I have updated our itinerary. Still not complete, but I definitely filled in some gaps. And since I am in typing mode, I figured I'd do another testimonial.
Testimonial #2: Port Orleans: Riverside
Way back in 2001, 1 of my buddies, got an idea that the group of us head down to Disney World. Now, being a group of guys in their mid-20's, we were kind of hesitant to this idea. But he kept persisting, and we agreed. He took care of all of the planning. He told us that he stayed at Dixie Landings for business convention and loved the resort. We trusted him, and got a little worried when he told us that the resort no longer existed and that we'd be staying at the Port Orleans: Riverside (the jerk never told us it was the same place). On arrival day, all the worry left us. Those of us that had never been there, were awe struck, once we saw the lobby and check in area. From that moment on, I was hooked on POR.
I had been back there, every time I have gone to WDW, except once (I had no input on the planning of that 1). The grounds are so restful. Very laid back. You have the soothing Sassagoula River. The rustic Louisiana themed buildings. The fun area of the Ol Man Island pool. The living room comfort of the River Roost Lounge (with the occasional performances by Yee Haa Bob). The sheer beauty of the rooms (especially the Royal Guest Rooms). And, even though some people may complain about some of the walking distances around the property, I have never. Walking from the room to the main building in the morning is so peaceful. From the main building or bus stop at the end of the day... No matter how many miles you walked in the parks, the pain is reduced by your head being cleared, from the natural serenity.
Another great feature of POR is convenience. There are 4 bus stops around the property. So if you are too tired to walk from the main building, just stay on the bus a little longer. Also, there is a complimentary water cab that connects POR and POFQ with Downtown Disney (if you don't like boats or weather does not cooperate, you can still take a bus to DTD).
Or, if you would like to pace yourself after returning from the parks, grab a beverage at the aforementioned River Roost or Ol' Man Island. But Ol' Man Island is not the only pool at the resort. There are 4 quiet area pools spread throughout the property.
As for my personal opinion... I love it here. If I could I would buy a room off of Disney. From the time that I check in; by the time 10am rolls around the next morning, I've already forgotten that I have a job and all the stress that goes along with it. I love the romantic aspect of the resort. BDLsgal and I enjoy walking along the river and just admiring the grounds.
Also, in my opinion, Boatwright's, the on-site restaurant, is the best hidden jewel restaurant in all of WDW. It has some creole themed items on the menu. But when you look closer, they do, what I love all restaurants that do it. If you can make it more buttery, sweeter or saltier, go ahead. Mmmmm-mmm. My favorite appetizer is the crawfish bites. My favorite entree didn't survive the most recent menu change, but I am looking forward to trying either the short ribs, prime rib or sweet tea brined pork chops. Now we come to dessert. You can't go wrong with the pecan pie,
butterscotch creme brulee or bread pudding.
But the angels food bananas foster is amazing.
There it is. The closer we get to Dec, the more I hope I have time to plan, update the itinerary and give testimonials.
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