Here is your warning: this trip report does not contain much pixie dust

[lizandjason]

Just back yesterday after five much-anticipated days at CSR. Here's the rundown...

CSR
The Good: Nice grounds, nice new room, great pool and hot tub
The Bad: The 'magic' is lacking here, no doubt about it. Between extremely rude staff (with the exception of our bellhop who was lovely), tons of conventioneers and a horrible food court, we will not be back. The Pepper Market is a joke-what genius thought this up? The 'waitresses' don't speak English, and a simple request for Ranch dressing turned into an ordeal. When I say RUDE staff, I mean, very grumpy and indifferent. 'What do you want' I heard when I dared to wander into back of the market for a cookie, and then the worker grabs the cookie with his bare hand...the same hand that he had just used to wipe the counter. Food was extremely greasy and just tasted bad. There were literally 25 conventioneers waiting at one station for their food. The Pepper Market is the sole reason we won't ever stay here again.

Crowds
The Good: Nothing good to report about crowds. Free dining and Epcot Food and Wine Festival brought everyone out. HOWEVER-ride waits weren't horrible. The worst ride times we saw were 90 minutes for Splash Mountain and 80 for Test Track, but with those exceptions, everything was 15-30 minutes.
The Bad: Holy moly, what a cluster, considering the time of year. With a couple of rare exceptions, it didn't matter what day, what park, what time...parks were crowded. It's quite obvious that parents don't care much if their kids miss a week of school.

Food
The Great: Biergarten (WOW)
The Very Good: Surprisingly, Tony's. We walked in at 5 pm and split a salad and one order of Chicken Parmesan..and it was all PLENTY of food, only one TS credit, and then the plan was to split a TS credit on the Big Kahuna breakfast at Kona...but we overslept! I also enjoyed the Shwarma platter at Tangiere Cafe (more meat than I could possibly eat in one sitting, and I can put some food away!)

I woke up with a very sore throat Wednesday which lasted all day and then turned into a fever (did I wear myself out, or did I touch too many places where countless germy hands had been?) We left a day early and we were both looking forward to coming home. We planned incessantly for this trip...spent countless hours on the DIS boards and All Ears, and dreamed of what it would be. While we had some great moments, we definitely had more fun planning than doing.

We are in our early 30's, no kids yet, and this was our third trip in 16 months. The trip was just exhaustive and-to be honest-we didn't have many 'new' experiences, it was kind of like...'oh, Pirates of the Caribbean, been there done that.' I kept looking at young couples with small kids and wondering if we were missing out on the true 'meaning' of Disney. Every day was an exhaustive struggle to hurry up and stand in line. We were lured in by a deal but it turns out that this just wasn't the best time for us to go; hopefully in the future we'll have a different perspective and we can try it again, but it will be awhile.

[vicb]

Whoa, sorry to hear your trip was not as nice as you had hoped for. I'm sure that was disappointing for you.

This is just a thought off the top of my head please don't take it the wrong way... maybe you should take a disney break and do a few non-wdw vacations. I know there are tons of folks on these boards who love to go mulitiple times each year but to be honest I am not one of them.

My family has been 4 times over the last 11 years. In between we have done beach vacations in Florida, been to San Diego, San Antonio, Phoenix and Sedona, Maine etc...

We are returning this Feb. to WDW after a 4 year absence, we are so excited but in our case I think it has been good to not go so often, we don't feel jaded or have the feeling you described of "been there done that".

Again, sorry it wasn't all you'd hoped for. :goodvibes

[lizandjason]

Whoa, sorry to hear your trip was not as nice as you had hoped for. I'm sure that was disappointing for you.

This is just a thought off the top of my head please don't take it the wrong way... maybe you should take a disney break and do a few non-wdw vacations. I know there are tons of folks on these boards who love to go mulitiple times each year but to be honest I am not one of them.

My family has been 4 times over the last 11 years. In between we have done beach vacations in Florida, been to San Diego, San Antonio, Phoenix and Sedona, Maine etc...

We are returning this Feb. to WDW after a 4 year absence, we are so excited but in our case I think it has been good to not go so often, we don't feel jaded or have the feeling you described of "been there done that".

Again, sorry it wasn't all you'd hoped for. :goodvibes

Great advice, that's exactly what we were thinking! I think a lot of it had to do with the fact that we are both very sensitive to heat and we were miserable in the 95 degree high humidity. Maybe in 4 or 5 years (hopefully with a little one!) we'll try it again.

[iluveeyore]

Sorry to hear about your experience - maybe you should do Disney differently - maybe visit at Christmas when there's lots of new stuff to see - or do like DH and I sometimes do - we just go to our DVC villa for a few days and just enjoy everything outside of the parks - visit other resorts, eat at DTD or another resort, go mini-putting, pool hop, catch a movie, shop, or just laze around. We never rent a car, just take in all things Disney without the parks - we even enjoyed a romantic evening at the Poly beach when we weren't even staying there, watching Wishes across the lake.
Hope you give it another chance someday! Kids do make it different, enjoying it through their eyes, but ours are older now, so it's back to the two of us most trips and we really enjoy the slower pace we take each time.

[Kay1]

Some Disney trips are more magical than other, that's for sure. I don't like the Pepper Market either, though I like CSR. Glad to hear you liked Tony's as we'll be having lunch there during our Christmas trip.

I hope your sore throat clears up.

:)

[Sleeping Becca]

I am sooo sorry to hear you had a less than magical trip. Bummer. Disney is a completely different through a child's eyes no doubt! Don't get me wrong going as an adult is fun too, but going with your child for the first time can be a pretty special experience.

Thanks for posting, folks need to hear the good and the bad. Just sorry you had such a disappointing trip!

[dbk1029]

Sorry to hear you had such a bad experience.

CSR:
The CSR is a convention resort, many many people stay there due to business conventions of one sort or another. This is why I don't stay there. Since I don't stay there I can't effectively evaluate their food court or staff.

Crowds:
I know the Birnbaum guide states this time of year is quite busy due to the EpCot F&W. Add to that the Free Dining and I would expect a high volume of guests. The comment about people taking their children out of school appears like a snide personal attack and really is mostly irrelevant (sp?) to the crowd levels. Not all schools follow the same schedule and foriegn guests don't neccesarily have the same rules to follow regarding children and missing school.

Food:
Glad you enjoyed the food you had. I would have asked the server who grabbed you a cookie with their bare hand for another one and to please use a glove or wax paper. You can't be too careful these days.

Illness:
Sorry you got sick. I can say from personal experience that I sometimes get the sore throat not long after arriving in WDW. Typically I go to WDW when the climate at home (PA) is much cooler than in WDW (FL). So I attribute it to the change in climates.

Going 3 times in 16 months would be fun for me but then again I wouldn't appraoch every trip with the mentality of needing to do everything each trip. I think I would get bored riding the rides and seeing the shows so close together. I would probably choose other activities to fill in some of those trips. WDW has more to offer than just the 4 theme parks.

[connie1042]

Sorry you had a rough time. (We, Husband and I) Late 50's were there at CBR from 19-17th. I can tell you, the heat just about did us in. We only went to the parks in the morning and evening. BUT, There were NO lines at all for anything, except TSM, got a fastpass for that. I all so will admit, planning is half the fun. We just went to the parks to do really what we had not been on or really wanted to go on. We went to Cocoa Beach for a day.Got a little burned! I am going back in July for the 4th, just because some friends from Scotland want to see Disney on the 4th of July. I do not plan on riding much of anything. I know the heat will be brutel. I am going for the company. I think a lot of people think everything should be perfect at Disney and it is far from it. I think we all put to much pressure on ourselves to get our moneys worth and to have the perfect vacation. I learned a few things this trip. Gift Baskets, were very nice, but not worth the money. Cake for special occasion. All though very pretty, taste wise I can do better at home for a lot cheaper. When you have kids, it will be a whole different experience. We have been there with both sets of grandkids and both trips were totally different. I would suggest that you go somewhere where you would not want ot take your kids. Do those things now , while you still can. Disney is not going anywhere!

[pumpkinfish]

To break up our "must-do-everything" trips to WDW we like to take tours or just people watch. I know it's harder to do when the heat & humidity is killer, but it's fun :). Not feeling like we have to do everything is an easier approach. We also look for hidden mickey's.

I think those that take trips often have all experienced a trip like this. Last June could have gone better but, meh, it is what it is :goodvibes. thanks for the feedback though, it's appreciated.

[Pakey]

I'm also sorry you did not enjoy your vacation. We've been to WDW at least 20 times in the past 10 years, no children (our kids are grown) so I believe there is Disney magic for adults but it's not always as magical as other times.

We have found that the crowds do not bother us but the high humidity combined with temps in the 90's definitely takes all of the magic out of a vacation. We also find that spending more time outside of the parks makes it more of a vacation rather than a park marathon.

We also take one vacation every year that is non-Disney. We have a rule that we cannot take that vacation to the same place twice. That gives us something every year that is new and exciting while WDW has become the place that is comfortable and easy.

There is a lot of world to see so hopefully this is your last bad vacation.

[RMulieri]

While I am sorry your trip seemed less than magical.I , as a parent really thought the comment about parents Obviously not caring about their child missing school was really unneccessary and a tad snarky...those of us who take our kids out of school for family trips have our reasons.Perhaps when you have kids you will understand better.

[Rainkiss]

Thanks for the report, hubby and I will be at CSR in a few weeks, good to know to avoid the food. We did our first trip the beginning of this year, we've planned a few more days this trip, and plan to take things a bit slower (and hit the water parks if things heat up). Hope you're feeling better soon, getting sick on vacation is miserable.

[secretpantssam]

I just came back earlier this week and I also was shocked with the crowd size. Also the first day of the Food and Wine Festival almost made the World Showcase unbearable. There were so many drunk people around, it made me feel like I was back in college on a Thursday night. It's a shame because I was really excited about trying all the food from different countries but I found walking around to be kind of unpleasant.

[itchin2go]

Crowds:
I know the Birnbaum guide states this time of year is quite busy due to the EpCot F&W. Add to that the Free Dining and I would expect a high volume of guests. The comment about people taking their children out of school appears like a snide personal attack and really is mostly irrelevant (sp?) to the crowd levels. Not all schools follow the same schedule and foriegn guests don't neccesarily have the same rules to follow regarding children and missing school.


ITA. Crowds and kids would be expected, right? We always go in January (a supposedly low-crowd time and certainly during the school year) and there are always crowds and kids.... We have taken our daughter out of school for the past couple of years. Why is that anyone else's business?

[jworkkul]

I am so sorry you got ill while on your vacation. While for some going to WDW a lot seems to lose "some magic":sad2: to somec let me say from being a Floridian and living just 20 minutes away that Disney still holds the same "magic" as it did when I first went in 1983. I have been so many times that I lost count and sometimes even went every weekend. Not only that, I am a former cast member.:yay: I have only one daughter and now she is grown (she had a Disney wedding last year) and even though we don't go every weekend now---we still try to get to one of the parks at least once a month. I am a DVC member and we have been going to WDW in the middle of July since my daughter was born (1983). It must be the hottest time but we are accustomed to the climate here in Florida. It is nice to know that when we do go we do not have to do any rides or attractions in the parks if the lines are too long:dance3: We always tell each other "well, it's not like we don't live here!!) and come back when the weather is cooler and the lines not as long. I think people have too much expectation sometimes and when things don't go just the right way, it spoils it for them. Yes, I've had not so great service, rude guests and CM's, terrible hotel service (that is why I love DVC so much) and bad weather. Still------------there is something that grips at my insides every time I go to WDW. I feel like a little kid again and can't wait until my grandchildren come (hopefully soon?):idea: and I know I will see WDW through a different set of eyes. Don't get discouraged, take a deep breath and plan for your next trip. ;)

[Planogirl]

I think that the comment was made because like so many the OP hoped that kids being back in school would decrease the crowds a bit. Obviously, that didn't happen. I didn't read it as snarky but just frustration. Personally I wish that everyone would take their kids out of school so that the crowds would decrease in the summer but no such luck yet.

OP, I think that it's a great idea to try other things for a while. WDW will always be there for when you're ready.

[cvjw]

Many schools have fall breaks, which contribute to the number of kids at the parks. Our schools do not, unfortunately, so we are one of the families who pull our kids out of school. We do not like Disney in the summer when it is too hot and crowded. I have pulled my kids out for countless years now, and they still make all A's.

[OB1]

WOW - sorry to hear about the down part of your trip.

My wife & I go twice a year, since 2000 (and I often get a third on a biz trip in SEP). We still find a lot to do that is new & different, or a revisit.

EX: Rides like Ellen's Energy Adventure, American Adventure, the movies in World Showcase, Hall of Presidents, Lights - Motor - Action, Indy, Animiation tour, Honey I shrunk the audience, and so on. We catch these every 2-5 visits, and especially when crowds are up on the premier rides. There is always something that feels fresh. Of course, we always try to catch Soarin', Splash, Space, Pirates, Toy Story, Tower, etc., but we are willing to miss because we know we will be back in 6-8 months.

We did Backstage Safari 2 trips ago, and will do another tour in the next visit or two. We also take a side trip to SeaWorld or US every 3-4 trips for 1 day. We have also added trying to tour a new resort each trip. Still have the Contemporary, Grand Floridian, Wilderness Lodge, and Saratoga to tour.

[Mouseaholic!!!]

I have to agree with the crowd here.

In the past, all but one or two vacations a year were at WDW - week long trips and quick long weekends. We live in Maryland and NYC (before we were married) not close by.

Now we do one or two trips to Disney a year. Especially now where there are so many GREAT travel discounts all over that beat even our castmember rates.


You also have to remember. A Disney intensive vacation is not for everyone. There are plenty of other things to do and see in the Central Florida area and basing in a hotel outside WDW will give you better accomodations for the same $$$$. Many hotels --- especially all-suite hotels - include full breakfasts and can sometimes be less than the Value Resorts. This way you can have your Disney fix for a few days......AND do other things.

There is a place for ALL the fun things in Florida - Disney, US, Kennedy Space Center is a GREAT tour - especially when there is a shuttle on the launch pad....don't forget you can move over to the Atlantic side or Gulf side and chill out on some lovely beaches....head over to Daytona for some little car race in February....these are off the top of my head.


I know how you feel when a vacation is not working.....we have had them. I admire you for sticking with it....we bail and do something else when it's not a good time.


I also agree with the Christmas Season suggestion....It's our favorite time of year at Disney....doing DL this year! There are many more things to do and see and the Christmas spirit is alive in the parks. Our favorite time...early in the month BEFORE the peak season rates kick in.

Everyone here will give you terrific advice about what to see and do that month.

Good luck on your next adventures!

[DB&KS]

While I am sorry your trip seemed less than magical.I , as a parent really thought the comment about parents Obviously not caring about their child missing school was really unneccessary and a tad snarky...those of us who take our kids out of school for family trips have our reasons.Perhaps when you have kids you will understand better.

:thumbsup2

[KellyNY]

I'm sorry your trip was not as magical as you thought it will be. I think you overdosed with Disney and need couple of years break. I felt the same way last year when we took pretty short trip last minute. I thought nothing new, why I am here, then this year I thought where to go and realized I do not want anything but Disney. With many trips it getting harder to find new things to do and when it is very crowded and hot it adds to some sort of dissapointment. 3 trips in 16 months is really a lot. Try something new, go on other vacations, try adult vacations like Mexica, cruise, Europe, something that would be difficult to do when you have kids. Chances are you will miss Disney in a year or not, you will see, anyway you will be back when you have little Disers on your own. :)

[Indiana Rose Lee]

Great advice, that's exactly what we were thinking! I think a lot of it had to do with the fact that we are both very sensitive to heat and we were miserable in the 95 degree high humidity. Maybe in 4 or 5 years (hopefully with a little one!) we'll try it again.

I'm glad you are looking at it reasonably. I hate mean people! We were at Mara one time, and a cm ran into me, knocked my kid's dinner to the floor, and walked away!

I also chuckled when I saw the names of your cats! Eclectic taste?:)

[ilovebassets]

That's why we've decided to go every other year from now on. I know some people can just go all the time and love every second of it, but we want it to remain special and still feel like things are new surprising when we go back. I don't want to memorize rides. It's like if you eat cake for dessert every night, it's not a big deal when your birthday comes around. Give WDW a break for at least a year, maybe two, and then try it out again if you're up for it.

[Indiana Rose Lee]

Obviously parents who had their kids down there that week didn't care if their kids missed that week in school. Where is the snark in that? It is a statement of the obvious.

I saw a great deal more snark in the reply.

[famsen]

We are actually still here now staying at Kidani Village at AKL.
This is our forth time coming this time of year and this is by far the worst as far as crowds and heat. The beginning of the week was so hot and crowded that it took everything out of us and we have been exhausted ever since. DH actually caught a really bad cold with a cough and has been sick since Monday, I myself have a weird dry cough. Maybe it's the air-conditioning.
I am 40 and DH is 44. Our daughter is 22 and hasn't been here with us in three years(gosh, I miss her!) We love Disney and we too go through feelings of "been there, done that" but we take the time to relax and just be together.
I don't stress if I miss an attraction. This trip we didn't even go to DHS at all.
I am coming back with my best friend for a "girls-only" quick 4 night trip in 7 weeks. It will be a different experience because she has only been here once and that was with her two small kids and husband.
We like to go off site too for some fun. We like Kennedy Space Center. One day when we have the energy, we will make it back to Universal Studios.

[MusiqChic99]

It's been 10 years since I've been. I'm hoping I feel the magic whether it's there or not just because it's been so long!!!!

Sorry to hear about your trip.

I hope there were enough good memories to keep though!

[PIRATEGIRL007]

Obviously parents who had their kids down there that week didn't care if their kids missed that week in school. Where is the snark in that? It is a statement of the obvious.

I saw a great deal more snark in the reply.

I hope your kidding.

[kmvand1]

QUOTE=RMulieri;33804882]While I am sorry your trip seemed less than magical.I , as a parent really thought the comment about parents Obviously not caring about their child missing school was really unneccessary and a tad snarky...those of us who take our kids out of school for family trips have our reasons.Perhaps when you have kids you will understand better.[/QUOTE]

I couldn't agree more. So, so sorry there were soooo many kids while you were on your trip to Disney World!

[KellyNY]

I really hope this thread will not turn into "taking kids out of school " battle, but I am grabbing one of popcorn:: just in case;)

[Eliza'sMom]

We went three times in a little over a year between December 2006 and December 2007. We were also DINKs, and while one trip was with my whole family, by the last trip, a lot of the magic had worn off for us too. We still had a good time, but it wasn't as exciting, and on top of that, I was pregnant and tired. We came back needing a break, and planned not to go until 2010. We both said that while it was fun, we were ready to be away from Disney World for a while.

In the meantime, we had a baby, and shortly thereafter, got the itch to go back again. We are now going this December and I really can't wait! I am so excited to go again! I think a little time away will probably do you a lot of good. There can be such a thing as too much Disney. ;)

[Indiana Rose Lee]

I really hope this thread will not turn into "taking kids out of school " battle, but I am grabbing one of popcorn:: just in case;)

LOL, I'm out for the weekend!:rotfl:

Pirategirl. No I was not kidding. If a parent has taken their child to WDW it is obvious that for that week WDW is more important than school that week. Otherwise they would be in school that week. Make sense now?

If a parent thought that school was more important that week, they would not have taken their child out that week. Just in case it didn't make sense the first time.

As for the snarky 'you don't know anything until you have kids" I have several, and I agree with the poster.

[Planogirl]

I really hope this thread will not turn into "taking kids out of school " battle, but I am grabbing one of popcorn:: just in case;)
It probably will. I see lots of pot stirring already and the heavy duty arguers (is that a word?) don't even seem to be here yet. ;)

Eh, I also wish that there were quieter times now, kids or adults, locals or travelers, Americans or whatever. It's hard to avoid crowds no matter how you plan. It did used to be that school times were quieter because the kids AND their parents didn't come as much. Now.... :confused3

[bytheblood]

Just back yesterday after five much-anticipated days at CSR. Here's the rundown...

CSR
The Good: Nice grounds, nice new room, great pool and hot tub
The Bad: The 'magic' is lacking here, no doubt about it. Between extremely rude staff (with the exception of our bellhop who was lovely), tons of conventioneers and a horrible food court, we will not be back. The Pepper Market is a joke-what genius thought this up? The 'waitresses' don't speak English, and a simple request for Ranch dressing turned into an ordeal. When I say RUDE staff, I mean, very grumpy and indifferent. 'What do you want' I heard when I dared to wander into back of the market for a cookie, and then the worker grabs the cookie with his bare hand...the same hand that he had just used to wipe the counter. Food was extremely greasy and just tasted bad. There were literally 25 conventioneers waiting at one station for their food. The Pepper Market is the sole reason we won't ever stay here again.



:thumbsup2 I could not agree more. I gave it a go twice...there will not be a third time. The thing about WDW I like so much is that there is something for everybody. I am not limited on where I can stay.

[GSDRescuer]

Maybe in 4 or 5 years (hopefully with a little one!) we'll try it again.

With a Little One makes all the difference (IMHO). Just to watch their little face when they see the Castle is priceless!!! My DGD (2.5 at the time) just stood there and her whole little body shook with excitement!! Priceless.

Sorry you didn't have a wonderful time.

[KellyNY]

LOL, I'm out for the weekend!:rotfl:



:lmao:

[GaSleepingBeautyFan]

Sorry your trip wasn't that great. I agree with you about the Pepper Market. Yuck.

I usually get sick after getting home from WDW. I think it's a combo of stress/extra germs.

DH wants to take a WDW break for a few years. Sounds like that would be what you may want to do to.
Enjoy your other vacations!

[RMulieri]

LOL, I'm out for the weekend!:rotfl:

Pirategirl. No I was not kidding. If a parent has taken their child to WDW it is obvious that for that week WDW is more important than school that week. Otherwise they would be in school that week. Make sense now?

If a parent thought that school was more important that week, they would not have taken their child out that week. Just in case it didn't make sense the first time.

As for the snarky 'you don't know anything until you have kids" I have several, and I agree with the poster.

I am one of the people that commented that you don't know what goes thru a parents decision till you are one..and I stand by that.I don't need someone else judging me.When I used to travel to Disney as a single or just married non-parent , I thought I would not be one that pulled their child out of school.Well fastforward till now.DH and I are on opposite vacation schedules and for reasons due to employment and job requirements ,if we want a family vacation, we have to go when my daughter is in school.Otherwise there will be no vacations till she is grown up ...not much way of family memories there...But hey different strokes for different folks.I voiced an opinion.

[scdisneyguy]

LOL, I'm out for the weekend!:rotfl:

Pirategirl. No I was not kidding. If a parent has taken their child to WDW it is obvious that for that week WDW is more important than school that week. Otherwise they would be in school that week. Make sense now?

If a parent thought that school was more important that week, they would not have taken their child out that week. Just in case it didn't make sense the first time.

As for the snarky 'you don't know anything until you have kids" I have several, and I agree with the poster.



What you say is based on facts, however, it is done with a very opinionated view as well. We used to take our kids out of school every year to go to WDW, they all make very good grades, don't get behind for the week, etc. etc. In many cases, the teachers actually are all for it (varied from year to year) . However, our school system (as many others I am sure) has changed to a "year round " school policy. This basically means that summer break is shorter, but you get a 1 to 2 week break at different intervals during the "normal" school year. So when my kdis are our of school the vast majority are in. Regardless of that fact, if I choose to take my kids from school for a week, I don't need another posters's approval, I have the principals and teachers that give me that.

The underlying overtone in the OP's comment and your's for that matter is that people are putting vacation before education and that couldn't be further from the truth in our case and I am sure many others. Each however, is entitled to their opinion. I just don't see the point in meaningless comments about how others choose to carrry on their family business. If that were the case, then I could say make sure you don't go one mile over the speed limit ever again, as it is putting safety of your family and others in much more jepordy. Of course, I am not like that, what you do with your kids is fine as much as what other's do with theirs. We all make choices, and mistakes for that matter. To each his own.

Oh and one more quick note, even if some people don't care about education as much vacation for one week, experiences and memories are also a part of learning in life. Many things you learn in life, you learn thru experiences you have and failures you may have as well, not from a book.


My freshman year in college, the professor on the first day of Physics said at the start of his lecture, " I don't believe in any type of homework or quizzes, I don't care about attendance, my lectures strictly follow the textbook. If you listen to the lecture and study the textbook you will pass the mid-term and the final , and in turn pass this class." Literally 9 or 10 people ( including myself) got up at that point and left. I went to taht Physics class 2 more times, for mid-term and final. I made a B+ :thumbsup2

I like the smiles and happiness on my kids and nieces and nephews faces at Holiday time at Disney, much more than the week or so of homework we bring along. I learned much more from interactions with family and friends than I did in all my 16 years of education, and actually use it on a dialy basis.

[tloveswdw]

I am sorry to hear you did not have a great trip. My sister returned last night, and they went MK on Monday, AK Tue, MK Wed, (they were there before that, but I cannot remember), and they waited 20 minutes to ride Splash, 20 minutes to see Princesses, and were given the walk on at the Safari.... they said they walked on most rides!

I think free dining, conventions, food/wine, skew the 'look and feel' of WDW. Not bad, not good... just where people end up, changes. For them, (and their 18 month old), it was fine.

Explore other places, and I am sure you will enjoy WDW again.

[DB&KS]

Pirategirl. No I was not kidding. If a parent has taken their child to WDW it is obvious that for that week WDW is more important than school that week. Otherwise they would be in school that week. Make sense now?

If a parent thought that school was more important that week, they would not have taken their child out that week. Just in case it didn't make sense the first time.



Shockingly rude. I just can't believe it........

[DisneyLover75]

I didn't think she was rude at all. Just honest.

[KellyNY]

I am one of the people that commented that you don't know what goes thru a parents decision till you are one..and I stand by that.I don't need someone else judging me.When I used to travel to Disney as a single or just married non-parent , I thought I would not be one that pulled their child out of school.Well fastforward till now.DH and I are on opposite vacation schedules and for reasons due to employment and job requirements ,if we want a family vacation, we have to go when my daughter is in school.Otherwise there will be no vacations till she is grown up ...not much way of family memories there...But hey different strokes for different folks.I voiced an opinion.

I agree, it is personal choice based on many factors, and you do not need to justify yourself on Dis, really. We all adults and know what is better for our families. As for OP comment, I do believe she planned her trip considering kids will be at school and parks will be empty, and was quiet upset when she saw the opposite, I don't think she wanted to hurt someones feelings, it was just a dissapointment talking, that's all.

[mefordis]

Are there really crowds in January? Are there any times when there are NOT crowds? I'm beginning to think it's always either crowded or REALLY crowded.

ITA. Crowds and kids would be expected, right? We always go in January (a supposedly low-crowd time and certainly during the school year) and there are always crowds and kids.... We have taken our daughter out of school for the past couple of years. Why is that anyone else's business?

[Miss M.K.J.]

We were there last week at SSR and I thought it was very hot and humid. When we got back to the room every night we would just fall out. My husband and I said that when we go back we will take some time out during the days. You just try to do so much it wears you out and then you aren't really enjoying yourself. We are planning on going back Feb. of 2011 cause I think for us we don't need to go before then. We went twice back to back in less than a year and we were like yeah yeah yeah we already rode that last time. You spend so much money and time on planning the vacation it's a shame not to enjoy it. I have felt just like you are feeling but give it some time and try it again later.

[Melissa<3Disney]

popcorn:: Interesting thread...it's turning into all of the other threads on pulling your children out of school. I just don't understand why get so bent out of shape.. it's Disney...I am a Disney fanatic and don't have children of my own. While crowds make me a little crazy.... I fully expect for there to be tons of children around at Disney at anytime of the year. Especially with every school district running on different schedules (i.e. regular, year round, home school) not to mention families from other countries who are also probably on a completely different school schedule! Just because there were kids at Disney doesn't mean their parents pulled them out of school. With that said.. I am so sorry you didn't have a good time OP! While I could go as much as my bank account would let me, my boyfriend gets the same way at Disney...we used to live in Orlando and go two or three times a year..he could maybe deal with it once every two years! haha... So like everyone else said we try and make sure we do other vacations in between! I'm making him go in March, because it's a family vacation with my family...but he seems a little excited.. so there may be hope for this one yet!! :rotfl:

[mefordis]

Wow, so your professor preferred to lecture to an empty hall? Just curious, what college did you attend? I had just the opposite in a professor: attend every lecture without missing and you will get an automatic A. But I've never heard of a professor saying it's okay to miss lectures.

What you say is based on facts, however, it is done with a very opinionated view as well. We used to take our kids out of school every year to go to WDW, they all make very good grades, don't get behind for the week, etc. etc. In many cases, the teachers actually are all for it (varied from year to year) . However, our school system (as many others I am sure) has changed to a "year round " school policy. This basically means that summer break is shorter, but you get a 1 to 2 week break at different intervals during the "normal" school year. So when my kdis are our of school the vast majority are in. Regardless of that fact, if I choose to take my kids from school for a week, I don't need another posters's approval, I have the principals and teachers that give me that.

The underlying overtone in the OP's comment and your's for that matter is that people are putting vacation before education and that couldn't be further from the truth in our case and I am sure many others. Each however, is entitled to their opinion. I just don't see the point in meaningless comments about how others choose to carrry on their family business. If that were the case, then I could say make sure you don't go one mile over the speed limit ever again, as it is putting safety of your family and others in much more jepordy. Of course, I am not like that, what you do with your kids is fine as much as what other's do with theirs. We all make choices, and mistakes for that matter. To each his own.

Oh and one more quick note, even if some people don't care about education as much vacation for one week, experiences and memories are also a part of learning in life. Many things you learn in life, you learn thru experiences you have and failures you may have as well, not from a book.


My freshman year in college, the professor on the first day of Physics said at the start of his lecture, " I don't believe in any type of homework or quizzes, I don't care about attendance, my lectures strictly follow the textbook. If you listen to the lecture and study the textbook you will pass the mid-term and the final , and in turn pass this class." Literally 9 or 10 people ( including myself) got up at that point and left. I went to taht Physics class 2 more times, for mid-term and final. I made a B+ :thumbsup2

[itchin2go]

Are there really crowds in January? Are there any times when there are NOT crowds? I'm beginning to think it's always either crowded or REALLY crowded.

I guess the term "crowd" is a relative one. I've never felt alone in the parks. I have thought a park was more crowded than the day before, or dead compared to the day before, but there are always plenty of warm bodies at Disney World, no matter when you go. We have seen waits of more than an hour at Soarin, for sure.

I understand the OP is venting, but to me it's like: crowds and kids at Disney World - who woulda thunk? I expect long lines. I expect hordes of kids. I expect tour groups and blockades of strollers.

[ChocoKat]

I am sorry the vacation wasn't as magical as you guys expected!

I know what you mean with the "Been there, done that" feeling.

DH and I are both DINKS (we haven't been lucky enough to have kids), but we are annual pass holders and go at least 6 times a year.

Our secret is to take it very very easy. Our motto: "We'll be back later anyway" :lmao:

Just to give you an idea, on our last trip we only visited 2 parks and only for about 6 hours combined!. We were there to participate on the Expedition Everest Challenge 5K, we had fun on that, then we went to see the premiere of Tinkerbell and the Lost Treasure for pass holders.

We didn't even set foot at Epcot because it was the opening weekend of F&W and we knew out of experience it was going to be a zoo.

We spent a looong time relaxing at the Animal Kingdom Lodge, we had the hot tub all to ourselves most of the day and the pool was half deserted because everybody else was running around the parks. Had a wonderful romantic dinner at Jiko one night... YUM!!! Had brunch at Kona Cafe one day to try to Tonga toast for the first time (OMG it was so good!!!).

I have been a conventioneer at CSR, didn't have time to enjoy the pools, nor interact with the CM's, too busy working, I didn't even get to see much of the grounds.

I do agree Pepper Market was icky, we had dinner there one day and decided we wouldn't repeat the experience.

Like others have said, take a break from WDW, I would recommend going early in the year, the temps are lower, I am like you, I HATE the heat ugh!
And the crowds are less, just beware of spring break :rotfl:

DH and I go on weekend trips all over, Disney is our "easy" vacation, since we go so often we don't really plan much anymore. Going to other destinations requires more thought and research, so if we just wanna get away fast and easy we do Disney.

[mickeyluv'r]

Here's my one comment...several folks posted that it has been warm and they had sore throats after a day or two..especially if you combine with a headache - you are describing classic symptoms of dehydration. I'm not saying you didn't have a cold. Only what I've said before...it's SOOOOO important to stay hydrated at WDW. stress and dehydration and lack of sleep all contribbute to getting sick.

DFiL had this happen to him. I watched him go from coffee at breakfast to wine with lunch and dinner. I warned him he wasn't drinking any water. Sure enough, after dinner on the second day he felt miserable. Next moring, dry throat - just as I predicted. He still woudln't listen tome and it wasn't until he finally started drinking water that he felt better. to bad it was the end of the trip!

I can easily see how if you weren't feeling well, then dealing with any crowds was not fun. If you weren't inthe mood to be at WDW, I could see how something small like not being able to get ranch dressing would seem like a big deal.

[scdisneyguy]

Wow, so your professor preferred to lecture to an empty hall? Just curious, what college did you attend? I had just the opposite in a professor: attend every lecture without missing and you will get an automatic A. But I've never heard of a professor saying it's okay to miss lectures.

Wasn't like that with all professors or courses. I attended Clemson University. Also, the "hall" wasn't near empty. I had one Microbiology class that had over 120 students in it. This professor basically understood that education is what you make of it, plain and simple. You can go to class, do every term paper, lab assignment, and whatever, but if you don't have the sense to comprehend what you are being taught and ability to retain it, it doesn't matter. I mean let's face it, for the most part, the majority of things you learn won't be used in your career or job. I am not saying it isn't valuable to a certain point, but common sense, how to deal with and talk to people, and everyday morals and values will go with you more. Case in point, good friend of mine, graduated High School and College together, has a BS and now works at a job he would have never dreamed he would have to work at, much less with a degree. Higher education helps to open some doors that may not be open to you without it, but it's what you do inside that counts. In the real world a degree is only for self-satisfaction, it doesn't mean you will make more morey, have a better job, or anything like that. Experience in the workforce is much more valuable and that is the sad truth of it.

That being said, I wouldn't trade my time in college for anything. I am proud that I have a degree, want my kids to go to college, but in reality, my grandad was one of the smartest and most talented men I ever met, he dropped out in 8th grade. It's what you make of what you have, nothing more, nothing less. A degree just may give you more avenues to POSSIBLY show what you can do.

[tinksgilrs251520]

To the OP, (and young couples without kids)

Have you ever tried to pick your favorite park and then do other things at disney like DTD and the circus , balloon ride and then water sports fun like renting boats and stuff. I know when I plan i look at all these things and try to fit them in.... Disney is not just the 4 parks and thats it ... Maybe people are right and its good to take a break..... I hope when you go back you will have a wonderful time ....

[larryz]

Great advice, that's exactly what we were thinking! I think a lot of it had to do with the fact that we are both very sensitive to heat and we were miserable in the 95 degree high humidity. Maybe in 4 or 5 years (hopefully with a little one!) we'll try it again.

Let me suggest a Disney cruise. Still plenty of magic, without the stress and hassle of trying to hit the parks. If you can tolerate ship movement, go for the 7-day trips, but if you're sensitive to movement (or not sure about cruising), the three day trip is a great intro.

November thru February is a good time to visit the Caribbean... :thumbsup2

[larryz]

While I am sorry your trip seemed less than magical.I , as a parent really thought the comment about parents Obviously not caring about their child missing school was really unneccessary and a tad snarky...those of us who take our kids out of school for family trips have our reasons.Perhaps when you have kids you will understand better.

The only reason I can think of is your selfish desire for fun outweighs the importance of a good education for your kids.

ALLEZ CUISINE! :lmao:

[mefordis]

As parents, you make decisions for your children and you have your reasons for doing so. Most parents have the absolute best interest of their children at heart. You DO NOT need to defend your decisions to anyone. You don't need to share your decisions with anyone, either. It's between only the parents, your child, and teacher/principal. That is all.

[RMulieri]

The only reason I can think of is your selfish desire for fun outweighs the importance of a good education for your kids.

ALLEZ CUISINE! :lmao:

whatever

[itchin2go]

The only reason I can think of is your selfish desire for fun outweighs the importance of a good education for your kids.

ALLEZ CUISINE! :lmao:

Well, the OP was right. There's no pixie dust here!

[PrincessTiffany]

The only reason I can think of is your selfish desire for fun outweighs the importance of a good education for your kids.

ALLEZ CUISINE! :lmao:
This is quite possibly one of the most stupid comments I have ever read on the DIS.

I mean really? Taking your kids to Disney for a few days during the school year means you don't value education?

Give me a break.

[Dr. M]

Hi! I'm one of those parents who absolutely LOVES taking my kids out of school for one week for our annual Disney pilgrimage. I do consider one week of off-season touring more important than one week of school (tongue-in-cheek, but also fact). By the way, I have attended some form of schooling from age 6 to 27, and I believe education is the most important thing, next to God and family. And I wouldn't take my kids out of school if I didn't feel the repercussions were next to minimal. By the way, all my kids are highly intelligent, well-rounded, straight-A students. :thumbsup2Hoorah for off-season vacations!

[Twoboysnmygirl]

I would just like to add that in addition to people who take their kids out of school, there are those of us that HOMESCHOOL (and there are MANY of us) that could have been at WDW on your trip. Sept. 22nd was homeschool days at WDW and many people come in for that and stay for a week or two. We were there last year for it. In addition, I believe lots of schools have fall break. Regardless, I doubt you will find a time at WDW that there are not lots of children in attendance.

I'm sorry your stay wasn't the best, it sounds like the heat and crowds have extended into the lower seasons, I doubt there will really be a slow season anymore at WDW...the secret is out! ;)

[Hallowishes]

i just got back from my trip tonite! im sad :sad2: but i do agree .. i had a great meal at tonys! :wizard:

[lizandjason]

I think that the comment was made because like so many the OP hoped that kids being back in school would decrease the crowds a bit. Obviously, that didn't happen. I didn't read it as snarky but just frustration. Personally I wish that everyone would take their kids out of school so that the crowds would decrease in the summer but no such luck yet.

OP, I think that it's a great idea to try other things for a while. WDW will always be there for when you're ready.

Thank you for this. You are exactly correct, it was just frustration. I love seeing families enjoy WDW together and I think that they have every right to take their kids out of school to enjoy a time when there are fewer crowds. We were just EXPECTING lower crowds because neither of us had parents who were cool enough to do this for US, so we didn't anticipate it! :rotfl2:

[lizandjason]

LOL, I'm out for the weekend!:rotfl:

Pirategirl. No I was not kidding. If a parent has taken their child to WDW it is obvious that for that week WDW is more important than school that week. Otherwise they would be in school that week. Make sense now?

If a parent thought that school was more important that week, they would not have taken their child out that week. Just in case it didn't make sense the first time.

As for the snarky 'you don't know anything until you have kids" I have several, and I agree with the poster.

You are the coolest. Thank you. :goodvibes

[perdidobay]

OP, except for the CSR comments I could have written your post a few years ago. Our kids are grown so it's just DH and I on our trips. After several WDW trips within 18 months, I was feeling the "been there done that" blues, and getting very tired of people in general after coping with rude tourists and crowds.
We realized we were trying to do the same thing over and over (and do it all).
Our next visits we took the time to spend the day by the resort pool and rent the water sprites for a ride around Bay Lake.
We slept in each day and if we went into a park, only rode a few rides that we wanted to ride. We took a behind the scenes tour one trip. It was a great way to keep things feeling new.
We take a day to go offsite to other attractions in the area now.

If and when you come back to WDW, might I suggest January if at all possible, and a more romantic resort like Wilderness Lodge or Port Orleans Resort.

[eliza61]

Just back yesterday after five much-anticipated days at CSR. Here's the rundown...

CSR
The Good: Nice grounds, nice new room, great pool and hot tub
The Bad: The 'magic' is lacking here, no doubt about it. Between extremely rude staff (with the exception of our bellhop who was lovely), tons of conventioneers and a horrible food court, we will not be back. The Pepper Market is a joke-what genius thought this up? The 'waitresses' don't speak English, and a simple request for Ranch dressing turned into an ordeal. When I say RUDE staff, I mean, very grumpy and indifferent. 'What do you want' I heard when I dared to wander into back of the market for a cookie, and then the worker grabs the cookie with his bare hand...the same hand that he had just used to wipe the counter. Food was extremely greasy and just tasted bad. There were literally 25 conventioneers waiting at one station for their food. The Pepper Market is the sole reason we won't ever stay here again.

Crowds
The Good: Nothing good to report about crowds. Free dining and Epcot Food and Wine Festival brought everyone out. HOWEVER-ride waits weren't horrible. The worst ride times we saw were 90 minutes for Splash Mountain and 80 for Test Track, but with those exceptions, everything was 15-30 minutes.
The Bad: Holy moly, what a cluster, considering the time of year. With a couple of rare exceptions, it didn't matter what day, what park, what time...parks were crowded. It's quite obvious that parents don't care much if their kids miss a week of school.

Food
The Great: Biergarten (WOW)
The Very Good: Surprisingly, Tony's. We walked in at 5 pm and split a salad and one order of Chicken Parmesan..and it was all PLENTY of food, only one TS credit, and then the plan was to split a TS credit on the Big Kahuna breakfast at Kona...but we overslept! I also enjoyed the Shwarma platter at Tangiere Cafe (more meat than I could possibly eat in one sitting, and I can put some food away!)

I woke up with a very sore throat Wednesday which lasted all day and then turned into a fever (did I wear myself out, or did I touch too many places where countless germy hands had been?) We left a day early and we were both looking forward to coming home. We planned incessantly for this trip...spent countless hours on the DIS boards and All Ears, and dreamed of what it would be. While we had some great moments, we definitely had more fun planning than doing.

We are in our early 30's, no kids yet, and this was our third trip in 16 months. The trip was just exhaustive and-to be honest-we didn't have many 'new' experiences, it was kind of like...'oh, Pirates of the Caribbean, been there done that.' I kept looking at young couples with small kids and wondering if we were missing out on the true 'meaning' of Disney. Every day was an exhaustive struggle to hurry up and stand in line. We were lured in by a deal but it turns out that this just wasn't the best time for us to go; hopefully in the future we'll have a different perspective and we can try it again, but it will be awhile.


Op, sorry you had a less than magical trip. It happens even at WDW. We also decided to take a break from wdw and we are dvc'ers. Nothing wrong with that. It's a great big world out there.

We have been going once a year for the last 8 years and we've just seen too many declines in the last two years to justify the outrageous cost. I've been lucky that all the cm's I've dealt with have been wonderful but between the lousy food offerings and cut backs in Fantasmic, live entertainers and the closing of the adventurers club we've decided to take a break.
Even my teens have noticed the cut backs so I know its time to move on.


I still love disney and suspect the magic will return. I'll live vicarously throught folks here :rotfl: and hope absence really does make the heart grow fonder.

[newharmony]

DH and I are here now! We were at BCV last week, BWV this week and go to SSR next week. We have been disappointed in several things. BCV was wonderful but BWV smelled badly of paint for the first 3 days. We had to leave our balcony door open the first two nights. I called the front desk, but nothing happened and they didn't even call us back. Then on Tuesday we got a robo-call that we were all set to check out the next day. We don't check out until Sunday.We have found the CS meals have smaller servings at higher prices. We love the shopping but have found that the same merchandise is everywhere...fewer resort- or park-specific souvenirs. We haven't purchased anything yet...not sure we will. The crowds have been pretty bad, especially in the evening. The rudeness level seems to get higher with each trip. One group filled a walkway tonight at Epcot and we literally had to bump into a young man to get by him (I'm 60). There are lots of kids here and we only experienced a couple of really dreadful examples of bad behavior. The worse being (from DH) the mens' room in the Beach Club lobby having ALL of the tp unrolled in all the stalls and all of the nice towels thrown around the bathroom. Some parents don't supervise their kids. We are really questioning our decision to buy into DVC after this trip.

[yrdlyprincess]

Sorry to hear about your experience--many of the things you said about CSR I have heard from other people- but then I come on here and hear great things about-I do think it's great that people have different likes and dislikes. Sorry to hear about your sore throat and fever, I will be using germx like CRAZY!!!! Kids got sick last time we were down- I don't want to see that down there- or up here!!Hope that your next trip brings more magic...I know that with having kids - not only for me but also DH it truly brings out a totally different magic and experience with them! (Unless I'm at Epcot-drinking around the world:drinking1

[angipoo]

Sorry to hear about your disappointing trip - we are some of those parents who combine a regular school holiday with a few days out to make a nice Disney trip. Excited about 1st MNNSHP, 1st F&W Fesival and trying out the water parks for a few days. I will try and remember a PP comments about dehydration - water, water, water!

[LoraJ]

I had written out a long post earlier and hit submit and for some reason the resort internet reset at the same time taking me to the Disney site and my post was gone. I'll try and remember what I wrote.

We are here now, and we are definitely having a good time, although I think my DH wishes we had gone to Vegas instead. We visited here in September once before together and practically had the parks to ourselves. Our last two trips were during the week of Halloween and the crowds were manageable. I was apprehensive about coming to Disney during free dining, but had heard that the parks were manageable, just the restaurants were crowded. We have found it to be much more crowded than Halloween week. The lines for the rides are not horrible, but the parks just feel much more crowded. We just got back from Downtown Disney and I have never seen it so crowded.

We have been escaping the parks earlier then we usually do and heading back to the resort to relax. I'm dreading the weekend crowds tomorrow. When we come back, we'll try for Halloween week again, and hope that free dining isn't extended that far. We'll probably travel somewhere else next year, but who knows.

I agree about CSR. The Yacht Club, where we are at right now is also a convention resort, but to me, it is not as in your face as what we experienced at CSR. I believe it is because there are so many other places in the area here that the conventionears can spread out to. At CSR, I would try and got to the jacuzzi at night after the parks and the conventionears had taken it over. Same with the bar. Felt a little bit like we were crashing a company party. Last night, I went to the jacuzzi tub here and had it to myself. CSR is definitely a beautiful resort, but it's the only one that we have stayed at that we will not be returning to.

I have noticed that it seems as though most of the kids are elementary age. My parents took us out of school when I was 7 to go to WDW and we turned out fine. The only bad part was we missed being in our class pictures.

Like I said, we are having a wonderful time, but I just do not think we will be back during free dining again.

[Tiffany_PartyOf7]

Ah, we homeschool so you could catch us there any week of the year :) In fact, Disney is an amazing learning experience for my bunch.

[paintnolish]

The heat and humidity definitely take a toll on you, especially in the crowds. My mom and sister just got back and found it quite bearable, but then again, their last few trips have been in summer!
CSR...It seems you either love it or hate it. I love it. I actually wrote an email praising certain CMs all over WDW-one, named Laura, from CSR. I had good experiences in PM, too. Our waitress the first day was helping DD open her milk since I had gotten up to get something. I thought the food was good, too, esp. on ddp.
TTS- We had a suprisingly lovely meal there as well. The food was okay, but our service was great- another one named in the email (Isabella).
Like PPs have suggested, maybe you need a WDW break. If you are "been there, done that," check out some other sites!

[TLinden16]

I'm going to move this over to our trip report board.

[Indiana Rose Lee]

You are the coolest. Thank you. :goodvibes

You are welcome. One of the reasons people like to go during the school year is the decreased crowds. They are decreased because kids are supposed to be in school. I have a slew of kids, and we go in January for this reason. They are homeschooled.

[kazzy3]

Just an fyi to the folks making judgements and assuming that parents are keeping kids out of school for a week, my children had 2 days off during that time period. One day for teacher conference and one for a Jewish holiday that we do not observe. We could have very easily hopped on a plane after school and then spent 4 full days at WDW w/o missing any school.