September Solo: I'll do whatever I want*2/18 Update*Tom Sawyers Island Rocking Chairs

[Belle599]

Hi friends :wave2:

Here is my second every attempt at a TR.

(You can see my first one here: http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2611594)

I spent September 10-17 at the World and am here to tell you about it.

So DH and I have APs which expire this October. My busiest and most stressful time at work is October and November, so no October trip for us.

We took our last trip in May 2011 for our 2nd anniversary :hug:

I reaaaaallllly wanted to sneak in a weekend getaway in August or September, but DH needed a Disney break. I am the WDW-fanatic and while he enjoys the parks and food at WDW, as we take more and more WDW trips he is missing that "first-time feeling" more and more. Thus, the idea of me taking another solo trip was born.

This quickie solo trip easily turned into an 8 day, 7 night vacation. :tinker:

6 nights at Old Key West + 1 night at All Star Sports.

And the best part of this trip? I got to do WHATEVER I wanted, WHENEVER I wanted. :goodvibes

If you like lots and lots and lots and lots of photos (Thank you DH for my camera birthday gift!), please do subscribe!


Here we go!

[MOmousefan]

I went solo last May and enjoyed every minute. I did whatever I liked. Bring on the pics!

[Belle599]

Saturday, September 10

With a 5:30pm flight, I left home just before lunch to drive from my home in Canada to the BUF airport - about a 1.5 hour drive.

I was a bit concerned that the border crossing might be a bit delayed given that it was the day before the September 11 anniversary, but the Peace Bridge was almost no delay and I had an easy border crossing.

But first, I made some shopping stops:

1. Kohl's (a store we still don't have in Canada) - Scored a super-cute Lauren Conrad maxi-dress, LC top, Levi's white denim jacket and Vera Wang necklace - all for $60. I love Kohl's.

2. Target (will have in Canada in 2013!) - No big purchases this time

3. Walgreen's for Loreal makeup remover. Ok this makeup remover is almost $10 in Canada, and at Walgreens I got 2 for $7, so $3.50 each. I use a lot of this stuff so try to pick some up when I'm in the US.

I grabbed a small sub for the airplane, filled the car with cheap US gas (love US gas prices!) and headed for parking at the airport.

I LOVE LOVE LOVE the Buffalo airport. It is big enough that you can get decent flights, including non-stop to Orlando, but it is small enough that there are no long lines.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2010%202011/DSCN0225.jpg

I chose Air Tran for the flight down to Orlando because at the time I booked they were cheaper than Southwest. Turns out if I held out a while longer I could have flown SW for the same price. After flying Air Tran a couple of times before, I had a good opinion of them - except for all their flight time switching.

I checked in 24 hours before and picked seat 11A. I like to sit near the front to I can deplane quickly and I do not pay extra for seat selection, especially when solo.

Checked my bag at the Air Tran desk and the very friendly employee offered to upgrade me to Emergency Exit row 21A at no charge.
Well that is a good start!

Hats off to the TSA at Buffalo who always keep a short and sweet security line. The body scanners really keep the line moving.
I know there are body scanner debates (and we're not going to have one here, ok?) but really, if ya wanna see the shape of my body in exchange for my safety that is A-OK with me. I am more than happy to do the "hands in the air" funny dance.

Turns out that the Emergency Exit row on Air Tran window seat still has a seat in front of you so you have the normal fold down tray, not the annoying pop-out-of-armrest one. You just have TONS of legroom! The seat in front is perfectly spaced such that you can still grab your purse from under it with keeping your seatbelt fastened.
Air Tran also has boarding groups. The upgrade got me into Boarding Group #1, so I had plenty of room in the overhead bin.
Great!


http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2010%202011/DSCN0227.jpg
Ahhh a beautiful sunset flight.

[teedee]

Great start to your trip report! I'm doing a solo trip for the first time next year and I can't wait to hear how yours goes.

Terri

[kjblovesdisney]

Can't wait to read more....solo for a week must have been heavenly. :rotfl: I've wanted to do a solo trip for along time. This past May I was at WDW for a wedding with my DD and her DRoomie and I had two days without them.

[Belle599]

First night


Arrived at MCO safe and sound just past 8pm. I had both a $58 Alamo standard and a $96 National Emerald Aisle reservation.

Both car rental companies were packed! The stand-outs are as follows: There were minivans & Jeep Patriots on the Alamo Compact aisle, and Volvos and a Mazda CX-7 crossover on the Emerald Aisle.

Decisions, decisions. I went with the Mazda CX-7 which turned out to be a new 2012 with 400 miles on it - nice!

After making a quick stop for bottled water at Walgreens (I drink about a barrel of water per day, no joke) I drove to Old Key West and had a pleasant check-in.

I was not that happy with my room though - I actually did a separate post on it (wanted to show everyone pics of an accessible room). Here it is:
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2806437

Note that I do not require an accessible room so I have no idea why they gave it to me - I guess nobody else needed it either!

Here are some photos of the room they moved me to on Day 2 (see above link for details):

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I love the large bathroom counters at OKW - perfect for spreading out all my stuff.

I wanted to give a shout-out and thank-you to disser "DavidParrishandBoys" whom I rented DVC points from. So professional in the transaction but also a personal touch. I hope I am lucky enough to rent points from DavidParrishandBoys again.

So at about 9:30/10pm-ish, I decided to go have a late dinner at Earl of Sandwich. Guess what I had???

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2010%202011/DSCN0239.jpg

That's right, a frosting-filled brownie for dinner. Told you I'll do whatever I want!
Ok, I was only able to eat about 1/3 of it - sweetness overload!

Next up: Will I make rope drop at MK?

[Belle599]

I went solo last May and enjoyed every minute. I did whatever I liked. Bring on the pics!


Welcome! I see in your sig that you did a trip report - I will be checking that out! I really think that WDW/Orlando is a great place for solo travellers as there is so much to do!

[IheartDDuck]

I'm glad to see that you started another TR. I'll come along for this one too. I've wanted to take a solo trip myself, so I'm excited to see how yours was. I have to say, the idea of not having to answer to anyone and doing whatever you want is very tempting.

[fromscratchmom]

Sounds wonderful... do whatever you want trip.... :cloud9:

hehe. can't wait to read more of your TR. thanks for sharing!

[Belle599]

Great start to your trip report! I'm doing a solo trip for the first time next year and I can't wait to hear how yours goes.

Terri

Welcome aboard! Will next year be your first solo trip?

[Belle599]

Can't wait to read more....solo for a week must have been heavenly. :rotfl: I've wanted to do a solo trip for along time. This past May I was at WDW for a wedding with my DD and her DRoomie and I had two days without them.

Hi!! Oooh a wedding a WDW, that must have been amazing! I cannot think of a more magical setting. Did you go to the parks on your solo days?

[Belle599]

I'm glad to see that you started another TR. I'll come along for this one too. I've wanted to take a solo trip myself, so I'm excited to see how yours was. I have to say, the idea of not having to answer to anyone and doing whatever you want is very tempting.

Nice to see you! So glad you found me. :yay:
Exactly how you say not having to answer to anyone and doing whatever you want is a pretty good definition of luxury, don't ya think? ;)

[kokotg]

Sounds fun--I'm in!

I have a hard time picturing myself solo at Disney...but then again I have a hard time picturing myself solo anywhere, what with my three clingy kids :laughing: Interested to hear what it's like.

That brownie looks FABULOUS!

[Belle599]

I'm glad to see that you started another TR. I'll come along for this one too. I've wanted to take a solo trip myself, so I'm excited to see how yours was. I have to say, the idea of not having to answer to anyone and doing whatever you want is very tempting.

Nice to see you! So glad you found me. :yay:
Exactly how you say not having to answer to anyone and doing whatever you want is a pretty good definition of luxury, don't ya think? ;)

[kjblovesdisney]

Hi!! Oooh a wedding a WDW, that must have been amazing! I cannot think of a more magical setting. Did you go to the parks on your solo days?

The wedding was magical! I did do the parks on my solo days....Animal Kingdom and Magic Kingdom. At Animal Kingdom I had lunch at Yak & Yeti, took a cocktail to go, watched the parade and saw DeVine as well as doing the single rider line at EE multiple times. At MK I spent the day doing my favorite rides (just about all of them), had lunch at Casey's and people watched. My last night I had a solo dinner at Flying Fish Cafe! Amazing food but next time I would do an app and dessert or just a main entree. Really large portions.

[Belle599]

Sounds wonderful... do whatever you want trip.... :cloud9:

hehe. can't wait to read more of your TR. thanks for sharing!

Well thanks for reading! :thumbsup2

[Belle599]

Sounds fun--I'm in!

I have a hard time picturing myself solo at Disney...but then again I have a hard time picturing myself solo anywhere, what with my three clingy kids :laughing: Interested to hear what it's like.

That brownie looks FABULOUS!

Well, believe it or not but one day those "three clingy kids" will one day be grown up and maybe in your distant future.......;)

The brownie is fabulous, but very large and filling. It is perfect for sharing, or to split into 3 and have for 3 breakfasts.

[*~PrincessBelle~*]

Im so in!

I just got back from my 4th solo trip back in August..well this one didnt turn out quite so solo after meeting some CM's....but great nonetheless! Im actually a few days into my TR on here too...

Im guessing your from Ontario since you fly out of BUF? Where about are you from? Im from the London area...ive flown out of both BUF and DTW but love Buffalo so much more...always quiet and great shopping nearby :thumbsup2

[Belle599]

Before I begin my first morning at WDW, just wanted to mention that the free sample of Ghiradelli chocolate du jour @ DTD right now is Pumpkin Spice. It is chocolate with a caramelly centre with pumpkin/nutmeg overtones. Yes I really like chocolate. This proved to be a good appetizer to my frosting filled brownie the night before.

I also wanted to mention that the vanilla frosting filled brownie also comes in at least 2 other varieties: Peanut Butter and Chocolate.

Sunday, September 11

Bright and Early.

Headed to OKW front desk just past 8am and they were amazing and gracious. They moved me up a floor to 1326 and were so apologetic. Moral of this story is when you have a problem 1. Go in person; 2. Speak to the day staff.

Next stop, MK parking lot. I pulled into Minnie37 at 8:33. I was there the week before they changed the parking lot into Heros and Villians so this may not be helpful, but it seems that early in the morning, they load about 2 rows at the from of Minnie (left centre when facing TTC) and then proceed to load the far left parking lot. Minnie37 is/was in the left centre. This allowed me to bypass the tram and walk to the TTC - yay!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2011%202011/DSCN0242.jpg
Was off the monorail at 8:45 and a quick bagcheck later I was ready to enter the turnstiles. But, my wallet (and therefore AP) was not in my purse.

Crap.

I am sure that I left it on the front passenger seat of my car from when I showed my AP to the parking booth. (On a side note, silly me b/c I had a disney resort parking pass in my window.)

The welcome show was just about to start, and I have actually never seen this. I REALLY wanted to see this. But I also REALLY wanted to get in the park asap and ride Dumbo!

What to do......

After some calm and dare I say rationale thinking, I plopped down on a bench (between bag check and the turnstiles) and watched the welcome show.

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It was lovely!

After the show was over, I tried to hop on the express monorail to go get my wallet. Funny thing is, you could not board the express monorail from the MK at this time - gates were closed - weird. I had to take the resort monorail.

Walked back to my car, and yes my wallet (and AP) were right where I thought they were in the car. Thankfully!

Now walked back to the TTC. I was getting a good workout! But, I was feeling a little drained from all this sprinting back and forth so I grabbed a frozen mocha at the Joffrey's coffee cart at the TTC.

Sorry I forgot to photo this. The frozen mocha/cappucino was good, though a bit pricey at over $5 for a small.

Went to hop back on the express monorail, but it was down. During this trip, every time I saw the monorail, one of them was down. Disney, you need to fix this.

The CMs were directing everyone to the ferry but I boarded the resort monorail instead.

FINALLY entered MK @ 9:40. My silliness cost me almost an hour, can you believe it?

However my timing was really good, because as soon as I set foot on main street, the horse-drawn trolley was waiting for me to take me to Cinderella's Castle :wizard:

I am going to try to post a video in my next post - probably will not work, but we will see!

[Belle599]

Ok friends, it looks like I cannot embed a video in my post, so instead you get links to my 2 part journey up main street on the horse-drawn trolley.

Trolley Ride up Main St. Part 1 (http://youtu.be/qt-ebgPwQZQ)

Trolley Ride up Main St. Part 2 (http://youtu.be/qh1nY5eSB4o)

[IheartDDuck]

I would have totally plopped down to watch the opening show too. Stinks that you forgot your AP in the car. We've had situations like that too where someone had to run all the way back to the hotel. Ugh, that's the worst.

That's horrible about the monorail being down every time you saw it. They do really need to fix that.

[Staciajc]

I, too will be flying SOLO on Friday for the first day of the F&WF and then on Saturday for the 40th...I am so looking forward to the weekend alone and doing what ever I want!! :cloud9:

*Gotta get one of those brownies from Earl! OMG! That looked like heavin on a plate! :goodvibes

Can't wait to read more about your solo adventures!!

--Stacia

[Enchanted88]

Hello!! Subbing in!! Great TR so far! I've been contemplating a solo trip in the future, so I can't wait to see how yours turns out!! I'm not sure I would know what to do with myself being alone for more than a couple of days! haha:rotfl: But, it IS Disney World....I'm sure I could figure out something to do!! haha:)

Can't wait to read more!

[tinkerbell87512]

As a frequent solo traveler I'm enjoying reading all about your solo adventure. Can't wait to read more!

[Belle599]

The wedding was magical! I did do the parks on my solo days....Animal Kingdom and Magic Kingdom. At Animal Kingdom I had lunch at Yak & Yeti, took a cocktail to go, watched the parade and saw DeVine as well as doing the single rider line at EE multiple times. At MK I spent the day doing my favorite rides (just about all of them), had lunch at Casey's and people watched. My last night I had a solo dinner at Flying Fish Cafe! Amazing food but next time I would do an app and dessert or just a main entree. Really large portions.

Having an app and dessert is my favourite way to dine as a solo. When DH is with me I can go ahead and order an entree because I know he will help me out if I can't finish it. But especially at signature restaurants, the apps and desserts are so rich and so tasty that it is the wa to go!

[Belle599]

Im so in!

I just got back from my 4th solo trip back in August..well this one didnt turn out quite so solo after meeting some CM's....but great nonetheless! Im actually a few days into my TR on here too...

Im guessing your from Ontario since you fly out of BUF? Where about are you from? Im from the London area...ive flown out of both BUF and DTW but love Buffalo so much more...always quiet and great shopping nearby :thumbsup2

I, too will be flying SOLO on Friday for the first day of the F&WF and then on Saturday for the 40th...I am so looking forward to the weekend alone and doing what ever I want!! :cloud9:

*Gotta get one of those brownies from Earl! OMG! That looked like heavin on a plate! :goodvibes

Can't wait to read more about your solo adventures!!

--Stacia

Hello!! Subbing in!! Great TR so far! I've been contemplating a solo trip in the future, so I can't wait to see how yours turns out!! I'm not sure I would know what to do with myself being alone for more than a couple of days! haha:rotfl: But, it IS Disney World....I'm sure I could figure out something to do!! haha:)

Can't wait to read more!

As a frequent solo traveler I'm enjoying reading all about your solo adventure. Can't wait to read more!

Hello all you solo (and future solo) travelers! Where di you come from? I did not know there were so many of you around here. Several times during my trip CMs/others made comments (no way negative) "Oh, you're by yourself?" "Just one?" and from their surprised faces I thought that a solo trip was kind of rare.

So nice to meet other like-minded individuals! :cool2:

[Belle599]

Sunday, September 11 Part 2

The trolley ride was LOVELY. People were waving at us a bit which was funny. What a beautiful horse this was.

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It was getting close to 10am but nonetheless I hoped for the best and headed to Fantasyland. Swung by Peter Pan for a FP and then off to Dumbo for a flight.

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The wait was really short! Touring the parks in September is a dream. Dumbo at 9:50am in September is like Dumbo at 9:10am in May....and May is pretty slow.

Bonus points to whomever can tell me where this is:
http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2011%202011/DSCN0254.jpg

I love the details on Dumbo.
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And here are some snaps of the Fantasyland Expansion, taken atop the flying elephant.

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Wow Beast's castle is phenomenal
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On to what used to be my favourite ride when I was 5......Mr. Toad's Wild ride *ahem* - Winnie the Pooh

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And here is my hell-going Toad friend, passing the deed to the plan to Owl
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And up next, Snow White. When is this ride supposed to close?

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Did some browsing in Fantasy Faire. This is the store that you are let out into after you see Philharmagic.

There is some new small world merch!
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And a new Philharmagic shirt!
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Fantasyfaire always seems to have some of the more unique slim shirts to females/girls. I got my lovely Mr. Toad shirt here last fall I think.

Off! To Neverlaaaand!
Used my FP.
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I have not been on IASW since September 2007. Mainly because the song used to get on my nerves, I would always get stuck on the ride etc. etc. It is not one of my must-dos every trip.

This trip I wanted to experience some things I have never done or have not done for a long time, and this was the first of those experiences.

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It was exactly 11 o'clock and the whole front facade of IASW is this big cuckoo clock - neat.
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I also tried to take a video on the ride....when I got stuck...warning it is not a great video but here is the link:
Stuck on It's a Small World (http://youtu.be/zn9P-ePCCP4)

[nadiakim]

Hey great TR. I'm subbing. Thanks for the idea. I can see myself doing a solo in the future minus the kids.. hehe and DH>

[Belle599]

Hey great TR. I'm subbing. Thanks for the idea. I can see myself doing a solo in the future minus the kids.. hehe and DH>

Does your DH like Disney?
DH and I actually honeymooned at WDW for 3 weeks back in May 2009 and have been going back for our past 2 anniversaries. There are so many romantic and special things to do.....so don't necessarily count out a Mom & Dad trip!

[IheartDDuck]

I always think about Mr. Toad too when I ride Winnie the Pooh. I think the funniest thing about that ride was the fact that you ended it in hell. :lmao: So appropriate for kids. I used to watch Mr. Toad when I was a kid, so I was very familiar with the movie.

[OziJo]

The idea of going solo is so alluring that though I have read a few TR's this is the first I'm going to subscribe to.

I love that you did Fantasyland and It's a Small World First. I would definitely do them...if I was going solo. DH despises Small World and the girls were bored with Fantasyland when we were in DL 3 years ago. But I booked a Crystal Palace breakfast and they are excited about that. Maybe they are now at an age (13,15 & 18) where their childhood memories are sweet. Maybe we will do Dumbo after all...

[nadiakim]

Does your DH like Disney?
DH and I actually honeymooned at WDW for 3 weeks back in May 2009 and have been going back for our past 2 anniversaries. There are so many romantic and special things to do.....so don't necessarily count out a Mom & Dad trip!


He said he will be willing to do trips together there when the are older but its hard enough now to get someone to watch the kids right now. I will keep it in mind for the future ;)

[Belle599]

Sunday, September 11 - continued..

After IASW, I took a minute to check out the old Skyway station. Rumours are that this area will be refurbed such that the washrooms that are beside Peter Pan are moved here, and that the Peter Pan queue will be redone in an interactive manner. We will see....

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Not much work has been done lately, and the pond looks a little neglected...green water ick

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Next up

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Really, there was no wait. I took some time to look through the new interactive queue. I find that a lot of guests get confused, because there are 2 entrances to HM: 1 side is to explore the interactive queue, and 1 side bypasses this for all those people that are impatient. :) A lot of guests are like "which way do we go?"

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Here is Tom Sawyer's island from the HM. I will have more on Tom Sawyer's island in a later post and why this is a great destination for a relaxing day.

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Hello dear sweet Leota

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HM was fun as always and I really like the new hitchhiking ghosts at the end.

It was about 11:45 and since I only had an iced cappuccino for brekkie, it was time for lunch.

Columbia Harbor House recently had some new menu items added such as salmon with couscous and broccoli. I know the couscous and broccoli can also be ordered as side dishes and since these were healthier options I was eager to eat at CHH for lunch.

Especially on solo trips, I find myself snacking through the day, because let's be clear - there are so many AMAZING snacks at WDW! I find that a typical CS meal often is a bit much food when I am solo.

Because of this, I decided to order 2 sides for my lunch. The steamed broccoli of course (I love broccoli and eat it a few times per week at home). One of my guilty pleasures is fries + malt vinegar at the UK pavilion. Not all CS locations have malt vinegar but I know that CHH does, so I also got a side of fries.

Also got a cup of ice water with my meal. I usually drink a lot of water so I grab a cup of ice water (free!) every chance I get.

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The broccoli has pepper and garlic on it (I think) but was very good if you like your steamed veggies to have a bit of crunch left.

The fries were meh....not good like the UK fries.

I should have got the couscous.

My tummy was full after this but not stuffed so I had room for snacks in the afternoon!

Cost of lunch was $4.78 with tax.

I was done eating a little after 12 and strolled back down Main St.

Here is the firehouse closed. Rumour has it that this will be home base for the new interactive MK game.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2011%202011/DSCN0323.jpg

Pumpkins on top of the firehouse are so cute! Notice the puppy, fire hydrant, spotty dalmatian pumpkins, as well as the pumpkin sign pointing to the restrooms. hehehe Sorry if I am too nerd but this is super cute!

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One look down Main St. before I leave MK

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Why am I leaving MK?

Sunday, September 11 was the third and final day of The Florida Project. This was a 3-day pin and vinylmation trading event held in World Showplace in Epcot (the building between UK and Canada). This was a ticketed event except for Sunday where between 2pm and 5pm was public day.

I do not know very much about pin trading but I do participate in it casually. DH and I probably have about 30 pins combined and for each trip we look at our pins and decide which ones we're tired of and trade with CMs for pins that catch our eye.

You may sometimes see what I will call professional pin traders, at the pin station in Epcot with books and books of many pins. Wow.

I do not know what valuable pins are, nor do I wish to amass a large collection of pins. But, I was interested in knowing what a pin trading event was like, for curiosity's sake.

So I decided that since these pin events happen rarely, I would hop on the monorail over to Epcot and see what was shaking.

But first, here is a quick snap of the status of my "keepers" as of today.

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http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2011%202011/DSCN1228.jpg

[OziJo]

That shot down Main Street is beautiful! Makes me so want to be there right now. :lovestruc

[Belle599]

I always think about Mr. Toad too when I ride Winnie the Pooh. I think the funniest thing about that ride was the fact that you ended it in hell. :lmao: So appropriate for kids. I used to watch Mr. Toad when I was a kid, so I was very familiar with the movie.

I know! At the time when I was on the ride I was at an age that I didn't really notice that we were ending up in hell. Whenever there is something a bit inappropriate it seems like the adults are always OMG! and the kids don't even notice. lol
We are thinking about taking a LA/Anaheim trip next year (just not sure about timing yet) and I am so excited to be reunited with my Toady!

[Belle599]

The idea of going solo is so alluring that though I have read a few TR's this is the first I'm going to subscribe to.

I love that you did Fantasyland and It's a Small World First. I would definitely do them...if I was going solo. DH despises Small World and the girls were bored with Fantasyland when we were in DL 3 years ago. But I booked a Crystal Palace breakfast and they are excited about that. Maybe they are now at an age (13,15 & 18) where their childhood memories are sweet. Maybe we will do Dumbo after all...

Wow I feel so special that mine is the first you are subbing to! lol I hope you enjoy and it is not photo overload. :lmao:

Hmmm knowing how I was as a teen I can understand how WDW can be different and maybe even challenging with teens. The mere fact that your 15 and 18 year-old are willing to go to WDW says that you must be a fabulous Mom!



That shot down Main Street is beautiful! Makes me so want to be there right now. :lovestruc

I know, I love looking back at my Main St. photos......I have so many yet I can never have enough.

[stitches of laughter]

Great trip report so far! I'm going on my first solo trip in November. You can check my ptr out "memories of ma" and give me any pointers. Your pictures are making me feel better about being alone. I'm still a little hesitant, but your reports are helping. :goodvibes

[Belle599]

Sunday, September 11....continued....again :)


So at some times I am extremely photo snappy. One of these times is when there are gorgeous views and this post will have a lot of photos covering now much time-frame. You have been warned!

I wanted to mention that if you like LOW CROWDS, mid-September is a great time to go to WDW. For example, when I was on Haunted Mansion earlier and exited the stretching room, there was ABSOLUTELY NOBODY waiting in line to get on the ride. I have never seen it fully empty, usually there is a crowd of people there.

When leaving MK, I went to get a FP for the new meet and greets with Mickey & Minnie and the princesses. Here is a tip. Mickey & Minnie FP machine is NOT hooked up to the FP system so you can get one even if your new FP window has not opened yet.
However the Princesses FP machine is hooked up to the system so this is not the case for the Princesses.

After leaving MK, I hopped on the express monorail and started chatting with a really nice mom + early 20s son and also an older gentleman who was on the monorail car. We said our goodbyes when exiting the monorail and then to my surprise we all hopped on the Epcot monorail lol.

I love riding the Epcot monorail. Now that my AP will be expiring in a few weeks, if I ever take a quickie non-park trip, the Epcot monorail will be on my agenda.

I REALLY enjoy the view of Epcot from the monorail. Here they are!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2011%202011/DSCN0327.jpg

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As I entered Epcot at 1pm, the park was really empty.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2011%202011/DSCN0337.jpg

The only evidence of The Florida Project pin trading event, was this small sign in front of spaceship earth.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2011%202011/DSCN0339.jpg

This pic is my current computer background, I love birds of paradise.

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Public Day at TFP did not start until 2pm so I had some time to kill. I think I will have a snack. Off to The Land.

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I almost always get the strawberry shortcake at Sunshine Seasons, so I thought I would mix it up a bit. I decided on the Key Lime Pie.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2011%202011/DSCN0343.jpg

While at $4 it was good, I was expecting it to be a bit better since the strawberry shortcake is so amazing.

I really like the ceiling at The Land.

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After my tasty treat I strolled over to World Showplace, and at about 1:45 there was a big long line stretching back all the way to Canada, where Off Kilter plays. I was NOT going to wait in that line.

So instead I went to Rose & Crown and got a Strongbow with a shot of Ribena. This is called Cider and Black and was about $9.50 with tip. Whoops forgot to photograph this.

They were redoing the floors of the Rose & Crown so only a very small segment of the bar was open.

I did a bit of browsing in the UK stores. You know the store with the tea, and then if you walk through to the back it is clothing, then ladies wear and perfume. The farthest back room of this store was blocked off since they were refurbing it.

I was still sipping my drink and noticed that the World Showcase Players were beginning their show. I had only seen bits and pieces before so decided to watch. How relaxing, to sip my drink in the sunshine and watch the show.

Uh, only until they picked me to be in the show. Crap. :laughing:

I played the fair maiden, turns into the evil witch, then turns back into the fair maiden. The guy that was picked to be Lancelot spoke no english so it was a very interesting experience, but fun!

And here I thought that nothing could top being in Indiana Jones. :)

Ok I was getting pretty tipsy at this point since I kinda downed my drink while in the show.

Time to go to The Florida Project as I am tipsy.

I had only been in World Showplace on NYE just to use the washrooms at the front so was wondering what this place looked like inside. Here it is!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2011%202011/DSCN0347.jpg

Really it was just a huge convention room - no different from the convention halls at say Coronado Springs. But huge! I didn't realize how large it was.

The orange bird was there to greet us! Love him!

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There were all sorts of old ride tributes.

Mr. Toad!
http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2011%202011/DSCN0349.jpg

Skyway vehicle?
http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2011%202011/DSCN0350.jpg

20,000 leagues sub
http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2011%202011/DSCN0351.jpg

Tables set up in the back for pin and vinylmation traders
http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2011%202011/DSCN0352.jpg

Wow there were some seriously pro collectors here! Really, I thought that I was too obsessed with WDW but at this event I had no idea what was even going on, I felt like an outsider to WDW. This is where the hardcore Disney fans were. I had a fun time people-watching (maybe b/c I was tipsy?)

Around the perimeter there were displays set up with upcoming pin releases, pins from other parks such as Disneyland Paris and Tokyo Disney etc.

There was this presentation stage but it was not being used. I have a feeling all the presentations/events occurred during the ticketed times.
http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2011%202011/DSCN0353.jpg

Another look at the 20,000 leagues sub
http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2011%202011/DSCN0355.jpg

On one wall there were many different lines. There would be 1 for pin trading, then 1 for vinylmation trading etc. etc. I don't know who you traded with at the end of the line and did not wait in line to find out.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2011%202011/DSCN0356.jpg

Like I said, since I knew nothing about this event it was a bit overwhelming to me. It was really cool to see all the Disney collectors though!

I was feeling a bit woozy from my drink so decided to chill and watching some of the entertainment.....that is next up.

[IheartDDuck]

I love the Orange Bird too! I think it would be cool to see that kind of an event too. It does put perspective on how Disney obsessed we are. I always thought I was obsessed too, but there are a lot of people out there that surpass me. LOL. I bet you being tipsy did make that more interesting. :lmao:

[ZehnJahren]

Ok, I'm obsessively subbing to trip reports from September now that my own trip is looming. I'm really enjoying your TR so far! I would also like to do a solo trip but I cannot IMAGINE doing a full week! I think my first solo trip would probably only be 3 or 4 nights, mostly because I'm a talker and a social traveler, so I "like to share" - ha! I'd be fine during the day, but at night by myself at the hotel, I'd be lonely and then I'd start getting jumpy to get out and do something. I"d probably be the one person in the pool at 1 a.m.

I think if I went solo, I would do a similar trip to the one you're doing - HM and IASW and snacking instead of full meals. That broccoli looked GOOD (I'm a DEFINITE broccoli lover; I eat several pounds a week by myself), so I'm glad for the tip, as I was wondering if I'd be able to get some decent broccoli at the World next week as I didn't really find it on our trip last year.

[OziJo]

Wow I feel so special that mine is the first you are subbing to! lol I hope you enjoy and it is not photo overload.

I love the photos they are just beautiful.:flower3: Keep 'em coming..

Hmmm knowing how I was as a teen I can understand how WDW can be different and maybe even challenging with teens. The mere fact that your 15 and 18 year-old are willing to go to WDW says that you must be a fabulous Mom!

I was a high school teacher so I know how teens can be. I don't take mine for granted. I don't know what we did but they love family gatherings and family trips and are looking forward to this adventure. Apart from the inevitable arguments over the 1 bathroom (at home the girls share and we have our own en-suite). DD2&3 also share a tiny room so they will be used to bunking in. I'm not anticipating any traumas. I think they know how lucky they are.

I was still sipping my drink and noticed that the World Showcase Players were beginning their show. I had only seen bits and pieces before so decided to watch. How relaxing, to sip my drink in the sunshine and watch the show.

Uh, only until they picked me to be in the show. Crap.
:rotfl: All part of the adventure...

[Belle599]

Sunday, September 11, 2011 - continued...again...

After The Florida Project, off I went to see:

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2011%202011/DSCN0358.jpg

An awesome bass amp, belonging to…

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2011%202011/DSCN0361.jpg

Off Kilter! Sorry I had to include the gear pic because DH loves that rig.

Off Kilter were smokin’ as usual. Is the fiddle player a recent addition? I just don’t remember him.

Here is a link to a video of a bit of solo shredding during the 2:30pm set!

Off Kilter @ Epcot! (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Z23ytFsfCQ)

After Off Kilter, it was time for the 3:00pm set by British Revolution.
I saw these guys play during one of their first performances after replacing The British Invasion and at this point in time they are incredibly polished and high calibre players! And that is coming from me, and I am a self-admitted and critical music snob who has a Minor in music on my university degree and Diploma in music performance.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2011%202011/DSCN0362.jpg

I also took some video of British Revolution – click the link
British Revolution @ Epcot! (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pjiC_PxzVCU)

I used my Soarin’ FP that I grabbed when I was at Sunshine Seasons earlier and had a lovely flight.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2011%202011/DSCN0364.jpg

Left Epcot around 4:30 and via Epcot Monorail + TTC, drove back to OKW where I dealt with my room-changing scenario. On my drive I noticed this pleasant little warning on the sun visor of the SUV (Mazda CX-7 if you forgot). On my cars at home, this warning is that airbags can injure children in the front seats. But this?

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2011%202011/DSCN0366.jpg

I took all corners very slowly in this vehicle.

The pics of my new room are back in one of the first posts. Ahhh OKW is so relaxing and I loved my new room. Building 13 is so close to everything but the room on the 2nd floor feels so private. The stairs up only lead to 2 room and there is luscious greenery surrounding the unit.

I unpacked, hung up my clothes and watched a bit of football (It was the first Sunday of the season!). Went for a lovely stroll around the resort and browsed the general store. I made a stop at the hot tub to soak my legs and feet. Ahhhhhh :tink:

Around 7:45 I left for the Boardwalk with a game plan to do a walk-in at ESPN to watch my beloved Dallas Cowboys on Sunday Night Football.

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In the past, DH and I have gone to ESPN and it is always packed for sporting events so I really hoped I wouldn’t have to wait in line given that it was the first Sunday night of football and there were special September 11 ceremonies pre-game. As a solo, maybe I could squeeze in at the bar??

Turns out there was no line! I sat at the bar side and learned that the bar was always walk in and sit wherever you want, the line is only for the dining room side. About half the tables were empty on the bar side and this is just before game time. The tables on the bar side are a mix of some booths, some high tables with stools, and of course the bar.

I tried a Mai Tai here – never had one before b/c I’m not a fan of rummy/coconutty things usually. Made an exception here as I was in vacation paradise. :goodvibes

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I chose the veggie sandwich with cucumber slaw instead of fries.
Vegetable Sandwich - with chilled, Grilled Zucchini, Onion, and Portobello Mushroom with Greens, Tomatoes, and Roasted Red Pepper Hummus on Multigrain Bread $11.49

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I did not have extremely high expectations for the food at ESPN since it is a sports bar. But this was really good! It is not a hot sandwich but was very fresh and tasty. I would order this again since it was a very good portion for dinner.
I’m sure I’ll be back here since it is one of DH’s places to go on Disney property….

I left mid-way through the 2nd quarter and strolled around the Boardwalk and back to my car.

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This guy is always at the Boardwalk every evening that I am there!
http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2011%202011/DSCN0388.jpg

And a short video of part of his entertaining act – click the link below:
Street Performer @ Boardwalk (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7n0kBBCfqeU)

Back to OKW I went and Skyped DH while we watched the rest of the football game.
Good night moon.
http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2011%202011/DSCN0391.jpg
And that is the end of my first full day, who knows what tomorrow will bring!

[Belle599]

Great trip report so far! I'm going on my first solo trip in November. You can check my ptr out "memories of ma" and give me any pointers. Your pictures are making me feel better about being alone. I'm still a little hesitant, but your reports are helping. :goodvibes

Hey there, I will definitely be checking out your PTR. I find that solo it helps to have a list of things that you must do and have a vague idea of where you want to go about 75% of your days. If I didn't write this down beforehand I would have woke up each morning wanting to do 1000 things but accomplishing nothing. I am just a bit indecisive at times so it helped to have my 'adventure days' planned a bit.

I love the Orange Bird too! I think it would be cool to see that kind of an event too. It does put perspective on how Disney obsessed we are. I always thought I was obsessed too, but there are a lot of people out there that surpass me. LOL. I bet you being tipsy did make that more interesting. :lmao:

Exactly. I didn't want to offend the pro-pin collectors when I wrote that bit, but due to the tipsiness I really thought that I had just walked into some alternate universe or something. It was VERY interesting. :rotfl:

Ok, I'm obsessively subbing to trip reports from September now that my own trip is looming. I'm really enjoying your TR so far! I would also like to do a solo trip but I cannot IMAGINE doing a full week! I think my first solo trip would probably only be 3 or 4 nights, mostly because I'm a talker and a social traveler, so I "like to share" - ha! I'd be fine during the day, but at night by myself at the hotel, I'd be lonely and then I'd start getting jumpy to get out and do something. I"d probably be the one person in the pool at 1 a.m.

I think if I went solo, I would do a similar trip to the one you're doing - HM and IASW and snacking instead of full meals. That broccoli looked GOOD (I'm a DEFINITE broccoli lover; I eat several pounds a week by myself), so I'm glad for the tip, as I was wondering if I'd be able to get some decent broccoli at the World next week as I didn't really find it on our trip last year.

I know what you mean about being lonely at night at the hotel. This was also a concern of mine. But really, if you are going to see fireworks at night, even in the slow season you usually won't get back until 10pm. If you are going to do rope drop the next day, that leaves enough time for a dip in the hot tub and then off to bed not too late. Or you can always go shopping (Premium outlets are open until 11pm M-Sat), or to DTD. It's not like you are spending tons and tons of time in your room probably so I think you will be just fine.

It is so nice to see another broccoli lover here!!!!! Previous to the broccoli being served at CHH, I would have to go to Sweet Tomatoes mid-trip and have a place of raw broccoli and dip so my body would not be upset! haha It's funny but I am being serious. :upsidedow But yea, Sweet Tomatoes is another option if you need to get some "normal" veggie-type food into you. Oh and don't forget your Sweet Tomatoes coupon if you do go!


I love the photos they are just beautiful.:flower3: Keep 'em coming..



I was a high school teacher so I know how teens can be. I don't take mine for granted. I don't know what we did but they love family gatherings and family trips and are looking forward to this adventure. Apart from the inevitable arguments over the 1 bathroom (at home the girls share and we have our own en-suite). DD2&3 also share a tiny room so they will be used to bunking in. I'm not anticipating any traumas. I think they know how lucky they are.


:rotfl: All part of the adventure...

You are right, it is all part of the adventure! pirate:

Your family sounds just lovely. :cloud9: Do you have 3 kids total? If so, I bet a room a Wyndham Bonnet Creek resort would be perfect since you would have multiple bathrooms for the price of a value resort. And it is such a gorgeous resort.

[ZehnJahren]

[COLOR="DarkOrchid"]I know what you mean about being lonely at night at the hotel. This was also a concern of mine. But really, if you are going to see fireworks at night, even in the slow season you usually won't get back until 10pm. If you are going to do rope drop the next day, that leaves enough time for a dip in the hot tub and then off to bed not too late. Or you can always go shopping (Premium outlets are open until 11pm M-Sat), or to DTD. It's not like you are spending tons and tons of time in your room probably so I think you will be just fine.

It is so nice to see another broccoli lover here!!!!! Previous to the broccoli being served at CHH, I would have to go to Sweet Tomatoes mid-trip and have a place of raw broccoli and dip so my body would not be upset! haha It's funny but I am being serious. :upsidedow But yea, Sweet Tomatoes is another option if you need to get some "normal" veggie-type food into you. Oh and don't forget your Sweet Tomatoes coupon if you do go!


You have a point about the room at night, and I never thought about it like that - I more thought I'd have all this time in the room. But you're right, if you stay all day, you'll just have time for a quick relaxing dip in the hot tub before bed time. Hmm, something to think about.

I am very much an obsessive broccoli lover - I eat about 2-3 cups a day, 5-6 times a week. I steam it and fresh-grate some black pepper Parmesan cheese over it. I also have a lemon garlic olive oil topping that I like a lot. Or I'll add leftover broccoli to quinoa, or to my sandwiches. I tried it for the first time in my life about 4 years ago, and now I eat it ALL THE TIME. Thanks for the tips!

[fabulousmadhatter]

Well the timing of this TR is perfect ! I have booked with Dave for DVC points at OKW in January for 8 days 7 nights. First time Solo and really looking forward to staying in a Delux Resort for the first time. Your photos are really great and your first full day has left me exhausted lol I am a little over 60 yrs young and should maybe start getting back to my treadmill. All your tips about eating smaller and more often are all getting filed away in my trip planning notes. I will try to avoid getting a special needs room at all costs, had one once and found the walk in shower quite dangerous with all the water splashing all over the floor. I am a little worried about feeling a bit weepy when the music and the fireworks are on, always nice to have a body to hug at that time. As for not having to wait on anyone else for anything, PRICELESS. Keep this report coming and thanks.
Too bad Dumbo AND Big Thunder Railroad will be down for refurb during my visit.

[hgharvey]

Subscribing to your thread, never been alone but since the kids are getting a little older it will be harder to pull them out of school so I'm thinking maybe I could get away for a few days by myself. I could use some time just walking through all the shops and looking at everything without having to rush to the next ride. I feel like I missed so much a couple of weeks ago when we were there. Right now just living through you and your beautiful pictures!! What kind of camera do you have taking such wonderful pictures. I love pictures, the more the merrier. Can't wait to read more and how enjoyable it was.

Holly

[OziJo]

Keep your photos coming. I am really enjoying your perspective.



Your family sounds just lovely. :cloud9: Do you have 3 kids total? If so, I bet a room a Wyndham Bonnet Creek resort would be perfect since you would have multiple bathrooms for the price of a value resort. And it is such a gorgeous resort.

We are staying at the FW Cabins. We wanted onsite. We have free dining and the use of Disney transport. That was all a plus for us. 1 extra bathroom would be nice but we don't plan on spending too much time in our Cabin anyway.

[Belle599]

Monday, September 12, 2011

ZZZZZzzzzzzzzZZZZ
What is that you say? That is me sleeping in on Monday. I find that lately my trips to WDW all start in the same manner. A crazy jam-packed day for the first full day, and then a leisurely day for the 2nd full day.

This trip is no different.

I think that a great use of a sleep-in day is to tour Epcot's World Showcase. You can easily sleep in and arrive at Epcot for the 11am open of World Showcase.

Woke up just before 9:30, and lounged around for most of the morning. Man, OKW is an amazing resort for lounging.

Left OKW at noon and I had a 12:45 ADR at Via Napoli so this was my first destination of the day.

Here is lunch: Margherita Pizza, individual size - $16.

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This was good, but I had really high expectations (my local Italian restaurant has to-die-for thin crust Italian pizza) so this did not meet my expectations. It was low on the mozza and a bit too my flour left on the dough - quite dry.

I was actually a bit hungry after eating this, and usually after a WDW table service I am stuffed.

Since I covered Canada and the UK yesterday, off to France I went for dessert.

Epcot was EMPTY.....awesome! :wizard: It was a 1.1 day per touring plans.

Back in May 2011 I was looking for an orange bird shirt (I think it was featured on the disney parks blog in early 2011). They did not have my size in May....only size Small. This shirt was junior sizing so I definitely needed at least a Medium.

http://parksandresorts.wdpromedia.com/media/disneyparks/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/obd471817SMALL.jpg

In May, I was told that this shirt was only sold in American Adventure Heritage Manor. Since I was passing by this shop, on my way to France, I had to duck in and see what they had.

They had my shirt!!! In a medium!! AND it was marked down to 14.99!! I also got this shirt for DH because he looooves root beer - marked down to 13.99. I know that this store got a lot of food-themed shirts in the Summer but it looks like they are not selling well.

http://www.disneyfoodblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/IMG_4129-300x400.jpg

Arrived at the Boulangerie Patisseire at about 2:15 and got - YUMMY ALERT! - the Napoleon - $3.95 including tax.

Note that the Boulangerie Patisseire serves its ice water in an insulated coffee cup. This is the only CS that I have encountered that does this.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2012%202011/DSCN0395.jpg

I was only able to eat half, what a waste!

I love sitting at the cafe tables in France and people-watching, what ambiance.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2012%202011/DSCN0396.jpg

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2012%202011/DSCN0397.jpg

You might remember me mentioning that one thing I wanted to do on this trip is see some of the few attractions that I have never experienced. I can now mark Impressions de France off my list! It was a gorgeous film and really transported the viewer. I enjoyed it and will probably make DH watch it in the future. These 2 older ladies, probably in their 70s, were sitting near me. At every scene, they would gasp loudly and say loudly "Oh, isn't it just beautiful!". They were so cute because they had no idea how loud they were being haha.

I browsed the lovely stores in France, and pretended to speak broken french to the CMs hah. I actually found a scent that suited me in the Guerlain store and in hindsight should have taken a photo of the name on the bottle. I try lots of scents but have never found one good enough to commit to. This one smelled like lilies of the valley a bit..........if you know what it is please tell me!

I guess I will just have to go back to the store to find the scent.....

I bought DH an orange caramel lollipop in the La Mode Francaise store. They have all kinds of small candies priced from 30 cents up.

Some food and wine booths were out, and every day there were more and more. When you see these planters, you know that Disney is hiding something behind them.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2012%202011/DSCN0399.jpg

After France I stopped by Morocco, another amazing pavilion. While sipping on my ice water, I noticed this squirrel hiding above a door.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2012%202011/DSCN0401.jpg

It then jumped into a large plant and made a huge noise haha.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2012%202011/DSCN0402.jpg

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2012%202011/DSCN0403.jpg

I followed it into the shop, where it sat in the display. A Morocco CM came up to me and we chatted about this squirrel while he fed it french fries and told me it was his pet. Only in WDW!

[IheartDDuck]

Mmmm. That napoleon looks heavenly!

[OziJo]

A squirrel! In Morrocco!! Must be WDW.

I'm loving your TR Belle.

[Belle599]

You have a point about the room at night, and I never thought about it like that - I more thought I'd have all this time in the room. But you're right, if you stay all day, you'll just have time for a quick relaxing dip in the hot tub before bed time. Hmm, something to think about.

I am very much an obsessive broccoli lover - I eat about 2-3 cups a day, 5-6 times a week. I steam it and fresh-grate some black pepper Parmesan cheese over it. I also have a lemon garlic olive oil topping that I like a lot. Or I'll add leftover broccoli to quinoa, or to my sandwiches. I tried it for the first time in my life about 4 years ago, and now I eat it ALL THE TIME. Thanks for the tips!

Thank you for the broccoli ideas! I usually have mine with a sprinkle of lemon juice and garlic salt.

Well the timing of this TR is perfect ! I have booked with Dave for DVC points at OKW in January for 8 days 7 nights. First time Solo and really looking forward to staying in a Delux Resort for the first time. Your photos are really great and your first full day has left me exhausted lol I am a little over 60 yrs young and should maybe start getting back to my treadmill. All your tips about eating smaller and more often are all getting filed away in my trip planning notes. I will try to avoid getting a special needs room at all costs, had one once and found the walk in shower quite dangerous with all the water splashing all over the floor. I am a little worried about feeling a bit weepy when the music and the fireworks are on, always nice to have a body to hug at that time. As for not having to wait on anyone else for anything, PRICELESS. Keep this report coming and thanks.
Too bad Dumbo AND Big Thunder Railroad will be down for refurb during my visit.

You are going to love OKW! It's so quaint and a lovely place to come back to each evening. I agree with the slipping hazard on the roll-in showers for those of us who luckily do not need the roll-in feature. I see that BTMRR will be under rehab for several months....I would miss that too.

Subscribing to your thread, never been alone but since the kids are getting a little older it will be harder to pull them out of school so I'm thinking maybe I could get away for a few days by myself. I could use some time just walking through all the shops and looking at everything without having to rush to the next ride. I feel like I missed so much a couple of weeks ago when we were there. Right now just living through you and your beautiful pictures!! What kind of camera do you have taking such wonderful pictures. I love pictures, the more the merrier. Can't wait to read more and how enjoyable it was.

Holly

Hi Holly, thank you for your kind words. DH gave me a Nikon Coolpix S8100 last November for my birthday and I love it. It is just a point & shoot and is very compact such that you could fit it into a clutch. I have not educated myself much about photography so could not handle a SLR at this point. However the S8100 has many features (10X zoom, shock absorb etc.) of a fancier camera but is very user-friendly which is important to me.
I believe that the S9100 is the newest version and has a 18X zoom which pretty impressive for a point and shoot!

Mmmm. That napoleon looks heavenly!

It was ;)....if only I could have brought the other half home....

A squirrel! In Morrocco!! Must be WDW.

I'm loving your TR Belle.

Glad you are enjoying!

[Belle599]

Monday, September 12 - continued



I have always found that I spend the most time sitting around and doing nothing in Japan. The gardens are just perfect. I have taken so many photos of the gardens there that I am thinking of making a small photo assortment on the wall up my staircase at home.

With the Yakitori house refurb, I was a bit upset that the entire gardens were walled off.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2012%202011/DSCN0404.jpg

Here is a view from behind the Yakitori House. You can't really see it, but they are expanding the size of the building.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2012%202011/DSCN0405.jpg

I am hopefully that the gardens are even more beautiful (is that even possible?) when the refurb is done.

Ahhhh
http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2012%202011/DSCN0407.jpg

I saw some Imagineers and Mitsukoshi employees in hardhats walking around the walls, and then entering into the construction zone near the new Kabuki Cafe.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2012%202011/DSCN0408.jpg

Passing by Italy.....The Ziti Sisters were performing. They are ok, but there are better acts around World Showcase.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2012%202011/DSCN0410.jpg

Destination: Germany

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2012%202011/DSCN0413.jpg

I must stop at Karamel Kuche at every opportunity. DH always picks up a bag of creme caramels and I wanted to get him a bag. But they were nowhere to be found! Only milk chocolate was available. I asked the CMs but they had no idea what I was talking about.....

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2012%202011/DSCN0414.jpg

Although I always try something new, I had a repeat this time. I was still a bit full from the Napolean as it was only 4:30, so opted for a smaller item here. The pretzel which is covered in caramel, then chocolate - $3.15 with tax.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2012%202011/DSCN0418.jpg

Had to stop in Norway for Maelstrom.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2012%202011/DSCN0419.jpg

It was such a slow day that the FP machines were not even operating. This resulted in a line of about 25 people (lol HUGE I know). I never wait in line here because I always FP, so this was new for me!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2012%202011/DSCN0420.jpg

For the first time, I sat to watch the Maelstrom film after the ride. This was another "first" on my list for this trip. The film was playing when I arrived, so I saw the 2nd half of it. It was pretty decent and I will have to watch the first half next trip.

I was feeling tired so decided to leave the rest of Norway, China and Mexico for another day. Left just past 5pm.

One thing that I wanted to see this trip is what is North of MK if you drive up World Drive. I decided to go for a drive and see for myself.

There is debate as to whether it is "ethical" for non-CMs to drive on World Drive, north of the Contemporary.

We will NOT be having this nonsensical debate in this thread. Thank you.

I drive up World Dr., past the Contemporary, and took a right on Center Rd. I passed the MK CM parking lot on my left, and the monorail service station on my right. At Reams Road, I took a Right. At this intersection, there were at least 6 billboards for new housing developments nearby. It seems that they are building a lot back here. (you can follow along on googlemaps if you like)

Drove down Reams Rd and then left on 535/Winter Garden Vineland Road. It seem at this intersection they are building a shopping plaza with a Publix. It will be called Lakeside Village Center.

I kept following 535 to the Winter Garden Village shopping center which was my destination. There were many new housing developments back here, shops and preschools.

http://www.wintergardenvillage.com/

I stopped at Target at the Winter Garden Village shopping center to pick up water and snacks.

Then I drove back to WDW, to the Contemporary for dinner. This was a nice exploration for me as I needed the rest from being on my feet.

I went to Contempo Cafe once back when it opened but wanted to have dinner here. I LOVE steak salads and since they have one on their menu, it was a must to try this.

Steakhouse Salad - marinated beef, mixed greens shaved red onions, goat cheese, and vine-ripe tomatoes with mustard dressing

$8.61 with tax

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2012%202011/DSCN0421.jpg

Yum this was good! The goat cheese was lovely and the beef was high-quality. Unfortunately I could only eat half of it and was full. 2 people could share this and a dessert and that would be a good value for a meal.

It was just past 7pm which was sunset at this time of year, so I headed out to the 4th floor balcony for some sunset photos.
DH and I really enjoy sunset photos and paintings (some nice ones in the Wyndham galleries!).

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2012%202011/DSCN0422.jpg

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2012%202011/DSCN0425.jpg

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2012%202011/DSCN0427.jpg

Has anybody watched Wishes from this 4th floor balcony? Is it almost as good a view as from Cali Grill?

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2012%202011/DSCN0428.jpg

The express monorail was stuck......again...

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2012%202011/DSCN0429.jpg

I browsed the shops on the 4th floor and decided that I wanted to see Illuminations!

Let's go back to Epcot, shall we?

[Belle599]

September 12, 2011 - continued

After dinner at Contempo Cafe, I had a seat on the sofas in the Contemporary lobby and chatted with DH on Skype for a bit, since there is free wifi in the lobby and convention areas of the Contemporary.

I also walked out to the pier and looked at the Sea Raycers and chatted with the CM at the rental place. I have never driven a boat before. In keeping with trying new things at WDW this trip, I really wanted to take a boat out onto Bay Lake and the Seven Seas Lagoon, but was a bit scared. Maybe I will think about doing this in the upcoming days of my trip.

Off to Epcot we go!

Parked at the Beach Club, so that I could smell the Beach Club lobby haha

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2012%202011/DSCN0431.jpg

But really, the Beach Club lobby smells sooooo good.

**Sidenote**

I searched some disboards and found a thread which explained that they use the commercial version of this product in a scent called Green Clover and Aloe
http://www.enviroscent.com/Shop/Accscent-Machines

At $200, DH will not let me buy this. :confused3

Bath and Body Works has two similar scents: 1. Green Clover and Aloe (but discontinued), and 2. Rainkissed Leaves

http://www.properlymadeup.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/rainkissed-leaves.jpg

http://reviews.bathandbodyworks.com/1884/3179442/reviews.htm?page=4

This past weekend, DH took me to the one and only Bath and Bodyworks outlet in Canada and I found handsoap and body spray in Rainkissed Leaves - yay!! :banana: The scent is about 85% similar I would say, so I have captured the magnificent scent of the Beach Club at home!

**End of Sidenote**

Ok so I'm badass and parked at the Beach Club and walked to Epcot. :scared1:

Don't worry parking police, there were tons of open parking spaces since it was Low Seasons and since I have an AP I am not defrauding WDW out of any parking revenue.

The movie on the beach was just starting

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2012%202011/DSCN0432.jpg

Arrived at International Gateway at about 8:40pm.

I usually watch Illuminations from between the 2 stores at the foot of World Showcase.

On recommendation of the bag-check security man, I decided to watch from the viewing path in Canada.

But first, I got an English Rose from the Rose and Crown. YUMMY!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2012%202011/DSCN0434.jpg

Compared to the previous day, the open portion of the Rose & Crown was much larger (remember they were replacing the floor). There were about 10 Brits in the bar (mostly from Manchester) and these people were having a spectacular time singing along with the Hat Lady who was playing at piano.

The Hat Lady started Hey Jude while I was waiting for my drink and these fun Brits pulled me into their singing and dancing - lots of fun!!

With minutes to spare, I did settle on watching Illuminations from the Canada path.

Here is the moon!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2012%202011/DSCN0438.jpg

Since it was slow season, I was able to get a front row viewing spot.

I set my camera on the fence in front of me and videoed all of Illuminations.

Here is my link to the video on youtube.

My video of Illuminations (http://www.youtube.com/user/599belle?feature=mhee#p/u/1/gcexTWtZr-0)

Sorry that there was a tree in the sky in front of me, and at times these guys were quacking a bit.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2012%202011/DSCN0441.jpg

As much as I love all WDW night-time entertainment, Illuminations is my favourite. I love the message that Illuminations communicates and it inspires me every time I see it. :wizard:

And that's it for today, we're going to Hollywood Studios tomorrow!

[IheartDDuck]

That salad looks really good! I'm glad you enjoyed it. It does look like enough to feed two people.

I often park at the Beach Club when I want to go to Epcot. :rolleyes1 We're rebels I guess.

[Belle599]

That salad looks really good! I'm glad you enjoyed it. It does look like enough to feed two people.

I often park at the Beach Club when I want to go to Epcot. :rolleyes1 We're rebels I guess.

It is nice to know of a good, reliable salad at WDW since there are so many gross salads at CS locations....*ahem* Studio Catering Co.!

Yeah, with the parking, I use judgement depending on slow times of year/slow days because as a resort guest I would hate to come back to my resort to find no parking spots.

When I was at the Contemporary earlier that day, I was amazed at how many empty spots there were in the aisle directly beside the valet aisle, which is right in front of the main entrance to the hotel.

[Belle599]

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

So far I've been to MK and Epcot, so on the agenda today is DHS.

After sleeping in yesterday, I was aiming for a rope drop day today.

Arrived at DHS and parked in Stage 42, which is quite close to the front. Since it was close, most people were walking to the entrance instead of waiting for a tram.

HOT TIP (if you didn't know it already lol)

There are 2 bag check areas at DHS.

1. Main bag check (where you go if a Disney bus, or the tram drops you off)

2. A lonely single bag check station staffed by a lonely Security person on the side near guest relations.

On this particular morning, everyone in Stage 42 was walking the LONG way around to the main bag check. I crossed the street and went through the lonely single bag check.

Every time I went to DHS this trip, I was able to park close to the front (since the crowds were so low).
And every time I went through the single bag check.
And every time, the security person made some comment like "Where do you work?", like I worked at WDW or something.
Nope, I am just a smart cookie!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0451.jpg

Off to TSMM we go

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0452.jpg

Arrived at TSMM at 9:13 and got a FP right away. FP time was 10:55.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0455.jpg

Wait time posted as 45 mins, but I guessed that was inflated so went into line.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0456.jpg

It actually was about 25 min wait. It was such a slow day at DHS that they were only loading people in loading rows #1 to #4 on TSMM.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0458.jpg

Unfortunately they did not need any single/doubles on the right hand side of the queue so I waited in the normal line with the commoners haha.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0460.jpg

This score is not bad for me! (I am not nearly as strong at scoring as DH.)

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0463.jpg

Just before 10am, headed over to The Great Movie Ride.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0464.jpg

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0466.jpg

I wanted to pay attention to the room before The Wizard of Oz, which was originally supposed to be the tornado, but now is Fantasia (but still windy!)

I love, The Movies!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0467.jpg

Got a good look at the windy room, that would have been a small Tornado.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0482.jpg

On The Great Movie Ride, they only had one vehicle running, instead of two. This was evident when we got into the room where they show the montage of movie footage and we were the only car in there.

Had to make a stop at Writers' Stop for a Cappuccino.

Why is Writers' Stop not on the park map?

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0484.jpg

Enjoyed my morning coffee while strolling the Streets of America.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0486.jpg

I love how authentic the street is here!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0487.jpg

Here is where the purple cat was last Xmas for Osborne Lights.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0488.jpg

Singin' in the Rain.....does the water come out randomly? I saw that the ground was wet, but didn't see any water coming out - confused me!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0489.jpg

Stopped by the Cars meet and greet which is relatively new (new to me)

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0490.jpg

Far more popular was the new (to me) Phineas and Ferb meet and greet. Sorry photopass guy, I have snapped a not-so-flattering photo of you!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0491.jpg

I finished my morning java, so next up is Star Tours!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0492.jpg

I had only been on this 2 times before, both during soft-opening, so no photos were allowed at that time.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0493.jpg

It was just past 10:40 and the posted wait time was 15 mins which was a hair longer than I actually waited.

Look up!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0494.jpg

This was an all-new sequence for me, with storm troopers when we took off, a visit to the Wookie planet, an appearance from Princess Leia and then Boba Fett.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0496.jpg

This guy is my favourite part of the queue! Such cool stuff go through his scanner!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0501.jpg

At this point it was a bit after 11am and since all I had so far was a coffee, there was a rumbly in my tumbly.

What should I have for lunch? hmmmmm

[petals]

joining in

[Belle599]

joining in

Welcome!

[maryr1oz]

Really loving your report - i love travelling alone, there are so many benefits :thumbsup2

Although it is nice to have hubby there occasionally to share special sights with :love:

Can't wait to read more! :banana::banana::banana:

[OziJo]

I'm so excited for Star Tours. :dance3:I'm trying not to be because I don't want to be disappointed.

When DH and I went to DL back in '92 we loved the original Star Tours and went on it 4 times and we were only in DL for 1 day!! Then in in '09 we went back again. Still loved it and so did the girls but could we see it was getting a bit dated.

So when I heard they had updated I was so excited. Secretly I'm as excited for Star Tours as I am for Harry Potter...shhh don't tell the girls.

Thanks for the pics. :yay:

[Belle599]

Tuesday, September 13, 2011 - continued

So I left off in DHS at about 11am and hungry. Normally when I stop by Writer's Stop for my coffee (as I did earlier this day), I grab a carrot cake cookie. However since I am trying new things this trip, I did not have the carrot cake cookie. This is why I'm ready for lunch at 11am!

I really do not like DHS counter service. I think our only decent choice will be to have something from Starring Rolls.

Now it is past 11am, and I want to also see the 11:30 Beauty and the Beast. To Starring Rolls I go!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0504.jpg

See Gertie is already eating her lunch too

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0505.jpg

Can I live on this island?

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0506.jpg

Bypassing Disney Channel rocks

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0507.jpg

Arrived at destination Starring Rolls! My lunch! Red velvet cheesecake cupcake $4.25 with tax

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0509.jpg

My receipt for the cupcake shows 11:27am, so I must be a Olympian speed walker because I JUST made it to the 11:30 Beauty and the Beast show as it started.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0510.jpg

Every single time I have watched this show in the past few years, this guy has been Gaston.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0519.jpg

I took some video during the show. But a warning, the quality is not very good. It is a bit blurry/shaky at times since I was eating my cupcake with my other hand hahaha.

Here is the link:

Beauty and the Beast, live on stage, September 13, 2011 (http://www.youtube.com/user/599belle?feature=mhee#p/u/5/HBJx6c1o19U)

Ahh I love this show.

I was only able to eat about half of my cupcake. The cupcake was very good, but not quite as good as expected.
Really, these Disney cupcakes are deadly and require 2 people!

Next up is one of my must-dos on every trip. I already had a FP from earlier and grabbed a second FP.

I didn't actually need my FP because it was walk-on.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0521.jpg

They merged the single-rider line, FP line, and stand-by line part way through since it was so slow.

I think this is my favourite ride at WDW. Well, at least for today.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0522.jpg

I have not been on ToT for 3 or 4 trips. This is the only ride that DH will not ride since he does not like the drops. Because he won't ride it, I psyche myself out and think that it is too intense as well.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0525.jpg

Through the lovely queue

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0527.jpg

It's like a jungle out there

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0529.jpg

I am forever taking pictures of Disney light fixtures haha

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0530.jpg

Wouldn't this be a great spot to have your lunch?

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0531.jpg

Scary!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0532.jpg

So I rode it! And I was really nervous....until after the ride when I realized that the drops really aren't that big. I was like "Really, that's it?!" I seem to remember larger drops......this was my first time riding with the new ride sequence.

I will be back to this ride again before my trip is done so that I can prove to myself that really, it is not too scary.

Time to sit down and have a rest, so let's go see:

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0534.jpg

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0535.jpg

I love looking around the pre-show here. So funny!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0536.jpg

Every time I visit, I see something new:

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0537.jpg

Who's excited for the new Muppets movie? Nov 22 I think. I will be seeing it!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0540.jpg

It was now 1:20pm and I am heading out of the park.

Time for an afternoon break!

[Belle599]

Really loving your report - i love travelling alone, there are so many benefits :thumbsup2

Although it is nice to have hubby there occasionally to share special sights with :love:

Can't wait to read more! :banana::banana::banana:

Thanks for the kind words, I am glad you are enjoying! I agree that it is nice to have DH there to share with and while solo trips are fun, it is nice to also have trips with the significant other. Gotta mix things up!

I'm so excited for Star Tours. :dance3:I'm trying not to be because I don't want to be disappointed.

When DH and I went to DL back in '92 we loved the original Star Tours and went on it 4 times and we were only in DL for 1 day!! Then in in '09 we went back again. Still loved it and so did the girls but could we see it was getting a bit dated.

So when I heard they had updated I was so excited. Secretly I'm as excited for Star Tours as I am for Harry Potter...shhh don't tell the girls.

Thanks for the pics. :yay:

You will LOVE the new Star Tours! In case you don't know, there are several segments to the ride, and multiple different versions of each segment. So many permutations/combinations of the ride. I recommend that you leave time in your day to ride it several times so you can have difference experiences.

[OziJo]

I have not been on ToT for 3 or 4 trips. This is the only ride that DH will not ride since he does not like the drops. Because he won't ride it, I psyche myself out and think that it is too intense as well.

I'm with your DH. I didn't do ToT in CAP because I don't like extreme drops. We also have a ride at DreamWorld on the Gold Coast in Queensland called The Big Drop (or something like that) that I wouldn't do. I usually leave these rides to DH and the DD's.

Having said that your report has inspired me to give it a go. So I will set this as my challenge for the trip.:thumbsup2:scared1:

[Belle599]

Tuesday, September 13 - continued again!

After exiting the turnstiles, I made a quick stop at the payphones, which are located beside the Guest Relations windows. I think I may be the only person to use these payphones in the last month as no CMs knew where they were haha.

Why the payphone? Giordanos pizza was on my mind so I called my order in so that I could pick it up on the way back to OKW.

I was not using my cell since my phone is from a Canadian cell provider and it is $1.45/min in the US.:scared1:

I think the last time I used a payphone it was 25 cents....it is now 50 cents. :rotfl:

I drove to the Giordanos in Lake Buena Vista and picked up my small cheese stuffed pizza YUM!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0544.jpg

The drive was less than 15 mins from DHS, so when I arrived at 1:35pm I had to wait a few mins for my pizza. No problem since they had wifi so I gave DH a call.

The small stuffed cheese pizza came to $14.32 and actually lasted through 3 meals for me so I had it as leftovers in the coming days. A pretty good value. This is when it is nice to have the minifridge and microwave in the DVC villa.

In the past, DH and I have gotten a large stuffed cheese pizza and I think it is $20 or $21 and lasts the 2 of us for 3 meals.

After lunch I walked around OKW to check the resort out. Here is my photo tour of OKW!

Building 13 - home base

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0545.jpg

My unit

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0547.jpg

My rental car, Mazda CX-7 courtesy of the National Emerald Aisle

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0548.jpg

Awesome rental car, plenty of room for 5 people + luggage if you had a large family. Sucks on gas! I averaged 22mpg around Disney (I am used to about 36 mpg at home).

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0549.jpg

Ahhh Florida sky

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0550.jpg

Front of the resort. Luggage services guys were really nice and did a good job with my luggage when I switched rooms. Chatted with them for a while.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0551.jpg

Check-in is on the right, the gift shop and Olivias is on the left.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0552.jpg

Really nice theming around the resort makes it such a chillaxing place to hang out.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0553.jpg

I spent about 2 hours at the pool, but did not take a photo of it apparently! I alternated between dipping in the water and laying on the lounge chairs. OKW has a great activity schedule and at this time there were pool games and a pool party - lots of fun.

Ahh palms

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0554.jpg

Lots of vegetation here

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0555.jpg

The buildings are very cute

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0556.jpg

After my relaxing afternoon by the pool, I did a quick drive around the OKW buildings to check out all the sections.

Then back to DHS!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0557.jpg

I actually ended up parking in the same row that I did in the morning - weird!

Used my FP for TSMM

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0558.jpg

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0559.jpg

Not as good as earlier in the day

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0561.jpg

I went into One Man's Dream. I love this attraction.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0562.jpg

I have never seen this many people in One Man's Dream as I have tonight! I really think there is a lack of things for people to do at DHS in the evening.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0563.jpg

Make sure you leave enough time to look at everything.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0565.jpg

I only made it to 1950 in this visit and left at about 6:40pm because I wanted to catch the Finale American Idol show!

I went into the sweets shop (says Beverly Sunset on my receipt) to get a cold and caffeinated drink. Turns out that the "iced coffee" they have there is just cold stale coffee poured over ice. To make matters worse, they don't even have real milk. Just those Coffee Mate packets which are really palm oil or something equally disgusting. ick.

I settled on a white chocolate macadamia nut cookie instead for $4.21 including tax. The cookie was just ok, but I was able to snack on pieces of it for the entire night which kept my energy level high.

It was now 7pm and time for the American Idol finale!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0566.jpg

I ran into the theater at exactly 7pm. The CMs in the theater are very quick to enforce no recording, eating, drinking, or anything! You have been warned!

I am not really an American Idol fan, but do enjoy this show. It is quite entertaining, a good rest before battling the crazy Fantasmic crowds, and the time always moves very quickly - meaning that there is never a dull moment!



Next up.....Mulch, Sweat & Shears, Disney Metallica(?!), late night outlet shopping. :banana:

[nutz2notz]

Wow, what a great report. I found your report today and have just finished reading through the whole thing. :goodvibes

Going solo is so awesome. I went on my first solo trip in March and hope to go again sometime next year. :cool1:

Looking forward to more updates. :thumbsup2

[ZehnJahren]

Reading your TR has me so excited for my first solo trip; when I first started reading it I thought "oh, I don't know if I'd want to go solo" but now that I've been there for a day by myself and read through more of your adventures, I'm ready to go! :goodvibes

Will be waiting for another update! :)

[Belle599]

I'm with your DH. I didn't do ToT in CAP because I don't like extreme drops. We also have a ride at DreamWorld on the Gold Coast in Queensland called The Big Drop (or something like that) that I wouldn't do. I usually leave these rides to DH and the DD's.

Having said that your report has inspired me to give it a go. So I will set this as my challenge for the trip.:thumbsup2:scared1:

You can totally do TOT!! I have a similar story to yours. Near Toronto, we have a "theme park" called Canada's Wonderland and it also has one of these extreme drop type of rides, which I will NOT go on. I hate the feeling of leaving my stomach up above me.
However, on TOT, the drop feels much smaller than what I anticipated. I think the thing with TOT is that the theming is so absolutely wonderful, that it feels so spooky so a huge drop is not needed to get the scare factor.

If all fails and you are too scared to go on when you are there, have a drink. :laughing:



Wow, what a great report. I found your report today and have just finished reading through the whole thing. :goodvibes

Going solo is so awesome. I went on my first solo trip in March and hope to go again sometime next year. :cool1:

Looking forward to more updates. :thumbsup2

Hi! :wave2: Very nice to meet you and I'm glad you are enjoying my TR!

Reading your TR has me so excited for my first solo trip; when I first started reading it I thought "oh, I don't know if I'd want to go solo" but now that I've been there for a day by myself and read through more of your adventures, I'm ready to go! :goodvibes

Will be waiting for another update! :)

Whoohoo! :banana: Ok I guess I better write another installment then!

[OziJo]

You can totally do TOT!! I have a similar story to yours. Near Toronto, we have a "theme park" called Canada's Wonderland and it also has one of these extreme drop type of rides, which I will NOT go on. I hate the feeling of leaving my stomach up above me.
However, on TOT, the drop feels much smaller than what I anticipated. I think the thing with TOT is that the theming is so absolutely wonderful, that it feels so spooky so a huge drop is not needed to get the scare factor.




That's it I'm defiantly doing this!! And I'll have that drink too:thumbsup2

BTW beautiful pics of OKW. This is what I think of as Disney. The attention to detail in everything :cloud9: Some people sneer at the fact that it's not "the real thing" but for me Disney is an escape from reality. That's the point. Of course those sneerers have never been to Disney.

[Belle599]

Tuesday, September 13, 2011 - Finale!


After American Idol, it was dusk. The Studios are so pretty at night.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0567.jpg

Time to check out the 7:45 pm Mulch, Sweat and Shears show at the Sorcerer's Hat!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0574.jpg

They brought the cutest girl up to play cowbell for Honky Tonk Woman. As a percussionist, I must say that she was not bad!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0576.jpg

Here is the video I took of the "Dream montage" as I will call it.

I love how they ham it up for the camera!

I also never thought I would hear Metallica being played at WDW.

You must watch this video.

Mulch, Sweat and Shears @ DHS - Dream montage (http://www.youtube.com/user/599belle?feature=mhee#p/u/8/EyXCPY__Cuw)


Next up, the 8:30 pm showing of Fantasmic!

I bolted down to the theater and when I arrived at about 8:15ish, it was standing room only. The ushers directed us latecomers to the far left side where the standing room section is.

When I got over to the side, I looked back and saw that the dining package section was empty and they were starting to fill it with us commoners. I bolted all the way across the theater back to the dining package area and was able to get a seat! There is a hot tip for latecomers.

Here is the view from where I sat:

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0579.jpg

The show was great as always!

Mickey!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0581.jpg

I find it difficult to take photos during Fantasmic so I apologize for the poor quality. But I loved how energetic Ariel was with her flipper lol.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0593.jpg

Uh oh

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0595.jpg

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0596.jpg

Lucky for me, Mickey saved the day. :love:

After exiting Fantasmic via a backstage area, I walked back to the Sorcerer's Hat and watched the tail end of the 8:45 Mulch set.

Also took a few night photos.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN0602.jpg

It was just past 9pm and I was not ready to go back to OKW. So far my trip has been very heavy on the parks, so it was time to go shopping!!!

Lucky for me, the Premium Outlets are open until 11pm. I hopped in my car and off I went.


http://0.tqn.com/d/orlando/1/0/o/P/opoutlet1.jpg

I had been eyeing Vera Bradley bags for quite a while and it was finally time for me to commit to a bag.

http://themeparkmom.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/vera-bradley-outlet-orlando-storefront.jpg

Here is what I ended up with. The prices at the Outlet are really good. I got a hipster and a lunch bag, for $50!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN1229.jpg

It was getting late, so I bolted to the Nine West Outlet. Here is my bounty:

Booties!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2013%202011/DSCN1230.jpg

It was getting close to 11pm, when the stores closed so that was it for me. Back to OKW and into bed. Good night and see you tomorrow for another day of adventures!

[Belle599]

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

Today was another sleep-in day. Well shouldn't I come back from vacation well rested?

I woke up around 9 or 9:30 and was in the car at 11am. I drove to Hunter's Creek as I wanted to go to The Loop for shopping. I swore that there was a Starbucks at The Loop, but alas there was not! After driving around lost for a bit I remembered to use my GPS to find Starbucks. DUH! I was having a blonde moment while I thought I was totally on my own without using my iphone (I don't use it in the US since my Canadian cell provider price gauges for roaming), I could have just used my old-fashioned GPS!

Anyhow, after getting Starbucks, I was ready for shopping. I hit DSW and Kohl's since we don't have those stores in Canada.

Click here for the website of The Loop (http://www.attheloop.com/kissimmee-orlando/)

DSW was disappointing and I left with nothing! Tragic, I know.

Kohl's was ok and I got a cute flowy top.

Next think I knew it was 1:45pm and it was time for lunch at Pei Wei. It was my first time at Pei Wei (again, don't have them in Canada). Pei Wei calls itself an Asian Diner. You wait in line to order your food, and then they bring your food to your table. I had veggie pad thai which came to $7.76. This was a huge portion and was very tasty. I brought half of it back to the resort for another meal, so this was an excellent value.

No photos thus far, what was I thinking!!??


Next up was the Lake Buena Vista factory outlets. Click here for the LBV outlet website. (http://www.lbvfs.com/)

Here is the LBV Outlet

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2014%202011/DSCN0603.jpg

While the 2 Premium Outlets (Vineland and I-Drive) seem to position themselves with higher-end stores, the LBV outlet is move on the lower end. The LBV outlet always seems to be quite empty, while the Premium Outlets are always CRAZY packed!

Plenty of parking

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2014%202011/DSCN0604.jpg

Previously, I had been very successful at the GAP Outlet at the LBV Outlets. Since it is not packed with people, I prefer this location since it is well-stocked, well-organized and quite large.

I did very well with combining the store sales with a 15% off email I had, and made off with 4 long-sleeved shirts and 2 cardigans for $77.

I headed over to the Nine West Outlet and found some cute lace up shooties - $36! There are deals to be had here in lovely Orlando!

Shooties can be challenging to pull off sometimes, because they visually shorten legs. These shooties are more Oxford-Shootie so they are work appropriate. Blah blah blah...this is not Disney now is it. Sorry! Moving on....

I left the Lake Buena Vista Outlet around 4pm and then I did something very bad and very un-Disney. :laughing:

I parked at the Contemporary and walked to MK. Do NOT try this at home.
Seriously, don't worry the Contemporary parking lot was empty. If it wasn't I would not have parked there.

As proof, there were parking spots available in the first non-valet row. See how close I parked? :hippie:

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2014%202011/DSCN0605.jpg

I had not been into the new Mickey & Minnie meet and greet, only have been to the Princesses before. The mood struck me, so let's go meet my favourite mice!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2014%202011/DSCN0606.jpg

He is magnificent!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2014%202011/DSCN0608.jpg

Awww bunny

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2014%202011/DSCN0609.jpg

It was really nice to meet Mickey and Minnie! They were so friendly to me, even though I was a single adult. :wizard:

It must have been 5pm, because the flag retreat was starting! I have never seen this so stuck around for a while.

The Main Street band participates:

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2014%202011/DSCN0612.jpg

As does the Main Street Barbershop Quartet. The 2 girls said the pledge of alliegence and it was really cute.

Click here for a video that I took of a bit of the flag retreat (http://www.youtube.com/user/599belle?feature=mhee#p/u/11/geSw-I6EUyo)

And up Main Street we go, to some of my favourite views of Tomorrowland:

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2014%202011/DSCN0615.jpg

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2014%202011/DSCN0616.jpg

I grabbed a FP and then hopped on Space Mountain. It was a 20 minute wait but worth it since I got to ride the left hand side. Usually the FPs are directed to the right hand side but I find the left hand track to be smoother and also a bit more adventureous. ;)

After flying through space and grabbing a FP for Buzz Lightyear, I had a cinnamon roll craving!

It was time to visit the one location at WDW where I have probably made the most purchases.....time for dinner at 6pm.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2014%202011/DSCN0618.jpg

Since it was 6pm, the Main St. Bakery was packed. My tip for eating here at peak times is to carry your tray down to the outdoor seats near the Plaza Restaurant. There is a smoking section down there unfortunately but today I was lucky that it wasn't smoky.

Good view from this spot as well:

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2014%202011/DSCN0619.jpg

I like taking snaps of the castle when you can see the "moat":

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2014%202011/DSCN0621.jpg

And the view behind me, so you can see where I sat:

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2014%202011/DSCN0622.jpg

It has been a while since I've experienced Carrousel of Progress, so here we go:

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2014%202011/DSCN0623.jpg

Why did they take the year off the yellow gear? It was on during New Year's 2010 and did make the transition to 2011....

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2014%202011/DSCN0624.jpg

Now to use that FP for Buzz...

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2014%202011/DSCN0626.jpg

My score

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2014%202011/DSCN0628.jpg

Let's keep with the tomorrowland theme and visit the Monster's Inc. Laugh Floor - it has been a few trips since this one as well:

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2014%202011/DSCN0632.jpg

Used my Space Mountain FP

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2014%202011/DSCN0634.jpg

Next up.....this might be my favourite ride at MK....

[Belle599]

Wednesday, September 14, 2011 - Part 2



And here it is, ladies and gentlemen, The Peoplemover!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2014%202011/DSCN0635.jpg

There are some good views up here :)

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2014%202011/DSCN0636.jpg

The future that never was...

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2014%202011/DSCN0637.jpg

My residence

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2014%202011/DSCN0638.jpg

I hopped in line for AstroOrbiters next, but probably should have saved this for another day - the line looks short but the wait is deceptively long, due to the elevators!

But....at least there are good photo opportunities :rolleyes:

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2014%202011/DSCN0639.jpg

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2014%202011/DSCN0641.jpg

Time to fly, I forget how much pull that you feel as the ride ascends and descends.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2014%202011/DSCN0643.jpg

Pretty colours!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2014%202011/DSCN0645.jpg

For some reason, I had yet another Space Mountain FP and of course HAD to use it. I tried out asking the CM if I could ride the left track even though I was not in the standby line, and Yes, they did let me!

At 8:40, I had to run over to Main Street as tonight was my first time watching the Magic, Memories and You in its entireity.

But not before I made a stop at the Bakery! I got a cheese danish and it was pretty good. Sorry no time for a photo.

Awesome castle show!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2014%202011/DSCN0647.jpg

Wishes!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2014%202011/DSCN0652.jpg

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2014%202011/DSCN0654.jpg

Someone left the light on :rotfl:

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2014%202011/DSCN0662.jpg

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2014%202011/DSCN0665.jpg

Ooooh.....AAAhhhhh....

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2014%202011/DSCN0669.jpg

Click here for a video clip of Wishes! (http://www.youtube.com/user/599belle?feature=mhee#p/u/17/cjv9oZO24xc)

I stopped by some pin books/boards to check out the trading swag. There is a 3 page pin book in the Confectionary, a large pin book in Guest Relations, and a pin board in the Photopass pickup area.

Good night!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2014%202011/DSCN0672.jpg

[OziJo]

I've said it before and I'll say it again- your photos are just gorgeous :cloud9:

[Belle599]

I've said it before and I'll say it again- your photos are just gorgeous :cloud9:


Thank you, you are so kind! I know that I always enjoy lots of photos when reading TRs so thought I would return the favour. :thumbsup2
Many many many more photos to come!

[Belle599]

Thursday, September 15

It's Animal Kingdom day! I just love taking photos at AK because of all the beautiful animals.

Arrive at AK at about 9:20ish. Today was my unlucky parking day (it was bound to happen) as I had to start a new row of parking, and had the farthest away space. In the words of Eeyore, Ho Hum.:eeyore:

Entering the park:

Black Swan

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0676.jpg

Giant Anteater - this guy is my favourite!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0679.jpg


Still sleeping

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0685.jpg

Holey moley what is this?

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0688.jpg

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0687.jpg

I got my cappuccino at Safari Coffee and it was piping hot so I killed some time looking in the store near the Kilimanjaro Safaris - I think it's called Mombasa Marketplace. This is one of the more unique (if there are any) locations for merchandies and I had found some nice wood-carved giraffes here in the past.

On my way to Mombasa Marketplace

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0690-1.jpg

Let's stop on the bridge and enjoy the view

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0691.jpg

Some things that caught my eye at Mombasa Marketplace

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0693-1.jpg

Hmmm I wonder if DH would wear this shirt...

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0694.jpg

This stuff was relatively new, have not see it before

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0695.jpg

I grabbed a FP for Kilimanjaro Safaris first, and then rode. Only a 10 minute wait:

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0696.jpg

I think the wait time includes the time it takes to walk through the queue. I have not been through the non-FP line for a while so I forgot how long it was! It was really empty in the parks this morning. To prove it, I did not stop walking until I came to this spot, where I took this photo:

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0697.jpg

Here we go!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0705.jpg

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0706.jpg

A black rhino

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0714.jpg

Hippo

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0719.jpg

Not a hippo

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0721.jpg

These hippos look like they are hungry......hungry hippos:laughing:

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0724.jpg

I am a big giraffe lover, they are such cuties

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0735.jpg

Come say hi to me

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0736.jpg

Please look my way

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0737.jpg

Thank you, you are so beautiful!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0738.jpg

Safari to be continued....

[Belle599]

Thursday, September 15, continued

I am on the Safari, visiting with my favourite giraffes. The Safari PhotoTour continues!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0739.jpg

Sorry for so many photos of giraffes, but they really are spectacular!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0740.jpg

Quite the horns on these guys!
http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0741.jpg

I rarely see these guys out and about.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0743.jpg

It's elephant time!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0750.jpg

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0751.jpg

Whoops wrong end

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0752.jpg

Next up is lots and lots of White Rhinos. I took as many photos as I could of these since they are DH's favourite! DH tells me how when he was growing up, the white rhinos were nearly extinct. They have made quite the comeback, I understand and are no longer on the verge of extinction.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0753.jpg

Again, the wrong end. Nobody wants to show their pretty face?

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0754.jpg

Still sleepy over here

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0758.jpg

Awww what a big cutie! Look at his wrinkles hehe

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0762.jpg

More white rhinos!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0763.jpg

Yay you're showing me your pretty face and horn

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0764.jpg

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0767.jpg

Isn't it cool how their horns grow?

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0769.jpg

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0771.jpg

What an incredible safari.

Now onto the Pangani Forest Exploration Trail

A meercat was actually out and about!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0778.jpg

This dude is ALWAYS showing off in the window lol

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0784.jpg

There was a group of about 6 Disney Imagineers, managers and workers putting up some new trail markers.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0788.jpg

An example of a new trail marker.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0785.jpg

Have you ever noticed these cameras on the trail? I wonder if they are to view animals...or guests...

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0787.jpg

After the exploration trail, I stopped by Kusafiri Bakery.

A very important note regarding CUPCAKES.

They actually have different menus for before 11:30am and after 11:30am. The pre-11:30 am menu has no specialty cupcakes. Since it's still morning, I will have to return for a cupcake!

In the meanwhile, I grabbed an iced coffee from Safari Coffee and went to explore Camp Minnie-Mickey.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0795.jpg

I have only every been to this corner of the park once, to see Festival of the Lion King. I was wondering if there was anything neato over here.

Turns out, if you are interested in character meet and greets, THIS is the place to be. Since I am not interested in meet and greets this trip, this cute waterfall was the highlight for me.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0797.jpg

Let's continue on, to Asia, shall we?

[Belle599]

This post is being sponsored by Amazing Husband and Bonus. :lmao:

I am very, very, VERY excited to announce that I will have the opportunity to
take a quick 5 night trip to Orlando from Monday, December 12 to Saturday, December 17.

Yes in 6 days!!

Whoohoo!!

I have not yet fully decided, but I may do a non-parks trip. Am I crazy? :confused3

On my September 2011 trip, there are a lot of non-park things that I just didn't get time to do.
:blush:

Now that the Xmas decorations are up in the resorts, I can easily spend half a day for at least 3 days visiting the resorts and chillaxing.:cool:


Add on top of that Boardwalk, DTD, Celebration, 5 shopping centers, checking out Church St./Lake Eola, fireworks from Poly beach and fireworks from Contemporary and I think my days will be full.

My AP expired in October and I did not do a renewal (I can make out better financially if I buy a 10 day PH/WP&More ticket at a 12% discount from my occupation and upgrade it to a new AP).

I MIGHT crack and get an AP........or maybe just the Xmas party one night?

We will see!!


I'm not sure if I will get another update in before I leave. If not, I will be back later on in December to finish the last couple days of this September 2011 TR off!

Anybody else going to be at WDW Dec 12-17?

Should I try renting a different boat from the dock this time? :boat:

[OziJo]

I missed this update!! You must be on your way by now. If you get a chance to go out to the Fort can you get a couple of piccies of the Christmas decos for me :hippie:.

Have a great trip!

[Belle599]

Hi friends!

I had an amazing quickie non-park Orlando December 12-17 trip and stayed at Bluegreen The Fountains and Springhill Suites Seaworld.

I did lots of shopping and resort touring. It was very relaxing. :beach:

After a wonderful Christmas, I am back to the daily ho-hums and will be completing this September TR.

On a side note, I saw Beauty and the Beast in 3D last night, including the Tangled Forever After short, which was great! :3dglasses: Anyone else see this?


And now back to our regular scheduled programming....

[Belle599]

Thursday, September 15, 2011 - continued!

I was spending the day in AK, and it was time to move on to Asia!

I was getting close to lunch time, so the first stop was the Egg Roll Cart aka Bradley Falls Kiosk.

I got the Summer Roll, which is relatively new.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0798.jpg

I was very excited for this. It was good, but had far less vegetables and more noodles than I would prefer. The sauce was very spicy. For $2.12 it was good value and I would probably get it again.

Along my journey into Asia, I noticed a small pavillion on the left hand side which seemed to have kids activities (almost like a Kidcot station), and there was a guy playing this amazing percussion instrument.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0799.jpg

As a percussionist, I pretty much ran over to him to interrogate him about this instrument.

The CM was from Jakarta, Indonesia and told me that this is a traditional Indonesian instrument called the Angklung and it is made out of bamboo. When I asked him how long he had been playing it, he said "Just for the 3 months since I've been working at Disney." :laughing:

For those interested, here is a random video of some guy playing a Rhianna tune on the Angklung on TV:
Angklung TV performance of Rhianna's Umbrella (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3gkMvpSWxKs)

It is a pretty basic percussion instrument, so after a 30 second demo from the nice Indonesian man, he let me play it! It was so fun!

I played When you wish upon a star and then went into A Dream is a Wish your Heart Makes.

The CM was really great and gave me a card with maps of Indonesia on it and wrote the name of the instrument on the back so that I would remember it.

Next time I am in the AK, I will be back to play this instrument!!

I finally made it to the Jungle Trek and here is who was out to greet me.

Komodo Dragon

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0800.jpg

Bats

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0801.jpg

The tigers were walking around more than usual

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0805.jpg

Well not all of them

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0808.jpg

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0815.jpg

I don't know why, but Banana Tree fascinate me! Whenever I see one I have to take a photo.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0815.jpg

Tweet tweet

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0823.jpg

After the Jungle Trek, I hung out with these guys

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0824.jpg

Well they were hanging.....I was not :rotfl:

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0827.jpg

Sorry that was a bad joke! :rolleyes1

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0831.jpg

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0833.jpg

Ahhhh Everest you are so pretty!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0836.jpg

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0837.jpg

15 minute wait at 12:25, but I went on the single rider line.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0838.jpg

Beside the single rider line, there is actually a separate line for front of the train. A mom was in the front of the train line with her 7-year old son and
asked me if I would ride with her son since she did not want to. Sure, why not! The little boy was so cute and was not scared at all. I really enjoyed riding with him but it was scary riding in the front!

After Everest, I considered seeing Nemo The Musical, but the next show wasn't for 1.5 hours and I didn't want to wait.

Instead, I watched The Tropicals. Here is my video of the tail end of The Girl from Ipanema.

The Tropicals @ Disney's Animal Kingdom (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DXzJHJ6pmIk&feature=plcp&context=C34a2f02UDOEgsToPDskIVX2odIZiKsn9bIbCw4i7B )

I chatted with the guys in the band after that tune and they are so sweet. I am sad that they are no longer performing at AK. I asked them if they took requests and they said that they do. I asked them to play some Yes and the bass player started riffing on Owner of a Lonely Heart lol while the others asked if I would come back tomorrow to hear some Yes. I guess they wanted to go home and learn a tune!

[Belle599]

Thursday, September 15, 2011 - still continued!


I forgot to share a Tiger video with you from my Jungle Trek during my previous post. What huge paws!

Tiger @ Animal Kingdom (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Er38bWBgR2k&feature=plcp&context=C3227a50UDOEgsToPDskJw0GJn_25WWgl714FdUey0 )



It was the end of The Tropicals' set, so onwards to Dinoland we go.

Here is a snap of the most horrible ride in all of WDW. At this time it was closed due to "refurbishment", which was the investigation of the second CM death. So sad. I really hope that WDW removes this "off the rack" ride.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0841.jpg

Off to Dinosaur

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0842.jpg

I enjoy the queue of this ride and the theming

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0843.jpg

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0845.jpg

After riding Dinosaur, I passed by the HORRIBLE ride again. There was a CM stationed outside with hula hoops. I guess this is supposed to detract from the fact that it was closed despite the fact that the reopen date had already passed.....

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0848.jpg

Not much else in Dinoland for me today so I made the trek back to Africa, since it was past 11:30 and that means cupcake time at Kusafiri!

During my journey to Africa, I had to stop and visit these guys.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0851.jpg

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0852.jpg

I saw Devine in her usual spot on the Africa path.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0853.jpg

She is incredibly talented and gorgeous!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0855.jpg

Opposite from Devine, a CM was leading a group of kids in a jam session - so cute!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0856.jpg

Finally I arrived at Kusafiri Bakery, and got my prize! I had wanted the Elephant cupcake FOREVER, but during every trip it was sold out. I have settled for the zebra in the past, but finally I got my treasure!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0857.jpg

I only managed to eat half of it, but not a bad value at $4.25. I was definitely missing DH when eating this cupcake!

Next stop, Dawa Bar so that I could ensure that I rounded out my healthy lunch. :rotfl:

The Tam Tams were performing - here is a video:

The Tam Tams performing outside of Tusker House/Dawa Bar (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0OAUacd8p9k&list=UUiDluP1n5ZhIzZShZ_zfPrA&index=4&feature=plcp)

And here is the rest of my lunch.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0861.jpg

I hung out in the Dawa Bar area to enjoy my Raspberry Pina Colada. There is so much to look at!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0862.jpg

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0863.jpg

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0864.jpg
After hanging around for a bit and enjoying the scenery, I did some shopping. I purchased a large 16x20 Larry Dotson print of AK’s Discovery River. It is gorgeous! This was my major souvenir purchase for this trip.
I also purchased my first Car Antenna ornament (what do you call these things?)
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_mGHdraE4FUg/TCtmMgaxkTI/AAAAAAAAAhc/E768IufkwXs/s1600/IMG_0755.JPG

It was time to leave AK. I stopped by the Formosa Gardens Target to pick up a few things. We don’t have Target in Canada at this time (we will in about 15 months!!!) and I love Target. So while most people don’t make Target a stop on vacation, I usually do hehe.

I also drove around and explored some neighbourhoods which typically have vacation rentals. Research for future trips with the family. Wow there are a lot of apparent foreclosure homes in the Formosa Gardens area.
It was well past 4pm at this point, so I headed back to Old Key West for a break.

[ZehnJahren]

So you say Devine is usually in the trail area? I've only gone to AK once, and we didn't see her, but I'm planning on it for EMH on Wednesday this week so I'll try and search her out. She takes lovely pictures.

Is that elephant on the cupcake edible? I've never seen that either! But it's HUGE!

Also, I think they just call those things "antenna toppers" - I always want to buy a couple, but there are a lot of thieves around here, and every time I've come home with one someone steals it within 2 or 3 days. Seems like such a waste to purchase them and then have them stolen immediately. But I wish I could have them. Maybe if I put super glue on the inside or something....

Going on my first solo trip tomorrow, weather permitting. I hope I see some of the things I've read about on your TR!

[Belle599]

So you say Devine is usually in the trail area? I've only gone to AK once, and we didn't see her, but I'm planning on it for EMH on Wednesday this week so I'll try and search her out. She takes lovely pictures.

Is that elephant on the cupcake edible? I've never seen that either! But it's HUGE!

Also, I think they just call those things "antenna toppers" - I always want to buy a couple, but there are a lot of thieves around here, and every time I've come home with one someone steals it within 2 or 3 days. Seems like such a waste to purchase them and then have them stolen immediately. But I wish I could have them. Maybe if I put super glue on the inside or something....

Going on my first solo trip tomorrow, weather permitting. I hope I see some of the things I've read about on your TR!

Hey there,

HAHA Thank you so much for the phrase "antenna toppers"! When I was writing the last installment, I was thinking "I know these have name, but I just can't think of it!" Now that you have written antenna toppers I have no idea how I could not think of that. Thank you!

That is too bad that people steal your antenna toppers. It has been 4 months and I am very lucky that mine is still on my car. I am crossing my fingers! One or two spots of sparkle have come off. When going through the car wash, I always forget about it, but luckily the nice carwash men always take it off for me and hand it to me.

Whenever I have seen Devine, it has been on the pathway from Africa to Asia. Enter Africa and walk in the direction towards the safari. Take a right at the path that goes to Asia, and she is usually just past the small drum area on the right. Hope that makes sense.
Are you doing morning or evening EMH at AK? I have always wanted to do evening EMH just to see how the park looks in the dark.


Yes, the Elephant is edible. It is almost like a chocolate lollypop on a stick with the cupcake around the stick. It is made out of some sugary substance with the consistency of white chocolate - however it does not taste nearly as good as white chocolate. I bit the ears off - because well ya just gotta bite the ears off! That was all I ate of the elephant though...


Hope you are enjoying your solo trip!!!! :wizard:

[Belle599]

September 15, 2011 - Finale


When I left off, I was back at Old Key West for some relaxation before the night's adventure.

I had leftover Pei Wei pad thai for dinner and did a bit of tidying in my room since I was moving from OKW to All Star Sports the next day.

I lay out in the sun by the pool and finished up a magazine.

This is why I LOVE OKW, :lovestruc because it is so serene and chill.

I put my feet and legs in the hot tub for a bit as well, since they were a bit tired from all the walking today.

After I was well-rested and ready for more adventure, I had to head over to the America pavillion at Epcot to exchange my Orange Bird Tshirt. I had purchased medium several days ago but upon further inspection, these were junior sizes so I needed to get a large.

Here is my shirt:

http://parksandresorts.wdpromedia.com/media/disneyparks/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/obd471817LARGE.jpg

I parked at the Beach Club since I wanted to keep this exchange as quick as possible so I parked as close as possible.

I speed-walked over to the America Pavillion, grabbed the size large and I knew I would be back at my car in less than 15 minutes.

Nope.

Here is where everything went downhill.

It took over 20 minutes, 2 CMs and 3 Disney managers to do this exchange!!

Apparently, when I purchased the original size medium shirt the CM rang it in as tax exempt by accident. Because of this, they had quite a lot of trouble trying to exchange for the different size in the system. Ugh. :confused3

So much for my quick in and out of the park. It was already past 8pm and I was hungry, so I stopped at the Boulangerie Patissiere for a strawberry tart - $4.21.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0865.jpg

It was a busy night at Epcot and I waited in a 10 minute line for this - but it was worth it!

The fountain in France is very pretty at night.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0870.jpg

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0871.jpg

Then back through the Beach Club Villas and out to the car.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0876.jpg

I`ve said it before, and I`ll say it again - the Beach Club smells sooooo good!!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0878.jpg

Finally got to the car at 9pm. To Downtown Disney!

Ahhh Pleasure Island I miss you.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0882.jpg

I was browsing in Curl by Sammy Duvall and found a really cute necklace there! Way better quality than the cheapo necklaces in most Disney gift shops. There are some cute items here!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0883.jpg

Almost all of the PI-backstory plaques had been removed.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0884.jpg

There are always tons of people watching these guys play.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0886.jpg

I checked out the new Apricot Lane Boutique. It could be good, but in its current form it`s not. Overpriced, and worst of all, very cluttered merchandising. Everything is jam-packed on racks so its not easy to see what they have to offer.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0888.jpg

When walking beside Cookes of Dublin, I saw the keyboardist from British Revolution walking by. :cool2:

There was some work being done outside the Lego store.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0889.jpg

My next stop was World of Disney, where I purchased my new niece a Winnie the Pooh plush.

I love walking around DTD at night, it always brings a smile to my face. :)

I detoured throught Ghiradelli`s, and for the FIRST TIME EVER there was no CM handing out chocolate samples! I`m sure they were just on break.

Walking through Team Mickey, I collected the final Orange Bird pin that I have been looking for!!

In Tren-D there was nothing new that caught my eye.

I walked through the rest of the Marketplace and the only other purchase I made was to buy another Florida Sunshine salt blend from the Spice & Tea Exchange (we were running low!)

http://www.spiceandtea.com/images/osti_Products/1Florida%20Sunshine%20-%20Reduced.jpg

I LOVE the Spice & Tea Exchange and let me tell you it is very very easy to spend a lot in there!

It was 11pm and time to walk back to Westside which is where I parked.

I passed an empty mannequins......:sad2:

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2015%202011/DSCN0890.jpg

Only 2 days left in WDW!

[walkdmc]

Thanks for all the great info and pics. I am subbing since I'll be taking my first semi-solo trip in June. (DH will be there but attending conferences during the days).

Your TR is getting me pumped to visit!!!

[Belle599]

Thanks for all the great info and pics. I am subbing since I'll be taking my first semi-solo trip in June. (DH will be there but attending conferences during the days).

Your TR is getting me pumped to visit!!!

:welcome:

Semi-solo sounds great! You can do your thing during the day and then meet up for dinner, perfect!

[Belle599]

Friday, September 16, 2011

This morning I woke up early (for me), got ready and packed my bags. I was transferring to All-Star Sports from OKW.

I finished packing just before 9am and threw my bags in the back of the SUV.

I was off to MK for my last full day. Tomorrow I will be flying home on a evening flight.

Every time I park in a Disney lot, I must take a photo of my row. I know if I don't I will never make it back to my car!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0892.jpg

MK was decked out for Halloween.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0893.jpg

Including some nice seasonal decor and costumes on the trolley.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0894.jpg

Disney has such beautiful horses.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0895.jpg

I had to watch the show.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0896.jpg

It was an absolutely gorgeous day outside, and I intended to spend as much time as possible outside, basking in the Florida sun. :cutie:

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0897.jpg

Haven't dined at the Crystal Palace for a long time. There is still always a line outside.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0898.jpg

Into the jungle I go.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0899.jpg

Actually, into Adventureland I go.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0900.jpg

I peeked into the waiting area to meet Tink and the Fairies. The waiting area wasn't very themed.

Swiss Family Robinson Treehouse was under refurb with some ugly walls surrounding it.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0901.jpg

I saw 3 imagineers outside the Treehouse and they were discussing how there are plenty of people who wanted to do work for them, but either the quality or the price wasn't right. Yes I was eavesdropping. How rude of me!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0902.jpg

It was before 10am so this particular store beside the magic carpets was not open yet.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0903.jpg

Today was nice and warm, so I started my daily WDW junk food diet with an iced coffee from Sunshine Tree Terrace - yum! $4.25 with tax, decent value.

Here is one of the first Sorcerer's of the Magic Kingdom kiosks.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0905.jpg

One of my favourites is next - BTMR.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0908.jpg

I've taken to snapping photos while riding this one. Here is a distant castle.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0909.jpg

Haunted Mansion and the Tom Sawyer's Island bridge.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0911.jpg

The peak

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0912.jpg

And here's Splash.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0915.jpg

And the ever-changing menu of Golden Oak Outpost.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0916.jpg

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0917.jpg

10 O'Clock!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0918.jpg

To be continued....with lots o' photos....:wizard:

[Belle599]

Friday, September 16, 2011 - Part 2

Yo ho ho it was time to ride Pirates!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0919.jpg

As an amateur photographer that has no idea what she is doing (at least I'm honest!) Pirates is always challening to photograph.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0920.jpg

So I thought I would start easy, and get a handle on snapping the queue.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0921.jpg

Ok now time to hop on my pirate ship!

There is Blackbeard

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0926.jpg

Over Summer 2011, Disney added some new effects to the first scene of Pirates. I had actually totally forgot about this prior to my trip, so was not looking for any new effects. However, when in the first room, I definitely noticed the new effects! There is tons of smoke from the gunfire, and way more cannon balls splashing in the water. I even got a teeny bit wet.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0940.jpg

Not bad, but kind of dark. There was a bit of a traffic jam prior to departure, but it didn't last long.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0944.jpg

After the ride, I watched a bit of the Captain Jack show (had already seen the full who on a previous trip).

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0947.jpg

As I often do, I grabbed a glass of ice water. This time it was from Pecos Bills. This was the only time on my trip that I was served in a Halloween cup! It was only September 16 hehe.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0948.jpg

Now, on to see my refurbished Tiki Birds - very exciting!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0959.jpg

The pre-show which occurs while in the queue.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0949.jpg

Queue decor

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0951.jpg

And the pre-show begins.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0952.jpg

Everything inside the Tiki Room looked so fresh and new. The birds looked so fluffy and their colours were so vivid!!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0955.jpg

On to the Jungle Cruise where I used my FP.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0960.jpg

I love the details in the queue.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0961.jpg

Well this hippo was quite hungry

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0964.jpg

The PA system on the jungle cruise has been vastly improved over the past few years. It used to be more difficult to understand what the skipper was saying.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0965.jpg

All I had consumed was that Iced Coffee, and while it was quite filling (I can tell that it was full of cream and was quite bad for me), now it was 11:30am and I was ready for some real food.

My default meal at MK, cannot go wrong with a Cinnamon Roll from Main Street Bakery! Oh I am craving one right now!!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0966.jpg

An incredible value at $3.93 as this roll is huge.

Dream along with Mickey

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0967.jpg

See that door? That's my balcony to wave to my loyal subjects....errrrrr :rotfl:

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0969.jpg

This, IMHO, is the best clock in all of WDW. It was 11:45 am as you can see.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0971.jpg

Ahhh, home sweet home. :cloud9:

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0973.jpg

[IheartDDuck]

Ooooohh, the cinnamon roll from the Main Street Bakery is amazing! I'm always amazed by the size of it.

Fun morning so far. Pirates always gives me problems photographing it too. Stupid low lighting! :laughing:

[OziJo]

Oooo Beautiful Magic Kingdom at Halloween!! And your DTD photos and descriptions almost make up for the fact that we didn't get there :sad2:

Also BTMR wasn't operating when we were there so thanks for those photos too. Your Pirate photos are great. We got a few though we need more practice with our camera to get the right settings.

We had a delicious cinnamon roll in DHS. Don't know if it was the same as yours. Oh I miss the food at WDW...

[Belle599]

Friday, September 16, 2011 - Part 3

I walked around the castle, onwards to Fantasyland.

Passing the wishing well.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0976.jpg

That pesky crane in the Fantasyland construction greeted me.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0977.jpg

Looking past the Speedway, onto what will become part of the new Dumbo.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0978.jpg

Construction workers aplenty.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0979.jpg

Now onto the good stuff!

Since I had a light brunch with the cinnamon roll (I'm still drooling thinking about it...mmmm....), it was safe to ride the Teacups!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0980.jpg

5 minute wait just before noon, nice!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0982.jpg

Next attraction - Prince Charming's Regal Carrousel.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0983.jpg

View from my horse.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0984.jpg

It was time to venture across the water......to Tom Sawyer's Island.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0985.jpg

But first, a snap of the Haunted Mansion.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0986.jpg

Let's board raft to take me to the island.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0987.jpg

Made it to the island!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0988.jpg

I think this is a mill.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0989.jpg

Ok folks, here is one of my "secret" relaxation spots. Even on a CRAZY day at MK, you will find it relaxing here.

I think this spot on Tom Sawyer's Island has the most rocking chairs in one place in all of MK.

I am a huuuge fan of rocking away on my chair at MK and watching the clouds float by.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0990.jpg

Or in my case on this day, watching the steamboat pass by.

This is the only location in all of MK that I am aware of that has more than 2 rocking chairs in one place.

When you arrive on the Island, turn right and take that path going towards the Haunted Mansion.

Enjoy!

After I was all rocked out, I started to explore the pathways.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN0999.jpg

A nice play area for kids at the top of the hill. If your kids need to burn off some energy, take them to the Island!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN1000.jpg

Lots of pretty streams and vegetation.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN1001.jpg

Crossing a bridge

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN1003.jpg

Haunted Mansion queue

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN1004.jpg

Choo choo!

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN1008.jpg

The Liberty Belle passing by again.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN1009.jpg

On the BTMR side of the island, there are a couple of rocking chairs as well.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN1010.jpg

Here I am in the Fort.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN1015.jpg

There are also caves to explore. Is it just me, or does this look like two ghosty faces?

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN1016.jpg

Couple more rocking chairs.

http://i860.photobucket.com/albums/ab161/belle599/Sep%2016%202011/DSCN1017.jpg

To be continued...

[Belle599]

Ooooohh, the cinnamon roll from the Main Street Bakery is amazing! I'm always amazed by the size of it.

Fun morning so far. Pirates always gives me problems photographing it too. Stupid low lighting! :laughing:


Ahh Cinnamon Roll. I want one now, for breakfast!

I am glad that I'm not the only one that struggles with photos on Pirates. Maybe if I read my camera manual that would help.......hehe



Oooo Beautiful Magic Kingdom at Halloween!! And your DTD photos and descriptions almost make up for the fact that we didn't get there :sad2:

Also BTMR wasn't operating when we were there so thanks for those photos too. Your Pirate photos are great. We got a few though we need more practice with our camera to get the right settings.

We had a delicious cinnamon roll in DHS. Don't know if it was the same as yours. Oh I miss the food at WDW...

Welcome back! I am slowly making my way through your TR. :surfweb: May I ask what camera settings you used on pirates?

Hmmm I'm not sure if the other WDW locations have the same cinnamon rolls or now. Sounds like some difficult research is needed - any takers?

Too bad that Big Thunder was in refurb for you. There always is something, isn't there.

[fabulousmadhatter]

I have enjoyed this trip report so much , Thanks ! I have, since starting reading this, had a great solo trip myself, if anyone out there is on the fence about going solo....just do it ! I felt safe and was in very familiar surroundings so no fears at all. Bit overwhelmed the first day at the parks but soon got into the swing and was closing MK at 1 am had to take a photo of the train station clock as my kids probably would not believe me.
All the resort cast members and people in line or on transportation were really friendly and most started a conversation, disney related or weather....had some wonderful sunny warm days Jan 24th thru Feb 1st. Loved the OKW resort. One problem was that you have posted such super photos I forgot to take very many myself...lol...in my mind I had already taken them ...mind if I steal a few of yours ? cannot wait for your next trip report.

[OziJo]

Welcome back! I am slowly making my way through your TR. :surfweb: May I ask what camera settings you used on pirates?


I don't know DH had the camera then I've been reading up and trying to learn some more but it's hard to get it from just reading. I need more practice. DD2 is the best photographer.

[petals]

I'm contemplating a solo trip this year only think that makes me nervous is being in hotel room alone!

[Belle599]

I have enjoyed this trip report so much , Thanks ! I have, since starting reading this, had a great solo trip myself, if anyone out there is on the fence about going solo....just do it ! I felt safe and was in very familiar surroundings so no fears at all. Bit overwhelmed the first day at the parks but soon got into the swing and was closing MK at 1 am had to take a photo of the train station clock as my kids probably would not believe me.
All the resort cast members and people in line or on transportation were really friendly and most started a conversation, disney related or weather....had some wonderful sunny warm days Jan 24th thru Feb 1st. Loved the OKW resort. One problem was that you have posted such super photos I forgot to take very many myself...lol...in my mind I had already taken them ...mind if I steal a few of yours ? cannot wait for your next trip report.

Hello! So glad that you had a great solo trip!! :wizard:
Ahhh, OKW :) :cloud9: 're correct that it takes a day or so get into the solo swing of things, but once you're familiarized isn't it just luxurious to be able to do whatever you want, whenever you want? Feel free to save some of my photos for your personal use, I am glad that you enjoy looking at them. I never used to take so many photos until DH bought me an up-to-date camera but then I realized how much I enjoyed looking back at them.



I'm contemplating a solo trip this year only think that makes me nervous is being in hotel room alone!

Hi there, I 100% understand your concern in staying in a hotel room alone. I used to travel a fair bit for work, so after time you do get used to it. Of course, always use your common sense and use all locks/deadbolts and know how to call security/police.

When solo at Disney, I have stayed onsite at AS Sports, OKW, & Pop Centiury and offsite at Wyndham Bonnet Creek, Bluegreen The Fountains, Sheraton Safari & Springhill Suites Sea World. I found the only time I felt sometimes nervous was at the 2BR Timeshares at Bonnet Creek and The Fountains. Because they are so large, you can't see all rooms at once. Then again, I just am extra paranoid sometimes.

For added safety and security, you really cannot go wrong staying anywhere on Disney property.

I actually took a quickie 5 night trip last week and stayed at Pop and I feel very very safe and secure. Because your room is so small and there are so many employees and other guests so closeby (those rooms are packed in like sardines) you have an added level of safety at the value resorts. I would definitely recommend Pop for the solo traveller.


______
______

Ok so now I've rambled on for long enough lol. As mentioned, I returned home several days ago from yet another quick solo trip and I am considering doing a TR on that. - probably will not for my December 2011 trip since I did not hit the parks and shopping and resorts is not as exciting.

But first, I am going to finish this TR up if anyone is still reading, that is.

Let me know if you're still reading this, post a dancing banana or something:banana:

Only 1.5 days left to report on!

[nannye]

Hoping you'll update soon! I'm really enjoying reading along. I've thought about a solo trip, but not sure it is for me...
Can't wait for an update!