Backstage Magic Tour 4/22 - 4/27 - 1ST POST UPDATED 4/15

[dingoballs]

If you have an extra bag, just ask your Adventure Guides for an extra tag. They'll be happy to accommodate you.

The FP scheme that you got today is the correct one, if only because that's what we had.

If you're lucky I'll put in some techniques for how to not get your VIP FPs taken away. Maybe.


Is charm and wit part of the "Max Ackerman Technique"? :upsidedow

[hack2112]

Is charm and wit part of the "Max Ackerman Technique"? :upsidedow
If that's a synonym for acting really important and cool, then yes, charm and wit is part of "The Max Ackerman Technique".

[dingoballs]

If that's a synonym for acting really important and cool, then yes, charm and wit is part of "The Max Ackerman Technique".


hmm, sounds like your technique may take some practice... :cool2:

I'm not sure if you said or not, but how many VIP FPs did you manage to hold onto?

[hack2112]

hmm, sounds like your technique may take some practice... :cool2:

I'm not sure if you said or not, but how many VIP FPs did you manage to hold onto?

I actually gave all of my extras away at the end of each night, but I was able to keep most, if not all of them every night.

Oh, and I have posted the technique on my blog at MaxTAW.blogspot.com (http://MaxTAW.blogspot.com)

Enjoy!
Max

[SailingBeagle]

We went on 2 ABDs last year and I brought a second checked bag (large duffel bag) on each trip. None of the ABD guides said anything to me about it. In fact, they were very accommodating and gracious. They even asked if we needed any EXTRA baggage tags. We also didn't have any issues with the bus driver or with bell services at any of the hotels. I think if you're reasonable about how many extra bags you bring (and how large it is), you shouldn't have any worries...

Thanks for you info, I only plan on bring one xtra and not huge by any means.

[Disneygrl36]

Brad, looks like you are having a great time. I am enjoying reading your blog.
Bet the rest of you that haven't left yet are getting excited!!!!

Max, thanks for all the great info & trip report on your blog. Are you going to post any pictures?

[hack2112]

Brad, looks like you are having a great time. I am enjoying reading your blog.
Bet the rest of you that haven't left yet are getting excited!!!!

Max, thanks for all the great info & trip report on your blog. Are you going to post any pictures?

I will. I just want to finish my review first.

[inkkognito]

I've decided what to bring, and we bought new luggage, so tomorrow is packing day. Woo hoo!!! I'm gonna hate the 6+ hour plane ride, but the end destination will be worth it (got my prescription for Xanax renewed too so the plane will actually be "fun").

[dingoballs]

I've decided what to bring, and we bought new luggage, so tomorrow is packing day. Woo hoo!!! I'm gonna hate the 6+ hour plane ride, but the end destination will be worth it (got my prescription for Xanax renewed too so the plane will actually be "fun").

Are you going to try the "Max Ackerman Technique" to retain your VIP FPs?

[inkkognito]

Heck yeah...I will go even one step further and act confused and shocked if they try to take 'em away.

[hack2112]

Heck yeah...I will go even one step further and act confused and shocked if they try to take 'em away.
Yeah... Every time I told them I was supposed to keep them (almost always in a quizzical voice) they took them away. So that's not such a good idea. From personal experience.

[inkkognito]

I'll only do that if they actually start to take them away so there's nothing to lose...last resort!

[dingoballs]

Yeah... Every time I told them I was supposed to keep them (almost always in a quizzical voice) they took them away. So that's not such a good idea. From personal experience.

Hey Max,

are you almost ready to post your next installment? popcorn::

[hack2112]

I'll only do that if they actually start to take them away so there's nothing to lose...last resort!
That's what I always did too. It just makes them read the small print.

Hey Max,

are you almost ready to post your next installment? popcorn::
I'm actually typing it now. It should be up tonight.

[MagicalPins]

Max,

I got a question for you. How long was the time in Walt's apartment? From your report, it sounds like just the time it takes for the Lilly Belle to take one lap around which is 20 mins. I hope it is a nice long look and full tour up there.

[bradk]

I added day 2, the Universal Studios VIP tour to my blog with way too many pics

[jacksparrowfan]

Lots of pictures are good! Loved the sign too. Feivel...funny! Looks like the VIP tour is something to look into.

[inkkognito]

Less than 12 hours to go till we drag out butts out of bed and get ready for our flight (ugh!). I checked a week's worth of our flight records, and it looks like it will be smooth with the exception of one day when they veered the route over the ocean and took an extra hour! Six and a half hours is bad enough...not sure if I can handle that much more. Oh well, with the time difference we will be landing quite early either way.

My husband is the packer in our household, but I have all my clothes chosen and my dinner reservations for CA made. We'll probably just chill tomorrow until it's time to meet the group. I think there is a California Pizza Kitchen near the hotel, so we'll probably do lunch there. I love CPK but have never actually eat it in California!

The Hollywood part will be somewhat lost on me as I am not a star-struck person, but seeing the Disney and Henson studios will be more than enough to keep me busy and content till we get to DL/DCA.

[MJGirl]

Have a great time folks!!! Only 110 days till my adventure!!!

[SailingBeagle]

May all of you on the maiden voyage have a trip sprinkled with pixie dust
and all those magical moments we all dream off.pixiedust:

[TessRC]

Great post, Brad! Can't wait to hear about today, and I'm on the edge of my chair waiting for the Adventure to officially start!

Have fun everyone!! :goodvibes

--Tess

[Disneygrl36]

Have a blast everybody!!!!!!! I'm so jealous. How will I ever stand 7 & 1/2 more months.

[hack2112]

Max,

I got a question for you. How long was the time in Walt's apartment? From your report, it sounds like just the time it takes for the Lilly Belle to take one lap around which is 20 mins. I hope it is a nice long look and full tour up there.

It's actually around a 25 minute lap when all is said and done. Also, the apartment is very small, so you'll have more than enough time to see everything there.

Hopefully the last day of the tour will be up tonight. If I can write it fast enough!
Max

[nunzia]

I've been reading this thread with interest! You all have a great time and looking forward to those trip reports when you get back!

[MagicalPins]

It's actually around a 25 minute lap when all is said and done. Also, the apartment is very small, so you'll have more than enough time to see everything there.

I know I am very spoiled. I have been lucky enough to go to Walt's apartment once before. When I went a couple years ago, there was only 4 of us and it ended up being a 90 min tour of the place going over all the little details and stories.


To everyone whose trip officially begins tomorrow, have a great time! I want to see more trip reports and pictures! Have a great time!

[SailingBeagle]

That's what I always did too. It just makes them read the small print.


I'm actually typing it now. It should be up tonight.

Max.................where are u and the final installments...many of us are waiting for the final chapter :confused:

[hack2112]

Max.................where are u and the final installments...many of us are waiting for the final chapter :confused:

I've actually been out of a computer for the past few days, but I'm almost done with it now. Be prepared for some amazement in the next 30 minutes!

[MagicalPins]

I've actually been out of a computer for the past few days, but I'm almost done with it now. Be prepared for some amazement in the next 30 minutes!

Dose this mean I can stop checking the thread 5 times a day waiting for more updates from you Max?

[Disneygrl36]

Brad, really enjoyed reading about your day at WB studios. How much did that VIP tour cost you?

Wow, the adventurers are probably at the Welcome dinner right now. :goodvibes How exciting.

[MJGirl]

Brad, really enjoyed reading about your day at WB studios. How much did that VIP tour cost you?

Wow, the adventurers are probably at the Welcome dinner right now. :goodvibes How exciting.

Hi Melanie ... I just checked their website and the 2 1/4 hour tour is $45 a person and the deluxe 5 hour tour Brad was on is $150 per person!

You can check out the website here Warner Brother VIP Tour (http://www2.warnerbros.com/vipstudiotour/)

[hack2112]

Go check out the conclusion of the epic 5-part saga that is my trip report at MaxTAW.blogspot.com (http://MaxTAW.blogspot.com).

Enjoy,
Max

[SailingBeagle]

Go check out the conclusion of the epic 5-part saga that is my trip report at MaxTAW.blogspot.com (http://MaxTAW.blogspot.com).

Enjoy,
Max

Max, Thanks so much for the time and effort you put into your trip report:thumbsup2

Could you explain what the zoatrobe exhibit is?

Thanks again:woohoo:

[dingoballs]

Go check out the conclusion of the epic 5-part saga that is my trip report at MaxTAW.blogspot.com (http://MaxTAW.blogspot.com).

Enjoy,
Max

Thanks for your "Most Excellent" Trip Report, Max. :thumbsup2

When will you be posting the pics?

[hack2112]

Thanks for your "Most Excellent" Trip Report, Max. :thumbsup2

When will you be posting the pics?

As soon as I can. Probably tomorrow.

[global_mom]

Max, I really enjoyed reading your blog! I know that you are a teenager but. in your opinion, would you say that this trip is worth a $10,000 price tag? I really, really want to book this ABD for my family but that is the cost of the adventure without airfare and incidentals. Would you say that it was worth it?

Thanks so much!

[SailingBeagle]

Brad K your blog has been amazing...I wish I was going earlier to partake in some of the studio tours you have taken...It looks like you are having a blast,

What king of camera are u using...besides the phone.

Thanks for keep us informed as Maiden Voyage continues:thumbsup2

[hack2112]

Max, I really enjoyed reading your blog! I know that you are a teenager but. in your opinion, would you say that this trip is worth a $10,000 price tag? I really, really want to book this ABD for my family but that is the cost of the adventure without airfare and incidentals. Would you say that it was worth it?

Thanks so much!

That's a very hard question to answer, but I'll try.

I'm going to name things that you can't do anywhere else, and I mean anywhere else.

- Tour of The Jim Henson Studios and Creature Shop
- Tour of Walt Disney Imagineering
- Backstage at Disneyland
- Behind-the-scenes of Indiana Jones
- Disney's California Adventure before it opens to the general public
- A private showing of and behind-the-scenes of Soarin' Over California
- A private Turtle Talk With Crush
- A private Animation Academy
- A beautiful picture of your family in front of Sleeping Beauty's Castle... Alone

If you're not interested in any of these things, then Backstage Magic isn't right for you. But if you are interested then I would book your trip immediately. I know that the moment I saw this trip as a destination for 2008, I knew it was for me.

Oh, and SailingBeagle, zoatrobe is a new animation technique involving sculptures moving at very high speeds. The one at the Animation Building is inspired by Toy Story 2.

[bradk]

I use a Canon EOS 40D.

The blog seems to have righted itself so I can work on getting the WB pics up. and then I'll work on today's stuff. the internet here at the Renaissance is infinitely better. there's both a wired (very short wire) and WiFi connections in the room and they work right!

had a lengthy discussion with Diana and Jim about Max too. I felt the love.

[hack2112]

I use a Canon EOS 40D.

The blog seems to have righted itself so I can work on getting the WB pics up. and then I'll work on today's stuff. the internet here at the Renaissance is infinitely better. there's both a wired (very short wire) and WiFi connections in the room and they work right!

had a lengthy discussion with Diana and Jim about Max too. I felt the love.
And you're not going to tell me what they said? Pretty please?

[bradk]

I have to revisit your blog to doublecheck on something first because you came up while we were talking about the Jim Henson studios (tomorrow!!).

but overall, they both said you're a great kid and talked about your enthusiasm at WDI (which Diana definitely shares).

they're all really nice folk, Diana, Quinn, Jim and Andrew

photos for WB are up on my blog. hopefully today's activities will be posted soon.

[hack2112]

I have to revisit your blog to doublecheck on something first because you came up while we were talking about the Jim Henson studios (tomorrow!!).

but overall, they both said you're a great kid and talked about your enthusiasm at WDI (which Diana definitely shares).

they're all really nice folk, Diana, Quinn, Jim and Andrew

photos for WB are up on my blog. hopefully today's activities will be posted soon.

Yay! I'm great!

By the way, tell Quinn and Diana that they're amazing. Just because they are.

Jim is really awesome too. Just saying.

[Silvertraveler]

I want to read..I want to read...I want to read..
How do you get to Brad's Blog?
Silvertraveler

[Aunt Cawa]

Max,

Thanks for the "most excellent" report.:thumbsup2 For a guy your age you write really well.

One question, how early in the morning for breakfast at DLR?

Thanks again for all your work. :cool1:

[krdisneybound]

great trip report, Max. thanks for sharing. I can't wait for our tour to begin

[bradk]

the DLR days all start at 7 am.

and PM sent with my blog info

[global_mom]

That's a very hard question to answer, but I'll try.

I'm going to name things that you can't do anywhere else, and I mean anywhere else.

- Tour of The Jim Henson Studios and Creature Shop
- Tour of Walt Disney Imagineering
- Backstage at Disneyland
- Behind-the-scenes of Indiana Jones
- Disney's California Adventure before it opens to the general public
- A private showing of and behind-the-scenes of Soarin' Over California
- A private Turtle Talk With Crush
- A private Animation Academy
- A beautiful picture of your family in front of Sleeping Beauty's Castle... Alone

If you're not interested in any of these things, then Backstage Magic isn't right for you. But if you are interested then I would book your trip immediately. I know that the moment I saw this trip as a destination for 2008, I knew it was for me.

Oh, and SailingBeagle, zoatrobe is a new animation technique involving sculptures moving at very high speeds. The one at the Animation Building is inspired by Toy Story 2.


Thanks Max!

[bradk]

ok, part of yesterday is up on my blog

[stenogoddess]

Brad: I'm begging for an invite to your blog! PPPPLLLLEEEEAAASSSEEE!

[Kareau]

Brad: I don't have enough posts to PM you. Please forward the link to your blog. I can't wait to read it. Thanks.

[hack2112]

Was the rubik's cube thing an actual rubik's cube?

[krdisneybound]

I believe you can find it in the post below

Go check out the conclusion of the epic 5-part saga that is my trip report at MaxTAW.blogspot.com (http://MaxTAW.blogspot.com).

Enjoy,
Max

Brad: I don't have enough posts to PM you. Please forward the link to your blog. I can't wait to read it. Thanks.

[hack2112]

I believe you can find it in the post below

She was talking about Brad's blog, and not mine. But thanks for the plug anyway!

[krdisneybound]

She was talking about Brad's blog, and not mine. But thanks for the plug anyway!

so sorry - dang - just didn't pay attention. ;)

[dingoballs]

Hey Max,

What kind of activities did they have for you Junior Adventurers?

[hack2112]

Hey Max,

What kind of activities did they have for you Junior Adventurers?

Truthfully, nothing. The tour is so family-friendly that there was no real need for the Junior Adventurers to go off for their own special tour.

We did get juice instead of wine at the wine tasting, though.

Oh, you could always ask about the Great American Buzz Lightyear Churro Challenge! (Yes I'm obsessed, but you would be too if you rode it close to 50 times in a row.)

[dingoballs]

Truthfully, nothing. The tour is so family-friendly that there was no real need for the Junior Adventurers to go off for their own special tour.

We did get juice instead of wine at the wine tasting, though.

Oh, you could always ask about the Great American Buzz Lightyear Churro Challenge! (Yes I'm obsessed, but you would be too if you rode it close to 50 times in a row.)

I guess that makes sense... so did the GABLCC have something to do with eating churros during the ride? I think you probably hold the record for most consecutive rides on Buzz Lightyear...

[hack2112]

I guess that makes sense... so did the GABLCC have something to do with eating churros during the ride? I think you probably hold the record for most consecutive rides on Buzz Lightyear...

Actually, our Adventure Guide Michael (Who's doing Costa Rica this season, I believe.) told us that if we beat his record of 800,000 points on Buzz he would buy all of us churros. He then changed it to 1,000,000 points (Which was OK, because we had broken over 1,000,000 points as well.) and instead of giving us churros he ended up giving us extra FastPasses.

Best time you'll ever spend at a Disney Park, guaranteed.

[dingoballs]

Actually, our Adventure Guide Michael (Who's doing Costa Rica this season, I believe.) told us that if we beat his record of 800,000 points on Buzz he would buy all of us churros. He then changed it to 1,000,000 points (Which was OK, because we had broken over 1,000,000 points as well.) and instead of giving us churros he ended up giving us extra FastPasses.

Best time you'll ever spend at a Disney Park, guaranteed.


That's awesome! I don't think I've ever scored more than 300,000 points... LOL

So would you say this trip to Disneyland was way better than WDW? I'm sure you've been there many times since you live in Florida right?

[hack2112]

That's awesome! I don't think I've ever scored more than 300,000 points... LOL

So would you say this trip to Disneyland was way better than WDW? I'm sure you've been there many times since you live in Florida right?

I think that they're both 2 completely different experiences, but I can't live without a trip to the Adventurers Club at Pleasure Island. Therefore WDW wins.

But I wish we had some of the rides that they have. Their Space Mountain is so much better then ours.

[dingoballs]

I think that they're both 2 completely different experiences, but I can't live without a trip to the Adventurers Club at Pleasure Island. Therefore WDW wins.

But I wish we had some of the rides that they have. Their Space Mountain is so much better then ours.


I know what you mean about the Adventurers Club... it's great improv fun. I'm pretty sure you've had MANY interactions with those crazy characters, right?

[hack2112]

I know what you mean about the Adventurers Club... it's great improv fun. I'm pretty sure you've had MANY interactions with those crazy characters, right?

Sugar Snap is my favorite. Her and her snide Disney references. That and a certain letter to a certain Mr. Henshaw.

[dingoballs]

Sugar Snap is my favorite. Her and her snide Disney references. That and a certain letter to a certain Mr. Henshaw.

Yes, and the pre-show is actually quite entertaining too... btw, I hope I'm not distracting you from posting your pics! LOL

[hack2112]

Yes, and the pre-show is actually quite entertaining too... btw, I hope I'm not distracting you from posting your pics! LOL
No. I have them on my computer and I'm going to post some eventually. Probably tomorrow at the latest.

[bradk]

Brad: I don't have enough posts to PM you. Please forward the link to your blog. I can't wait to read it. Thanks.

PM sent

Was the rubik's cube thing an actual rubik's cube?

probably not.

i'm just passing through, the tour is done for the day but I am not. I plan on going to Hollywood Forever cemetery and then to see Wicked but hopefully I'll post something new.

had a really good time today doing the disney studio ice cream shop for breakfast, the el capitan, jimmy kimmel live and of course jim henson studios. instead of the aforementioned hollywood tour, they did something very special for us. very special. so much so that they're making us promise to stipulate it may not be done on future trips, so you'll find out about that later (if barb doesn't beat me to it)

[Disneygrl36]

PM sent



probably not.

i'm just passing through, the tour is done for the day but I am not. I plan on going to Hollywood Forever cemetery and then to see Wicked but hopefully I'll post something new.

had a really good time today doing the disney studio ice cream shop for breakfast, the el capitan, jimmy kimmel live and of course jim henson studios. instead of the aforementioned hollywood tour, they did something very special for us. very special. so much so that they're making us promise to stipulate it may not be done on future trips, so you'll find out about that later (if barb doesn't beat me to it)

Ohhhhhhh how intriguing. Your blog is awesome Brad. Between you & Max I am getting so excited.
Can't wait to hear about Wicked I was considering that for our Wed night as well.

[MJGirl]

Hi Brad .. Loving the Blog so far. I too was interested in the WB tour. Do you think I could do it on the Tuesday? We are arriving on Sunday and doing the Universal VIP tour on Monday. What time did you meet for dinner on Tuesday. I figure the WB tour starts at 10:30 and is 5 hours, so I should be back at the hotel by 4:00 pm. Am I close or way off on my guesstimates. Appreciate your input!

[hack2112]

Hi Brad .. Loving the Blog so far. I too was interested in the WB tour. Do you think I could do it on the Tuesday? We are arriving on Sunday and doing the Universal VIP tour on Monday. What time did you meet for dinner on Tuesday. I figure the WB tour starts at 10:30 and is 5 hours, so I should be back at the hotel by 4:00 pm. Am I close or way off on my guesstimates. Appreciate your input!

Dinner starts at 4:00 PM, so plan accordingly!

[MJGirl]

Hey Max ... After reading Barb's blog, I'm thinking I may want to check out the Kodak. It sounds like an awesome tour, and I will be doing the studio thing at Universal!

[hack2112]

Hey Max ... After reading Barb's blog, I'm thinking I may want to check out the Kodak. It sounds like an awesome tour, and I will be doing the studio thing at Universal!

I can't say anything about Kodak, but I know I had a fun day at USH!

Except for the Mummy. That just paled in comparison to the one at USO.

[dingoballs]

No. I have them on my computer and I'm going to post some eventually. Probably tomorrow at the latest.


Okay thanks... please post at least a couple dozen. LOL

[dingoballs]

I can't say anything about Kodak, but I know I had a fun day at USH!

Except for the Mummy. That just paled in comparison to the one at USO.

I've been to both Mummys & I have to agree with you...

[Mickeyfans4ever]

Brad, loved to read your blog please help can't PM.

[bradk]

PM sent. just arrived at DLR

[Disneygrl36]

You guys are at Disneyland. Have a blast!!!!!!!!!!
popcorn::

[Mickeyfans4ever]

PM sent. just arrived at DLR

Brad, great trip report. How did you get to WB tour? Do you know how you would get there from the ABD hotel? Was it really at least a 5 hour tour? Their website states they will start having weekend tours this summer so I'd like to plan a deluxe tour the morning our ABD starts. Do you think we will be time and be back by the welcome dinner?

[SailingBeagle]

It is sooo quiet on this thread without Brad and Barb, you could also hear
a mouse::MinnieMo

Maybe we'll hear something before the night is over:worship:

[Mickeyfans4ever]

Like they always say, "NO NEWS IS GOOD NEWS"! :yay: Let's hope they are having too much fun to spend time updating us. Our problem is that we just can't wait for our trips to come and want more more more info please.......this blog has been better than watching TV popcorn::

[bradk]

yeah sorry, i just got back in the room. i really do need to do some updating but these days begin at 7 am so it's not so easy.

the deluxe WB tour is about 5 - 5 1/2 hours. the regular tour is about 2 - 2 1/2 hours. you're supposed to be at the hotel by 3, but it should be okay if they know you're coming. they do want you there no later than 4 (and they probably would prefer seeing you before that - Quinn was already at the hotel by the time I got there to drop my luggage off around 8:30 or so).

i got to and from the tour from the first hotel i was staying at (super 8) via the MTA bus system. it wasn't too bad and you can pick up the first bus at hollywood & highland too.

[bradk]

ok, next installments are up. the rest of the first day and the first half or so of the second (i need to get).

[Disneygrl36]

Great installments Brad!!!!! Loved the pictures of Ariel.
So you are not able to upgrade your pass? We have added on Sunday & Monday to the end of our trip & I was hoping to upgrade for the lower price that they had said since the trip is already so pricey.
Can't wait for more.
Have a great day at California Adventure you guys.

[bradk]

well they changed it from a 3 day (upgradeable to a 4) to simply a 4 because they said many people were taking later flights on sunday anyway. but the 4 is not upgradeable and the ticket itself is a comp ticket valid only on specific dates.

[krdisneybound]

I called today and got the same information. I was hoping to get an extra day or two. Guess I'll just use my park hoppers from WDW that I have been saving. AP's can't be used, but PH can be used. I just have to settle for that.


well they changed it from a 3 day (upgradeable to a 4) to simply a 4 because they said many people were taking later flights on sunday anyway. but the 4 is not upgradeable and the ticket itself is a comp ticket valid only on specific dates.

[SailingBeagle]

bumping up:wizard:

Spoke with ABD again today about the fastpass, and today I got an honest
answer for the first time.....it will be either 3 VIP FP per day or the AAA type
FP...they said they are working on which will be best and looking at feedback from the ist group.

[global_mom]

Brad and Barb: now that the trip is over, do you feel that young children (ages 6-12) would enjoy the trip? Were there kids on your trip?

Thanks!
Elizabeth

[inkkognito]

We only had a couple of junior adventurers and some teens, but I definitely think kids would enjoy this. I was actually quite surprised we didn't have more. The guides really go out of their way with the the young un's. LOTS of great character interactions and other things children would love.

Personally I think AAA FPs would be a no-brainer...three would be way too few. We were given five per day, which worked pretty well balancing them with regular FPs so in a way it's better we didn't have more or I would be even more exhausted. They also gave us one the night of arrival, but it was turned down at Indy...that was the only glitch. Twice they were given back to me on the first full day, so that made up for it...seven rides on five FPs in the first day.

[bradk]

I believe I posted it elsewhere, but Jim (in Trip Operations) did mention during the trip that they were working on the AAA type.

We got more than 3 per day anyway (except for the first day) and fortunately it didn't seem like they were really necessary for the most part. So few of the attractions even offer FP, it pretty much comes down to Space Mountain and Indy in Disneyland and even Indy was below 20 mins in its standby for the most part. Of course things do dramatically change on Saturday when the locals move in and there are no FPs on Sunday even though the tickets are extended.

there was one 8 year old on the trip (Diana said something to the effect that both he and Stitch were adopted by the group). He was pretty cool though (except when he taunted me with his video camera). I think every other kid was a teenager and all the kids were probably between 2 families or so (excluding the 13 year old with his parents)?

I think it really depends on the enthusiasm for the content for the kids. Kids who know what they're getting into will be kept occupied. It's family friendly, but not child oriented. Not sure how the adults only trips will compare though.

I do recall hearing the 8 year old ask when we were doing more rides while we were backstage at Disneyland, but it came off mostly as comic relief. He didn't seem put off by the rest of it at all and it only lasts a few hours at most on any of the days at the park.

[global_mom]

Thanks for the feedback about the kids. Decisions, Decisions. To go or not to go , that is the question!:goodvibes

[jacksparrowfan]

Hi Everyone! All I can say is WOW! WOW!!! What an experience for us! We got back this evening. We had a great group of people. The Jr Adventurers had fun as well. Our Guides were awesome and I loved all the experiences we had. Amazing. My high-lites:

(I'm giving some spoilers if you don't want to read on....)


>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
-Meeting wonderful people who are just as crazy about Disney!
-El Capitan
-Meeting Uncle Frank at Jimmy Kimmel Live and shaking his hand. What a nice man!
-Meeting a great Puppetier at Jim Henson Studios.
-Riding the train at Carolwood
-Attending the Jimmy Kimmel Live Taping and seeing "Dr McSteamy"
-Imagineering! I couldn't believe it! I took my picture with the bust made of Johnny Depps face. :love: Learning about Snow White & the Seven Dwarf sculptures, Meeting "Lucky" and SHOPPING!!! Meeting the Imagineer who is the host on the new DVD "Imagineering the Magic". He was our Host!
-Seeing Marty Sklar at Disney Studios. It was when we were getting our food for lunch and I didn't want to bother him. I really wanted to say hello!
-Having lunch with a Pirate pirate:
-Going on the Lilly Belle. Having the Conductor punch our card and give us info.
-Walking into Walts Apartment. I had chills on my arms! I had to look out the window next to the lamp.
-Having a great view of Fantasmic
-Standing in line to go on Soarin, only to have Diana pull us away and we stood below the screen as we watched the other half of our group ride the ride all by themselves. Then, it was our turn.
-Talking to Crush on our own
-The Goodbye Dinner and having our favorite character drawn by an amazing lady. I gave her a very big hug and almost cried! It was an experience!

The entire experience was a Disney trip of a lifetime! I'm still amazed! I can't wait to see all the pictures they took of us! (Thank you, again Politzania/DH for pictures coming our way.) Inkkognito, Bradk, Politzania & DH and our new "Madhatter" friend (if you are reading this) and any others who are reading this thread, it was so wonderful meeting you and sharing this amazing experience!!! I don't think it's anything any of us will ever forget!!!

[inkkognito]

The entire experience was a Disney trip of a lifetime! I'm still amazed! I can't wait to see all the pictures they took of us! (Thank you, again Politzania/DH for pictures coming our way.) Inkkognito, Bradk, Politzania & DH and our new "Madhatter" friend (if you are reading this) and any others who are reading this thread, it was so wonderful meeting you and sharing this amazing experience!!! I don't think it's anything any of us will ever forget!!!
{Sniffle} I read your highlights and my eyes got misty. What a wonderful group of people, such awesome guides, and the experience of a lifetime! I was just looking at my drawings of Figment and Dreamfinder and trying to figure out where to hang them so I can always have that reminder close at hand.

[jacksparrowfan]

I had a hard time today. I really missed that paddle, Quinn/Diana and everyone! Just like one of our Adventurers said at Dinner. They had alone time, but missed everyone. I love your Figment and Dream Finder pictures. Ah! Those were fabulous!!! Did anyone else take a picture with your camer? If not, I have some shots I can email you. I hope your flight home was uneventful! Have you gone through all of your "stuff" yet? I already have everything out on the floor to get through it. I hope we get pictures!!!

[inkkognito]

If you could email a pic that would be WONDERFUL!! THANK YOU! It was the only time Tony didn't bring his camera and I didn't let him forget it. it's disneycruise at gmail.com (substitute @ for at).

Our flight was uneventful; a little turbulence, but at that point it just rocked me to sleep! I know what you mean about going through everything. I've gone through our bags and every time I see a pin I bought or our postcard pics. or something else it brings a flood of memories. I wore one of our Imagineering shirts today...I am still in awe of the experience we had.

[jacksparrowfan]

I just sent them to ya! :)

[Politzania]

Barb - Scott and I took a couple of photos of Stacia at work as well - they'll be on the DVD.

Heh - we also spread out all our swag on the floor as we unpacked - had a few panicked moments til we located all the AbD pins. I took the photos along to show my parents when we picked up our dog yesterday - I think I talked their ears off about the trip over dinner - no wonder I had almost half of it left over to take home! I even dreamed last night about meeting up with the group & waiting for Diana and Quinn to whisk us away to yet another amazing adventure! Sigh... :(

I posted it in Barb's thread, but will put the link to our trip report here as well - it's still a work in progress.

http://www.wileenet.com/DisneyTripReports/AbD_BackStageMagic/index.htm

[Poppins2000]

Your trip reports are awesome - I'm so glad that you all had such a wonderful time. Makes me so excited for our ABD trip, we leave on May 15 for Ireland!!! I'm so excited I can't SLEEP - hahaha.

Just out of curiousity, did they offer any incentive for purchasing another ABD trip (kinda like they do on the cruise) - just wondering!

[jacksparrowfan]

Just out of curiousity, did they offer any incentive for purchasing another ABD trip (kinda like they do on the cruise) - just wondering!


We received a card for 10% discount off any non-discounted regular rate ABD vacations. It must be done within 10 days. I'm too tired to think about planning another right now. :upsidedow But, I know we would love to do one someday. Love ABD!!!!!

[BriarRosie]

I've enjoyed reading about the trip, and I'm excited about my trip, even though it is so far in the future!

I wanted to ask, does each person get their own ABD pin of the day? Or is it one per room? My friend and I are from two different households, so I wonder how that works.

[inkkognito]

Each person receives their own.

[SailingBeagle]

Thank you for the wonderful trip report....We are 32 days and counting...
can't wait....
Are you going to post photos?

Thanks again for the time and effort you put in to your trip report.:cheer2:

[atigeg]

the travel channel in HD will repeat the Disneyland special at 2pm eastern today April 30. If you want to see Club 33, Walt's apartment, and behind the scene at Indy.

[inkkognito]

I notice atigeg (aka my DH) ignored the question about pics, even though he's the one who needs to get them off the camera and into my hands!

[Politzania]

We've started posting some of our photos from the tour:

Backstage Magic - Day 1: http://good-times.webshots.com/album/563255199KciUWI - this was the meet & greet and welcome dinner - not much to it.

Backstage Magic - Day 2: http://good-times.webshots.com/album/563255858EiClxZ -- Walk of Fame, El Capitan, Jim Henson Studios (limited access) & Walt's Barn/Live Steamers Museum.

[SailingBeagle]

Thanks for sharing the wonderful pics, can't wait to see the next installments:thumbsup2

[inkkognito]

Cool! Thanks for posting. I'm coming down with a cold (darned recirculated airplane air) so that gave me the cheer I needed today.

[Aunt Cawa]

Thanks everyone for all the reports and the pictures! Getting very excited for our trip! :cool1: :cool1:

Barb hope you are feeling better soon!

[MJGirl]

We've started posting some of our photos from the tour:

Backstage Magic - Day 1: http://good-times.webshots.com/album/563255199KciUWI - this was the meet & greet and welcome dinner - not much to it.

Backstage Magic - Day 2: http://good-times.webshots.com/album/563255858EiClxZ -- Walk of Fame, El Capitan, Jim Henson Studios (limited access) & Walt's Barn/Live Steamers Museum.

Thanks for posting the link ... Hoping for more to come. Sounds like you folks had a blast. We hit the 100 days to go mark tomorrow!

[bradk]

I have up until Walt Disney Studios posted, a bunch of pics from that day too.

here are a couple from that day:

http://bradk.smugmug.com/photos/286508073_5Pyu9-L.jpg http://bradk.smugmug.com/photos/286510275_J7mat-L.jpg

[Disneygrl36]

You guys are awesome..........
Thanks so much to Barb, Brad & Tracey for giving me a great fix & for building my anticipation until our adventure in December.

:wave: to BriarRosie.......we are going to be tour mates.

[SailingBeagle]

Bumping up.....

Brad what happened to you.?....did you and Stitch fall off the face of the
cyberearth.....hope all is well with both of you... :)

[bradk]

i've been playing catch up a lot. i got back home late tuesday night so between work and various other things, i'm a bit behind. sorry.

[SailingBeagle]

i've been playing catch up a lot. i got back home late tuesday night so between work and various other things, i'm a bit behind. sorry.

You and stitch are alive and well and thats what counts.

[Armadillo4]

Brad, those are beautiful photos from the Disney Studios! Thanks for sharing those here. I'm just getting caught up in your blog. All your pre-tour activities sound really cool too. Thanks so much for writing about your adventures in L.A.

:goodvibes

[anitapita]

Bradk, I would like to look at your blog - how does one get access to it? I'm going on Backstage Magic in sept. I can't PM. Thanks, Anita

[bradk]

I can't PM you yet. When you have enough posts to PM, let me know.

[anitapita]

Okay, I'm replying just so I get enough posts! Could you try now? Thanks Brad. Anita

[MagicalPins]

I really want to see some pictures of what the pins are! Im a pin freak and haven't been able to find any pics yet.

[hack2112]

I really want to see some pictures of what the pins are! Im a pin freak and haven't been able to find any pics yet.

I'll get those for you by tomorrow. I promise.

But for those of you who want to see the photos of the Dress Rehersal, they're finally at MaxTAW.blogspot.com (http://MaxTAW.blogspot.com).

If only I had the PhotoCD of what the ABD Guides took. If only it wasn't as much money.

Enjoy!
Max

[Disneygrl36]

So you don't get a photo CD of the ones the guides take Max? That is an extra purchase?

[hack2112]

So you don't get a photo CD of the ones the guides take Max? That is an extra purchase?

ABD uses the Photopass service, so you end up having to pay for extra photos, if you want them, when you get home. It really sucks. I really wanted the pictures of me at Imagineering.

[Disneygrl36]

Do you remember how much they are.......
So are all the special pictures like the ones in Walt's apt done like that then?

[hack2112]

Do you remember how much they are.......
So are all the special pictures like the ones in Walt's apt done like that then?

Yeah, they are. Unless they give them to you during the trip.

[dingoballs]

I'll get those for you by tomorrow. I promise.

But for those of you who want to see the photos of the Dress Rehersal, they're finally at MaxTAW.blogspot.com (http://MaxTAW.blogspot.com).

If only I had the PhotoCD of what the ABD Guides took. If only it wasn't as much money.

Enjoy!
Max

Hey Max,

I have to tell you that the wait was worth it. Those are some great pics! It even looked like you were having fun... thanks for posting them! popcorn::

[hack2112]

Hey Max,

I have to tell you that the wait was worth it. Those are some great pics! It even looked like you were having fun... thanks for posting them! popcorn::

I was. We did try to do a jumping shot in front of DL at night but it was taken on the professional photographer's camera. I wish I could have all of his pics that he took. Some of them were really good.

[jacksparrowfan]

Do you remember how much they are.......
So are all the special pictures like the ones in Walt's apt done like that then?

The pictures, on cd, thru photopass are $125. (Cheaper in the park.) You receive all the pictures the guides took while on the trip from 1st day to the last day. There were many times they took away our cameras and they were able to take pics. In Walts apartment, they took a group shop, and then one of my DH and I. In our room, on two different nights, they left some pictures for us. The first time was from Jim Henson Studios and Walts Barn. The second time were shots from Imagineering, Walts Apartment and backstage. They make them into postcards and I just couldn't send them home. They are so special and I just wanted to keep them. It's just so cool!

[dingoballs]

ABD uses the Photopass service, so you end up having to pay for extra photos, if you want them, when you get home. It really sucks. I really wanted the pictures of me at Imagineering.

Hey Max,

Did you ask your parents to buy the Photopass CD for you? I mean, this was one tour that you don't get to do every day...

[hack2112]

Hey Max,

Did you ask your parents to buy the Photopass CD for you? I mean, this was one tour that you don't get to do every day...

I'm going to do it tomorrow. I need those pictures!!!

[dingoballs]

I'm going to do it tomorrow. I need those pictures!!!

Good luck! Let us know what happened...

[hack2112]

Good luck! Let us know what happened...
The photos were wiped from the server last night. Does anyone know if there is any way I can get them back?

[dingoballs]

The photos were wiped from the server last night. Does anyone know if there is any way I can get them back?

Bummer... has it been over 30 days since your tour?

[Disneygrl36]

The pictures, on cd, thru photopass are $125. (Cheaper in the park.) You receive all the pictures the guides took while on the trip from 1st day to the last day. There were many times they took away our cameras and they were able to take pics. In Walts apartment, they took a group shop, and then one of my DH and I. In our room, on two different nights, they left some pictures for us. The first time was from Jim Henson Studios and Walts Barn. The second time were shots from Imagineering, Walts Apartment and backstage. They make them into postcards and I just couldn't send them home. They are so special and I just wanted to keep them. It's just so cool!

So can you buy it ahead of time & it's cheaper? I know I might as well go ahead & plan for it because I will really want those pictures. And if you have the CD then you can go to Walmart or wherever & be able to print them off right?

[hack2112]

Bummer... has it been over 30 days since your tour?

Yeah. Oh well.

[jacksparrowfan]

So can you buy it ahead of time & it's cheaper? I know I might as well go ahead & plan for it because I will really want those pictures. And if you have the CD then you can go to Walmart or wherever & be able to print them off right?


They do not give you the photopass information until you get home. It looks like they personalize it for you. They send you the pictures they took of you/family, the group shots, and extra shots. It's fabulous though! But, it's more expensive from home. I will definitely buy them, but I am looking into a bit more. Yes, you can go to Walmart or anyplace. They give you the copyright that is included as a document on the disk you receive. There is a page you print out and take with you so they will print them for you with no problems. It's exciting to see the pictures a few weeks later to remember the things we did. A few of the shots I completely forgot about.