My first trip...

[chwgmjay]

So... pretty much everything is set for my first trip to the World.

I'm still waiting on my pre-class info from the Disney Institute but I'm guessing it will probably come soon.

I'm heading out of Minneapolis on Southwest Monday morning Sept 21st and using DME to get to the Yacht Club (I got my packet from them last night. My parkhopper also showed up last night, so I was double-excited). I have dinner reservations that night at Epcot.

Tues. I'm goin' to the Magic Kingdom and have lunch and dinner reservations, as well as MNSSHP tickets for that evening.

Weds I'm having lunch at Hollywood Studios and my Disney Institute classes start at 5:00 with a dinner.

Thursday I'm in class all day, so I decided to take it easy and just have dinner at the Yachtsman Steakhouse and do my laundry, etc.

Friday I'm in classes all day too, but decided to go to Epcot for dinner.

Saturday is Graduation day with nothing planned for the evening.

Sunday I'm having breakfast at the Yacht Club and then splitting the day between Epcot and Hollywood Studios.

Monday I'm moving from the yacht club to Pop. I was debating whether to stay at Pop or Coronado Springs at about the same price, but the convenience of being able to use RAC for Southwest pulled it to the Pop side. Once I get moved over, I'm spending the day at Animal Kingdom, and the evening at the Magic Kingdom.

Tuesday I'm just spending the day chilling and then I have tickets again for MNSSHP.

Weds morning I figure I'll need to pack/send any packages home/catch DME to the airport so I can take my Southwest flight home.

I can't believe it's only 35 days 'til I get to go... I've wanted to go FOREVER.

I'm just hoping I don't have any problems like I had at Disneyland.

[rosiep]

:cool1::cool1:

I want to hear more about your classes....and the food :lovestruc

Why couldn't you use RAC for Southwest at CSR? I use it for my last trip and I think it's the greatest invention since chocolate. Seriously, it makes ending a vacation almost pleasurable.

[chwgmjay]

So... any thoughts/suggestions/etc. on things I can't miss/have to eat/see/etc?

I don't eat seafood and I can't stand mayo.

My dining reservations:
Tutto Italia - Dinner
Crystal Palace - Lunch
The Plaza Restaurant - Dinner
Sci Fi Dine-In - Lunch
Yachtsman Steakhouse - Dinner
San Angel Inn - Dinner
Captain's Grille - Breakfast
Hollywood & Vine - Dinner
Liberty Tree Tavern - Dinner

Other places I plan to eat:
Wolfgang Puck Express
Flame Tree BBQ

[chwgmjay]

:cool1::cool1:

I want to hear more about your classes....and the food :lovestruc

Why couldn't you use RAC for Southwest at CSR? I use it for my last trip and I think it's the greatest invention since chocolate. Seriously, it makes ending a vacation almost pleasurable.

As far as I know, remote airport check-in is only available for Southwest at Pop...

[rosiep]

As far as I know, remote airport check-in is only available for Southwest at Pop...

I didn't see SW listed on the RAC page at all, so perhaps you are correcte that it's available only at POP. I flew Delta when I used it at CSR.

[Jeff90]

We're going to be at MNSSHP on 9/29 also! We arrive on 27th....

BTW, Rosie, not sure about coming in early....I wanna see you and EQ...

[chwgmjay]

I didn't see SW listed on the RAC page at all, so perhaps you are correcte that it's available only at POP. I flew Delta when I used it at CSR.

Ya... they're testing it at POP before adding the other resorts.

[OrlandoMike]

Yachtsman Steakhouse - Dinner


I know its a broken record, but ask for Ricardo! Sit in the lounge and have a drink if you have to wait! It will be worth it!

[wallyb]

Sit in the lounge and have a drink if you have to wait! It will be worth it!

Mike - Do you have to push the devil water
at other resorts too. :sad2:

[chwgmjay]

mmmm... devil water.

[rpmdfw]

We're going to be at MNSSHP on 9/29 also! We arrive on 27th....

What are your costumes going to be?

[rpmdfw]

mmmm... devil water.

:lmao:

I totally agree! ;)

[chwgmjay]

So... I got my customized maps yesterday. And as I get tips at work I've been putting them into tip envelopes for mousekeeping. Just over a month to go... this is going to be hard... so I have started working on planning my company's annual meeting in San Diego in January, however, it's not really working.

[wallyb]

So... I got my customized maps yesterday. And as I get tips at work I've been putting them into tip envelopes for mousekeeping. Just over a month to go... this is going to be hard... so I have started working on planning my company's annual meeting in San Diego in January, however, it's not really working.
:lovestruc San Diego.

[chwgmjay]

:lovestruc San Diego.

Ya... it's where our controller lives. I loved it when we were there this year for our annual meeting and decided to hold our meeting there again next year. Sure beats having it in Minnesota in January.

[rosiep]

So... I got my customized maps yesterday. And as I get tips at work I've been putting them into tip envelopes for mousekeeping. Just over a month to go... this is going to be hard... so I have started working on planning my company's annual meeting in San Diego in January, however, it's not really working.

I have my Mousekeeping envelopes all prepared too!! It makes the trip seem that much more real.

I didn't order maps for this trip..I think I'll use touringplans. I love how I can plan a route and then it'll print a map with that routing numbered. (best part is it's free!)

[soulmates]

I like your ADR's except, I personally don't like San Angel. You can eat Mexican anywhere and really, it's not good. I'd do something like Rose & Crown, Le Cellier, Chefs de France...all great places. We just got back a few weeks ago, and I can vouch for the last 2! ;)

[chwgmjay]

I like your ADR's except, I personally don't like San Angel. You can eat Mexican anywhere and really, it's not good. I'd do something like Rose & Crown, Le Cellier, Chefs de France...all great places. We just got back a few weeks ago, and I can vouch for the last 2! ;)

It was one of few places that were still open Friday night. :(

[rpmdfw]

It was one of few places that were still open Friday night. :(

Isnt' that Friday night Sept 25th? Skip the restaurant and hit the food booths set up for the Food & Wine Festival which opens that day. We don't bother with sit-down meals at Epcot at all during the festival. Too much fun going from booth to booth and sampling their offerings.

[chwgmjay]

Isnt' that Friday night Sept 25th? Skip the restaurant and hit the food booths set up for the Food & Wine Festival which opens that day. We don't bother with sit-down meals at Epcot at all during the festival. Too much fun going from booth to booth and sampling their offerings.

Friday's the last day of my classes though, and they say to be prepared to do a lot of walking in the classes so I guess it depends on how much walking we do during the day as far as if I'm going to be up to wander all evening...

[rpmdfw]

Friday's the last day of my classes though, and they say to be prepared to do a lot of walking in the classes so I guess it depends on how much walking we do during the day as far as if I'm going to be up to wander all evening...

Trust me when I say that it's NOT strenuous going from booth to booth enjoying snacks and beverages! :thumbsup2

[chwgmjay]

25 days to go... I am all kinds of stressed out... mostly due to stuff going on at work. I reallllly need this vacation.

[chwgmjay]

I just realized that at this time, 3 weeks from now, I will be enjoying my first meal at WDW. I am in no way shape or form ready to go... blargh.

[chwgmjay]

15 days to go... I made a list of stuff to pack, thogh it keeps getting bigger and bigger. I also made a list of things to bring home with me for various people. I haven't gotten anything from the Disney Institute yet, which kinda surprises me. They mentioned several different places that they send you information to "think about" before the classes. But, I suppose I have 2 weeks yet to get it. I'm just freaking about forgetting to do something or get something or pack something, etc. It's my first trip, and since I'm going alone, I don't want to risk anything.

[ConcKahuna]

I <3 the Yachtsman and The Plaza!!

The Reuben at the Plaza is $$$

[chwgmjay]

8 days to go... I did my online check-in the other day. I still haven't gotten any info, etc. from the Disney Institute. They were supposed to email at 14 days with info on where to meet the first night, etc. Hopefully I get it before I leave.

Anyways...

Any thoughts on anything I could be forgetting? I work basically every day 'til I leave now, so I'm pretty stressed.

[chwgmjay]

Got my info from the DI... first night (Weds at 4:30) is at the Y&B Convention center and includes dinner and goes until 10:00 pm. After that, stuff starts at 7:30 daily (6:30 my time... I haven't been up at 6:30 in a long time) and ends at 4:00 daily except Sat when graduation ends at 1:30. So... if anyone's around and up for hanging out, that's what I have going on...

:)

[chwgmjay]

93.5 hrs 'til I land in Orlando.

[OrlandoMike]

93.5 hrs 'til I land in Orlando.

:cool1:

Have you got your whole trip planned yet?

[rosiep]

We're trying to figure out a lunch together or something...unfortunately at this point non of our park days match. Still...I think we have some wiggle room...we'll figure out something.

[chwgmjay]

:cool1:

Have you got your whole trip planned yet?

Yah, but then I realized that it's my first trip and I'm going to be alone so other than classes and MNSSHP on the Tuesdays, I can do whatever whenever I want as long as I hit everything I want to at some point during my 10 days.

[chwgmjay]

So... yesterday I worked 11-6. I picked up some post card stamps so that I can send out all the post cards I have to while I'm there. Once I got home, I crashed though. Woke up a couple times during the night, and then got up about 10:00 this morning and realized I have less than 3 full days to pack and have almost nothing packed. So, my project for today is unpacking to write down everything I *DO* have packed and then packing. I work from 2-9 tonight so I have to leave the house around 1, so I have a few hours to get stuff together. Anything I don't accomplish this morning will HAVE to be done tonight. I work 2-9 tomorrow and Sunday and then my flight leaves at 7:00 am Monday. Ugh. Stress.

[chwgmjay]

So... my flight takes off in 8 hrs... and I'm sooooooooooooooooooo worried that I'm forgetting something or will forget something or I'll oversleep or etc etc etc.

I have my parkhopper, I have my boarding pass, I have my MNSSHP tickets... I am SO tempted to tear everything apart and repack everything just to make sure I'm not forgetting ANYTHING... I'm just SO OCD when it comes to this stuff.

[OrlandoMike]

Dude! Calm down! We have a Walmart here, and Dis folks on call for emergency's!

Just start dreaming about your vacation!


Just think! In less than 24 hours your gonna be at Disney World! :cool1:

[chwgmjay]

I'm here... got here around 3:30 yesterday. Went out and explored Epcot right away. Realized that other than the cookies on the plane, I hadn't had anything to eat for over 24 hrs so I had a bacon double cheeseburger at the Electric Umbrella for "lunch." Did some more wandering around Epcot for a few more hours, then I had cantina nachos and a strawberry margarita for dinner. Didn't take a picture of the cheeseburger, but I did think to take a pic of the nachos/margarita after I ate like 1/2 of 'em. They were pretty tasty. After that, I came back to the yacht club and took a cool bath (I didn't realize how hot/humid it was and when I started getting undressed once I got back to the hotel, my clothes were SOAKED with sweat), unpacked my luggage which had "magically" appeared in my room while I was at Epcot, and crashed into the bed. There was a note on the credenza when I checked in that they were in the process of replacing the beds here at the yacht club, and I'm pretty sure they already took care of this room because I zonked out fast and hard. I must say, they are REALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLY nice beds... and if my bed hasn't been replaced yet, I can't imagine what they're going to put in that could be better.

Anyways, now it's 5:00 am and I just finished uploading my pictures to facebook and can now not fall asleep. I'm supposed to text Rosie sometime this morning so we can meet-up at Animal Kingdom for the morning before I go to MNSSHP this evening. I'm pretty sure with the way I'm going I'll also need to take a nap somewhere in there.

[chwgmjay]

Had a pretty good day today... although one thing at the MNSSHP bugged me. I was alone... and not in costume since I didn't come up with anything to wear. When the cast members were giving out treats, they were giving out BIG handfuls... then I would get to the front of the line. They'd take out a big handful, realize I was alone, and then throw 1/2 the candy back. It happened more often than not. I paid just as much as anyone else to get in... so it kinda bugged me that I seemed to come away with less. I have tickets for next Tuesday too, so I guess I'll see what happens then.

[rpmdfw]

Had a pretty good day today... although one thing at the MNSSHP bugged me. I was alone... and not in costume since I didn't come up with anything to wear. When the cast members were giving out treats, they were giving out BIG handfuls... then I would get to the front of the line. They'd take out a big handful, realize I was alone, and then throw 1/2 the candy back. It happened more often than not. I paid just as much as anyone else to get in... so it kinda bugged me that I seemed to come away with less. I have tickets for next Tuesday too, so I guess I'll see what happens then.

Here's a hint for MNSSHP. They have huge tubs of candy at the exit so you can "top off" your bag before you leave. And it's usually mini candy bars instead of some of the other (in my opinion) less desireable options that they give at some of the trick or treat stations. We honestly enjoy the park then just fill up our candy bags on the way out.

[chwgmjay]

Here's a hint for MNSSHP. They have huge tubs of candy at the exit so you can "top off" your bag before you leave. And it's usually mini candy bars instead of some of the other (in my opinion) less desireable options that they give at some of the trick or treat stations. We honestly enjoy the park then just fill up our candy bags on the way out.

That's what I had read, but last night they just had people standing outside the exit with bags of candy and they'd give you another handful as you walked out... unless I missed the tubs somewhere.

[rpmdfw]

That's what I had read, but last night they just had people standing outside the exit with bags of candy and they'd give you another handful as you walked out... unless I missed the tubs somewhere.

Well, shoot!

We haven't beeen to the party this year. I hope they didn't cheap out and get rid of the giant candy tubs. That'd suck! :headache:

[chwgmjay]

So... Today I went to Epcot. Had a bbq pork sandwich at Liberty Inn and walked around a bit. Then I rode the Monorail to the TTC, hopped the ferry to the Magic Kingdom, and road the motorcoach back to the hotel. Then I tried not to fall asleep before my DI classes started. Can't really say too much about the classes, except that we had a LOT of fun. Once we were done in class, they put us on a Motorcoach and shuttled us over to the backstage areas of Epcot. They parked the coach behind China, and we walked out into the park. We walked to Maelstrom, and they took us through a door that led to a stairway. We went upstairs to the "Norway Loft" and had a big prime rib dinner... minus desert. Once we were done, and people had gone down to ride maelstrom, we jumped back on the motorcoach and headed over to the UK where they had roped off the seating area at the fish and chips stand. There we sat and ate a desert buffet and watched illuminations. I HAD A BLAST! They then put us back on the motorcoach and rode back to the hotel where I grabbed my refillable mug and walked over to the BC Marketplace for some sweet tea and then came back to my room. Can't wait to see what surprises they have planned for us for tomorrow.

[OrlandoMike]

Wow! A backstage tour and a private viewing of Illuminations?

You are having a great time! :thumbsup2

Hell all Rosie got to see today was the ghetto 1971 Water Pagent! :rotfl2:

[chwgmjay]

Wow! A backstage tour and a private viewing of Illuminations?

You are having a great time! :thumbsup2

Hell all Rosie got to see today was the ghetto 1971 Water Pagent! :rotfl2:

It's kinda mean to be calling Rob names like that.

[rpmdfw]

It's kinda mean to be calling Rob names like that.

Mmm hmmm.

And after I tried to help you with your low candy situation.

I see how it is.

You'll pay.

[OrlandoMike]

It's kinda mean to be calling Rob names like that.

:rotfl2:

PM Me! I owe you a drink! Oh hell, I just bill Rosie! :thumbsup2

[rpmdfw]

:rotfl2:

PM Me! I owe you a drink! Oh hell, I just bill Rosie! :thumbsup2

Et tu, Mike? :sad1:

Do you really want to get on my bad side?

I know where the bodys are buried . . . :rolleyes1


;)

[wallyb]

I know where the bodys are buried . . . :rolleyes1
;)

Yes but on the plus side - his dahlias look fabulous! :thumbsup2
http://i118.photobucket.com/albums/o119/m_virtue/flower.jpg

[jenn&nelsonrego]

popcorn::



:rotfl2:

[chwgmjay]

Back at the hotel now. Went to the MK this morning and then had lunch at Whispering Canyon Cafe, then went into Artist Point to listen to a guest speaker. Then we came back to the hotel. I went out on my own after classes and took some pics of the booths/menus at the food and wine festival. I now have 2.25 hrs to kill before reservations at the Yachtsman Steakhouse... trying to decide what to do with them.

[chwgmjay]

I have now come to the conclusion that outside the Disney Institute program, there must be something about me personally that Disney doesn't like.

I have had nothing but quality of service issues anywhere that I've gone.

Disneyland was crappy, but even here at Disney World, there have been about 5 cast members, total, that have initiated contact with me before I initiated it with them. I say hi to almost every cast member I walk past, and get a "hi" back about 50% of the time.

I already posted about my issues with MNSSHP.

Tonight at the Yachtsman Steakhouse, I went up to the podium at 8:20... our reservations were for 8:25. She handed me a pager and said "10 minutes." I finally handed back the pager and we walked over to Beaches and Cream to eat at 8:50 (well, I set the pager on the podium and we walked away... I don't even think the hostess noticed.)

To say I'm disappointed with the quality of service is an understatement, to say the least. Especially since I'm here for service classes.

[glenpreece]

I have now come to the conclusion that outside the Disney Institute program, there must be something about me personally that Disney doesn't like.

I have had nothing but quality of service issues anywhere that I've gone.

Disneyland was crappy, but even here at Disney World, there have been about 5 cast members, total, that have initiated contact with me before I initiated it with them. I say hi to almost every cast member I walk past, and get a "hi" back about 50% of the time.

I already posted about my issues with MNSSHP.

Tonight at the Yachtsman Steakhouse, I went up to the podium at 8:20... our reservations were for 8:25. She handed me a pager and said "10 minutes." I finally handed back the pager and we walked over to Beaches and Cream to eat at 8:50 (well, I set the pager on the podium and we walked away... I don't even think the hostess noticed.)

To say I'm disappointed with the quality of service is an understatement, to say the least. Especially since I'm here for service classes.
I've been catching up on your thread here sounds like some of the things we did at the AEP in March, anyways I completely agree with the rude cast members thing. it seems they are on the ride, heaven help somone at DL if they piss me off on my birthday/very first day at DL!!!

[wallyb]

Wow. :eek: Shocking
I really have not hit bad service At WDW at all yet.

Except for a bar keep at SSR :headache:
Heard they got rid of him though.
:rotfl:

Just luck I guess.

Sorry to hear - hope it gets better for U :)

[OrlandoMike]

Tonight at the Yachtsman Steakhouse, I went up to the podium at 8:20....

Should have emailed Ricardo! :rolleyes1

[DVC~OKW~96]

Ricardo is fabulous. ::yes::

Ummm...is this where I tiptoe in and 'fess up that our DCL experience was less than stellar? So much so we'll not do DCL again? :confused3:guilty:

[OrlandoMike]

Ummm...is this where I tiptoe in and 'fess up that our DCL experience was less than stellar? So much so we'll not do DCL again? :confused3:guilty:

Rut Row....

What happened?

[DVC~OKW~96]

:guilty: Well, several things, but the main problem was that our cabin smelled like a sewer. :( So did my wife's mother's cabin. Since it was a birthday cruise for her, we focused on her needs. She was seriously unhappy with the smell and the construction going on in the room across from her. She naps in the afternoon and couldn't rest with all the construction noise. They also shampooed her carpet and it was "soaking wet" as she put it and that upset her. She was really dissatisfied with the response from the guest services staff, but they did move her on the second day (of a four day cruise).

We did let them know about our cabin (we were on the exact opposite side of the "wall" from her) but they said there wasn't any thing they could do. The person to whom my wife spoke was pretty brusque and she felt rude, so that didn't help. She felt that the person thought she was trying to get something for nothing which wasn't the case. She simply wanted them to make the stink go away. So we ended up staying out of our cabin as much as possible, including showering in the spa. We slept there of course, but both ended up with three day headaches...

Friends of ours had champagne, cheese and fruit, pastries and flowers sent to our cabin. They also gave us shipboard credit and credits for the spa, along with purchasing Mickey and Minnie plushes.

We did finally receive everything but the spa credits... not too sure whatever really happened to those. We did receive a call from the spa saying we had credits (on the second day) so we went there, but once there they said they had no idea what we were talking about, and that they didn't do "credits." :confused: Since we had no idea that our friends had done this we didn't pursue it.

There was more confusion surrounding all the gifts and generosity of our friends, but it's too tedious and complex to write out, eh? Needless to say, we didn't fully understand what was supposed to have happened until we came home and were asked about things by our friends. :guilty:

We ordered a birthday gift package for my wife's mother, with a cake. We took the cake to the dining room, and gave it to the server to bring to the table after dinner. Instead of bringing the cake we paid for they brought a complimentary cake, which is essentially a section of a larger cake, and not the decorated one that my wife ordered. She was not amused. :confused3 Her Mother didn't mind the complimentary cake at all, but my wife felt as though she had paid for something (which she had) and didn't receive it (which she didn't).

Those were the "highlights." :guilty: I didn't much care for the food, I'm afraid. Not sure if this was just a one off cruise, or what but the food wasn't very tasty. We did go to the Palo brunch, but again, were not too thrilled. The food there was nicer, but nothing too spectacular. Unfortunately, I think we've been ruined by dining with Chef Josiah at Melisse. :guilty:

We found the adult sections of the ship and beach to be quiet and although not always child free, mostly. We also found them boring. :(

Cruising with children? Definitely, absolutely cruise with DCL. ::yes:: As for us? We'll stick with Olivia. ;) Or at least, NCL.

[chwgmjay]

Once again tonight I was caught off-guard. Sorry for posting all these negative stories, but I'm really observant about what's going on around me. I was standing in line at Beaches and Cream. There were 2 people in front of me. The person at the front of the line apparently ordered a hot fudge sundae with no nuts. She got it, and it had nuts on it. She took it back, and they said they'd scrape off the whipped cream and give her new, so that's what they did. I. WAS. SURPRISED. What if she'd had allergies or something? I can only assume from the look on her face, that when she walked away, her thought was "whatever."

The gentleman in front of me is now up to the counter. He orders a diet coke, a chocolate shake, and a cookie. I wasn't paying attention when he ordered, but I was paying attention when they started giving him his items. They gave him his diet coke first, and then took 2 plastic bowls, put the cookie in one, and the other bowl on top so it was kinda a box, but not really because it didn't seal or anything, and looked ridiculous. He then asked for his chocolate shake, and was told it was being made. Not too big of a deal yet. Then he asked for a bag, because there was no way he was going to be able to carry all of that, and a bag would have made the perfect carrying vessel for the cookie. The CM said "I can't find any bags right now, that's why I gave you the bowls, you'll just need to deal with it." The guest struggled to pick everything up, and left with the "whatever" look on his face.

He then turned to me and said "How can I help you?" I. WAS. SHOCKED. I asked for my refill of rootbeer, no ice for my resort mug, and then asked for a 2-scoop caramel sundae. "We don't do caramel." So I responded with "OK, hot fudge is fine then," since hot fudge sundae's listed on the to-go menu board. He responded back with "2 scoops of vanilla," took my KTTW card, swiped it, gave it back, refilled my rootbeer and got me my 2 scoops of vanilla. I was surprised, but I didn't really need all that chocolate/whipped cream/etc. because we had desert 2x today during classes and I really didn't need all that. But, I walked out thinking "whatever."

I took my ice cream, and rootbeer, and walked back to my room, pondering what I'd just experienced. I finished off my ice cream and decided "If I left thinking "whatever" and other people left thinking "whatever", how many other people are going to have a poor experience after dealing with this location tonight? So, I went down to the front desk (no one was at the concierge desk) and approached a CM that wasn't in a front-line costume (assuming she was some form of leader) and introduced myself as Jay, here attending the Disney's Approach to Quality Service class. She responded with, "We're so glad you're here." So I said, "Thank you. I need to ask you a question, I know you share a GM with the Beach Club, do you share a F&B manager too?" So she responds with, "Well, I'm not sure what you're referring to, I'm new here, I've only been here for about 4 weeks, so are you asking about an area manager or?" "Well, I think they need some help over at Beaches and Cream, and just wanted to try to get that for them." She responded with, "Oh no! Can I ask what's wrong?" So I explained that the gentleman in front of me asked if they had any bags he could put his cookie in, and was told that they didn't have any so he'd just have to deal with what he was given. I didn't bother explaining my caramel sundae problem, because it wasn't all that huge of a deal for me, the fact that someone else had a problem comes before my lack of sugar-based food product that's really bad for you. She responded with shock and asked if I'd talked to the manager at B&C. I explained that I hadn't seen one there, and didn't want to bother the hostess there since she was swamped. She then asked if I had gotten the CM's name, so I pulled out my receipt and she wrote down his name, but pointed out the CP behind his name and said, "Oh, this means he's in the college program though, so..." and I didn't catch what she said after that. She then wrote down and circled the word "help" and said "We don't use the word help here, we use "assist". Then she wrote "bag" and said "I'll pass this on to someone." I reiterated that "Ya know, I think the most important thing right now is that someone needs to get some bags over there to them at B&C so that other people don't have to worry about not being able to carry their items." It just felt like there was a disconnect somewhere.

[DVC~OKW~96]

A disconnect somewhere. Yes. That's the perfect description.

There definitely was a disconnect somewhere on the cruise, and I do understand what you are saying about your experiences.

People tend to react pretty strongly (and negatively) to any criticism of WDW, but as an "old timer" I've seen many changes, and few are for the better.

I know some CMs who truly love WDW, and truly believe in Pixie Dust who are being worked to death. It's hard to smile and be the cast member you were trained to be (back when CM training was true several days training) when you are exhausted and you don't have the resources to do the job you are supposed to do.

WDW has created an atmosphere of great expectations and is having a very hard time delivering on those lately it SEEMs. I stress seems, as it truly is often a matter of perspective.

I've often said I could never work for WDW, but I do work for a major corporation and do understand the "it's all about money" mindset... and I promise, I do know about working until you are exhausted without the resources needed to do the job.

I don't know what the answers are, but I do think WDW is so large now that it's no longer able to easily and efficiently "fix" the simple problems, like needing bags at a shop...

[chwgmjay]

I am done with classes. We graduated this afternoon w/ Mickey. We got graduation mouse ears, a certificate, and an exclusive disney institute collector's pin. I'll still be here until Wednesday, so if anyone is here/wants to meet up for a meal/afternoon/day, just PM me. My only planned thing is that I need to move from Yacht Club to Pop Century on Monday, and still need to figure out how I'm going to do so since my cast member ride is now otherwise occupied (read: working) that day.

And now I'm off to the beach club to refill my mug. Laterz.

[DVC~OKW~96]

Disney moves a guests luggage when the guest changes resorts. Is it different for you, given the program you are attending? :confused:

[chwgmjay]

Really? HOW? I've been trying to figure out HOW to do this, but if Disney will take care of it, I'll be a lot less stressed.

[DVC~OKW~96]

Well, when we changed resorts we simply packed up and notified bell services we were ready to leave the room. The luggage was taken away and reappeared magically at our new resort room hours later. ::yes::

Just check at the front desk. I'm sure they'll tell you what to do and how to accomplish it. ::yes::

[rpmdfw]

WDW has created an atmosphere of great expectations and is having a very hard time delivering on those lately it SEEMs. I stress seems, as it truly is often a matter of perspective.

I don't know what the answers are, but I do think WDW is so large now that it's no longer able to easily and efficiently "fix" the simple problems, like needing bags at a shop...

Okay, I just read today's DIS posts, and interestingly enough, this is something I touched on in my blog (http://http://adventuresofanaccidentalaccountant.blogspot.com/2009/09/food-and-wine-festival-welcome-to-cop.html) tonight after hittting F&W Festival today.

Check it out.

[chwgmjay]

I don't know what the answers are, but I do think WDW is so large now that it's no longer able to easily and efficiently "fix" the simple problems, like needing bags at a shop...

I just noticed this, thanks to Rob's quote of it...

Something we talked about in class was how to get into the mindset of being able to do that easy/efficient "fix" for simple problems. That's why I figured I'd go to someone and say "Hey, do you think you can help them take care of this?" Yes, it would have been faster to find someone at Beaches and Cream to say it to, but I didn't see a leader anywhere, and I couldn't ask the hostess if one was available since she was swamped.

Taking these classes have made me look at the way we do things at work, but unfortunately they've also caused me to notice when Disney CM's don't meet the expectations Disney has set for them as explained to us during class.

I am taking the time to write down all my thoughts/notes so I can pass them on to my instructors and the hotel general manager in a concise letter once I get home.

[DVC~OKW~96]

Hey Rob, I tried to use your link but it's not working. I'd really like to read your comments.

How did you find the Festival this year? We have company so couldn't go to opening weekend, but we'll get down there before it ends, of course.

I read a trip report from someone who went and she seemed to really enjoy herself and the food she sampled.

I know I wasn't overly thrilled with the offerings that I've read about in the booklet. So many repetitions... with some new stuff, granted.

[rpmdfw]

Hey Rob, I tried to use your link but it's not working. I'd really like to read your comments.

How did you find the Festival this year? We have company so couldn't go to opening weekend, but we'll get down there before it ends, of course.

I read a trip report from someone who went and she seemed to really enjoy herself and the food she sampled.

I know I wasn't overly thrilled with the offerings that I've read about in the booklet. So many repetitions... with some new stuff, granted.

Try this.

http://adventuresofanaccidentalaccountant.blogspot.com/2009/09/food-and-wine-festival-welcome-to-cop.html

It pretty much covers my take on the festival this year.

[DVC~OKW~96]

Thanks! I've left some comments at your blog. ::yes::

Nice blog by the way! Love your sense of humor, but you already knew that. :teeth:

[glenpreece]

I just noticed this, thanks to Rob's quote of it...

Something we talked about in class was how to get into the mindset of being able to do that easy/efficient "fix" for simple problems. That's why I figured I'd go to someone and say "Hey, do you think you can help them take care of this?" Yes, it would have been faster to find someone at Beaches and Cream to say it to, but I didn't see a leader anywhere, and I couldn't ask the hostess if one was available since she was swamped.

Taking these classes have made me look at the way we do things at work, but unfortunately they've also caused me to notice when Disney CM's don't meet the expectations Disney has set for them as explained to us during class.

I am taking the time to write down all my thoughts/notes so I can pass them on to my instructors and the hotel general manager in a concise letter once I get home.
Great Idea!!! That has always been my "attitude" when complaininig about something, I am not upset over what happened to me personally (well most of the time) but I want them to fix the problem before a first timer has a bad expereince and doesn't want to return or turns around and bashes WDW when they get home.

[chwgmjay]

I am on the bus from ak to ec right now. One thing I have noticed the last couple of days since I have started to wear my lanyard. CMs seem more friendly. Dunno if it is the rainbow mickey or the Disney Institute DAQS pin, but something seems to be helping.

[chwgmjay]

Recent observation from an Epcot bathroom: Disney pin trading, one of the VERY few times it is socially acceptable? to walk up to another guy in a public restroom and ask to see what he's got.

[jenn&nelsonrego]

Recent observation from an Epcot bathroom: Disney pin trading, one of the VERY few times it is socially acceptable? to walk up to another guy in a public restroom and ask to see what he's got.

:lmao:

[chwgmjay]

:lmao:

At least someone laughed ;)

[rpmdfw]

At least someone laughed ;)

She laughs at everything, though.:rolleyes:

She's not a good indicator if you're really funny or not.:upsidedow

[wallyb]

It's the elevated estrogen levels. :rolleyes:

[PghLybrt]

Cruising with children? Definitely, absolutely cruise with DCL. ::yes:: As for us? We'll stick with Olivia. ;) .

Me too!:)

(Do you have any planned for the future? It would be neat to have a DIS meet! :) )


chwgmjay ---- I am glad it is starting to go better for you!

[jenn&nelsonrego]

She laughs at everything, though.:rolleyes:

She's not a good indicator if you're really funny or not.:upsidedow

:mad: Not true.

When was the last time I found you amusing enough to laugh at? :confused3


It's the elevated estrogen levels. :rolleyes:

Wanna see what else elevated hormone levels can make me do? :crazy2:

[DVC~OKW~96]

We are thinking about the one next November on an NCL ship out of Port Canaveral. ::yes:: Heading to the Caribbean. No decisions yet, but are thinking about it. :teeth:

Jen!!!! Now you are scaring ME! :laughing:;)

[glenpreece]

Recent observation from an Epcot bathroom: Disney pin trading, one of the VERY few times it is socially acceptable? to walk up to another guy in a public restroom and ask to see what he's got.
Well I think it is funny I laughed!!!

[chwgmjay]

Pics from my trip are (very slowly) uploading to http://www.flickr.com/photos/chwgmjay/

:)

[rosiep]

Recent observation from an Epcot bathroom: Disney pin trading, one of the VERY few times it is socially acceptable? to walk up to another guy in a public restroom and ask to see what he's got.

That's really funny! :rotfl:

[chwgmjay]

The majority of my pictures are now uploaded to flickr. http://www.flickr.com/photos/chwgmjay/

[DVC~OKW~96]

Wow! Those are some fabulous shots of the castle! Thanks for sharing them with us! ::yes::

[chwgmjay]

Wow! Those are some fabulous shots of the castle! Thanks for sharing them with us! ::yes::


Thanks. I was kinda worried because where I was sitting, a couple of CMs came through and mentioned we might be sitting a little too close, but it worked out.

[glenpreece]

beautiful pics

[chwgmjay]

OK. So, now I'm going to start posting my thoughts/experiences/etc. A trip report, if you will, sort of. Keep in mind that a lot of things may sound negative, but it's just my thoughts/etc. based on what we learned in class/talked about in class w/ regards to how Disney's Service works/etc. The class I went to was "Disney's Approach to Quality Service", so basically all we talked about was how Disney goes about giving the service they do, and how to apply it to your business. THEREFORE, I'm going to have a different view of my experiences than someone else may have. Please please please keep that in mind. :)

Thanks you. :)

[chwgmjay]

I'm from Minneapolis, and use MSP International Airport.

So, after being unable to sleep all night on the 20th, I got out of bed and headed for the airport at about 4:15 am. My mom and I got to the park and ride and waited about 2 minutes for the light rail to the airport. Jumped on the train and rode to the airport. Since I was flying Southwest, we got off at the 2nd airport stop (the Humphrey terminal) and took the elevator up to the 2nd floor to begin the long trek across the parking ramp to the terminal. Got to the terminal, and took the elevator down to the ticketing level. And sat. I figured they'd open the ticket counter at 2 hours before our flight since it was the first Southwest flight of the day, but they ended up not opening it until 5:30. Luckily, I was one of the first people in line, so it didn't take very long for me to check my couple of bags and then head upstairs to security.

The TSA is fairly quick at MSP, so it only took a few minutes before I was through to the terminal airside. I was pretty exhausted since I hadn't slept all night, and decided (beyond my better judgement) to pick up an ipod touch from the vending machine in the gate area. It's pretty cool, but I probably should have just waited the 2 months until I'm eligible for an iphone upgrade from at&t and gotten an iphone for slightly less than I paid for the ipod touch. Anyways, since I was so tired it took me a while to unpackage it, and I was unable to successfully set it up before it was time to leave.

Boarded the plane fairly quickly since I had a low boarding pass (first time using Early Bird check-in) and got my 13F seat (I always sit in 13F on Southwest, unless my Ex is with and I end up with 13E because he HAS to have the window seat.) Shoved my backpack in the overhead and my laptop bag under the seat in front of me, and sat back to relax.

The trip from MSP to MDW was fairly quiet. I got my Ginger Ale, no ice but they didn't hand out any snacks... I love Southwest peanuts, so I was kinda disappointed, but whatever.

Landed at MDW, they unloaded the MDW passengers, did the quick sweep of the plane, loaded our new passengers, and took off for BWI.

The trip to BWI was fairly bumpy, and the seatbelt sign stayed on most of the time. They did, however pass out drinks (I got my Ginger Ale, no ice) and plane cookies (half of which were broken in half... because what I really want on a bumpy flight is to be thinking about the plane breaking in half while I'm snacking.)

We stopped at BWI, where they announced that there was *1* through passenger to MCO (yes, me), unloaded, swept the plane while I used the lavatory), loaded on the new passengers. Up until the trip from BWI, 13E had been empty on both legs of the flight and now it was occupied. Oh well, the extra room was nice while it lasted. Took off fairly quickly again and I was finally on the last leg of my flight to Orlando. Got my ginger ale and peanuts (FINALLY!) and faded in and out of consciousness 'til we landed.

Once we landed, I headed across the airport and down to ground transportation to find my way to the ME area. Now, I've heard the stories about the cast members lined up pointing the way to the ME desk, and it was fairly slow when we got there, but I didn't see any Disney CMs until I actually got to the desk area (after making a pit stop because I really had to use the restroom). There was a woman standing in the middle of the "hall" there, and said to just go right up to the red carpet. At the red carpet, a gentleman looked at my ME booklet, tore the back page off and wrote the # of bags I'd checked on it, and pointed me to my lane. Where I stood behind a couple other people. And waited. While everyone around us was loaded onto various buses. Finally our bus showed up and they loaded us on and we were off fairly quickly. We watched the video while I tried to stay awake and enjoy the ride.

Once we arrived at the Yacht Club, we unloaded fairly quickly and immediately I had a CM walk up to me and ask me for my last name. He walked me to the online check-in area of the YC desk, where the girl checked my ID and then gave me my folder, making sure to point out that I had an envelope in it from the Disney Institute. She told me my room number, and pointed me to the elevators. It took me a second to figure out that 4166 would be on the 4th floor and I headed up to find my room. Luckily, it was just outside the elevators and around the corner. Got into the room, took a couple of pictures, used the bathroom, and then headed out to explore.

First stop, Epcot. I didn't have a bag with me so I walked past the bag check (making sure to pat down my shorts pockets on my way past... since they'd made us do it at Disneyland. I later saw them having people do it, so I guess I just did it before they had a chance to ask me to.) I then walked up to the turnstiles with my park hopper in my hand. I was trying to figure out which way to put it in, and the admissions CM was like "Just put it in there." His tone of voice was kinda... not the nicest, but we had issues with admissions at DL so I wasn't too surprised. Once I figured it out, and did my finger scan, I was in.

I walked all the way around WS before heading to the Electric Umbrella to grab a bite for "lunch" even though it was after 5 pm.

I think I need to continue on another post, since my computer here is acting up and I don't want to lose what I've already typed.

[chwgmjay]

OT: re: the trip report, but, I just talked to my mom on facebook and it sounds like the pix from my Disney Institute graduation came today. I, however, don't have a scanner... Sooooooo we'll see how/if I can get them online. I'm still at work for a couple hours though.

[DVC~OKW~96]

I'm enjoying your report. ::yes:: That was some long plane ride! Sheesh! Nothing but three ginger ales and a small packet of peanuts all day? You are better than me, Gunga Din! LOL.

Looking forward to reading more of your experiences and perspective.

[rosiep]

I'm enjoying your report. ::yes:: That was some long plane ride! Sheesh! Nothing but three ginger ales and a small packet of peanuts all day? You are better than me, Gunga Din! LOL.

Looking forward to reading more of your experiences and perspective.

I use that phrase all the time!! "You're a better man than I Gunga Din...." :lmao::lmao:

[chwgmjay]

Came to work early today after remembering that we have a scanner in our sales office.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2512/4017626838_9f8215b047.jpg

[chwgmjay]

Had to look through my notes and previous text messages to figure out what I did/when/etc.

So, when last I posted I was headed to the Electric Umbrella for "lunch." I had a double cheeseburger that was decent. Not the best, but not too bad.

After I was done, I wandered a bit longer and stopped at the frozen margarita stand to pick up a strawberry margarita and then to Cantina de San Angel for some Cantina Nachos, which I thought were pretty good.

I then went back to the YC to take a cool bath and head to sleep since I'd been awake for WELL OVER 24 hours by that time.

On Tuesday, I woke up REALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLY early. Like at 5:30 am, which would have been 4:30 if I'd been at home. It was good though, because I needed to get up early the next several days anyway, so it helped me get into the groove.

Rosie and I had planned to meet up at AK for the day (although I didn't realize that meant afternoon) ;). So once 8:00 rolled around, I jumped on the bus to AK. I spent a couple of hours wandering around AK, taking pictures, and just enjoying it. I took the train out to Rafiki's Planet Watch and spent some time in the A/C and watched them working on a couple of animals in the Vet's office. At one point in time, they were working on a sheep. 2 different people (at different times) came up and started pointing out the "baby elephant" to their loved ones.

Around 11:30, Rosie messaged me to tell me they were in the park and were headed to Kali to get FPs. I was close by, so I walked over to wait by the FP machines even though they were turned off for the day. I messaged Rosie to let her know, and then proceeded to wait. And wait. And wait. She FINALLY showed up, and we got in line for Kali while we chatted a bit. Kali was lots of fun, and Rosie and I both got soaked (though I think Rosie got a little more than I did.) We did some wandering, and then had lunch at Flame Tree.

At Flame Tree, I ordered the bbq pork sandwich, no beans, with coleslaw. After waiting for my food for a while (Rosie and James had already gone to sit down) they brought my food over to the other window. They then stood there for a minute trying to figure out whose food it was, before taking it back, taking my coleslaw off, putting beans on the tray, and then brought it over to me. Where I pointed out that it was supposed to be no beans, with coleslaw. So, she took it back, took the beans, and gave me just the sandwich. I again had to explain that I was missing my coleslaw. She showed me the slip, which said "No" in red, with "beans" below it in red, and then "Coleslaw" below that in black and said "It says no beans or coleslaw". My receipt said "No beans, sub coleslaw". Eventually she got me my coleslaw and I went to get my condiments. Rosie was surprisingly nice and carried my tray for me back to our table and we sat and had a tasty lunch while the ducks flocked to me and tried to convince me to give up some of my food.

After lunch we wandered a bit again, rode Kilimanjaro Safaris, and eventually ended up at EE where James and I rode while Rosie watched and held my phone and stuff for me.

Eventually we had to part ways since I had to head over to MNSSHP for the evening. It was a lot of fun meeting Rosie though (even though I wasn't supposed to admit it.)

I took the bus back to the YC so I could change, take a quick shower, and get my MNSSHP ticket then headed to the bus to MK for my first walk down Main Street.