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

[bradk]

http://bradk.smugmug.com/photos/269329173_gv5ma-L.jpg

WHO'S GOING
Brad
inkkognito & DH (Barb & Tony)
jacksparrowfan & DH
Politzania & vz9p57 (? & Scott)
Phil1019 (and ?)


LOS ANGELES AREA
Basic Information:
Renaissance Hollywood Hotel (http://www.renaissancehollywood.com)
Hollywood & Highland Center (http://www.hollywoodandhighland.com) - where the hotel is
Area and Attraction Maps (http://www.frommers.com/destinations/losangeles/14_maps.html)
LA County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (includes trip planner) (http://www.mta.net)

Events:
The Little Mermaid with Sing-A-Long (http://disney.go.com/disneypictures/el_capitan) - Also character breakfast on weekends
The Art of Cars at the Petersen Automotive Museum (http://www.petersen.org/default.cfm?docid=1063)
LA Times Festival of Books @ UCLA 4/27-4/28 (http://www.latimes.com/extras/festivalofbooks/authorlist.html)
Tickets for TV Show Tapings: http://www.ocatv.com http://www.1iota.com http://www.tvtickets.com http://www.tvtix.com
Carolwood Pacific Presents Walt's Barn at Griffith Park (http://www.carolwood.org/WaltsBarn) - 4/20, 11a - 3p


DISNEYLAND AREA
April Park Hours and Entertainment Schedule (http://disneyland.disney.go.com/disneyland/en_US/calendar/monthly/monthly?name=CalendarMonthlyPage&date=20080410)
DCA Food and Wine Festival (http://disneyland.disney.go.com/disneyland/en_US/calendar/specialEvents/detail?name=FoodWineLandingPage) (includes daily schedule)
Disney Theme Park Edition - Character Rubik's Cube Demonstration April 26 (http://psc.disney.go.com/eventservices/disneygallery/dlr_rubikscube.html)
2008 Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach 4/18 - 4/20 (http://www.gplb.com)

with special thanks to Politzania for event contributions

[bradk]

(event postponed)

[bradk]

Details are available on the Food & Wine Festival events for these dates.

Ticketed events (require reservations in advance) include:
- Celebrity Chef Dinner with Guy Fieri
- Winemaker Dinners
- Napa Rose Cooking School
- Festival Wine Receptions
- Taste Wine Like An Expert with Michael Jordan, M.S.

See http://disneyland.disney.go.com/disneyland/en_US/calendar/specialEvents/detail?name=FoodWineSignatureEventsPage for full details

[bradk]

http://www.register123.com/event/accounts/register123/disney/disneyland/events/artcorner/Mickey_Rubiks.jpg

There will be a Rubik's Cube speedcubing demonstration at the World of Disney Store on April 26 from 1 - 4 pm featuring several top solvers

http://psc.disney.go.com/eventservices/disneygallery/dlr_rubikscube.html

Here's a youtube video of a Anderson Cooper 360 segment with Tyson Mao who can solve a cube blindfolded in under 2 minutes: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lACH1zHDVTo

and another featuring Tyson and Ambie Valdes who also will be appearing at the event: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4V8uNZWTaGU

[dingoballs]

Figured I'd make this for those of us going and whatnot to keep on top of things going on around those dates in the SoCal area.

The 2008 Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach is taking place 4/18 - 4/20
http://www.gplb.com

the DLR hours & entertainment schedule for April:
http://disneyland.disney.go.com/disneyland/en_US/calendar/monthly/monthly?name=CalendarMonthlyPage&date=20080410

the Disney's California Food & Wine Festival at DCA runs weekends (Fri-Sun) between April 11 - May 4
http://disneyland.disney.go.com/disneyland/en_US/calendar/specialEvents/detail?name=FoodWineLandingPage


Have you received your backpack & tour literature yet?

[bradk]

no. they said 45 days, so that should be closer to the end of this week.

[bradk]

also, April dates are available in RideMax if anyone is a subscriber

[inkkognito]

Ooo, something to look forward to! Please let me know when the backpack comes because we receive our mail at PO Box place and I only pick it up once a week or so. I will run over there ASAP when I know my ABD goodies are there.

[bradk]

I called today to ask about the FP (i don't think i got a proper answer so I don't want to repeat it).

i was told my itinerary (or whatever she called it), to be shipped UPS, is ready to be shipped but hasn't been as of yet but once it has been I can call to get the tracking #.

i was hoping the answer would be i'd have received it today, but owell.

[bradk]

LA Times Festival of Books takes places at UCLA 4/27-4/28

list of authors appearing including celebs: http://www.latimes.com/extras/festivalofbooks/authorlist.html

[MJGirl]

I called today to ask about the FP (i don't think i got a proper answer so I don't want to repeat it).

i was told my itinerary (or whatever she called it), to be shipped UPS, is ready to be shipped but hasn't been as of yet but once it has been I can call to get the tracking #.

i was hoping the answer would be i'd have received it today, but owell.

I find this funny ... I had problems with UPS last year. When the parcel arrived, I had to pay $40 some odd dollars for duty. I thought it strange that I had to pay for something that was a gift. When I called Disney to complain, they said it would be made up to me, but it wasn't. I spoke to them a week ago, and was told that it was a UPS issue last year and that it was fixed as they were now using Fed Ex and I won't be charged anything. Yet here you are saying they are using UPS again? Personally, I can't see it being a UPS problem, as the bill I saw was from the Canadian Government. ABD put a value on the shipping label and I had to pay duty on it!

[bradk]

I get a different answer every time I call. Today I'm told the package is 'approved' but it's coming from Florida and it could be another 2 weeks before it's shipped ('anywhere between 45 and 30 days')

[bradk]

so with no solid itinerary, i reviewed my plans (which were initially to spend another day at disneyland on that sunday and leave monday afternoon) and realized i don't think the ABD tour really gives enough time in the parks to satisfy me. you can upgrade the 3 day ticket through the guides to a 4 day for $20 but i've unsuccessfully been able to find out if you can go to 5 days so i have a second call in.

nonetheless, i changed my flight as it didn't cost me anything and i'm now leaving monday night which will give me a good chunk of the day in the parks. i figured the worst it'll cost me is another $100 for the 1 day park hopper if i can't upgrade what i have.

is anyone working on some itinerary outside of the tour?

[MJGirl]

Hi Brad ... I added a few days before the tour. I'm arriving on Sunday and spending Monday at Universal. I can't add on after, as I am boarding the Magic on the Sunday after the tour. Do you know if our passes are good for the Sunday???

[bradk]

i dunno what the deal with these tickets are if they can be upgraded to 4 days but if it's unknown they can go to 5. i suspect you won't have tickets before the trip.

that sounds like a whole lot of bouncing back and forth though between anaheim and LA.

[MJGirl]

i dunno what the deal with these tickets are if they can be upgraded to 4 days but if it's unknown they can go to 5. i suspect you won't have tickets before the trip.

that sounds like a whole lot of bouncing back and forth though between anaheim and LA.

Sorry ... I think I didn't state it right ... I am arriving the Sunday before, staying at the Renaissance on Sunday and Monday. The tour starts Tuesday and the last day of the ABD tour is also Sunday, when I board the Magic. I guess my question is, Can I go to the parks on the last Sunday before I head out to the Magic, or do I need another ticket? Also, well there even be enough time to go to the park on the last day?

[bradk]

oh. well you get a 3 day ticket which covers thursday, friday and saturday. sunday is just a breakfast but you'll be allowed to upgrade the ticket to a 4 day for $20 through the guides, so yes, you'll be able to get in Sunday with that. as far as how much time you have, i guess it all depends on when you need to be at the port. not too familiar with DCL operating out of that coast, but you'll have to give yourself 90-120 minutes to get there i suspect.

[jacksparrowfan]

Hi! I called last week about adding on another day to my husbands 3 day park hopper ticket (I'm an AP holder). The gal said she hadn't been asked that question and spoke to her Supervisor. I was told that we would have to go the concierage at the hotel. When we check in with the guides on tuesday, I am going to ask them and see what we are to do.

I take it no one else has received their package in the mail? I was told, twice, it would be 30 to 45 days. So, if I don't receive anything around the 23rd of this month, I will call again. Looks like we will receive some neat things.

The countdown to our trip is going verrrrryyyyy slloooowwwly! Can't wait!!!! :dumbo:

[bradk]

you're on the 4/22 too?

the CM you spoke to is just clueless said to say. which i've run across with multiple times when talking them. initially i chalked it up to the tour just being so new they don't really know, but sometimes i have to wonder. especially since these are CMs working out of the Anaheim area.

they've made it well known you can upgrade to a 4th day through your guide (the day of check-in is thursday incidentally, not tuesday) for $20.

you can see one example here: http://adventuresforum.disney.go.com/questions.aspx?sort=&page=&qid=5609&pid=1&cid=38

believe me.. if there's a question to be asked, i've asked it

[Politzania]

bradk - thanks for "running interference" for the rest of us so far... :)
I checked with our TA last week regarding this trip & she also said that the final packet should be sent out about 30 days before the tour - will start watching the mailbox next week, I guess!

We did also get a reimbursement from AbD for the Westfest banquet tix we bought based on our original tour date, so that was a nice bit of customer service.

My husband and I will be in Disneyland the weekend before the trip - staying at the Hojo Sat - Tues- not especially looking forward to the drive from Anaheim to LAX Tues morning, but the extra days in the park should be worth it.

[jacksparrowfan]

you're on the 4/22 too?

the CM you spoke to is just clueless said to say. which i've run across with multiple times when talking them. initially i chalked it up to the tour just being so new they don't really know, but sometimes i have to wonder. especially since these are CMs working out of the Anaheim area.

they've made it well known you can upgrade to a 4th day through your guide (the day of check-in is thursday incidentally, not tuesday) for $20.

you can see one example here: http://adventuresforum.disney.go.com/questions.aspx?sort=&page=&qid=5609&pid=1&cid=38

believe me.. if there's a question to be asked, i've asked it



Yes, I will be there with my husband. :) Very interesting as to the answers all seem to be receiving. I figure I will hit them up when we see them on Tuesday to make sure of what we need to do to upgrade to a 4-day. Thought I'd start the questioning early. We will have to share the info when we get there as to what we find out.

Did they happen to tell you if our tour will have the 40 people maximum? I guess the first two tours before the 4/22 start date did not happen? I didn't want to be the guinea pig, but that's ok. We will be the starting group of a very exciting tour.

I have to say another thing they messed up on for me. We are from No CA so I made my own airline reservations. We are flying in to LAX but out of Orange Co. I just can't see driving an hour to LAX when Orange Co is so close and where we go through many times. When I asked if we could do that, I was told yes. And they would take us there. I even asked the person to ask their Supervisor before I made the reservations and it was a definite yes. When I called to give our airline info, I was told they would not take us to Orange Co. I couldn't believe it. Now, I keep seeing that we can fly out of Orange Co in our paperwork. It gets exhausting to try and get info we need. I will definitely add it to my evaluation. But, I have been on many tours Disneyland and WDW. Never disappointed. (Well, the Halloween tour...not so much!)

I second the thank you on getting info for us! It's appreciated.

[bradk]

they won't really give a number as to how much it's filled or what happened with the ill-fated tours before (i was initially scheduled to be on the 4/8 tour and yes it was canceled and 4/22 is supposed to the first actually taking place). all they'll say is it's between 10 and 40 people. and we have 7 of them on here that we know of.

i can see where your question about travel gets confusing. no matter how you get to LA, transportation to disneyland/anaheim/orange county is covered. but as far as the airport goes, they only cover to LAX. i'm assuming you're leaving out of SNA. i'm leaving out of LGB myself, but i'm also staying a day longer anyway, not through them (i'd rather pay $110 for a night at the PPI over another night at the GCH for 3x as much).

at least that's how i understand it.

i couldn't get a clear answer on how the travel back to the airport would be taking place. i initially assumed it would be using the Disneyland Express buses through Gray Line, which does also go to SNA I believe.

[bradk]

so i called with my daily 'what's with the fastpass?' question and i think this is the 2nd time i heard this answer (although it could be the same CM for all i know), but i like it, so i'm going to believe it.

she believes it'll be basically a credential that you just flash at the fastpass line. no going to FP machines at all. pretty much what universal does. but will CMs know what it means?

from what i've read repeatedly on the ABD forum site, it's good for 2 days (although they've apparently refused my question asking for specifics on what it is)

incidentally, i've made a minor breakthrough with the blogging using blogger.com and integrating it directly into my site. i've confirmed i can post updates via email. supposedly i'll be able to use my cell phone to post pictures too, but i gotta find my phone and charge it to find out :) also just working on the aesthetics.

[Phil1019]

Yes, I will be there with my husband. :) Very interesting as to the answers all seem to be receiving. I figure I will hit them up when we see them on Tuesday to make sure of what we need to do to upgrade to a 4-day. Thought I'd start the questioning early. We will have to share the info when we get there as to what we find out.

Did they happen to tell you if our tour will have the 40 people maximum? I guess the first two tours before the 4/22 start date did not happen? I didn't want to be the guinea pig, but that's ok. We will be the starting group of a very exciting tour.

I have to say another thing they messed up on for me. We are from No CA so I made my own airline reservations. We are flying in to LAX but out of Orange Co. I just can't see driving an hour to LAX when Orange Co is so close and where we go through many times. When I asked if we could do that, I was told yes. And they would take us there. I even asked the person to ask their Supervisor before I made the reservations and it was a definite yes. When I called to give our airline info, I was told they would not take us to Orange Co. I couldn't believe it. Now, I keep seeing that we can fly out of Orange Co in our paperwork. It gets exhausting to try and get info we need. I will definitely add it to my evaluation. But, I have been on many tours Disneyland and WDW. Never disappointed. (Well, the Halloween tour...not so much!)

I second the thank you on getting info for us! It's appreciated. Hi, I am going on the Backstage Magic Tour also on April 22nd. I called this week because I was nervous about seeing other tours cancelled. I was told that this tour is fully booked!! Yeah!

[inkkognito]

If that's the case with the FP, I sure hope all the good rides at DL/DCA have FP lines!

[bradk]

off the top of my head, the only one at DCA that's very popular and doesn't have a FP is Monsters, Inc.

it's a bit worse at DL with Nemo and Peter Pan.

when i get home, i'll cover the FP bases on here. anything to keep my mind off the lack of itinerary

so our DIS group is up to 8+ which is good. not happy about a full ABD group but with about 25% represented on the DIS already, it makes sense.

[inkkognito]

I suspect it got filled because of the other cancelled dates...goodness only knows how many choices people from cancelled trips were given to choose from.

Nemo's not FP? Ugh!!

[jacksparrowfan]

I suspect it got filled because of the other cancelled dates...goodness only knows how many choices people from cancelled trips were given to choose from.

Nemo's not FP? Ugh!!

No, no fastpass for Nemo. They say it's because of the number of people they can put on a sub and the total an hour, etc. People would be waiting in line forever and only those with a fastpass could get on. Sometimes, some of the subs are down. I would hope that we will receive a pass to ride anything and not just the ones with the fastpass machines. (dreaming???)

[bradk]

yes, dreaming. at least as far as anyone seems to know. i've brought up nemo multiple times. i'm still waiting to hear about upgrading to a 5 day (evidently the ABD specialist for the tour doesn't know and needs to talk to disneyland), but I think you're up to your own devices for nemo. hopefully the intinerary will make it more clear. i'd rather not have my first experience with it be at 10:30 at night.

doesn't seem to be any hope of the ABD tour backdooring onto it either. which is just as well. not only would it be excessively unfair to others, but it'd take half an hour or so out of the tour anyway.

but hey, indy, indy, indy, indy.

[Politzania]

Talked to our TA yesterday about an hour after she talked to the AbD rep - all the arrangements are made, but it doesn't look as if we'll get our packets until about 14 days before the trip! :grump:

We're supposed to meet the AbD rep at noon on the 22nd in Terminal 7 (I think) for pickup -- anyone else arriving around that time?

Just a reminder that if you have a Disney Visa, there's a character meet & greet at Seasons of the Vine in Disney's California Adventure® Park (Golden State District). Begins when the park opens and runs for 90 minutes – includes one complimentary 5x7 group photo - 6 people max. There are also shopping & dining discounts.

[bradk]

seasons of the vine is closed/closing. the meet & greet will probably have been relocated by the trip.

did your initial documents go to you or your TA? i never heard 2 weeks for the itinerary. i've repeatedly been told it'd be mailed about 30 days out.

[inkkognito]

Hee hee hee...I think we're all getting impatient! I know I check in here every day to see if there is more info. or if anyone else has gotten their stuff yet. We're flying in on United and getting in around 10:30 a.m. We leave FL at 7:40 a.m...YAWN! (That will mean getting up and out to MCO at an ungodly hour.)

I think we're going to upgrade our tickets so we can visit the parks for the last day, since our return flight home is way late...it's pretty much an overnighter. $20 doesn't seem bad, although I sure wish we could milk that "special fastpass" for the extra day, too. Since we're the first-ever ABD group, I forsee lots of, "What's that? No, you can't go in the fastpass line!" responses. We got that a lot when we first bought our Universal Premier Passes, which offer front of the line after 4 p.m. every day, but by now they're used to 'em. Took a while tho'...we took to carrying the AP brochure with us as proof. Maybe I'll bring a copy of the ABD materials touting the special FP to show the CMs!

[bradk]

good idea. i remember having balcony seating for F! in 2006 and i would have CMs refuse me access to the disney gallery because it was closed. i had to argue to get up there to check-in.

i'd prefer the ability to use the FP machines with no regards to times, like they've done with the media on the 50th anniversary so it's just a normal FP as any CM is concerned, but the badge type pass is nice too assuming it's not more trouble than it's worth.

[Politzania]

seasons of the vine is closed/closing. the meet & greet will probably have been relocated by the trip.

did your initial documents go to you or your TA? i never heard 2 weeks for the itinerary. i've repeatedly been told it'd be mailed about 30 days out.

Ah - didn't know that about Seasons of the Vine; wonder if they'll move the meet & greet back to Ariel's Grotto?

Our initial packet went to our TA, so I would assume the final docos will go to her first; maybe I/she misunderstood the AbD rep regarding the 2 weeks ahead of time.

[bradk]

i hope that's the case. unless your TA is a brick and mortar place that you go, you can probably count on another week between the TA receiving it and you getting it. so i'm hoping that 2 week number was taking all that into account and was actually more conservative than necessary.

needless to say i'm sure whoever gets their packet first will be more than happy to share with the rest of the class.

[Phil1019]

Hi, I am arriving at 12:10pm on the 22nd. I was told by ABD that this tour is fully booked.

[jacksparrowfan]

Hi Everyone! I wanted to let you know we just received a package in the mail. Keep reading if you would like to know...





It's a big flat envelope, and within, is a flat Adventures by Disney box. There are two luggage spotter handles and some documentation. The documentation is our flight information, a countdown to the backstage magic and a nice booklet of information. I now need to go and read it. :woohoo:

[bradk]

did it come by regular mail? does it have a detailed itinerary? and where do you live?

[jacksparrowfan]

did it come by regular mail? does it have a detailed itinerary? and where do you live?

It was delivered "UPS next day air saver". It was shipped from Orlando, FL. We live in Northern CA. It has the same detail as we see on their website. Maybe we will receive our detailed itineraries in our room each night? Might make it more of a surprise. :) There is also a card that talks about expecting an additional surprise prior to our departure. I love this!!! I'm ready to go now!

[bradk]

well good and bad news i guess... i really want that itinerary though... i think they're buying time.

i didn't have a UPS notice when I got home but I checked with the store downstairs that sometimes gets stuff for me and they told me the UPS guy did come by with it but that he said he'd bring it back tomorrow (!?) morning.

so we'll see. thanks for the heads up

[dingoballs]

It was delivered "UPS next day air saver". It was shipped from Orlando, FL. We live in Northern CA. It has the same detail as we see on their website. Maybe we will receive our detailed itineraries in our room each night? Might make it more of a surprise. :) There is also a card that talks about expecting an additional surprise prior to our departure. I love this!!! I'm ready to go now!

Did you also receive your backpacks?

[jacksparrowfan]

Did you also receive your backpacks?


No, we did not. Maybe it's the extra surprise to receive before we depart.

[bradk]

yeah i have a feeling the itinerary isn't available yet. like i said, buying time since they initially said 45 days.. then 30-45 days.. it's fair enough i guess because they need to make sure they have everything confirmed.

[inkkognito]

Wow, this means I'd better get to our Pak Mail box tomorrow...sure hope I have something waiting there for me! I'm a little disappointed it's not the backpack tho'. Dare I say it sounds like this trip is going to be a little...uh...disorganized? Our April 22 group will be the guinea pigs I think!

[bradk]

oh, it gets worse... they answered my question on the ABD forum about the FP:

Hi, you will receive 3 Fastpasses on Day 4 and 3 Fastpasses on Day 5 and they are valid on our Fastpass attractions. Remember that you can also use your park ticket to acquire additional Fastpasses and you will receive a privately-guided backstage tour through the park (not open to the general public).

not really sure what that means.

no mention on nemo.

[MJGirl]

oh, it gets worse... they answered my question on the ABD forum about the FP:



not really sure what that means.

no mention on nemo.

Brad ... How long did you have to wait to get an answer? I posted a question earlier this week and haven't heard back yet. Do they email you an answer, or do you have to check out their site for your answer? Thanks for your help!

[bradk]

it was a bit more than a week i think... i was pretty sure they were not answering it since there were several days that no new questions had been answered

[inkkognito]

Gack...for what we're paying, I think we should get the Mega-Unlimited-God-of-the-Universe Fastpass! I will not be happy if it's only three, since that means we won't even get to do each of the FP rides with the "special" FP. I thought that was part of what we were popping the big bucks for. More and more I don't think they thought this trip through very well. I suspect it will improve with the later offerings, but the first group is going to be a mess.

[bradk]

well, my point is, i've gotten like 15 different answers. and i don't think they really know. going back on previous answers with the ABD forums, it's mentioned repeatedly that the 'special fastpass' is good for 2 days, which doesn't really jive with what my response was.

it's also possible that what my response might be talking about are dream fastpasses. so you get 3 dream fastpasses for example, which would allow you to visit each FP enabled attraction 3 times that day. which would sound better given that there's still a limited amount of free time anyway.

bottom line, i don't think we're going to know anything until april 25 and even then, i'm not sure how clear it will be.

but at least CMs will know how to deal with dream FPs.

[jacksparrowfan]

oh, it gets worse... they answered my question on the ABD forum about the FP:
"Hi, you will receive 3 Fastpasses on Day 4 and 3 Fastpasses on Day 5 and they are valid on our Fastpass attractions. Remember that you can also use your park ticket to acquire additional Fastpasses and you will receive a privately-guided backstage tour through the park (not open to the general public). "

not really sure what that means.

no mention on nemo.

With the length of the tour, and behind the scenes, each day at the parks, I am thinking there may not be that much time to be on our own? With fireworks, fantasmic and parades (shopping) there is so much to do in the little time we have alone. A few a day may be good so we can ride other rides and see/do other things. I love the art and detail of the parks that I tend to walk around and take in all the little details. Gotta love those Imagineers!!! I think we are in for a big treat. I keep reading about daily surprises on other trip reports. Let's see what they have for us. I can't wait for the surprises. I especially can't wait to see Walts Apartment and the Dream Suite. I will be sad if it doesn't happen, and I know it's a possibility. I'm trying to keep an open mind so I won't be too disappointed and enjoy what they will show us. Unfortunately, we are the guinea pigs and I know with the price we paid, we want the best. If they don't have their act together on this, I am sure there will be 40 people sending in complaints big time. I seriously can't wait! The countdown is going so slowly for me.

[Aunt Cawa]

It has the same detail as we see on their website. Maybe we will receive our detailed itineraries in our room each night?

Last year on Southwest Splendors, we received a detailed itinerary for the whole trip at the Welcome dinner. I am guessing that they may do the same for this trip. Can't wait until you return from your trip. We are booked on the June 3 trip.

[inkkognito]

We picked up our box at our mail drop today. I would have liked more detail, but it was still exciting...if nothing else, just seeing Walt's apartment and the studios will be worthwhile. Fortunately we've been to DL/DCA once before and we got to do everything then (although they've added a few things like Nemo and ToT), so we can focus on the new things and still not feel like we missed too much.

I wonder if the guides will be able to get us into the Grand Californian restaurant or if I should be worrying about that myself now. We met the manager on our transatlantic Disney cruise, as he did a number of wine tastings, so we definitely want to look him up and try the cuisine there. The wines he brought were fantastic, and he had a slide show at each tasting showing the actual vineyards where the grapes had come from.

[jacksparrowfan]

I wonder if the guides will be able to get us into the Grand Californian restaurant or if I should be worrying about that myself now. We met the manager on our transatlantic Disney cruise, as he did a number of wine tastings, so we definitely want to look him up and try the cuisine there. The wines he brought were fantastic, and he had a slide show at each tasting showing the actual vineyards where the grapes had come from.

You can call the Disney Dining line at (714) 781-DINE (3463. At least you will be set for dinner and you can always cancel if something else comes up. You are probably writing about the Napa Rose.

[inkkognito]

Thanks for the number! Yep, it's Napa Rose. :goodvibes The name was escaping me, but I knew it was in the hotel.

[bradk]

in case i haven't posted it, as tickets for tv tapings (which are always free but time consuming) start to get released about 30 days out:

http://www.ocatv.com
http://www.1iota.com
http://www.tvtickets.com
http://www.tvtix.com

and a couple of other sources: http://www.seeing-stars.com/Tapings/index.shtml

[inkkognito]

OMG, I LOVE the logo!!

[bradk]

heh, thanks.. i just threw it together last night.. feel free to use it. i actually probably should add it to my blog

the original is 3340x1336 if you need larger

ETA: actually, here's a larger version. i hate how a lot of detail is lost in the sig version

http://bradk.smugmug.com/photos/269329173_gv5ma-XL.jpg

[Phil1019]

Hi, You are indeed right about getting tickets to tapings of shows. About 4 years ago I actually got tickets to Jay Leno and King of Queens. Even though you have tickets it doesn't guarantee that you will get in to see the show. For Jay Leno we had to get there at 9am and stand in line till about 1pm. We did get in to see him and it was great! Now, King of Queens was a different story. When we arrived the line was blocks long . We were given name bands to enter the theatre but were turned away despite having tickets and name bands since they give out more tickets to the public than there are actual seats. This is to insure they have a full audience.

[Politzania]

The El Capitan Theater is showing The Little Mermaid from April 18 - May 11 -- "Sing-along at every show" and a live appearance by Ariel.

Info on ticket prices & showtimes is at the website - I don't have enough posts here to link it - but google "el capitan los angeles" to get there.

Scott and I went to PotC III: At World's End during opening weekend at El Capitan - they decorated the theater in an underwater motif and had the organist playing selections from the previous movie soundtracks - the VIP tickets were worth it - we were front row balcony!

[Phil1019]

Hi, I have not received the white package that everyone is talking about. Apparently it is delivered via UPS. I live in Massachusetts. Is there anyone else who has not received it? I am getting worried!

[jacksparrowfan]

Brad...Great logo!

Phil1019...I hope you receive your package tomorrow!!!

Countdown at 30 days today..wahooo!

[bradk]

http://disney.go.com/disneypictures/el_capitan

thanks for the heads up. i see something about a character breakfast on weekends too.

[inkkognito]

Hoo ha!! Just realized that our hotel in Hollywood is only about five miles from Lawrys The Prime Rib. That is my all-time favorite restaurant in Chicago, so we will most definitely be checking it out for dinner on the 23rd. If anyone else is interested and might want to share a cab, here is a link to their menu:

http://www.lawrysonline.com/theprimerib_beverlyhills_dinner.asp

It's a little pricey, but I promise it's worth it. They have prime rib to die for, served with a sauce made from whipped cream and horseradish that is well worth the heart attack potential.

[inkkognito]

A little scary...I called to find out the end times of the LA tour and the DL tour so I can make my ressies. They have no idea! I am just going to make my best guess and book for 8ish. I also asked about the FPs just for the heck of it; first I was told they are the same as regular ones, i.e. you just get regular ones, and then I was told that you can get as many as you want at a time but still have to come back in the prescribed window. My head hurts a little now.

[bradk]

you have been reading my posts, right? i have about 12 different answers for everything. i promise if it can be asked, i've asked it.

[inkkognito]

Yep, I've been following your saga! I was curious which version of the multitude of answers they would hit me with. For the schedule, it seems odd that they can't at least give the projected end time for the tour. I understand that once we get on the bus, traffic is totally unpredictable. But at least if I knew when we'd be heading back to the hotel I could allow a couple hours.

[inkkognito]

Another wrinkle...

I noticed on Day 3 that most of the day is taken up with activities and dinner, and then we are on our own at the parks at night. I had to call to change our flights, since United has changed our time yet again, and asked if I can just save that day and use it on the last one. She wasn't sure, but she thought so. That would work out really well since it seems there is so little potential park time that day anyway.

Just made our ressie for Napa Rose...can't wait!

[bradk]

I just spoke to the ABD specialist on this tour, who bottom lined it with that they're still ironing out a lot of the details. but here's what she said on my questions:

1) the detailed itinerary will come at check-in, but offered that they typically stick to 'normal' times for meals: 8-9 for breakfast, 12/12:30 for lunch, 6/6:30 for dinner.

2) the tickets are normal tickets, so there's no reason why it couldn't be upgraded to 5 days or whatever. they don't *have* to be upgraded through the guide, but why not?

3) details on the fastpasses aren't known as of yet. she says they're trying to find a balance where it doesn't look like they're abusing the system. she did mention we should get at least 1 FP for everything with what amounts to a dream fastpass, but thinks getting 3 per day as noted on the adventuresbydisney forum is highly unlikely.

[konslerg]

I'm so glad you April tour folks are being the "guinea pigs" for the Backstage Magic tour ;-)

DH and I are going on the adult only one on Sept 16 and it will be really nice to know a bit more of the "inside information" before we leave.

I'm hoping someone from the April group is going to do a blog or, at least, daily posts to this thread so we can all live vicariously through your experiences.

Gloria in Miami

[BriarRosie]

I'm chiming in because I have to say that I saw the logo from bradk's signature on another thread, and WOW! I :love: it! I'm living vicariously through you "guinea pigs", since mine won't be until December!

[BriarRosie]

I'm so glad you April tour folks are being the "guinea pigs" for the Backstage Magic tour ;-)

DH and I are going on the adult only one on Sept 16 and it will be really nice to know a bit more of the "inside information" before we leave.

I'm hoping someone from the April group is going to do a blog or, at least, daily posts to this thread so we can all live vicariously through your experiences.

Gloria in Miami

I swear you must have been stepping on my brainwaves. I'd like my brain back, please. :teeth: (We must have posted within minutes of eachother!)

[bradk]

i'll have a blog on my site. i think i should be able to use my cell phone to include photos throughout the day but have to experiment more. i'll call for PMs to share it when it's ready to be shown to the world.

[stenogoddess]

Wherever I have to go, whatever I have to do, to get the trip reports on this trip let me know and I am soooo there! popcorn:: I'm almost as excited about this as my own ABD Knights and Lights in 2 months. I say almost! ;)

i'll have a blog on my site. i think i should be able to use my cell phone to include photos throughout the day but have to experiment more. i'll call for PMs to share it when it's ready to be shown to the world.

[Politzania]

There will be an "Art of Cars" exhibit at the Petersen Automotive Museum Mar 29 - Nov 2. More information is available at the museum's website (or recent Jim Hill article)

The museum is located at 6060 Wilshire Blvd.(at Fairfax,) Los Angeles, CA 90036 (about 4 miles from the Renaissance hotel) Admission is $10/adults & $3/children - hours 10a-6m, closed Mondays. Exhibition Information: (323) 930-CARS (2277)

[bradk]

wow.. and to clarify, that's Cars as in the movie (didn't strike me until I checked out the site).

i see lightning and mater are there. too bad sally isn't. i wonder what they did with her.

i'm so there. hopefully.


http://www.petersen.org/default.cfm?docid=1063

good catch. i think i need to edit the first post to include the schedules. i'll try that later tonight.

[bradk]

ok, other than a few minor things, i think the blog is as ready as it's gonna get. if interested, PM me for link or check my site.

i'm gonna field test it at WDW this weekend

[vz9p57]

Looking forward to this tour....along with my wife Politzania, we are also in the first tour group....looking forward to meeting our fellow guinea pigs.

[stenogoddess]

:banana: Welcome to the Dis!!!! :banana: :welcome:

Looking forward to this tour....along with my wife Politzania, we are also in the first tour group....looking forward to meeting our fellow guinea pigs.

[bradk]

Food & Wine Weekends Signings:

#

Artist Demonstration & Signing with David Bird and Elisabete Gomes
April 19 - 20, 2008
1 PM - 4 PM
Flower Garden, Disney's California Adventure® park


Chef Nancy Silverton Book Signing
April 26, 2008
2:15 PM – 2:45 PM
Pacific Wharf, Disney's California Adventure® park

Available Merchandise
# A Twist of the Wrist: Quick Flavorful Meals with Ingredients from Jars, Cans, Bags and Boxes


Chef Guy Fieri Photo Signing
April 26, 2008
5:00 PM - 5:30 PM
Pacific Wharf, Disney's California Adventure® park


Chef Jamie Gwen Book Signing
April 27, 2008
2 PM - 3 PM
Pacific Wharf, Disney's California Adventure® park

Available Merchandise
# Good Food for Good Times

[Phil1019]

Hi everyone, What a nice surprise I received today from my AAA travel agent. She called me to say that UPS had just delivered a very nice bag. I couldn't wait to see it. Just picked it up. It is a black shoulder type bag. Approximately 14 inches by 13 inches. There is a zippered poket inside and on the outside is the ABD logo. I hope the surprises keep coming! Three weeks till the adventure begins!

[MJGirl]

Hi everyone, What a nice surprise I received today from my AAA travel agent. She called me to say that UPS had just delivered a very nice bag. I couldn't wait to see it. Just picked it up. It is a black shoulder type bag. Approximately 14 inches by 13 inches. There is a zippered poket inside and on the outside is the ABD logo. I hope the surprises keep coming! Three weeks till the adventure begins!

So it is not a backpack?? Glad to see they have changed things up! Can't wait until my tour, only 130 days to go!!! I did manage to get the two night pre-stay at the Renaissance. This is good as the rate through Disney is $100 cheaper than the rate I got on my own, plus I can now use Disney ABD transfers :thumbsup2

[jacksparrowfan]

Hi everyone, What a nice surprise I received today from my AAA travel agent. She called me to say that UPS had just delivered a very nice bag. I couldn't wait to see it. Just picked it up. It is a black shoulder type bag. Approximately 14 inches by 13 inches. There is a zippered poket inside and on the outside is the ABD logo. I hope the surprises keep coming! Three weeks till the adventure begins!


Wow! Triple A is giving away all kinds of nice things. I went directly through Adventures by Disney. Just the one thing so far.

[Aunt Cawa]

I did manage to get the two night pre-stay at the Renaissance. This is good as the rate through Disney is $100 cheaper than the rate I got on my own, plus I can now use Disney ABD transfers :thumbsup2


Congratulations!

[jacksparrowfan]

Hi everyone, What a nice surprise I received today from my AAA travel agent. She called me to say that UPS had just delivered a very nice bag. I couldn't wait to see it. Just picked it up. It is a black shoulder type bag. Approximately 14 inches by 13 inches. There is a zippered poket inside and on the outside is the ABD logo. I hope the surprises keep coming! Three weeks till the adventure begins!

I came home to this wonderful gift as well. :cool1: So, it was from ABD! Three weeks from today everyone!!! Can't wait!!!!

[Politzania]

For those lucky folks who have gotten your info packet already - are there any dress codes or clothing guidelines?

Scott and I are usually pretty casual when we go to the parks - jeans/shorts & Tshirts. We're wondering if we should plan on bringing something a bit nicer (khaki/twill pants & polo/button down shirts) for our table service dinners or the studio tours.

Any thoughts?

[1000th happy haunt]

I'd be interested in learning what attractions you get a backstage look at. When we booked the DVC Backstage Magic, we were told that Indy was being discussed for a backstage look. It would make me very very happy if they decided to choose that attraction.

[jacksparrowfan]

For those lucky folks who have gotten your info packet already - are there any dress codes or clothing guidelines?

Scott and I are usually pretty casual when we go to the parks - jeans/shorts & Tshirts. We're wondering if we should plan on bringing something a bit nicer (khaki/twill pants & polo/button down shirts) for our table service dinners or the studio tours.

Any thoughts?

It states to be casual throughout. Watch the weather. It can get very warm in Anaheim during the day and cool at night. We usually wear shorts during the day at the parks and then change into jeans, with sweatshirt, for night time.

Another day closer! Yahoo!!!

[jacksparrowfan]

For those lucky folks who have gotten your info packet already - are there any dress codes or clothing guidelines?

Scott and I are usually pretty casual when we go to the parks - jeans/shorts & Tshirts. We're wondering if we should plan on bringing something a bit nicer (khaki/twill pants & polo/button down shirts) for our table service dinners or the studio tours.

Any thoughts?


I'm home and reading my booklet, so I wanted to share a bit more. They have the daily itinerary (basic) and then they note what hotel we will be at along with the meals included for the day. They also add "remember to bring" info. For the first night, which includes the welcome dinner, they noted "comfortable, casual clothing". For the studio days, they note "comfortable clothing, walking shoes and sun protection". When we get to the parks they note "comfortable walking shoes, casual clothing and sun protection". I hope this is what you were looking for?

[Politzania]

Thanks jacksparrowfan - sounds as if our usual park attire will be just fine. :) Weather wise - I think I'll plan on the same type of layering that I did for our DLR trip last May.

I dreamed last night that the AbD folks called & gave me a website that allowed me to track our package via GPS - I could watch the little red dot cruising cross-country & kept cheering it on! :rotfl2:

[jacksparrowfan]

Thanks jacksparrowfan - sounds as if our usual park attire will be just fine. :) Weather wise - I think I'll plan on the same type of layering that I did for our DLR trip last May.

I dreamed last night that the AbD folks called & gave me a website that allowed me to track our package via GPS - I could watch the little red dot cruising cross-country & kept cheering it on! :rotfl2:

Your welcome! :goodvibes You haven't received anything from ABD? There are now two packages that have arrived. Oh so wrong!

[inkkognito]

I went to our mailbox today (at Pak Mail) and the ABD bags were waiting for me. Yay!! Just something else to fuel my excitement, as if it needs any more fuel. I have gotten to the point of counting down the days.

[Politzania]

TripAdvisor reviews of the Renaissance hotel: rated #6 out of 254 hotels in LA on the site - sounds like a fabulous place!

http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g32655-d224168-r14669705-Renaissance_Hollywood_Hotel-Los_Angeles_California.html

[bradk]

I updated the first post with names and events. please let me know if I missed anyone or anything.

[Politzania]

STILL waiting on AbD stuff - will be calling my TA for a tracking number if we don't have a delivery today....

Politzania/Tracey

[hack2112]

You guys don't have the maiden voyage of Backstage Magic.

Just saying.

It was a cool tour.

You'll like it.

[bradk]

if you're referring to the WDW Backstage Magic tour, you're correct. but we are talking about the ABD Backstage Magic tour on the west coast which has never been done before. 4/8 was supposed to be the initial date (and a few of us were scheduled for that) but it got canceled and 4/22 became the first date.

[Politzania]

HURRAY! :cool1:

UPS dropped off our box of goodies about a half-hour ago! :happy dance:

Looks like all our documents are in order - tho it doesn't have our departure date/time listed on anything - did anyone else have that info in their packet?

I can see where the messenger bag would be less useful for groups that will be doing a lot of walking/hiking, but I think it's pretty darned neat & may become my computer bag for work (tho it may be a bit too small, width-wise)

Since we're doing Disneyland ahead of time (Disney Visa package, we'll also be getting a Disney Dreams backpack as well, along with the pins & lanyards from that - gotta love the swag.

[bradk]

I believe I had a separate slip of paper which talked about my arrival flight information at least. and I'm arriving days before with none of it arranged through them.

good to hear you finally got your stuff (at least the ABD stuff)

[hack2112]

if you're referring to the WDW Backstage Magic tour, you're correct. but we are talking about the ABD Backstage Magic tour on the west coast which has never been done before. 4/8 was supposed to be the initial date (and a few of us were scheduled for that) but it got canceled and 4/22 became the first date.
No, I know what you're talking about. I was on the dress rehearsal tour which was 2 weeks ago. Like I said, you"ll have a great time, and if you have any questions I'll be glad to answer them.

EDIT: Your picture forgot to mention Jimmy Kimmel Live! by the way.

[bradk]

i see. so what's the dress rehearsal exactly? and what's the deal with the fastpasses? that's all i really want to know.

Jimmy Kimmel is squished into the whole El Capitan complex thing. tried not to make that line too small.

[hack2112]

i see. so what's the dress rehearsal exactly? and what's the deal with the fastpasses? that's all i really want to know.

Jimmy Kimmel is squished into the whole El Capitan complex thing. tried not to make that line too small.

The dress rehearsal tour is exactly the same thing as a regular tour, but it's uses are many and include:
-Training Cast Members to be Adventure Guides
-Making sure everything runs smoothly
-After every day we give our opinions on how the day went and what to change and what to keep.

The VIP Fastpassess work as such:
-You get to use the Fastpass at any Fastpass attraction at any time.
-You have 3 per day per guest, so use them wisely.
-They are time stamped so if you don't use them on that day, you lose them.
-If you play your cards right the Cast Members may not take them from you... maybe.

Just so you know, your Adventure Guides (Robyn, Diana, and Quinn (You will only have two of them for any one trip and there may be more Guides coming later in the season)) are the nicest people in the world, so treat them that way.

Any other questions?

[bradk]

just one, thanks.. how smoothly did it go?

[Aunt Cawa]

Hack2112,

We are coming in a day early and staying at the Renaissance hotel the night before the tour starts because we are flying from the east coast. We would like to do Universal Studios the morning/early afternoon of the first day. Do you think we will have time to do this? According to the schedule, the only scheduled event is the welcome dinner.

Thanks in advance for your thoughts.

[hack2112]

just one, thanks.. how smoothly did it go?
Very smoothly. However there was this bus tour... But they changed it from looking at stuff that's no longer there (This is Walt Disney's first studio. Now it's no longer here, but in it's place is a copy store. I wonder if they do color?) to a tour of famous places in Hollywood (That was one of my suggestions.).
Hack2112,

We are coming in a day early and staying at the Renaissance hotel the night before the tour starts because we are flying from the east coast. We would like to do Universal Studios the morning/early afternoon of the first day. Do you think we will have time to do this? According to the schedule, the only scheduled event is the welcome dinner.

Thanks in advance for your thoughts.
I'm also from the east coast and I also went up a day early. You know what I also did? Universal Studios Hollywood on the day the tour started. You can easily finish the park by 2:30 and be back to the hotel by 3:00, because the dinner starts at 4:00.

Take the Metro from the hotel (Ask a concierge or your Adventure Guides if they are there yet.) and the next stop is Universal City, where you can take a tram to the entrance of the park.

Anything else?

[Aunt Cawa]

Thanks!:thumbsup2 Taking the metro is our plan!

[Aunt Cawa]

Hack 2112,

What did you like best?

Thanks!

[hack2112]

Hack 2112,

What did you like best?

Thanks!

That's a very had question, but I liked Imagineering the best. It was really cool to see the things they do there. I won't go into the experience, but there are some really cool surprises in store for you!

Save your money for Mickeys of Glendale, the store at Imagineering. You can buy things there that aren't sold anywhere else. That's where I spent a huge chunk of my money.

[Aunt Cawa]

Getting really excited now! Too bad my trip is not until June. :rotfl2:

Great advice about Mickey's of Glendale. I have heard about that store. Do they take credit cards? Also did you get to do any shopping at the Jim Henson studios?

Thanks again. You have been very helpful!

[bradk]

to a tour of famous places in Hollywood (That was one of my suggestions.)

excellent. any idea of what specifically? i'm actually going up on the Sat before but I have some things planned, but want to do some 'drivebys' of various things including the Hollywood Bowl and the Walt Disney Concert Hall and will have trouble figuring it all in, so if I know I'll be hitting that stuff later on I won't need to worry about it. I kinda also wanted to pass by the Disney Studios in the early morning to try to get some people free shots of the Eisner building et al. plus i'm afraid that I won't be able to take photos of the building when on the tour.

[hack2112]

Getting really excited now! Too bad my trip is not until June. :rotfl2:

Great advice about Mickey's of Glendale. I have heard about that store. Do they take credit cards? Also did you get to do any shopping at the Jim Henson studios?

Thanks again. You have been very helpful!
Mickeys of Glendale does indeed take credit cards.

The Jim Henson studios does not have a store. This is because no one is ever allowed into the studios except for business or family purposes. ABD is the only way to get into the Jim Henson Studios as of now.

excellent. any idea of what specifically? i'm actually going up on the Sat before but I have some things planned, but want to do some 'drivebys' of various things including the Hollywood Bowl and the Walt Disney Concert Hall and will have trouble figuring it all in, so if I know I'll be hitting that stuff later on I won't need to worry about it. I kinda also wanted to pass by the Disney Studios in the early morning to try to get some people free shots of the Eisner building et al. plus i'm afraid that I won't be able to take photos of the building when on the tour.

You will be able to take pictures at the Studios, but be aware that there will be many times your cameras will be either taken away from you (Jim Henson, Backstage Disneyland) or not allowed out of the buss at all (Imagineering).

Unfortunately I don't know anything about what the new bus tour will constitute of.

Next question, please.

[Aunt Cawa]

Hi
Just got a couple of more questions. Really appreiciate you taking the time to answer all these questions.

1) Approximately, how long a trip is it to Universal Studios from the hotel?

2) Are Imagineering and the Walt Disney Studios near each other? I don't really have a feel for that part of the trip and was just wondering.


"Just so you know, your Adventure Guides (Robyn, Diana, and Quinn (You will only have two of them for any one trip and there may be more Guides coming later in the season)) are the nicest people in the world, so treat them that way."


DH and I did Southwest Splendors last year and thought our guides Mike and Rae was outstanding.:thumbsup2 They could not do enough for us. Looking forward to meeting the above mentioned guides. I am sure they will be great too. The quality of the guides employed by Adventures by Disney was one of the factors in deciding to do another tour. Of course, the tour of the Jim Henson Studios sealed the deal!:goodvibes

Thanks again!

[inkkognito]

That bites about the Fastpasses. For what we're paying, I thought we'd at least get the equivalent of a Dream FP, i.e. one FP for each ride that takes one. They need to either rethink the FPs or make this trip a little cheaper.

[hack2112]

Hi
Just got a couple of more questions. Really appreiciate you taking the time to answer all these questions.

1) Approximately, how long a trip is it to Universal Studios from the hotel?

2) Are Imagineering and the Walt Disney Studios near each other? I don't really have a feel for that part of the trip and was just wondering.


"Just so you know, your Adventure Guides (Robyn, Diana, and Quinn (You will only have two of them for any one trip and there may be more Guides coming later in the season)) are the nicest people in the world, so treat them that way."


DH and I did Southwest Splendors last year and thought our guides Mike and Rae was outstanding.:thumbsup2 They could not do enough for us. Looking forward to meeting the above mentioned guides. I am sure they will be great too. The quality of the guides employed by Adventures by Disney was one of the factors in deciding to do another tour. Of course, the tour of the Jim Henson Studios sealed the deal!:goodvibes

Thanks again!

It's about a 30 minute trip from buying your metro passes, getting on the metro, a 5ish minute metro ride, and the tram ride to City Walk/USH.

WDI to WDS is about a 15 to 20 minute bus ride.

That bites about the Fastpasses. For what we're paying, I thought we'd at least get the equivalent of a Dream FP, i.e. one FP for each ride that takes one. They need to either rethink the FPs or make this trip a little cheaper.

Don't be so glib. You're doing things no one has ever done before. Some CMs don't take your FPs. It's all about technique. Ask your Adventure Guide about "the Max Ackerman Technique" today! Oh, and ask about the Buzz Lightyear Great American Churro Challenge. You won't be disappointed.

Please don't hesitate to ask me anything. If you would like a question answered that includes spoilers, please PM me. Really, please do.

[jacksparrowfan]

Hack2112...I am actually glad that a group went out so they can test things. I'm so excited! I am really looking forward to Imagineering. Thank you for being candid. So, Club 33? Or, the Lilly Belle? What was the Disney Trivia like? Could everyone participate? Or, just a few?


Are we there yet? Are we there yet?! Two weeks away!

[bradk]

i can't really hate on the FP thing anyway. you'll still have your ticket to get more FPs and it really does seem like free time in the park is limited anyway. Plus there just isn't that many different FPable attractions. So riding Indy 4x a night should be sufficient.

the only problem is they probably made the FP out to be more than it really is.

i've done the trek to USH myself. not from that particular stop but from the el cheapo hotel I stay at, which is a block away from the hollywood/western stop which I think is 1 or 2 metro stops away from the renaissance. i'm actually going to do the VIP tour there again the sunday before the trip. it is pretty simple, just taking the red line to universal city and catching the tram. i think the citywalk gates are about a mile away from the station, but it's all uphill.

[Politzania]

It helps if I turn the Flight Info sheet over... the departure flights are on the back.. :rotfl:

I'm a little concerned we won't get to do Storytellers on Sunday morning, as our departure flight is at 9:40am - any thoughts on whether we'll have time to eat w/ Chip & Dale before being whisked away to LAX?

hack2112 - thanks for the sneak peek info! Are you affiliated with Disney in some way? How did you manage to get on the "dress rehearsal"?

Oh - bradk - I don't know if you'll be able to get pix of the Disney Studios building - when we drove over last May, the guard at the entrance wouldn't let us into even the parking lot area .... Scott hung out the passenger window to grab a couple of quick pix while his cousin was talking to the guard... :rolleyes1

[bradk]

i won't be driving so i won't have to worry about ditching a car somewhere. i'm going based on this:

http://www.seeing-stars.com/Studios/DisneyStudios.shtml

as well as some other photos i've seen. i figured the worst that happens is i lose some time. as long as i plan for it properly, it won't be time that could have gone to something else anyway.

right now i know this: i arrive saturday, i want to hit the art of cars exhibit. sunday i have universal vip tour, monday i have warner bros deluxe tour, tuesday i'm planning on sony's tour before having to show up at the renaissance. so i have some time here and there to fit in other things, usually before my plans for the day begin. i want to get better shots of the capitol records building this time and visit some of the disney's hollywood studios inspiration such as the crossroads of the world

http://www.yesterland.com/replicas.html

i also want to fit in the hollywood forever cemetary and find some disney walk of fame stars (donald, mickey, disneyland, etc)

ETA: well, turns out disneyland's star is front of the el capitan theatre. won't have to work too hard for that one. looks like Roy O's is across the street too. and donald's is right by.

[hack2112]

Hack2112...I am actually glad that a group went out so they can test things. I'm so excited! I am really looking forward to Imagineering. Thank you for being candid. So, Club 33? Or, the Lilly Belle? What was the Disney Trivia like? Could everyone participate? Or, just a few?

No Club 33, sorry.
Yes to the Lilly Belle. That's what you do when the other group is being shown Walt's Apartment.
The Disney Trivia was good. They only did 2 games for us, and it's really for kids and teenagers, but the host is extremely funny. It also helps to have charismatic contestants.


I'm a little concerned we won't get to do Storytellers on Sunday morning, as our departure flight is at 9:40am - any thoughts on whether we'll have time to eat w/ Chip & Dale before being whisked away to LAX?

hack2112 - thanks for the sneak peek info! Are you affiliated with Disney in some way? How did you manage to get on the "dress rehearsal"?


You will most likely not have time for storytellers, and will probably be on your way to LAX at 6:30.

Usually the Dress Rehearsal tours are reserved for CMs, however I am not. A relative of mine works for ABD and let me apply, (Yes, you have to send in an essay to be considered for the Dress Rehearsal.) and I'm happy to say I was let on the tour.


i also want to fit in the hollywood forever cemetary and find some disney walk of fame stars (donald, mickey, disneyland, etc)

ETA: well, turns out disneyland's star is front of the el capitan theatre. won't have to work too hard for that one. looks like Roy O's is across the street too. and donald's is right by.
There is a spot on the tour where you go to Grauman's Theater and the Walk of Fame.

Anything else?

[bradk]

the tour actually does that? it's right by the hotel. i figured i'd just get up early one morning and do it all on my own.

[jacksparrowfan]

Hack 2112: No Club 33, sorry.



Thank you for the information. I'm sorry to hear that no one can see Club 33. I have been so fortunate to have enjoyed a meal or two. And, celebrated my birthday last summer. It's a very special place and this tour would have been perfect for it. Thats ok, though. We have so much more to see. I still can't believe it! :yay: :yay:

[inkkognito]

the only problem is they probably made the FP out to be more than it really is.
Yes, that's really my gripe. When they say you get VIP fastpasses, that implies something like a dream FP or the press FPs rather than a sparse number that won't even get you on all the FP attractions.

Oh well, it will be worth it for the private Turtle Talk, especially if we get to see it behind the scenes. On DCA day, I can just spend the day hanging out in the singles line at Soarin' and be perfectly content.

[hack2112]

Yes, that's really my gripe. When they say you get VIP fastpasses, that implies something like a dream FP or the press FPs rather than a sparse number that won't even get you on all the FP attractions.

Oh well, it will be worth it for the private Turtle Talk, especially if we get to see it behind the scenes. On DCA day, I can just spend the day hanging out in the singles line at Soarin' and be perfectly content.

No crush behind the scenes. Sorry. But you won't be disappointed. Trust me.

[bradk]

sadly a behind-the-crush is what i was secretly hoping for myself. just me though. i realize with kids as part of the group (assuming there are any), real backstage stuff is going to be severely limited.

i'm going to hate myself for asking, but did you visit the disneyland suite as well? i really wanted to see the mickey mirror at the DLH. they told me to ask the guides for all my requests and see what can be done.

i really don't want to know too much about all this though. gotta leave something to adventure.

[inkkognito]

I'm the sort that wants to know everything! (Then again, it doesn't even bother me when people tell me the surprise ending to movies before I see 'em.) Hack2112, you need to write a full report on other site so that the immediate gratification people like me can find out all the gory details.

But then again, maybe it's good to force myself to wait for this one. A lesson in patience. Only two more weeks from today!

[hack2112]

sadly a behind-the-crush is what i was secretly hoping for myself. just me though. i realize with kids as part of the group (assuming there are any), real backstage stuff is going to be severely limited.

i'm going to hate myself for asking, but did you visit the disneyland suite as well? i really wanted to see the mickey mirror at the DLH. they told me to ask the guides for all my requests and see what can be done.

i really don't want to know too much about all this though. gotta leave something to adventure.

No suite, but if you ask the Adventure Guides, they may be able to put something together, but no promises.

I'm the sort that wants to know everything! (Then again, it doesn't even bother me when people tell me the surprise ending to movies before I see 'em.) Hack2112, you need to write a full report on other site so that the immediate gratification people like me can find out all the gory details.

But then again, maybe it's good to force myself to wait for this one. A lesson in patience. Only two more weeks from today!
As you wish. I'll post a full review online somewhere and post up a link for all to see.

[inkkognito]

{drools on keyboard}

[hack2112]

{drools on keyboard}

Wake up! That's an expensive piece of hardware you're drooling on.

[Aunt Cawa]

Yay! Trip Report! :cool1: :cool1:

[dingoballs]

No suite, but if you ask the Adventure Guides, they may be able to put something together, but no promises.


As you wish. I'll post a full review online somewhere and post up a link for all to see.


Hi Hack2112, are you employed by Disney?

[hack2112]

Hi Hack2112, are you employed by Disney?
No, I'm not.

[SailingBeagle]

Yeah to a trip report, I going on the 6-3 trip and want every detail before I go.
Hack -Did you get lanyards and pins during the trip?

:cool1:

[hack2112]

Yeah to a trip report, I going on the 6-3 trip and want every detail before I go.
Hack -Did you get lanyards and pins during the trip?

:cool1:

One of the staples to an ABD trip are the lanyards and pins. Backstage Magic is no exception to this rule.

[jacksparrowfan]

A little something to see while at Disneyland, if you are interested:

-Flag Retreat Ceremony: Located at Disneyland at 4:30pm. This is according to the current calendar on Disneylands website. I don't recall seeing it on the schedule at the park. Do check it out! Every night is a little different. Sometimes they have the Disneyland Band. Sometimes they bring in the Dapper Dans. They do take it very seriously. They also announce each Branch of the Military and ask people to come forward to stand as they sing and lower the flag. They stand at attention, and it can be very moving.

-Tomorrowland Terrace presents Scot Bruce: I don't know how many Elvis fans are out there, but this guy really does a nice tribute. Kinda looks like him. He was in Faith Hill's music video and played Elvis. Check out youtube.com to see if you want a preview. :cool2:

On a side note, don't forget hidden mickeys. And, there is a "W D" in Toontown somewhere. (If you are not familiar with it already.)

[bradk]

there's also a "F P" in Frontierland

but let's see how much the ABD guides point out.

[jacksparrowfan]

there's also a "F P" in Frontierland

but let's see how much the ABD guides point out.

Brad, I don't know about that one. Would you mind sending me a PM? Or, do you want to wait and see what they say? I love hidden mickeys. I wish Disneyland had more like Disney World.

Also, Indy has a huge one. The cast members say it's the biggest. It's very cool!

[hack2112]

Most of your time in Disneyland will either be behind the scenes or on your own, just so you know.

[bradk]

well if you don't find out, feel free to ask me during the trip. i actually do have a photo of it too as well as the WD in toontown.

[SailingBeagle]

Anyone have any recommendations for dinner on the 2nd night in Hollywood?

June 3 - can't wait, can't wait, can't wait:

dance3:

[bradk]

here are the restaurants inside the hollywood & highland center and hotel:

http://www.hollywoodandhighland.com/dine_restaurants.php

[hack2112]

Here is the link to my spoiler-filled Backstage Magic Dress Rehersal Tour.

Enjoy at your own leisure.

www.maxtaw.blogspot.com (http://www.maxtaw.blogspot.com)

Max

[SailingBeagle]

I need some suggestions for what to do the first day that we can get to from the Hotel without a car.
We are arrving from the east coast and should hit the Hotel around 11am.

It would be great if they let us check in then...but something tells me that might not happen. I don't want to sit in the lobby till we can check in.

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

I've done Universal Studios Orlando, more then once, so unless thats really different I don't think its an option.

Thanks for any help

[bradk]

see some of the links I posted in the first post.

for starters, the hotel is right in the middle of it all. even if the tour does go on it, I don't think you'll lose anything by visiting the grauman's chinese theatre. the kodak theatre is right there (where the academy awards are held and american idol finals used (?) to be) and they offer tours. there's lots of shopping, the el capitan theatre, the disney studios ice cream shop. lots of things at the hollywood & highland center where the hotel is.

there are a few museums around the way, i like the ripley's believe it or not museum.

and LA has a good mass transit system so many other things are easily accessible.

as for universal, it's completely different. USH is built on an actual live studio (and universal is one of the larger studios, even disney does a lot of filming there). mind you that as a customer, you're restricted to mostly the attractions which orlando does share to some extent, but there's a lot of other things different about it, including the tram tour which does combine mini-attractions with actual sets.

but i don't know if it's worth going there just for a few hours. the price that is. it does have citywalk too, but even so, I think there's plenty going on right by the hotel.

[hack2112]

I need some suggestions for what to do the first day that we can get to from the Hotel without a car.
We are arrving from the east coast and should hit the Hotel around 11am.

It would be great if they let us check in then...but something tells me that might not happen. I don't want to sit in the lobby till we can check in.

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

I've done Universal Studios Orlando, more then once, so unless thats really different I don't think its an option.

Thanks for any help

They will probably check you in when you get to the hotel. At the hotel you'll also meet your Adventure Guides and check in with them. Remember, dinner starts at 4:00, so plan accordingly!

Max

[Politzania]

You will most likely not have time for storytellers, and will probably be on your way to LAX at 6:30.

I just called AbD on the off-chance that we could get our Storytellers breakfast switched/swapped for the "dinner on your own" on Friday due to having to leave for the airport so early on Sunday -- unfortunately, the Guide I talked with (Maurice/"Mo") said the scheduled meals were pretty much locked in for the tour.

However, he said he thought that Storytellers opened at 6am, and we just might be able to squeeze in a quick visit with Chip & Dale and grab something to eat on the way... guess we'll check with our Guides once we get there. :: crosses fingers::

[inkkognito]

Did anyone get a call from ABD today? They called just to see if I had any questions and were able to give me some guidance on when our tour would be done on the second day...it's not written in stone, but it was enough to give me an idea of when to make my dinner ressie. She said we should have gotten our box and bags, which we did.

[jacksparrowfan]

No phone call from ABD. But interesting, as I did call them this morning. I wanted to make sure everything was in order. And, if there was anything else we should watch for in the mail. (Nothing more.) She also double checked that we received our bag, etc. She said it was still a go and if there are any issues, we would receive a phone call. I asked if I could find out how many people, and she said "just under 40".

We are ready! Let's go and have some fun!!!! :goodvibes

[inkkognito]

Just under 40...whew! We're going to be quite a gang!

[MagicalPins]

Ok, its offical! Im crazy. I am now booked for the Sept 2nd tour. The one with extra goodies for the DVC members. I loved seeing hack2112's trip report so far with the preview tour and I can't wait to hear from the first offical tour!

It will be an interesting tour for me since I have already done most of the things on the tour. Most of my friends think Im crazy becuase I have already done so much of it but I can't wait.

[Mickeyfans4ever]

Thanks goes to all of you who have posted. The three of us have June 22 tour paid in full. We are learning so much from this site and hope to learn more as you go on your trip. Can't wait for your reports on the trip and what everyone did before and after their official tour. Coming in the day before from east coast and also want to see as much as we can while we are out there. Counting on your posts to let us know what worked and was the best of your trip before we make our plans. :dance3: This is our first ABD tour and passed up staying at Comtemporary Resort for this tour. If this works out we are doing the Italy trip next. :yay:

[MagicalPins]

I just saw an article in the LA Times about VIP Fastpasses.

http://travel.latimes.com/daily-deal-blog/?p=1683

I wish we got these FastPasses on the tour! I guess Disney dose not consider us “extremely high-profile guests” :confused3 :sad1:

It says "the “Multiple Attraction FastPasses” are good for unlimited, all-day, front-of-line admission to popular rides like Indiana Jones Adventure, Space Mountain, Splash Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain and Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters."

They were talking about politicians and the passes and stated "Because the Multiple Attraction FastPasses have no face value and can’t be purchased by the general public, politicians are not required to report the perk as a gift and Disney does not report the tickets as lobbying expenses, Nicoletti said."

So come on Adventures by Disney! Can't you just give us ONE Fastpass of a differnt kind instead of the 3 from the preview tour? They have no face value so your not out anything and we are not gaining anything! :rolleyes1

[bradk]

that's actually nothing.. and as i've posted elsewhere someone pointed these articles out, disney has always had a system with colored cards that allow high profile visitors to skip lines. not that all do, but because disney relies on celebrities as a form of publicity, they want to ensure that celebrities aren't put off by the disney experience. it's just capitalism at work.

for the regular folk, however, AAA used to offer enhanced fastpasses for their customers. these tickets would allow you to get FPs from each attraction without regard to the time restrictions (so you could get FPs for Big Thunder and then go get FPs for Space Mountain immediately after for example).

that would have been nice.

but considering i'm not taking the tour because of the FP, i'm not upset with what they're doing with it. i do still believe they entirely gave the wrong impression of what the FP would be in their promotional material, but it's not a selling point for me anyhow.

i'd have to go to disneyland anyway with the regular system so anything above that is still a definite plus.

[MagicalPins]

Me personally, I don't care about the Fastpass. But that is becuase I live less than a mile from the park and Im there 2-3 days a week. At previous special events when they given special FastPasses, I always kept them as a cool special FastPass instead of using them as a souviner. But it would be awesome to get the really cool one so I could just have the power for one day and then get to keep it without having to giving it up.

[bradk]

by the way

HAPPY SINGLE DIGITS!

[jacksparrowfan]

WAHOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :yay:

[SailingBeagle]

Wishing all of the 4-22 group the most magical of times.
Remember many of us will be awaiting your "spoiler " trip reports.

Have a Blast

:cool1:

[stenogoddess]

Have a wonderful time. I can't wait to see pictures and trip reports!

[TessRC]

I also really can't wait to hear your trip reports, my husband & I are on the fence about signing up for this tour and any specifics you can give could really help us make a decision! Have a great time! :goodvibes

--Tess

[inkkognito]

I intend on posting the good, the bad, and the ugly! I can't believe it's getting so close now...woo hoo!!

[hack2112]

For those fo you who think I've fallen off of the face of the earth, I haven't. I'll have some more of the trip up tonight. Promise.

[konslerg]

I intend on posting the good, the bad, and the ugly! I can't believe it's getting so close now...woo hoo!!

Oh, hopefully there won't be any "ugly," maybe just one or two things that don't rate 5 stars ;-)

I sure hope all these airline inspections don't foul up anyone's flights.

Have a wonderful trip, everyone! I know how exciting "maiden voyages" can be and I know you'll have the best of best times.

[SailingBeagle]

Does anyone have an idea where our dinner on the final night is?

I can't find it in any of the literature, web site...maybe I'm just blind.

Thanks:surfweb:

[bradk]

the Vineyard Room, subject to change

[hack2112]

the Vineyard Room, subject to change
Don't you wish. It was actually moved for the Dress Rehearsal and are to the best of my knowledge keeping it at the new location. Bonus points for those who can name where it is. *Hint* It emanates the feel of Backstage Magic.

[bradk]

well, that's what I was told when I just called. but she seemed to know as much as anyone else has from the beginning. supposedly they're supposed to be getting next week's itinerary in today

i'll keep checking the maxtaw blog to see if it comes up

[SailingBeagle]

Don't you wish. It was actually moved for the Dress Rehearsal and are to the best of my knowledge keeping it at the new location. Bonus points for those who can name where it is. *Hint* It emanates the feel of Backstage Magic.


Ok Max, ( Hack2112) I must be dumb,...can ya give another hint or just reveal it....OR include it in your blog.......
Thanks

[jacksparrowfan]

Don't you wish. It was actually moved for the Dress Rehearsal and are to the best of my knowledge keeping it at the new location. Bonus points for those who can name where it is. *Hint* It emanates the feel of Backstage Magic.


Oh...your killing me! :yay: Are we going to be seated for dinner someplace special where we can watch the fireworks?

[hack2112]

Here's a hint.

Opened with DCA, but closed shortly thereafter because of low attendance.

Oh, and jacksparrowfan, you get prefered viewing for the fireworks after dinner.

[ImprovGal]

Here's a hint.

Opened with DCA, but closed shortly thereafter because of low attendance.

Oh, and jacksparrowfan, you get prefered viewing for the fireworks after dinner.

Confused? You won't be after this week's Puccini Diner.


(At least that was my initial guess by your backstage clue, but then I thought that it had been turned into a non-food place. Or is that theatre just adjacent to the old restaurant?)

[hack2112]

Confused? You won't be after this week's Puccini Diner.


(At least that was my initial guess by your backstage clue, but then I thought that it had been turned into a non-food place. Or is that theatre just adjacent to the old restaurant?)

Just adjacent. They have some walls set up as changing areas for Magic Music Days, but it's not that noticeable.

[SailingBeagle]

Now I am totally confused:confused3 .....Hack 2112..could ya just spell it out for those of us who have never been there and can't find a thing search the web site for this????????????????:confused3

[hack2112]

I've posted a new update on the blog.

Check it out at MaxTAW.blogspot.com (http://maxtaw.blogspot.com)

I'll be updating multiple times per day now, so check back often!

Until then,
Max

[SailingBeagle]

I've posted a new update on the blog.

Check it out at MaxTAW.blogspot.com (http://maxtaw.blogspot.com)

I'll be updating multiple times per day now, so check back often!

Until then,
Max

Thanks so much for this update. Now I can go to sleep dreaming about imagineering.....I can't wait till tomorrows update:surfweb:

[Politzania]

For anyone coming early to the LA area that also has transportation:

From the Carolwood Foundation website: http://www.carolwood.org/Calendar/
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Walt's Barn open to the public -- Walt's Barn - Griffith Park
Open to the public from 11a to 3p. FREE parking and FREE admission!
Come see the railroad barn that was in Walt Disney's back yard and where the MAGIC was created!
link to directions: http://www.carolwood.org/WaltsBarn/directions.asp

Not sure if Scott and I will be be able to tear ourselves away from the Anaheim area...

[bradk]

bummer, that's my Universal Studios day.

I wonder what will actually be on display. I have seen some cars from the train at the Villas at Wilderness Lodge

ETA: I guess the barn is there full time, just open every 3rd sunday of the month and has something inside it, although it's not clear what

http://www.carolwood.org/waltsbarn

[hack2112]

bummer, that's my Universal Studios day.

I wonder what will actually be on display. I have seen some cars from the train at the Villas at Wilderness Lodge

ETA: I guess the barn is there full time, just open every 3rd sunday of the month and has something inside it, although it's not clear what

http://www.carolwood.org/waltsbarn

It holds Walt's model trains if I'm correct.

[inkkognito]

Oh no, Mickey's of Glendale?! My husband (who was apparently born with the female shopping gene, which I lack) is going to go crazy! I may need someone to help me wrestle the charge card out of his hands before it bursts into flames.

Anyone else get a call this morning from ABD?

[jacksparrowfan]

Anyone else get a call this morning from ABD?


You received another phone call from ABD? No phone call for us. Whats up?

[SailingBeagle]

Any chance "Mickey's of Glendale " has a web site?????:yay:

[bradk]

MOG does not simply because it's not open to the public. if you have access to the cast portal, you may have access to some of its merchandise though.

I did get a very polite and extensive voicemail today from Jim at ABD talking about how excited they are about the 'first' trip and was verifying where I was flying into and if I had any questions in regards to getting to the Renaissance.

he left me an 818 # though, not the toll free #.

just a friendly reminder: this is the last tuesday you'll be home.

[bradk]

I spoke to Jim too. very nice guy. he's in trip operations and Backstage Magic along with Spirit of America are his. he said he'll pop in at various points in the tour.

guides are Diana and Quinn

[inkkognito]

Yep, Jim is also the one I spoke to, and he gave me the 818 number in case I had any other questions. I am getting more and more excited...it's hard enough to wait as it is, and then phone calls just stoke it more.

[hack2112]

Info on your guides:

Diana (one of my guides on the trip) is a returning Adventure Guide who has been with the company for a long time. She is incredibly nice and knows a lot about both Disneyland and the company in general.

Quinn (one of the ABD Guide shadows who was also on the trip) is new to the ABD family and the April 22nd tour will be his 1st official tour. His favorite character is Figment and ask him about the Sam the Eagle drawing he had done at the farewell dinner. (I'll get to that in a few days. I promise.)

[inkkognito]

I'll get along very well with anyone whose favorite character is Figment. I have tons of Figments in my entry hall and my horse is even named Figment!

[Politzania]

No phone call here yet... tho am not terribly surprised, since we seem to be on the tail end of everything around here...

Why yes, I am feeling a bit Eeyore-ish, why do you ask?
:eeyore: :eeyore: :eeyore: :eeyore:

[bradk]

maybe they don't have a good contact # for you? that was my problem initially, heck i didn't even get alerted that the 4/8 was canceled (learned it from here). and then it turned out they were calling my emergency contact when they were calling me back

[SailingBeagle]

It's gotten very quiet on this thread. :surfweb: Were is everyone?

Packing??????

Anyone figured out where the dinner on the final night is?::confused3

[bradk]

i should be packing.. i've been buying things this week. still haven't finished my own itinerary either. i figure i'll probably do laundry and pack tomorrow night (which translates into friday) as i have to be up by 4 am saturday morning to get my flight

[Politzania]

Had a nice chat with Jim earlier today & he confirmed/clarified a couple of questions/concerns I had:

He confirmed that we should be pretty much done with our Wednesday tour (El Capitan, Jimmy Kimmel & Jim Henson Studios) by 4 or so, depending on traffic; however, you may not want to plan anything specific for that evening, as they may have tickets for the Kimmel show available. He didn't know if they would get enough for the entire group, tho.
That kind of puts us on the fence for getting reserved VIP tickets for The Little Mermaid over at El Capitan - maybe we'll just take our chances.

He also said they'd try to work something out for our Sun morning breakfast -- since our flight home is at 9:40, we'd probably have to leave DLR by 6:30 or so, and Storytellers Cafe doesn't open til 7. He said he would look into room service and/or a selection of Whitewater Snacks breakfast stuff, but AbD would cover the cost of whatever the solution was.

I also mentioned that we're celebrating our 15th wedding anniversary (actually 5/15, but close enough for us!) so maybe we'll get a little something special - Disney's pretty good about that! For example: We were at WDW for our 10th & took the Keys to the Kingdom tour - at our lunch table, they sprinkled Mickey confetti around & had a set of bride & groom ears for us! :)

Am feeling much better now - have got a lot to do still in these last 2 1/2 days...

We also decided to go over to the Petersen Automotive Museum Sat the 19th before heading to Anaheim - will bring lots of photos & info to share with the tour group!

[global_mom]

Will any of you guys be "blogging" your adventure as it happens?

I cant wait to hear all about this tour. If it turns out to truly be worth the money then we will book it. Have fun!

[jacksparrowfan]

I received my phone call today. :yay: As soon as he said his name I told him I was so excited! I had lots of questions and he is very accomodating! I did ask about the 3-day pass and because of the dress rehearsal feedback, they are changing it to a 4-day.

Happy packing everyone!!! Don't forget your cameras, those memory cards, and your battery chargers. We need to figure out a way to share our photos. I have started to watch weather.com. We are going to have high 70's so far, but you know how it goes.

Safe travels everyone! Looking forward to meeting all next week.

[bradk]

however, you may not want to plan anything specific for that evening, as they may have tickets for the Kimmel show available.

I really should have asked him everything I've been asking the ABD agents because they really didn't seem to know nearly as much (not their fault of course). I bought a ticket for Wicked for that Wednesday night after talking with one of them who said after the tour there'd be an excursion choice. can't remember what the other one was, but kimmel was an option. checking with 1iota.com which handles kimmel tix, audience members are supposed to show up at 5:30 pm (the time changes on a daily basis) so I don't know what time he actually tapes, but I'm thinking 6:30 - 7:30 now. I wish I had given it more thought because I probably would have enjoyed going to the show even if I didn't like any of the guests. he is really a funny guy and although I don't watch the show religiously, I just saw the Jimmy/Ben Affleck response to the Sarah Silverman/Matt Damon video and it inspired me. if you haven't seen them, check them out on youtube (watch the Sarah Silverman/Matt Damon one first)

so hopefully I'll be able to see both. i'll be really upset if there is a guest I wanted to see too. (actually, just checked the site... scratch that:

Eric Dane, Bill Hader << GET TIX >>
VAMPIRE WEEKEND Outdoor Mini-Concert << GET TIX >>

room service and/or a selection of Whitewater Snacks breakfast stuff, but AbD would cover the cost of whatever the solution was.

awesome.

We also decided to go over to the Petersen Automotive Museum Sat the 19th before heading to Anaheim - will bring lots of photos & info to share with the tour group!

as will I (be there on Sat that is) as I mentioned on PP. Sat I'm doing the Hollywood Museum and Petersen. Sunday is my Universal day. and so on. I'll be posting an itinerary on my blog (probably) sometime soon.

Will any of you guys be "blogging" your adventure as it happens?

I will (try). PM'd mine

I did ask about the 3-day pass and because of the dress rehearsal feedback, they are changing it to a 4-day.

awesome x 2. although i still need a 5 day :)

We need to figure out a way to share our photos.

interesting... i will have my laptop with me and I can burn CDs. I actually have a portable DVD player too (lightscribe!). maybe i'll bring blank DVDs along? if it's a genuine interest

[MJGirl]

Be aware that you have to be 18 to attend the taping of the Kimmel show, so if any of you have kids or teens, you will have to make other plans. On my trip, my daughter turns 18 on the final Sunday. I'm hoping to bend the rules as she will be close to 18 on the Wednesday (in 4 days) :hippie:

[hack2112]

I received my phone call today. :yay: As soon as he said his name I told him I was so excited! I had lots of questions and he is very accomodating! I did ask about the 3-day pass and because of the dress rehearsal feedback, they are changing it to a 4-day.


It was a 4 day for us too. I just never got to use the 4th day.

Sorry about not posting the rest of my trip yet. My computer crashed on me and most of the weekend has been deleted so I've been typing it bit by bit all day now.

Some of it should be up soon. I hope.

Until then,
Max

[SailingBeagle]

I just got off the phone with ABD and here is the info I have regarding
farewell dinner, park hoppers and "VIP" fastpass

Dinner is at Golden Vine Winery in the Barrel Room
The Park hoppers are 4 days and they will give them out as soon as we arrive at the Hotel.
The"VIP" fastpass......the hoppers are coded so that we do not have to wait
until you use the first hopper before getting the second.
So I asked, in theory , I could run to every fast pass attraction and get a fastpass and then use them as the times come up.


I will look forward to the maiden voyage groups info on this, cause I am still confused about it.:yay

[bradk]

see, that's weird... and that's exactly what the AAA enhanced FASTPASS would do, but both Tina (ABD's specialist for this trip) and Max (here) said that it'd be 3 separate FPs per day (for 2 days) and each FP is good for one attraction of your choice.

the closer we get, the more clouded the issue.

[hack2112]

The new update is up. Sorry about the delay. I promise to be more prompt, but my camera is a little sketchy so the pictures may have to wait a bit.

Until tomorrow,
Max

P.S. If you still don't know the website, it's MaxTAW.blogspot.com (http://MaxTAW.blogspot.com)

[dingoballs]

The new update is up. Sorry about the delay. I promise to be more prompt, but my camera is a little sketchy so the pictures may have to wait a bit.

Until tomorrow,
Max

P.S. If you still don't know the website, it's MaxTAW.blogspot.com (http://MaxTAW.blogspot.com)

Hi Max,

Very enjoyable trip report. So why didn't you just whip out the plastic (i.e., credit card) to buy more stuff at the Studio?

[SailingBeagle]

Hack2112
Thanks for the update and can't wait for the next installment and the pics

[hack2112]

Hi Max,

Very enjoyable trip report. So why didn't you just whip out the plastic (i.e., credit card) to buy more stuff at the Studio?

Because I'm 15 and the stuff there is the stuff at any Disney Store.

[jacksparrowfan]

By-the-way.... I had mentioned that we have "just under 40" on our tour. I also understand we will have a 9-yr-old, a few teens, some singles, and mostly couples.

Are we there yet? Are we there yet? :goodvibes

[inkkognito]

Interesting makeup. I feel a little sorry for the 9 year old if that's the only child and the next youngest are teens...always nice for kids to have others of the same age to bond with. We're a couple, so looks like we fit into the "majority population."

[bradk]

well, i'm a single and have the mentality of a 9 year old (well, maybe 5 is more like it)

i woke up this morning to find my foot in excruciating pain for some unknown reason though. hoping desperately it's gone by sat morning. might have to take tomorrow off

[Disneygrl36]

I am enjoying reading along on your "Maiden Voyage" thread.
We are booked for the adults only Dec 9th Backstage Magic & I can't wait to see what all is in store for us.
You guys are soooooooooo close now!!!!!!!!! Have a wonderful time everyone.

[dingoballs]

Because I'm 15 and the stuff there is the stuff at any Disney Store.

Oh okay, that would explain it... LOL

I'm looking forward to reading the remaining installments of your adventure.

[Politzania]

i woke up this morning to find my foot in excruciating pain for some unknown reason though. hoping desperately it's gone by sat morning. might have to take tomorrow off
Uh-oh... :: sends get-well wishes ::

24 hours and counting - dogs are "on vacation" already, bags are packed, iPod loaded with Disney podcasts & music ... just have to get thru another day at work! :rolleyes1

[konslerg]

You all have an absolutely wonderful time and bring us back lots of wonderful memories!

[jacksparrowfan]

well, i'm a single and have the mentality of a 9 year old (well, maybe 5 is more like it)

i woke up this morning to find my foot in excruciating pain for some unknown reason though. hoping desperately it's gone by sat morning. might have to take tomorrow off


Brad...tell us your doing better today!!!!

[bradk]

yeah, very sadly i'm not. stayed home from work and just staying off the foot.

i dunno what i'm going to do. i'm definitely going on the trip, but not sure how this is going to impact my plans.

[MJGirl]

Just want to wish you all a fantastic trip. I'm looking forward to your trip reports ...

:wave2: :wave: :wave2: :wave:

Brad ... Sending you lots of pixiedust that your foot gets better!

pixiedust: pixiedust: pixiedust: pixiedust: pixiedust: pixiedust:

Mary Jane

[hack2112]

yeah, very sadly i'm not. stayed home from work and just staying off the foot.

i dunno what i'm going to do. i'm definitely going on the trip, but not sure how this is going to impact my plans.

We had someone who had to be on a wheelchair from Thursday (WDI, and the Studios) on to the end of the trip. So if it does come to that, they'll know what to do.

I'm writing up Friday right now. Hopefully it'll be up by tonight.
Max

[Aunt Cawa]

To all the Dis people, who go where no Dis person has gone before:

Have a great trip! :thumbsup2

And Brad, hope you feel better real soon.:tink: pixiedust: pixiedust: pixiedust:


Looking forward to the reports!

[MJGirl]

We had someone who had to be on a wheelchair from Thursday (WDI, and the Studios) on to the end of the trip. So if it does come to that, they'll know what to do.

I'm writing up Friday right now. Hopefully it'll be up by tonight.
Max

Hey Max ... Love your taste in musicals. I've seen all of them except for Spring Awakening. I'm seeing that one in the fall when it comes to Toronto!

[hack2112]

Hey Max ... Love your taste in musicals. I've seen all of them except for Spring Awakening. I'm seeing that one in the fall when it comes to Toronto!

I haven't seen Spring either. However I'm trying to change that as soon as possible.

[bradk]

less than 13 hours til my flight and i'm still in pain and haven't packed. yay.

[hack2112]

less than 13 hours til my flight and i'm still in pain and haven't packed. yay.
You are one of the people looking forward to this trip the most.

Pack. You won't be disappointed. I promise. I am the one with the personal experience, remember?

[bradk]

oh i'll be packed and ready to go by then.. i'm out way too much money if i don't do it anyway.

i do not want to end up in a wheelchair or something though. i've already considered how it'd impact my picture taking

[hack2112]

oh i'll be packed and ready to go by then.. i'm out way too much money if i don't do it anyway.

i do not want to end up in a wheelchair or something though. i've already considered how it'd impact my picture taking

Just feel better, OK?

I remember when I first posted on this topic...

Good times... Good times...

[MagicalPins]

Im a last min packer myself too. I went on one of the Panama Canal Disney Cruises in 2005 and I didn't start to pack for that trip until.... about an hour before I left for the port.

I learned now to start packing at least with 2-3 hours to go becuase there wer some items I forgot.

[MagicalPins]

I'm writing up Friday right now. Hopefully it'll be up by tonight.
Max
I'm really bored at work and keep checking for an update! Keep them coming!

[jacksparrowfan]

oh i'll be packed and ready to go by then.. i'm out way too much money if i don't do it anyway.

i do not want to end up in a wheelchair or something though. i've already considered how it'd impact my picture taking

Brad...don't close your mind to being "in something". They have the motorscooters too. They are new and a little smaller than they had. If it will get you around the parks without pain...please go for it. Like you said you already have much money in this trip. I wish good travels for you tomorrow! :goodvibes


THANK YOU everyone for all your good wishes for us guinea pigs! Packing starts Sunday for me! Woohoo! pirate:

[bradk]

i'm doing a bit better now.. hopefully by 10am PST tomorrow i'll be okay. if not, i may just opt to spend all day tomorrow at the hotel.

i did laundry, charged camera batteries and set up a car pickup for tomorrow morning. just need to pack and sleep.

i updated my blog to include pics of the ABD messenger bag finally. I'm about to post whatever of the itinerary I have for my full trip.

[Aunt Cawa]

Brad, You are going to have the most awesome trip ever! Can't wait to read your report.

pixiedust: pixiedust: pixiedust:

Crossing fingers that you feel better tomorrow :)

[bradk]

yes, should be good :)

i'm at the airport now. no real pain anymore, still limping though. hopefully today won't make it worse.. still got another 9 hours or so til i'm really walking anywhere again anyway

[tflood]

Brad, I hope your feeling better, i'm really looking forward to reading you blog about the trip, I saw your itenerary last night and I was drooling! And I hope everybody has a fantastic time on this first trip. I'm hoping to do the trip in a few years, so here's praying :worship: :worship: it will be around then!

[SailingBeagle]

It appears from the latest pic on Brad's web site that he has landed.
Palms tress along the highway were the sure sign.

Brad -hope that foot is doing better, and have a great time. can't wait for
you reports and the picture was crystal clear.:dumbo:

[hack2112]

Part IV of the Backstage Magic review is now up at MaxTAW.blogspot.com (http://MaxTAW.blogspot.com).

Enjoy!
Max

[dingoballs]

Part IV of the Backstage Magic review is now up at MaxTAW.blogspot.com (http://MaxTAW.blogspot.com).

Enjoy!
Max

Thanks Max. The backstage tour of Disneyland sounds awesome! Was lunch included that day?

[hack2112]

Thanks Max. The backstage tour of Disneyland sounds awesome! Was lunch included that day?
Yes it was.

[inkkognito]

Part IV of the Backstage Magic review is now up at MaxTAW.blogspot.com (http://MaxTAW.blogspot.com).

Enjoy!
Max
Ooooo, my excitement keeps building. That trip report is really stoking it! Thanks for posting it. Please, please have it done by Monday as I fly out bright and early Tuesday morning (so early that I practically consider it Monday night...I am NOT a morning person).

[hack2112]

Ooooo, my excitement keeps building. That trip report is really stoking it! Thanks for posting it. Please, please have it done by Monday as I fly out bright and early Tuesday morning (so early that I practically consider it Monday night...I am NOT a morning person).

The final part should be done by tomorrow, barring any unforeseen problems.

[SailingBeagle]

Part IV of the Backstage Magic review is now up at MaxTAW.blogspot.com (http://MaxTAW.blogspot.com).

Enjoy!
Max

Thanks again Max for a "Totally Awesome" Trip report....:cool1:

[hack2112]

Thanks again Max for a "Totally Awesome" Trip report....:cool1:

We also would have accepted "Most Excellent." Probably because of my obsession to all things Bill and Ted, especially the show at Halloween Horror Nights, but that's a different discussion.

[inkkognito]

We also would have accepted "Most Excellent." Probably because of my obsession to all things Bill and Ted, especially the show at Halloween Horror Nights, but that's a different discussion.
Ah, yes, one of the few shows where you can actually learn to swear in sign language!

[Disneygrl36]

Max,
Were you able to take photos at the studios, Walt's apartment & the Lily Belle? Or did the adventure guides have the only camera to capture those moments for you?

[MagicalPins]

Just thought I would share what I know. I wasn't on the tour so Im not sure how it is on the tour but as far as photos go at either Walt's Apartment or the Lilly Belle. Normally, there is no photogrpahy allowed in the apartment to help keep it speical. They often will allow one single group photo. Now, again, this is how they treat a trip to the apartment normally. The tour may or may not be different.

As for the Lilly Belle, take all the photos you want. There is normally not any restrictions in there so I don't see why there would be any for the tour. Also, what I have found to be a nice picture.... There is an old time looking smokers jacket haning up. Toss it on for a quick pic =P Didn't hear that from me though.

Thanks again Max for the update! I can't wait to hear about the rest!

[jacksparrowfan]

Max,
Were you able to take photos at the studios, Walt's apartment & the Lily Belle? Or did the adventure guides have the only camera to capture those moments for you?

I asked Hack where our cameras were taken away. Here is what he emailed me (thank you, Hack):

Your cameras are taken at the following places:
- The Jim Henson Studios (for some of the tour, but not all.)
- Walt Disney Imagineering
- Backstage at The Indiana Jones Adventure
- Backstage at Disneyland Park
- Walt's Apartment and the Lilly Belle
- Backstage at Soarin' Over California

[bradk]

what?!? no cameras inside walt's apartment? but it's been photographed billions of times. and been on tv. hell, i know intimately what it looks like in there already.

owell.

my day is done for today. i actually got done more than i planned to. did a lot of star finding on the walk of fame, went to the hollywood museum at the max factor museum, did the kodak theatre tour and went to the petersen automative museum (which is completely awesome and i'm not even into cars).

foot was hating me earlier but seems to be ok now. we'll see how tomorrow goes at universal

[TessRC]

Does anyone know if it's possible to pay the difference to upgrade the park hoppers they give you on the tour to annual passes? Thanks for the updates, keep them coming!

--Tess :goodvibes

[hack2112]

Ah, yes, one of the few shows where you can actually learn to swear in sign language!

That was probably 1 of 5 funny moments in the show. 2007 was not a good year for B&T.

what?!? no cameras inside walt's apartment? but it's been photographed billions of times. and been on tv. hell, i know intimately what it looks like in there already.

foot was hating me earlier but seems to be ok now. we'll see how tomorrow goes at universal

There is 1 group shot, so don't fret.

Have fun at Uni tomorrow! Take the Metro, it's the best (and cheapest) way to get there, especially if you're staying at the starting hotel.

Oh, and I would hit up T2: 3-D just for the fact that they have a really good Kimberly Duncan, even though the outside queue sucks.

Oh, and there's a really cool farmer's market/ outdoor shopping complex that has some really good places to eat. The name of the place escapes me at the moment, though. It has a trolley running through it, that much I do remember.

[hack2112]

Does anyone know if it's possible to pay the difference to upgrade the park hoppers they give you on the tour to annual passes? Thanks for the updates, keep them coming!

--Tess :goodvibes

Actually, on our ticket it clearly says "Not upgradeable", so I guess not. But you can always try!

[TessRC]

Ah well, it was worth a shot! Thanks for letting me know. I keep checking for updates every few minutes, can't wait to hear more!

--Tess

[bradk]

is the farmer's market in question the farmer's market? :) at fairfax and 3rd. it's a pretty famous institution, supposed to be good for celeb hunting too. i passed by it on the bus to the petersen museum today.

i'm not staying at the renaissance (although i was at the hollywood & highland complex today) but i am at a hotel that's about half a block from the red line metro so i'm all set to take it to universal city (although i have a stop to make beforehand).

[hack2112]

is the farmer's market in question the farmer's market? :) at fairfax and 3rd. it's a pretty famous institution, supposed to be good for celeb hunting too. i passed by it on the bus to the petersen museum today.

i'm not staying at the renaissance (although i was at the hollywood & highland complex today) but i am at a hotel that's about half a block from the red line metro so i'm all set to take it to universal city (although i have a stop to make beforehand).

Have fun! And I am 100% serious on T2:3D. A bad Kimberly Duncan= a bad show, because everything else is scripted and recorded. Just saying.

[bradk]

Day 1 recap posted on my blog. Feel free to PM me if you're interested and haven't already asked for it.

[jacksparrowfan]

Brad! Great first day for you. Liked the Hollywood Museum info/pics. May have to check that out if we have time on Tuesday. How long did it take you to get through it? Did the weather stay overcast most of the day? Warm? Glad your doing better. Oh! And, I agree on Walts Apartment. I don't understand the no picture rule either. At least we will get a group shot. Hey! How did you get in that place before, anyway?

Have fun tomorrow!

[bradk]

i haven't been in the apartment before, that's my point. it's been photographed and video taped many times before (i have been on the lily belle before though)

it really only took me maybe 75-90 minutes to go through the hollywood museum. i almost felt the price of admission wasn't worth it, but it was nice to see.

weather was cool and breezy for most of the day, but i saw one sign say it was 75 degrees at one point. i started out with a light jacket but ended up just carrying it early on. and sunblock should probably be used. i was feeling it around 4:30 or so.

[hack2112]

i haven't been in the apartment before, that's my point. it's been photographed and video taped many times before (i have been on the lily belle before though)

it really only took me maybe 75-90 minutes to go through the hollywood museum. i almost felt the price of admission wasn't worth it, but it was nice to see.

weather was cool and breezy for most of the day, but i saw one sign say it was 75 degrees at one point. i started out with a light jacket but ended up just carrying it early on. and sunblock should probably be used. i was feeling it around 4:30 or so.

That'll happen. In the morning I would be in my jacket, but when 11:00 rolled around, it just had to be taken off.

[SailingBeagle]

Just got off the phone with ABD again about the "VIP" fast pass, as experience by Brad K everytime you call you get a different answer.

Today's answer is " you will get 3 VIP Fast Passes each day that can be used anytime that day on any attraction and can use your 4 day park hopper to pull additional fast passes every 2 hours."

I also asked what happens if I have more then one checked bag person
( we are continuing on to San Fran for a week and I don't know if I can get
everything in 1 bag pp for 14 days.) They said, well there might be a transportation charge , how much " don't know" does the xtra bag go on the
bus " don't know".....they will have to get back to me.....they are giving me a headache :headache:

If anyone else has info on and xtra bag I'd appreciate it.

[hack2112]

Just got off the phone with ABD again about the "VIP" fast pass, as experience by Brad K everytime you call you get a different answer.

Today's answer is " you will get 3 VIP Fast Passes each day that can be used anytime that day on any attraction and can use your 4 day park hopper to pull additional fast passes every 2 hours."

I also asked what happens if I have more then one checked bag person
( we are continuing on to San Fran for a week and I don't know if I can get
everything in 1 bag pp for 14 days.) They said, well there might be a transportation charge , how much " don't know" does the xtra bag go on the
bus " don't know".....they will have to get back to me.....they are giving me a headache :headache:

If anyone else has info on and xtra bag I'd appreciate it.

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.

[dingoballs]

Just got off the phone with ABD again about the "VIP" fast pass, as experience by Brad K everytime you call you get a different answer.

Today's answer is " you will get 3 VIP Fast Passes each day that can be used anytime that day on any attraction and can use your 4 day park hopper to pull additional fast passes every 2 hours."

I also asked what happens if I have more then one checked bag person
( we are continuing on to San Fran for a week and I don't know if I can get
everything in 1 bag pp for 14 days.) They said, well there might be a transportation charge , how much " don't know" does the xtra bag go on the
bus " don't know".....they will have to get back to me.....they are giving me a headache :headache:

If anyone else has info on and xtra bag I'd appreciate it.


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...