[DJ Disney Kid]

Ok...I should clarify what I wrote earlier today.
We truly enjoyed our trip and are looking forward to heading back. The attractions have always been first rate (except maybe 'Sounds Dangerous with Drew Carey' at MGM...basically sitting in the dark with headphones for 10 minutes listening to Drew chase down some bad guys....the only clunker we've experienced at WDW). We still loved to see Muppet Vision 3D, Tower of Terror, Pirates of the Caribbean (my wife loved the new Jack Sparrow figures), The Adventurers Club is still a hoot, Thunder Mountain Railroad, the wave pool at Typhoon Lagoon, etc etc... All of those are wonderful!! The meals we had were terrific. The Disney cast members were always polite and helpful.
I just wanted to pass on some observations. WDW is a great place to people watch. You'll see and hear just about everything.
The whole weight thing is not just a WDW occurance. It's just a reflection of what our western society is moving towards. Our kids spend more time on their backsides on the computer or Playstations than ever before. They just are not getting the physical activity they should have. It would not surprise me to find out that their trips to the water parks are the most exercise they get all year. At Pop Century, the food court has many fruit cups, fresh fruit and juices to start your day with and it was sad to see so many kids head straight for the desserts and sodas. They'll be eating enough of that during the day, how about at least starting them off with something healthy??
Also, I never said anything about needing to wait while the buses load guests with disabilities or on scooters. WDW is exceptionally accomodating when it comes to people with disabilities. I honestly don't think anyone minds waiting while a driver assists someone boarding the bus first. We spend all day waiting in lines so what is a couple of minutes extra??
Our vacation was not ruined in the least (actually it was comical watching a woman with 3" heels trying to walk through the sand at Typhoon Lagoon). As I said above, we live in a heavy society (I need to lose 25 pounds myself). I was just making observations of what I saw. I was not being judgmental or critical (well trying not to be anyways).
People watching is great at WDW. Sit at a bench for a while and watch and listen to the world pass by. It's interesting. I'm sure any cast members who read these boards can tell dozens of stories of what they encounter daily while working there.

I agree with alot of your statements, especially the whole "bringing babies to DW" thing, but you kind of contradict yourself. You said that people shouldn't work cause there on VACATION!!! But what about those kids you see grabbing coke and ice cream for breakfast? Maybe at home they are forced to eat healthy, but now there on vacation and given the ability to just enjoy their choice of breakfast.

I say, on vacation, you should leave all the work at home and you should be able to eat whatever you want!

[scrap4u]

Personally, I think you spent way to much time observing others rather then enjoying your own vacation ...why ?. Also, Large people can enjoy their vaction too.. and shouldn't have to worry about others making remarks as to what they are wearing, eating or doing. I do believe that there are alot of thin parents with over weight children also.

Keliblue--we'll be at POFQ 9/9-9/16 and are attending MNSSHP on 9/15 also! Maybe we'll see you there! We'll have our LGMHPC on!

[JR6ooo4]

I am impressed that on your 25th anniversary you can stil smoke up the sheets!

Mikeeee

[keliblue]

Well I agree that most overweight people have a medical condition. The majority of them suffer from that awful hand to mouth disease....


:sad2: This statement is uneducated , unnecessary and cruel !! . :sad2:

[UtahMama]

I sort of liked Sounds Dangerous, BUT it was because my baby was asleep! That would have been a NOT good disney moment if she woke up during it. Would have made a few people mad I brought her in. But she slept, thank goodness! I dont like when parents dont escort freaking out babies out of the attraction. Because I wouldnt want to bug the other people! No, Im not being sarcastic. Plus the attraction was very air conditioned as I recall. It could have been lame???

[Am_I_There_Yet]

I sort of liked Sounds Dangerous, BUT it was because my baby was asleep! That would have been a NOT good disney moment if she woke up during it. Would have made a few people mad I brought her in. But she slept, thank goodness! I dont like when parents dont escort freaking out babies out of the attraction. Because I wouldnt want to bug the other people! No, Im not being sarcastic. Plus the attraction was very air conditioned as I recall. It could have been lame???

Is it just me that is uncomfortable using a headset after other people? I have a fear of getting lice from those.

It just seems so unsanitary. At least the 3D glasses are new (they'd better not be reused), but those are put on head, after head, after head.

I'm not normally a germaphobe, or a worry wart, but those things do bother me. To me they're a lice transporter waiting to happen. :blush:

[dollcollector1]

Personally, I think you spent way to much time observing others rather then enjoying your own vacation ...why ?. Also, Large people can enjoy their vaction too.. and shouldn't have to worry about others making remarks as to what they are wearing, eating or doing. I do believe that there are alot of thin parents with over weight children also.

Don't be so hard on the OP. People watching is great. There's nothing wrong with that at all .Doesn't this forum encourage Disney vacationers to find fellow Dissers, by spotting the LGMHPCs? Maybe the OP was looking for the lime green ribbons , lime green Mickey heads and other whatnots sported by others.

[SUSIEQ]

Is it just me that is uncomfortable using a headset after other people? I have a fear of getting lice from those.

It just seems so unsanitary. At least the 3D glasses are new (they'd better not be reused), but those are put on head, after head, after head.

I'm not normally a germaphobe, or a worry wart, but those things do bother me. To me they're a lice transporter waiting to happen. :blush:

OT, but I always thought the 3D glasses were reused.

[dollcollector1]

The whole weight thing is not just a WDW occurance. It's just a reflection of what our western society is moving towards.

How true. I remember the old days when the Whopper and Big Mac were considered a HUGE sandwich. Not anymore. Every time I see the new Denny's ad for their super size Grand Slam breakfast, I feel like
http://i110.photobucket.com/albums/n85/dollcollector1/anim_puke-1.gif

[NJOGRE]

YOu know what I think about your report, I can't say I would get thrown off the board if I told you. I have a 2 1/2 year old and this november will be her 3rd time. Does she know what going on of course she does thats all she will talk about, and yes she has been talking since since was 13 months old and would probably give any 5 yearold a run for there money. Get al ife and stop judging other people. That is whats wrong with the world today. If everyone could stop judging and get along life and the woirld would be a better place. YOu are probably the type of person if I stopped you in NYC to ask the time you would just kepp going. So enjoy WDW for yourself and not worry about the people or the kids. It would make your experience alot better

[NJOGRE]

I also like sounds dangerous, it uses your imagination. You don't need to be overloaded with other peoples ideas how something is supposed to look. Like old time radio.

[Am_I_There_Yet]

OT, but I always thought the 3D glasses were reused.

Yuck.

[ddiva]

I'd like to comment on the child obesity concern. First, I am 5'8" and weigh 125lbs and exercise regularly. My 11 year old son weighs more than me, however, I do not purchase junk food, eat fast food, and pack his lunch everyday. He gets the right amount of exercise, as he is always outside playing basketball or football. He's been a big boy his whole life, but we do everything right and his physician has no concerns about his weight. When we go on vacation, the whole family indulges in foods we don't normally partake in. I'm sure that many families do the same. If a child wants to eat a cookie for breakfast, who cares? They're on vacation like the rest of us. Just a thought, but don't judge a book by it's cover.

[gonemousin']

I'd like to comment on the child obesity concern. First, I am 5'8" and weigh 125lbs and exercise regularly. My 11 year old son weighs more than me, however, I do not purchase junk food, eat fast food, and pack his lunch everyday. He gets the right amount of exercise, as he is always outside playing basketball or football. He's been a big boy his whole life, but we do everything right and his physician has no concerns about his weight. When we go on vacation, the whole family indulges in foods we don't normally partake in. I'm sure that many families do the same. If a child wants to eat a cookie for breakfast, who cares? They're on vacation like the rest of us. Just a thought, but don't judge a book by it's cover.

I totally agree! My DH and I are VERY strict with our 2 girls - they're restricted to an hour/day of TV or computer (most days go without them even using 5 minutes of their hour), and we work hard to teach them how to eat healthy and exercise. My DD6 has always been off the growth charts and is a solid gal (not quite chubby, but definitely not scrawny)...my DD2 is tall and skinny. Totally different kids...same household rules. On vacation, they're allowed to eat whatever they want because it's VACATION. And guess what...they usually choose what they're used to eating...yogurt, fruit, and milk for a drink. They had a donut one morning and I'm fine with that - they walked off the fat and calories long before their next meal and it made them happy to have something special or normally not allowed by big mean MOM.

I'm not one to pick fights on these boards, but I really feel if the OP wants to discuss the obesity epidemic in America (and no one is denying that it's a problem), then head on over to a health related forum...I'm sure there are many. This is the DisBoards...for chatting about Disney...and Disney is all that's on my mind when I surf this forum.

[tcp0421]

This is really bothering me..... I was just going to stay out of this, but I am just as american as all of you. Yes you do have the right to say whatever you want about other people weather their overweight, "bratty kids", or whatever ticks you off...but we also have the right to wear our speedos, and bring our "bratty kids" to wherever we want to. I just want to know when the last time you looked in the mirror? Do you see the perfect person? I doubt it!!!! I am going to Disney in about 3 weeks. I am brining my 4 year old and my 1 year old. I dont care if they remember anything! I will always remember every moment of it.

[justice11]

just another opinion. i am one of those fat people on the evc, i was burnt over 80% 33 years ago as a young mom with 2 kids at the time, i got so depressed and ate a lot, but i love wdw and love to go with all my kids and grandkids. because of the burns my hands, feet and arms are tight and crooked, you may not notice at first glance but i need the evc to go that far in wdw. as far as the obese my youngest dd is a pe teacher in high school and she has such a hard time getting the kids to exercise and if she calle the parents they tell her it's her problem. they have to pass freshman pe to graduate at her school. i love to swim i do not hurt when i am in water and i probably am not the most attractive gal in my suit but i will be the one smiling the biggest and enjoying being there with my beautiful family. i know you did not mean to be rude. i am glad you had a great time that is what everyone is there to do. :grouphug: :banana: :beach:

[Todd&Copper]

Like the OP, I noticed lots of very fat people while at WDW, too, but I wasn't pondering that they were eating too many oreos or too much ice cream. I was thinking about how miserable I was as a chubby child, and how hot and tired my obese dad would be after only a few hours at the parks, and how much happier we all are now that we are in better shape as adults. So, yeah, I felt sorry for them.
Also, it is kind of hard not to notice what people are wearing, too, and when overweight and obese people wear speedos, short-shorts, half shirts, etc. they look so much worse than they could if they wore clothes that fit properly. I saw so many teenage girls who were average to thin, but waering the wrong size clothes - at least a size or two too small, easy to do with low rise pants/shorts - and they made themselves look fat. I see this at the mall every weekend.
Man, everyone here takes it so personally when a poster says I saw fat people or There were tons of scooters. Then they berate the poster for having opinions. Just remember, opinions are like (?), everyone has one, and they generally stink!

[maxiesmom]

Well I agree that most overweight people have a medical condition. The majority of them suffer from that awful hand to mouth disease....

That is a disgusting comment.

[Rlbren]

I rarely post on these boards, but I read them all the time. Love the trip reports! But this is bothering me. Everyone is entitled to a say. But you know what? Sometimes it is just best to keep things to yourself. As my wonderful all knowing mother use to say...if you can't say anything nice, then don't say anything at all. No one asks for their particular lot in life, but the good Lord gave it to them. We all have to take what we have and make the best of it.

B.T.W....my children who are 12 & 16 now. Grew up at Disney. We only lived 30 minutes away and both my husband and I worked there. My children remember most of their trips and the resorts that they stayed at. But you know what? Who cares! I remember and I miss those sweet little babies. :cloud9:

Just my 2 cents worth. ;)

[CarolinaBlue]

On my last visit to WDW, my mother had to rent an ECV. Yes, she is overweight but she also has back problems, leg problems, fibromyalgia, and several other conditions. Just by looking at her you can't tell all the problems that she has. The ECV is the only way she could get around the parks without being exhausted and causing herself more pain. Little did I know that I would have to rent an ECV for myself on this trip. I had been sick prior to the trip and realized that I was still too weak to walk all over the parks, so my DH insisted that I use an ECV. I did not want to do this, but he insisted and if I hadn't used the ECV, I would have been stuck in my room the entire trip. I saw the looks that people were giving me and I know some were upset because they had to wait a few more minutes while the bus driver helped load my ECV, but it was, in the end, none of their business why I was using that thing. Believe me, I hated every minute of being on that thing. I kept telling my DH how much I wished I could walk all over the parks. I never want to have to use one again. I would much rather use my own two legs. I know many disabled people feel the same way. Some people were courteous, others were very rude. Many times I was close to being trampled over. People would just stop dead in their tracks in front of me. People, it's not easy to stop an ECV, especially when you have very little experience driving one. I know there are probably some people who abuse ECV's and wheelchairs, but we really don't know which ones, do we? We're all at WDW to have a magical time, so let's do just that and stop worrying about what other people are doing and why.