You Go West Girl!

[tammydel]

Well the time is upon us. While my family's Southwest Splendors trip officially begins Saturday, our adventure begins today.
We are:
Tammy - (that's me the mom and Disney planner)
Chris - (DH not the Disney planner)
Tyler - (DS 11)
and Kaleigh - (DD 10)
Usually this time of year you would find us preparing for, in the midst of, or jut back from Disney World. OK, really that could describe almost any time of year for me....But the past couple a years DH has been saying there are so many other places to go. The kids have started mentioning places they would like to go someday. Then ABD comes out with so many wonderful itineraries to places I would love to go to and to show the kids. After looking them over, and giving some serious consideration to the Wyoming trip, my husband and I decided that the Grand Canyon would be the place to go. While I'd traveled to a number of different countries, I've never been west of Pennsylvania. This would be an adventure!
So here we are, skipping Disney this summer, but so excited for our new adventure.
In middle of our pre-trip preparations and packing, we had the opportunity to go to Saratoga to the racetrack (the real Saratoga, not in Disney World!!!)
We had a wonderful day there with the kids and my mom - but the funny thing was there was a horse running in one of the races named You Go West Girl. I thought, well, yes I will.
So the Plan is:
Today we drive to NJ to my mom's house. We will have a little birthday celebration tonight for my mom and me. EARLY in the morning Friday a car will pick us up to go to JFK Airport. We fly into Phoenix and are staying the night at the Arizona Grand. Then it is back to the airport to meet up with the ABD folks. When the trip ends in Grand Junction we are not flying out. We will rent a car and first, stop at Glenwood Springs for the night. Then we will go on to Denver for a few days. We fly back to NY late 8/27, with another stay over at my mom's house. We will get home 8/28, days before school starts (DS starting middle school, DD gong into 5th and I teach 4th) and a full 2 weeks away from home.

Whew!
So now I better go finish up with the packing and get the doggies to the vets.

Tammy:)

[sayhello]

Well the time is upon us. While my family's Southwest Splendors trip officially begins Saturday, our adventure begins today. [...] So now I better go finish up with the packing and get the doggies to the vets.Tammy:)Have an absolutely MAGNIFICENT TIME!!! I'm looking forward to your on-the-road reports, if you manage to work that out. :banana:

Oh, and Happy Birthday!

Say "Hello"! to Delicate Arch & the Grand Canyon for me!

Sayhello

[Turtlemom]

Go get 'em Tammydel!
Have a great trip! I'm looking forward to reading your posts along the way. I'll be right behind you!!!!

Turtlemom :cheer2:

[LocustPoint]

Have a great time. I just loved the Southwest Splendors trip that we went on last year! Safe travels.

[tammydel]

Thanks guys.
Tried not to pack too much - but we still have so much! I'm hoping our bags will fit into the trunk of a towncar:scared1: !
Shoes, hats, sunscreen, electronics, laundry supplies, you'd think I'd be an expert at this traveling to Disney frequently...I have so many plastic zipper bags!!!:rotfl:
I'll keep you posted.
Tammy

[cindy18]

Congrats that you are finally on your way! Can't wait to hear how it goes for the four of you. Knowing the magic that awaits you, I am sure you will have a blast!

[tammydel]

Well here we are - live from Phoenix!

It was a long flight (for a family used to flying to Orlando) and I don't love JFK Airport. But we're here. We are staying at the Arizona Grand Resort for tonight. I really recommend it for anyone flying out ahead of time for the Southwest tour. It was only about 10 minutes from the airport, the rooms are very nice suites, there are many dining choices, there is a spa and best of all (if you have kids) there is a small water park. That's what we've been doing all afternoon.
We had lunch in the room first (or some meal, the time change has us a little off kilter) they have a pizza, soda and cookie delivery deal - perfect. Then we spent a few hours at the waterpark. It was really great, not crowded and frozen adult beverages available. The kids really enjoyed the wave pool, we all loved the lazy river and we experienced with varying degrees of enjoyment - the water slides. I'll try and take some pictures and post them later. We are getting ready for dinner now, going to restaurant the kids have discovered that they can enter via an old tin slide.
Weather is hot, but dry, no surprise. I just can't get over how different the scenery is here. I'm not a plant person by any stretch of the imagination, but I am amazed none the less at what different trees, bushes and flowers there are, not to mention cactus! Then there are these rock mountains that don't look a bit like our mountains back in NY.
Promise there will be pictures soon. Gotta feed the troops now.

Tammy

[disneytraveler]

Have a wonderful adventure:goodvibes I went on the Viva Italia tour last year and had a blast.

[tammydel]

Here is a picture of a quiet pool in a courtyard of our building.
http://i517.photobucket.com/albums/u334/tammybdel/ArizonaGrand001.jpg
My 1st effort of importing a picture - let's see how I do.
Tammy

[tammydel]

Here is another picture of us going to dinner. I have to figure out how to resize I know.

http://i517.photobucket.com/albums/u334/tammybdel/ArizonaGrand006.jpg

[cindy18]

Wow, posting pictures in real time. That's excellent! Hotel looks lovely, and you guys don't look too hot in the picture! Hope your jet leg didn't wake you up too early this morning. Can't believe you're meeting up with your tour today. So exciting!!

[tammydel]

Good Morning!
Today's the day! Today's the day :jumping1:
Our Adventure by Disney officially begins today. We are all really excited.

Before we go back to the airport to meet the tour, we have a little more time here this morning.

Yes, Cindy we are still experiencing the time change effects, but maybe it will work in our favor if we don't try too hard to adjust. Early to bed and early to rise and all. Last night we were in bed at 8 pm and up at 5 am this morning. :rotfl:

SO we are planning to go have breakfast, then swim awhile before checking out and heading back to the airport. I'll try to get some pictures of the waterpark area, it is quite nice. The hotel reminds me of the Coronado Springs (with bigger rooms- only of course this is the REAL southwest!

It is really hot, but it is more bearable without the humidity. We felt it walking to dinner (after the picture was taken) the walk to the restaurant was longer than we expected and up a steep hill. We used the hotel shuttle coming back. On the brighter side the dry heat is great for drying clothes! I set our wet suites out on the balcony last night and this morning they feel like they were in the dryer.:woohoo: (G00D because I HATE putting on a wet suit.)

I'll write morefrom Sedona tonight. Have a great day everyone.

Tammy

[tammydel]

Sorry for being MIA last night. After our welcome dinner I could not keep my eyes open. Also we have 2 rooms that do not connect and my DH has the computerin his.

I will do a full report with pictures tonight on yesterday (and today) but I just have to say: The drive into Sedona was amazing! I couldn't have imagined how spectacular and how stunning it is.

Turtlemom: I'd say be prepared for amazing views, but there is no way to prepare for it. So just be ready to take pictures.

Cindy: I am even more in awe of your daily reports knowing now how sleepy I am at night with the time change.

Off for our jeep tour now.

HAPPY TRAILS!

[Turtlemom]

Thanks Tammydel!
Glad to hear you are having a great time! We've been assembling camera equipment and gear all week. (my 2 girls actually conned DH into buying them each a small digital camera for the trip--now they are armed and dangerous!!!! Especially since DD(8) just took a digital photography camp this summer--so she knows what she's doing--she chased the dog around for 2 weeks taking pictures of him and made a power point presentation of the poor guy!)

Anyway--can't wait to hear and see more of your trip report!!!! Just three more days away!!!--Eeek--I have to pack!

Turtlemom :laundy:

[Turtlemom]

Tammydel--
I forgot to ask--who are your adventure guides?????

Turtlemom :rolleyes:

[jenbadeaux]

Turtlemom,
I just got back from Southwest Splendors last week. For packing purposes, know that the guides keep sunscreen and bug spray on the bus. You are encouraged to use it upon debarking the motorcoach. They also have washing powder available for doing laundry free of charge. Just thought it might help to know!

[Turtlemom]

Thanks Jenbadeaux!
That's good information to know! I was definitely planning to bring some sunscreen and bug spray with us--but it is also helpful to know that there is washing powder available--one less thing to pack!

Did you end up doing any laundry on the trip? Just wondering if I should try to pack enough so that we don't have to do any wash--or if I should try to pack light and plan on doing a load or two.. . . Any advice???

Turtlemom:confused3

[Turtlemom]

Uh oh. . .
Saw this on the news tonight. There was a dam break near the Grand Canyon village--flooding of a native american village and helicopter evacuation of campers and hikers in the canyon. Yikes!!!!!

Hopefully, this will not affect your trip--or mine! Also, hope no one is hurt and all are evacuated safely.

Here is the link to the story on MSNBC: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/26256451/

Turtlemom :sad2:

[cindy18]

Turtlemom, I was going to post this on my trip report thread, but since we're all tracking Tammy Del now, this is just as good a place to say to have a great trip. On the laundry front, it's really up to you in terms of whether you want to do laundry while you're on vacation. We decided to bring enough clothes not to and use our free time (there wasn't tons of it, more in Moab than in the Grand Canyon) for more fun stuff. But the laundry facilities are readily available and easy, if you want. We basically packed a pair of shorts for every day, t-shirts and tanks to cover a change per day (or close to), one nice outfit, one sweater, one pair of long pants and some bathing suits, plus the right shoes and a hat. The four of us managed in two LL Bean duffels (size large) and one small bag that our shoes fit into. It'll be great!

Tammy Del, waiting for your next post with your thoughts on Sedona!

[tksbaskets]

What fun - a live as it happens - trip report. Thanks for sharing. We are going on the Quest for the West next summer and love to hear from other ABD travelers.

TK

[jenbadeaux]

We also packed enough clothes to not wash. However, 19 of our group rented ATV's in Moab and we were COVERED with mud. All 19 of us washed clothes when we got back to the hotel.
FYI, the ATV's were a HUGE hit. We also did the hour helicopter tour over grand canyon which was amazing. 3 of my kids and my husband rode horses in Moab while my youngest daughter and I did the hummer tour. All were very fun. Your guides will set up any activity for you. Very easy and so many great memories.
Have the adventure of a lifetime!

[Turtlemom]

Thanks Cindy18! Sounds like packing light is the way to go--and we may be able to still avoid laundry. (I always end up taking too much though!--but I will try to resist. . . .)

Looking forward to Tammydel's next post. . . and watching the news for any new reports on the flooding!

Turtlemom :surfweb:

[tammydel]

OK
I know everyone is waiting to hear about the start of our ABD trip, but I have to finish up about our stay the night before. I really feel for anyone with kids who wants to come out before the trip begins, the Arizona Grand was a great place and you may want to plan on more than one night. We wished we had.

Saturday morning my DH went to the fitness center and the kids and I packed up and went to breakfast. DH met us there, it was very nice. Then we went back to the waterpark. They had band playing some Hawaiian music. As much as we were looking forward to our Adventure, we were sad to be leaving so soon, we seriously talked about going back. Here are a few more pictures.
http://s517.photobucket.com/albums/u334/tammybdel/th_August16thDisneyadventuresday1007-C.jpgThis is the wave pool - during an off time for the waves.
http://s517.photobucket.com/albums/u334/tammybdel/th_August16thDisneyadventuresday1009-C.jpgBand playing under tent.
http://s517.photobucket.com/albums/u334/tammybdel/th_August16thDisneyadventuresday1010-C.jpgview of lazy river.
http://s517.photobucket.com/albums/u334/tammybdel/th_August16thDisneyadventuresday1013-C.jpgThe 2 big slides. There is also a lower twisty slide to the side.

[tammydel]

Funny, I didn't hinkI did those pictures any different than the first ones. But these turned out so small and the others are so big?!?
I'll get there.

[tammydel]

So our car comes and we go back to the airport. We managed to find the right Starbucks (Terminal 4, 3rd floor). We were lucky because later we saw there was another Starbucks on the same floor.
Anyway - arriving was a funny moment because you are looking around for people with the ABD bags and wondering about who else is going on your trip. After a few minutes our guides Geraldine and Korey arrived. They greeted us and told us to leave our bags with them and go have some lunch. We would meet back in about 45 minutes.
*Note for those coming into Phoenix airport, I had a really great sandwich at the Paradise (I think) Bakery.
We met back up and loaded into the bus. On the way out of Phoenix we spent time admiring the very different scenery, then hit....traffic. There was an accident that slowed us down, some things not even Disney can control. We had brought a lot to entertain us on the bus rides, we really didn't need anything. Almost everyone spent most of their time watching the landscape change, even the kids.
Montezuma’s castle was very cool, you so wish you could get inside, but of course you understand why you can't. We were a little confused about the Jr. Ranger program. I some people knew more about National Parks, and knew what it was it about. The "step on guide" said that he had some books with activities and if they did the activities they got a badge. Well we got the books, but then the kids were caught up in the sights and listening to the tour. We thought they could just take the books back to the hotel and work on them in the room. We were wrong, the “step on guide" explained that it was almost time to turn them in and then there would be a badge ceremony. Well my kids looked at the books and we realized the activities were broken down by age and theirs were too involved to do in a few minutes. We ended up not doing it (only a few did do it in the end) and had to give the books back. It seemed that people who know more about the National Parks Program knew what to expect - we didn't. So now you know. If your kids want the badge, hop to it and do your activities!

[tammydel]

Next we are back on the bus and off to Sedona.
I was not prepared for what we would see. I was prepared to be in awe when we arrive at the Grnad Canyon, but i didn't know it would happen this soon into the trip. If I had to go home as soon as we got to our hotel, I would have felt like the trip was worth it. I have some pictures, but they are all from though the bus window. As we sort, I hope to pickout the best, but here are some... and as you know, pictures can not do it justice.
http://i517.photobucket.com/albums/u334/tammybdel/August16thDisneyadventuresday1047.jpg
http://i517.photobucket.com/albums/u334/tammybdel/August16thDisneyadventuresday1050.jpg
http://i517.photobucket.com/albums/u334/tammybdel/August16thDisneyadventuresday1049.jpg

[tammydel]

We had some rain as we arrived (they call it monsoon season, in NY we call it thunderstorms). Dinner was pushed back 1/2 hour because we were a little later due to the traffic leaving Phoenix and entering Sedona (lots of crazy construction going on). Dinner was fun, all the entertainment was great. Tyler held both the tarantula and the snake.
http://i517.photobucket.com/albums/u334/tammybdel/August16thDisneyadventuresday106-1.jpg
http://i517.photobucket.com/albums/u334/tammybdel/August16thDisneyadventuresday1062.jpg

We were all getting sleepy by the time food was ready. There was a sliced beef, salmon, au gratin potatoes and mixed summer vegetables. The food was very good, I enjoyed it, but my kids were hoping for a more "kid friendly" choice. Perhaps they are just picky, other kids seemed to take what was offered, not sure how much they really ate, but they could have been just sleepy.
Speaking of sleepy, I was asleep very soon after I swallowed my last bite. That's why no trip report last night.

[tammydel]

Sleepy is coming into play again. I may need to get some sleep before all my pictures from toady are uploaded.

I'll give you some random thoughts before bed.

Weather has been quite cool in the early morning and evening. Bring a sweatshirt for sure, and a rain jacket - because of the afternoon rain.

Cindy - I told Geraldine you said hello. She was pleased. There are some folks on this trip that have read the trip reports on the Dis boards and were talking about them (very favorably!)

We had he cowGIRL for our jeep tour. She was awesome, try and get her if she here that day.

The jeep tour was another one of those moments that I thought, if I had come and only been able to do THIS it would have been worth it.

I kind of thought the lassoing and soap carving would be a little ho-hum. I was wrong. It was the perfect, down time activity. We all laughed through the rope throwing and the kids loved the soap carving, so did I. It is very relaxing, the 4 of us each made one and then the kids each made another. (You can but the tools in the gift shop)

The kids had bonding time in the pool with the other kids from the tour. I said to my husband that this "making friends" at the pool happens at Disney a lot. But then they usually don't see the kids again. Here, they get to spend the next week with them. I see how they will grow close.

My DH had a massage at the spa. I said I'm waiting for after the Delicate Arch hike!

The Cowboy Club (maybe the name) was very busy for dinner so we went to The Orchard instead. Our server didn't have much English, but they did have all the food my kids were craving (spaghetti, mac and cheese, chicken tenders). Here's the hint***none of that is on the menu, you just have to ask about a kid's menu and they tell you what they have. Strange but true.

Guides are great, others on the tour are very nice.

I'm sad we did not get connecting rooms, I knew it could happen. They are right next to each other. Last night DD and I slept in one room and DH and DS in the other. Tonight we are all sharing in one. But having 2 bathrooms is great.
We'll see what will happen at the next hotels. (This affects my posting because DH is the keeper of the computer.)

OK, gotta sleep. Hoping not to wake up at 3:50AM like this morning!

Happy Trails!
Tammy

[tksbaskets]

Have a great day!

[cindy18]

Great to hear updates Tammy! The pictures of Sedona from the coach made me grin. I absolutely remember that sense of astonishment as we got close to those red rocks for the first time. I know that by the end of your day today, you will be at the south rim of the Grand Canyon, and it just keeps getting better. Give Geraldine a hug from me and from our family too, and keep having a blast!

[tammydel]

Well here I am finally back and live from Moab, Utah!

There was no internet access in the rooms at the Grand and the WIFI in the lobby was s o s l o w. There wasn't time to wait for pages to load - except perhaps late at night and I was way too tired (Cindy I don't know how you did it!).

We packed up and left the Amara reluctantly - it was very nice there and Sedona is so beautiful. As we were leaving I discovered two things
1) We owed $$ because we forgot to leave a credit card with the front desk and had charged a few things to the room. The way you check in, just getting the keys and going straight to the room, it was easy to forget - luckily they caught up with me though so I wouldn't be on a wanted sign!!!
2) This is Geraldine's last trip for the season! She is awesome and it was easy to see that it was sad for her to leave the Amara. One of the aspects that makes this trip so wonderful is obviously the great relationship that our ABD guides have developed with the staff at each resort.

Our nature walk was very nice and amazingly not too hot. Our Red Rock State Park guide was very knowledgeable (this has been the case throughout so far) it is amazing the difference a little water can have on the landscape!

Back on the bus we made great time and arrived a little early at Grand Hotel. Geraldine decided we should go straight to the Canyon before checking in - we were pleased and excited. You really could feel the excitement build on the bus as we entered the park and got closer. Also you could see very dark clouds forming overhead. You could also see lightening and you could hear thunder. Geraldine talked to us about her "special" plan of how we would all first see the canyon - sap that I am I am tearing up as I type- she also passed out ponchos because it was starting to rain rather hard.

I can't remember right now if anyone else described this particular method of 'first sight' and I'm a little torn about giving it away - but I don't think anything can take away from that moment. So..
She had us all hold hands with our families and look down at the ground. We followed the sound of her voice across the street and to the guardrail. All of us, in line, holding on to our families, NOT peeking. Then she said "OK now" and there was this collective gasp that could be heard over the pounding rain. I'm sure in that moment everyone squeezed their families a little tighter. I know we did. There is no way I could describe the sight. All I can say is that it is a sight that you do not just see, you feel it to the very core of your being, it's an overwhelming feeling. Having seen many pictures and videos I can now honestly say, none of it can really give you any idea how it is to stand on the edge of the canyon looking out into it.
We spent a little more time looking, but it was raining REALLY hard by now, so we ran first to the gift shop and then to the bus.

The Grand Hotel really was fine. I thought the staff all went out of their way to be very friendly. My only complaint (again - so maybe it really is just us) my kids found the dinner buffet not to their liking. It was sliced beef, ribs and chicken all slathered in a very red barbeque sauce. Geraldine did get us some chicken w/o the sauce (she is so good) and we ordered - from the menu- some macaroni and cheese, we offered to pay for it to the waiter but he said not to worry about it. So the great staff really fixed our only issue.

Next morning the step on guide was great and the views from the spots that the bus took us to were fabulous. You get let off inside the Park at Bight Angel Lodge which is right next to the Thunderbird that ABD will be using next year. You folks should have great views and easy access to the canyon all the time. I asked Geraldine if it wasn't a little weird working with the staff at the Grand now that ABD has announced a new hotel for next year. She said it is a little weird but they know the manager well and because of the good relationship the guides have with him it is a little less weird than it could be.
Everyone had a great time going back for sunset views even though it was an "on your own" time. The guides played games with the kids on the grass near the El Tovar and we took great shots of the sunset. Then we all went back to town on the bus to a pizza/pasta (and Beer I should add) place. It was loud, crazy fun. The kids by this point were well bonded and sat together. Grownups enjoyed talking and having a cold adult beverage. My son started not feeling well - I think inspired by riding in the back of the bus with the other kids, he of course disagrees!- but it was a very short walk back to the hotel.

So the next day was another moment when I was glad I was on this tour and NOT trying to drive this on our own. Yes, 6 hours on a bus is a very long time. But it was our own little rolling island of civilization. You go for LONG times where there is really nothing. I live in upstate NY and have driven across western NY. I thought that there was nothing. This seems like a whole different country, sometimes planet. If we were on our own we would have been worried about where to buy gas, food and have rest stops. Heaven forbid anything go really wrong. You could go 100 miles and see nothing but a few trailers in the middle of a desolate field. If the years and having children have reduced my adventurous spirit to riding on a bus watching Disney's Cars movie, so be it, sign me up.

[tammydel]

On the way to Moab we stopped in Monument Valley. Amazing, these gigantic rock structures sitting there in front of you. I am having trouble describing the sights you see on this trip. I will go through and post pictures, but I know having seen the pictures before I came, they don't really give you the "feel" of what it is like to be right here. Sometimes I can't believe this is the same country that I live in. We have natural beauty where I live, but this is on such a different proportion, harsh in ways perhaps, but very humbling. Some description of Monument Valley I know, I'm sorry.
You ride in the back of these pickups with rows of seats and a roof cover. It is very bumpy and very dusty. I was jealous of some people who had bandanas to tie over their faces, that would have been nice! But the bumps made it exciting and the dust washes off.
I sure thought a lot about the native people and what their life is like there. This is tough land to live on...I guess that's a whole other discussion for another place and time.

[tammydel]

Now we are here at the Red Cliffs Lodge. It is great, you kind of get that visiting a ranch experience. We had dinner last night (pasta, kids were happy) and settled in. The rooms are HUGE. We got the connecting rooms that we had requested (had them at the Grand as well). So two of these rooms together is so much space. I'm glad we are here for 3 nights, but I'm sure it won't seem like enough.
We did the hike to Delicate Arch this morning. Whew! Not for the delicate I tell you. I would say it is only moderately strenuous, although there are some uphill stretches that will take away your breath. But there is the issue of some of it being - well slanted, with some drop offs. My DH has a fear of heights, I usually don't. But on this hike, with the kids, I certainly was more than a little nervous at times. At the Arch, it ended up being my son and I who made the final trip around to stand under the Arch. I think Sayhello described it as walking along the inside of a bowl. Yep. I'm so glad we did it, I felt a real sense of accomplishment and was very proud of my son, I'm also so glad it's done.

Had lunch in town - Slickrock Grill, good food, slow service - perhaps they were overwhelmed by many of our group coming in.

Now we are back at the hotel. DH has the kids at the pool while I type. I wanted to get a massage after the hike and had asked last night, but they bring someone in from town and no one was available. Tonight is the Jr. Adventurer night out (and parent’s night out!)

I can't believe tomorrow is the last full day of the ABD trip! It will be a full one. We are horseback riding in the AM, and then there is a group BBQ. We all raft in the afternoon and finally we have our farewell dinner.

I have uploaded the pictures, I'll sit and try to pick out some good ones.

Turtlemom - I know you've begun your trip - If you get access to a computer - Have a spectacular time! I will be waiting to hear about your trip.

Any questions I'll try and answer as quickly as I can.

[tammydel]

Here is the jeep from the Red Rocks Jeep tour in Sedona
http://i517.photobucket.com/albums/u334/tammybdel/August17thDisneyadventuresday2008.jpg

Here is a view while on that tour
http://i517.photobucket.com/albums/u334/tammybdel/August17thDisneyadventuresday2011.jpg

My kids lassoing a bull
http://i517.photobucket.com/albums/u334/tammybdel/August17thDisneyadventuresday2032.jpg

Just realized many pictures are onthe computer, but not on photobucket yet. I'll work on that.

[tammydel]

Here's acouple from Monument Valley
http://i517.photobucket.com/albums/u334/tammybdel/August20thDisneyadventuresday5079.jpg
http://i517.photobucket.com/albums/u334/tammybdel/August20thDisneyadventuresday5100.jpg
http://i517.photobucket.com/albums/u334/tammybdel/August20thDisneyadventuresday5078.jpg

[lsutigger2]

I'm enjoying reading about your trip. We did this ABD in May and just loved it!! And reading about yours it like reliving mine again - except I have to go to work everyday and not do fun things!!

I am glad your family is having a good time.

[tammydel]

And here they are - some pictures of the canyon
http://i517.photobucket.com/albums/u334/tammybdel/August18th19thDisneyadventuresda-7.jpg
http://i517.photobucket.com/albums/u334/tammybdel/August18th19thDisneyadventuresda-6.jpg
http://i517.photobucket.com/albums/u334/tammybdel/August18th19thDisneyadventuresda-5.jpg
http://i517.photobucket.com/albums/u334/tammybdel/August18th19thDisneyadventuresda-4.jpg
http://i517.photobucket.com/albums/u334/tammybdel/August18th19thDisneyadventuresda-3.jpg

[sayhello]

Tammydel! Great pictures. So glad you're enjoying the trip. I just got back from a jaunt to Seattle, so I've missed your real-time reports up till now. But I'm all caught up now!

You made it all the way up to under Delicate Arch! Yay! It's not easy, but it *does* give you a sense of accomplishment. Any pictures of your feat? A massage would have been great after that -- sorry they weren't able to arrange it.

Isn't the Red Cliffs Lodge wonderful? I loved it there.

Interesting about the Grand, it hadn't occurred to me about the "awkwardness" of the hotel change. Did either of the Guides mention why the change was made? I'm assuming it's because of the location; from what I hear the Thunderbird is more rustic than the Grand. But you can't beat the location!

So fun reading your reactions, and re-living the trip. Looking forward to reading about the rafting tomorrow!

Sayhello

[disneytraveler]

:goodvibes Just priceless ! Thanks for sharing your adventure

[cindy18]

We've been checking for your reports Tammy Del. Great to read about your week! Not surprised that it's blowing you away. We feel the same way about the scenery. Pictures don't capture it, and somehow you can't believe you are in the same country. You will have a terrific time today, and I hope you and DH had a nice quiet dinner last night with the spectacular views for romance!

[tammydel]

On our way out to ride - but I just had to say:

Happy 100th Post Cindy18!:cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2:
Tammy

[cindy18]

Tammy Del, you crack me up. Thanks for noticing. I know today will be a fabulous day for you. Have a blast.

[tammydel]

Well - it is late Sunday night, on the way into Monday morning.
Most, if not all, of my fellow adventurers are home.
We spent the night last night in Glenwood Springs, Colorado and are in Denver at a friend's apartment now until Wednesday.
There is much to go back and tell about. I just went back and looked at the pictures from the past few days, I can't believe how much we did in those last few days.
I will go back and write about those days and post pictures, but for now lets just say that if we could have gotten on a plane in Grand Junction and flew back to Phoenix with the whole group and done it all again, we would have.

Tammy

[wii fit mama]

TammyDel Thanks so much for all the updates! We booked our trip for next June and are so excited to hear all about your trip. My daughter will be fourteen, were there many teenagers on your trip?

[tammydel]

Wii Fit Mama - (Love your name by the way - just got one before we left and I miss it!) Our group had 37 people and 17 of those were kids. I think - and I haven't had coffee yet, about 7 of the kids were teens of a variety of ages. The kids really made friends. I think within and age/gender group so long as there is at least one other, they have a buddy. If most schools are out when you go I'm sure there will be plenty of kids. Also don't worry much if they seem to have different likes/dislikes/styles or whatever. Sharing these experiences seemed to bond the kids no matter how different they were.

[tammydel]

Sayhello - Red Cliffs was a great place to end. Looking back so much of our "active" activity was there, the Delicate Arch hike, horsebackriding, and rafting. By this point we were closer as a group and probably more willing to take on physical challenges than we might have been earlier. I have pictures of everything, although the rafting trip will have to wait until we develop our waterproof camera pictures - those were not with our digital.
They are all coming.

It seems like we haven't stopped doing things for me to sit down and really write about them all. Also I have swithed from uploading all my pictures to photobucket (which took alot of time) to selecting ones I thought I may want to share/use and uploading those. Of course the selecting process probably takes longer than the uploading!!!!

As far as the reason for the change in hotel, that's an interesting one... I had heard some not so great reveiws in the past, then the reviews seemed to improve. When I went it really seemed fine. Not the Amara or the Red Cliffs but clean and comfortable and the staff really did seem to be very friendly. I think the rooms at the Thunderbird may turn out to be a bit more spartan, but there will be no beating the location and views. I guess the El Tovar is really the only game in town that really would be what Disney is looking for, but that seems that it will not work out. I guess they are trying to figure out what would be next best.

Tammy

[Turtlemom]

Hi Tammydel!
We just got back from our Southwest Spelndors trip Wednesday at midnight. All I can say is "WOW"! We had just the best time of our lives. Once again, both kids were shedding a few tears on the way home, missing our terrific adventure guides (Tiffany and Cheryl), and the new friends that they made on the trip. I can't say enough good things about the trip and about our fellow passengers and guides.

I really enjoyed reading the rest of your trip report today, and seeing the pictures. It brings back all the great memories--and yes, everything you have said, as well as Cindy18 and Sayhello is true. It was a great experience. We ended up not bringing the laptop with us. DH bought a "digital wallet" to download pictures. Frankly, I was enjoying myself so much with the activities and interacting with everyone else, I did not miss not having the computer with us. It was really nice to get away from it all.

I must say, one of the great things about this trip is how it keeps getting better each day. At the end of Sedona, I didn't want to leave, because we had so much fun at the Amara and going on the Jeep trip and Nature walk. Then came the Grand Canyon--words cannot describe that experience. We did do the helicopter ride and it was fabulous. But I think they saved the best for last. Moab was just great. I loved the fact that we were out there hiking, riding ATV's, river rafting, and even just hanging out by the pool. The Red Cliffs Lodge is a place I would definitely consider visiting again. Just a fantastic experience in one of the most beautiful settings I have ever seen.

After we catch our breath--do our laundry--and get ready for back to school, I'll see about posting a picture or two. Until then--great work Tammydel! Loved the trip report.

Turtlemom

[Turtlemom]

About the change in hotel--I know the staff at the Grand were very good to us, but they definitely knew about the upcoming change. I think our adventure guides felt a little awkward at first, but it certainly didn't have any effect on our experience at the hotel. We were treated very well.

My understanding is that the hotel change is a definite trade-off. The hotels in the Grand Canyon village are much older, with smaller rooms and fewer amenities than the Grand (i.e., no pool, and who knows about laundry, gift shop, etc. . .). However, I think the Disney folks are hoping that the location makes up for that. I personally had no problem with staying at the Grand. The kids did get some great pool time in. I think the experience of being able to wake up on the edge of the Grand Canyon would be unforgettable though. I would gladly trade hotel amenities for that, but it will be interesting to see if others feel the same way.

Turtlemom

[cindy18]

Turtlemom, I'm so glad you had such a wonderful time. There does seem to be something about this tour. People just absolutely love it. I think the scenery is enough to captivate people, and then the connections you make with your group just add to the experience. Plus, of course it's just a lot of fun. It's super to hear about your week! And pictures would be great!!

[tammydel]

Welcome Home Turtlemom!

I'm so glad you had such a great time, although I knew you would! As your trip started I kept thinking "now she is getting to do this or see that.."

I can't believe our Adventure ended a week ago! We just got home Thursday with our other travels we did. Then I went into work yesterday to set up my classroom.

I also feel bad about not having yet finished my report and I do have more pictures I'd like to post. I really intend to get it done this weekend before school starts.

We also had some tears in the back of the car we rented in Grand Junction. It was sad for the whole expereince to end - you really are in such a groove by the time you get to Moab. Then when my DH and I were doing all the driving, feeding, transporting stuff, checking in, getting from place to place, getting admissions on our own....WE were sure missing our guides and our bus driver Tom.

Anyway, I promise I'll finish soon, and then I'll be loooking for your yours!

[sayhello]

Turtlemom! Welcome back! You had Cheryl as a Guide? She was one of our guides, too, and I just adored her! Her enthusiasm was *SO* contagious! Wish I'd known, ;) I'd've asked you to say "Hi!" for me! And I've heard marvelous things about Tiffany...

I also will definitely consider going back to the Red Cliffs Lodge again. It's such a gorgeous place, and there's so much to do in the area. I really loved it there.

I agree about the Grand. I thought it was just fine, and while not "luxurious", it was clean and comfortable, and better than a hell of a lot of other places I've stayed! But waking up on the Rim.... There's definitely something to be said about that. I know a few people on our tour were complaining that we weren't staying at El Tovar, but I didn't hear anyone suggest the Thunderbird. It *will* be interesting to see if folks think the trade-off is worth it. Some day I will go back to the Grand Canyon, and stay at the El Tovar... :goodvibes

Glad you had such a great time on your trip! Looking forward to your report!

Tammydel! You had Tom as your bus driver? Isn't he just the best? It was like having another guide! I really enjoyed talking to him the times he would join us at meals. It *really* added to the enjoyment to have such a personable, friendly bus driver!

Sayhello

[Turtlemom]

Hi Sayhello! I agree--Cheryl was terrific, as was Tiffany. Both of them were enthusiastic and happy throughout the whole trip, and it definitely helped everyone in the group to be in good spirits and to bond with them--and each other. My girls absolutely fell in love with both of them and desperately want them to be our adventure guides for the next ABD trip we take.

As for the El Tovar, my understanding is that they only contract with one tour group and will not deal with others. Thus, its the Thunderbird or nothin'.

Still working on downloading and sorting through all the wonderful pictures we took. . . .

Turtlemom :rolleyes:

[PrincessCindi]

Turtlemom and Tammydel
We leave for our trip on Saturday ... SO EXCITED especially after reading your feedback.
I was wondering how much you packed. I have one checked back and one of those wheeling upright carry on bags and a small bag to put my camera case , DVD player, snacks, books etc in
How did you find packing and unpacking at each hotel etc ..and moving bags from one place to another
Do you feel that you packed too much or too little??
Was there something that you wished you brought w/ you had you known?

Thanks for your great feedback!!

[Turtlemom]

Hi PrincessCindi!
You will have a great trip!!!!! As far as packing goes--I tried to pack light and still brought too many clothes. The only clothes you will need will be casual. There was not one fancy place that we went where a pair of khakis and a polo shirt or top was not perfectly fine. I also tried to pack a change of clothes for those days where there were activities (like hiking, rafting, ATV's, etc. . .), because in the heat--you will want to change for dinner. On the Grand Canyon days--that was not necessary.
It sounds like you have it under control.
Just make sure you have a good hat to keep the sun off. There are also laundry facilities available at the Grand Canyon and Moab (and Disney provides the laundry soap), so I would try to pack as light as possible.

Have a fantastic trip and let us know how it goes when you return!!!!

Turtlemom :thumbsup2

[Turtlemom]

Oh--you had also asked about the luggage. Not to worry--"tinkerbell" takes care of that. I would just make sure you have a backpack or small bag to keep your things with you on the coach (i.e. a hoodie or jacket, book, hat, camera, etc.).

We made it a practice the night before we had to change hotels to just take out exactly what we were going to wear and set that aside. Then everything else could be packed up and ready to go the next morning--just slip in the toothbrush and zip it up. We always had enough time to get ready for breakfast and zip up our bags to leave them inside the room by the door. Anything you want to keep with you during the day went on the bed. Tinkerbell did the rest and the bags "magically" dissappear while you are enjoying your breakfast.

Disney makes the transitions as easy as possible.
Once again--you will have a great time!

Turtlemom.

[PrincessCindi]

Thank you for your help!
One more question ...I know you only bring one checked bag per person
but what if you dont want to lug around your piece of carry on luggage ... will tinkerbell take that too??

[sayhello]

Thank you for your help!
One more question ...I know you only bring one checked bag per person
but what if you dont want to lug around your piece of carry on luggage ... will tinkerbell take that too??When I did Southwest Splendors, I didn't take my carryon luggage on the bus with me at all. "Tinkerbell" took both my checked bag and my carryon, and I had a much smaller, mesh bag that I used to shlep the stuff I needed to get ready in the morning, and stuff I wanted on the bus like sunscreen, hats, etc. So the answer is yes, "she" will!

Have a WONDERFUL trip! You will *LOVE* this tour! It is just fabulous!

Sayhello

[PrincessCindi]

You guys are so great!
Thank You Sayhello (p.s. I LOVED your trip report!!)
I will report back when we return!!

[tammydel]

PrincessCindi,
I wish I was starting all over with you. It is going to be an amazing adventure!
I agree that less is better! I overpacked. I brought too many nicer nighttime outfits. I also have a few favorite things and when I got the chance I washed them and wore them again. This left the "group B" clothes unworn - should have left them at home.
Also as you heard - Tinkerbell will take whatever you'd like. Our guide distributed extra tags for anyone who had another bag they would like to have taken. We just revamped our bus bag each night with what we would need for the next day and sent the rest.
My big tip is zip locks of ALL sizes. Gallon ones for sunscreen, bug repellent, wipes (although guides had alot of those things.) Gallon one for chargers (phones, ipods, computers). Gallon one for our own snack supply. Oh - another gallon one for pins - we didn't want to wear them for fear of loosing them. Snack ones for those powder drinks you put in water. Really giant ones you can get for yucky laundry - there will be lots of that! big ones for wet suits and water shoes - although in the dry heat they do dry quickly.
So you could say I was the zip lock queen. But they really made organization A LOT easier. My grocery store has the XXL ones - as big as laundry bags. I kept extras of all sizes to use as we went along and we did use them many times. I kept them in one of the outside flat zipper pockets of the suitcase.

Have a fabulous time...maybe write in a journal, or take some notes. I tried to trip report but was so tired each night. Now I wish I had done more.

***for those who hoped I would one day FINISH my trip report and pictures***
I promise I will. School is back full force, with my schedule and the kids it's lucky I post at all now. But I haven't forgotten....

Happy trails!
Tammy

[PrincessCindi]

Thank you Tammy for your feedback. Makes me feel alot better about bringing my carry ons!!
I already have those plastic travel bags in the front of my suitcase ... I will have to add some smaller zip locks as well! I agree they are a great idea for any vacation
Thank you all so much for your help
I promise to give info when I return!!!