(2014-2020) Disney's GRAND FLORIDIAN RESORT & SPA + VILLAS Information & Questions

anpeck said:

This isn't really a question regarding the Grand Floridian but I'm hoping maybe to get some input anyways from all of you lovely people we currently have some ADR's booked but I'm very particular about where we are going to dine with a 1 year old. He is usually very well behaved but every once in a while he'll let out a squeal or shriek as typical babies do lol. I don't want to disrupt others while they are enjoying a meal but I figure maybe in the louder restaurants it would be more... tolerated I guess? So far we are eating at Chef Mickey's, Kona Cafe, Crystal Palace and Le Cellier. I know Le Cellier is a little more upscale but it is my favorite restaurant besides the Yachtsman and I just can't miss it. So, after all that, my question is do any of you have recommendations on places to eat for us? Am I overthinking it? Do people really get mad at a squealing baby while they're eating their steak dinner? Obviously we would take him out if he would get too fussy but he has never once caused a scene. In fact staff members usually comment how good he is and love stopping at our table to see him because he's such a happy baby. Not that I'm bragging or anything...

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drwadadli said:

Have you done the Grand 1 before or will your September trip be the first time? Is it worth it????? I have thought about it when my wife and I go down for celebrations but didn't do it for my 40th and don't plan on doing it for her 40th but always think about it.

What is it like???

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buzznina said:

Our reservation is Outer Bldg Lagoon View and we were thinking of requesting Boca Chica and high floor. Is this a good request? And any other suggestions would be great.

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BlueSkies said:

DL in March sounds wonderful...Trish is planning a spring trip too..and also trying to get some of her easily persuaded Disney pals who also enjoy mother daughter trips to join in...So who knows there might be a GF meet at DL...lol...

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BlueSkies said:

Auto correct!! ..lol..has given a new meaning to many of my texts and given my DH and kids lots to laugh about!



Hi Tom! Glad that ou are not too uncomfortable in the luggage...What a ncie surprise for Trish and her DD when they unpack!!

I have come to have a new appreciation for Sago..generally my least fave of all of the outer buildings from your experiences staying there...



Two week!!! Doing the happy dance for you! Well planning for next August will be fun..and you never know..you just might need that Disney fix and end up planning another trip...more Disney logic..lol...

DL in March sounds wonderful...Trish is planning a spring trip too..and also trying to get some of her easily persuaded Disney pals who also enjoy mother daughter trips to join in...So who knows there might be a GF meet at DL...lol...



Not whiny at all... and yes this is a great place to share your thoughts.. We all understand! FWIW I think that you are perfectly normal...Disney logic my friend!



Sounds like you have a terrific trip planned Nancy...love the special gift idea ...it will let the girls know that their dad is thinking of you all..even if he can't be there....



There is no greater magic than seeing WDW through the eyes of your child... ...What a special trip for you all... Hope that your son enjoys seeing his fave characters up close and personal..but if not..there are always the parades..a nice opportunity to see everything at a good distance..As other have said the marina or the boat dock are both lovely spots to watch Wishes...the marina area in front of Gaspies might be nicer with a little one..there is plenty of seating (in the way of tables and chairs) and the music is piped in...



Welcome to the GF thread! sorry no help on the spa info from me...I always refer people to the info on page one and JoBird's review..didn't even realize that its from 2013... Sounds like you have a wonderful itinerary for you celebrations! The Christmas party is such fun...and I have heard the the chef's table at V&A is an incredible experience...Enjoy! One question...what is the Holiday D-Light Tour..?? I am not familiar with that ..Have a Grand trip...staying at the GF during the holidays is extra special...




Thanks for sharing that info for those that elect to drive.... There is also a great thread over on the transportation thread...I know that it is for "2000+ mile drivers"..but I am sure there are lots of good driving tips on there..and is moderated by another GF afficianado and frequent poster here BC1836..



Sounds like you have it worded perfectly! 6 weeks!!! The time is going to fly!!!



Thanks for sharing your daughter's recent experiences!



Sorry hiro sometimes when the thread has a lot of posts things get overlooked....I would actually have suggested the info from page one...which I guess is a bit older..but seems that others have now shared some of their spa experiences... Sounds like you and your friend will have a nice relaxing day! Would enjoy hearing a review after your spa time!



Yes..as late as 1pm in our experience....but that depends on if the room is booked for that same day as Dispro has pointed out...



That sounds perfect.... Those views are lovely and the higher floor gives you an even better view of the vistas...CR Poly and even the MK....



I don't think that you can see any fireworks from a GV room in BPK...and most of the rooms do have a nice view...with the exception of a small section that is behind the pool house...I think that perhaps the rooms in Conch marina side and Sago might allow a view of some of the high fireworks...



Lots of good advice and info!! I agree..really most rooms have a great view at the GF..no parking lots..with the exception of a few of that have the back of the pool house......lol..actually k&a&c'smom has shared a pic or two of an upper floor room that was a "back of the pool house" view and it wasn't bad at all...not ideal..but not awful ..Not sure how I would feel if I was on the first floor though...

As for keeping a handy link for restaurants and menus... What a great idea..cause you know it ALWAYS about the food!!! lol...

Follow Yet another great pic...thanks for sharing!

This is a super duper multi quoted thread...my biggest EVAH I think.....might make MickeyNut jealous...lol...

Some info that I wanted to share....

~ I was reading on touring plans... ok occasionally I get my info from "other" places beside the DIS...lol...Those F&W packages that loveshak was talking about have been released ( and I sure hope that you have been able to book what you wanted loveshak) and available to the disney Visa holders and apparently pass holders as well...

Also read...right from Disney Parks Blog...Garden Grill Restaurant will once again be open for breakfast and lunch ...when Epcot first opened this was a must do for our family...not a character meal in those days...but I remember everyone including my parents enjoyed the turning restaurant..it was actuually called the Good Turn Restaurant..lol...These days its a character meal just like dinner with Chip and Dale..Chip n Dale's breakfast Harvest Feast .... its available for booking now for dining starting November 8th..AND...cause its always about the food..among other traditional breakfast offerings...eggs ,bacon, mickey waffles..there is a sticky bun bake.....Oh my mouth is watering thinking about those... Anyone remember the incredible sticky buns that they served in Concourse Steak House at the CR....Well I could go on..but I won't...lol

Hope that all of my fellow GF fans are having a terrific Thursday... preppy GF gal who is looking forward to a Garden Grill breakfast!

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branv said:

We're officially switched from WL to GF, for 11/15-22 and I absolutely get twitterpated thinking of it! Especially getting to watch the gingerbread house go up!

Was hoping for some guidance for this newbie on some random questions.

This will be our first time without a rental car. Our flight arrives around 10:30 am. If it's on time, am I correct in assuming at the latest we will be at GF at 12:30 via ME?

We wanted to keep our first night lowkey given our early wake-up to get to the airport, plus a toddler whose never flown before. But I figured since we have to eat dinner anyway, we might as well head to Epcot from around 5-7 pm for some F&W booths. Now, however, I'm reading what a nightmare the monorail has been. How long can I assume that trip will take there and back? And would it be faster to take the boat to Poly and walk to TTC versus taking the resort line? I'd take a cab, but without a carseat I'm not putting my 2 yo in one.

Similarly, is it really as impossible to get to RD for the non-MK parks as I've read?

We're not going to be able to partake of any of the Signatures while there (*sad face* if only they offered take out! ). Any must haves from the CS or GF Grill that's special to the GF? Do they have a signature drink the way Poly does?

Thanks so much. So excited!

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anpeck said:

This isn't really a question regarding the Grand Floridian but I'm hoping maybe to get some input anyways from all of you lovely people we currently have some ADR's booked but I'm very particular about where we are going to dine with a 1 year old. He is usually very well behaved but every once in a while he'll let out a squeal or shriek as typical babies do lol. I don't want to disrupt others while they are enjoying a meal but I figure maybe in the louder restaurants it would be more... tolerated I guess? So far we are eating at Chef Mickey's, Kona Cafe, Crystal Palace and Le Cellier. I know Le Cellier is a little more upscale but it is my favorite restaurant besides the Yachtsman and I just can't miss it. So, after all that, my question is do any of you have recommendations on places to eat for us? Am I overthinking it? Do people really get mad at a squealing baby while they're eating their steak dinner? Obviously we would take him out if he would get too fussy but he has never once caused a scene. In fact staff members usually comment how good he is and love stopping at our table to see him because he's such a happy baby. Not that I'm bragging or anything...

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KonaKaiTom said:

If people get mad at a baby squealing, send them my way for an attitude adjustment!!!! I understand that you might not want to do Victoria & Alberts -- but I don't think anyone would, nor should make any comments if you aren't truly in a "fine dining" establishment.

Tom

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anpeck said:

I can't really help with any of your questions but I wanted to say that I totally understand the twitterpated feeling you're talking about! We just switched from CSR to GF and I'm so ecstatic about finally staying at my dream resort. Our son will be 1 when we fly and it'll be his first time so I'm anxious to see how it goes. And we as well are skipping Signatures except for Le Cellier, I just have to eat there as it's my favorite restaurant. Usually we do 4-5 Signatures when we go so this will be a lot different from prior trips. Hope you have a wonderful time!

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BlueSkies said:

Not whiny at all... and yes this is a great place to share your thoughts.. We all understand! FWIW I think that you are perfectly normal...Disney logic my friend!


~ I was reading on touring plans... ok occasionally I get my info from "other" places beside the DIS...lol...Those F&W packages that loveshak was talking about have been released ( and I sure hope that you have been able to book what you wanted loveshak) and available to the disney Visa holders and apparently pass holders as well...

Also read...right from Disney Parks Blog...Garden Grill Restaurant will once again be open for breakfast and lunch ...when Epcot first opened this was a must do for our family...not a character meal in those days...but I remember everyone including my parents enjoyed the turning restaurant..it was actuually called the Good Turn Restaurant..lol...These days its a character meal just like dinner with Chip and Dale..Chip n Dale's breakfast Harvest Feast .... its available for booking now for dining starting November 8th..AND...cause its always about the food..among other traditional breakfast offerings...eggs ,bacon, mickey waffles..there is a sticky bun bake.....Oh my mouth is watering thinking about those... Anyone remember the incredible sticky buns that they served in Concourse Steak House at the CR....Well I could go on..but I won't...lol

Hope that all of my fellow GF fans are having a terrific Thursday... preppy GF gal who is looking forward to a Garden Grill breakfast!

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anpeck said:

This isn't really a question regarding the Grand Floridian but I'm hoping maybe to get some input anyways from all of you lovely people we currently have some ADR's booked but I'm very particular about where we are going to dine with a 1 year old. He is usually very well behaved but every once in a while he'll let out a squeal or shriek as typical babies do lol. I don't want to disrupt others while they are enjoying a meal but I figure maybe in the louder restaurants it would be more... tolerated I guess? So far we are eating at Chef Mickey's, Kona Cafe, Crystal Palace and Le Cellier. I know Le Cellier is a little more upscale but it is my favorite restaurant besides the Yachtsman and I just can't miss it. So, after all that, my question is do any of you have recommendations on places to eat for us? Am I overthinking it? Do people really get mad at a squealing baby while they're eating their steak dinner? Obviously we would take him out if he would get too fussy but he has never once caused a scene. In fact staff members usually comment how good he is and love stopping at our table to see him because he's such a happy baby. Not that I'm bragging or anything...

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loveshak22 said:

I agree with Tom! It is Disney after all and V&A might not be the best choice but I would think everywhere else you list is fine I would go wherever you want and have a great trip!

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branv said:

I hope the same for you as well!! I know the Signatures are actually quite welcoming for all members of a family, but I just can't imagine it would be all that fun for *me* lol!! At that price point, I actually want to be able to enjoy, not inhale my tasty-though-now-slightly-cold expensive food, with one hand on a fork and one blocking Mr. Grabby McThrowy hands.

That's okay, I still get BOG for dinner!

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wdwbride2005 said:

We just spent a week at the Grand with our 1 year old and we felt more than comfortable at every restaurant-including many signatures. They deal with kids all the time so the servers know how to pace the meal and most people at Disney should know there are going to be kids there! We also liked eating at the GF Cafe because it had a relaxed atmosphere and there were many other families there. Have a great trip!

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BlueSkies said:

This is a super duper multi quoted thread...my biggest EVAH I think.....might make MickeyNut jealous...lol...

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Sue M said:

Yes Trish!! You should be packing away!! I'm beginning to think I should start laying out stuff! We leave for Ft Lauderdale part of our trip in 2 weeks!! !!

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KonaKaiTom said:

Hi Blue: Yes, Trish is packed, and I'm not too uncomfortable jammed in her families luggage!

Tom

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anpeck said:

This isn't really a question regarding the Grand Floridian but I'm hoping maybe to get some input anyways from all of you lovely people we currently have some ADR's booked but I'm very particular about where we are going to dine with a 1 year old. He is usually very well behaved but every once in a while he'll let out a squeal or shriek as typical babies do lol. I don't want to disrupt others while they are enjoying a meal but I figure maybe in the louder restaurants it would be more... tolerated I guess? So far we are eating at Chef Mickey's, Kona Cafe, Crystal Palace and Le Cellier. I know Le Cellier is a little more upscale but it is my favorite restaurant besides the Yachtsman and I just can't miss it. So, after all that, my question is do any of you have recommendations on places to eat for us? Am I overthinking it? Do people really get mad at a squealing baby while they're eating their steak dinner? Obviously we would take him out if he would get too fussy but he has never once caused a scene. In fact staff members usually comment how good he is and love stopping at our table to see him because he's such a happy baby. Not that I'm bragging or anything...

Click to expand...

anpeck said:

This isn't really a question regarding the Grand Floridian but I'm hoping maybe to get some input anyways from all of you lovely people we currently have some ADR's booked but I'm very particular about where we are going to dine with a 1 year old. He is usually very well behaved but every once in a while he'll let out a squeal or shriek as typical babies do lol. I don't want to disrupt others while they are enjoying a meal but I figure maybe in the louder restaurants it would be more... tolerated I guess? So far we are eating at Chef Mickey's, Kona Cafe, Crystal Palace and Le Cellier. I know Le Cellier is a little more upscale but it is my favorite restaurant besides the Yachtsman and I just can't miss it. So, after all that, my question is do any of you have recommendations on places to eat for us? Am I overthinking it? Do people really get mad at a squealing baby while they're eating their steak dinner? Obviously we would take him out if he would get too fussy but he has never once caused a scene. In fact staff members usually comment how good he is and love stopping at our table to see him because he's such a happy baby. Not that I'm bragging or anything...

Click to expand...

branv said:

We're officially switched from WL to GF, for 11/15-22 and I absolutely get twitterpated thinking of it! Especially getting to watch the gingerbread house go up!

Was hoping for some guidance for this newbie on some random questions.

This will be our first time without a rental car. Our flight arrives around 10:30 am. If it's on time, am I correct in assuming at the latest we will be at GF at 12:30 via ME?

We wanted to keep our first night lowkey given our early wake-up to get to the airport, plus a toddler whose never flown before. But I figured since we have to eat dinner anyway, we might as well head to Epcot from around 5-7 pm for some F&W booths. Now, however, I'm reading what a nightmare the monorail has been. How long can I assume that trip will take there and back? And would it be faster to take the boat to Poly and walk to TTC versus taking the resort line? I'd take a cab, but without a carseat I'm not putting my 2 yo in one.

Similarly, is it really as impossible to get to RD for the non-MK parks as I've read?

We're not going to be able to partake of any of the Signatures while there (*sad face* if only they offered take out! ). Any must haves from the CS or GF Grill that's special to the GF? Do they have a signature drink the way Poly does?

Thanks so much. So excited!

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loveshak22 said:

Blue - I don't even know where to begin! First, you did OK my whining so I won't so feel so bad typing this message...but the VIP tours are not bookable yet!!

The good news before my grumbling though - I did get a GG breakfast and am so excited for the sticky bun bake!!!

Now, back to the tour...like I said, I have been calling for months and keep getting told to try back at "x" time. Of course whenever I try back there's never any information and I get told to call again. When I called in June they said to wait until the F&W events are posted. So...when all the F&W events posted I called and still nothing. When events opened for Disney Visa cardholders I called...nothing. I was told for sure it would be available this morning and to call at 7:00 a.m. I called at 8:15 to book the tour and - Nope! They said to call back this afternoon and maybe it'd be available...nope! It's almost comical now

What's frustrating is that I keep getting different information - first I heard nothing was out with times or dates, then I heard that it was on the calendar and the tour days would be Friday and Saturday, then I heard again (numerous times) that nothing is in the system at all, then I heard it was in they system but no days were listed, then when I called back yesterday afternoon as instructed a CM said she actually booked the F&W VIP tour for someone but all the spots were filled for early booking for Disney Visa reward card holders so she couldn't book it for me (huh??), then today they said they couldn't see anything and there was no way someone booked it but confirmed it was on the calendar for Friday and Saturday, and then this afternoon they said nothing was on the calendar and days aren't showing but it should be available soon and to keep calling back.

I've been planning my trip around doing the tour on the last Sunday of the festival (per the days listed on the website) but if it's Friday and Saturday I'll need to change my plans and move our travel dates up a day. But...there is zero availability (discount or not) at the GF if I move my dates up. I have faith that something will open up but it makes me nervous that I won't get anything with a discount. I'll keep looking though! And, like I said in another post, I've got a room at the WA and it looks pretty nice if push comes to shove!

Another frustrating part, while I'm on the topic, is I have asked every time I've called if the Disney Visa 15% off of tours will apply to this tour. The answers have ranged from "Can't tell," "yes," and "no." I've also been given different prices for the tour when I've called. And I have asked multiple times if I use my Disney Visa redemption card if I can still get the 15% off and I was told different answers multiple times. I was told "no, the whole purchase has to be put on the card," "Yes, the redemption card is still considered your Disney Visa," and "You can just put a small amount on your card and then use your redemption card and get 15%." I'll be happy with the last two answers as long as I don't have to put the whole purchase on my card and can get the 15%. I redeemed my points specifically to pay for this tour but I want the 15% if I can get it! It looks like it will depend on luck if I get a CM who lets me get the 15% off with the redemption card or a combo of the redemption card with the remaining balance on the credit card.

I'll try again in the morning and see what happens! Good thing I haven't booked flights yet!

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wdwbride2005 said:

We just spent a week at the Grand with our 1 year old and we felt more than comfortable at every restaurant-including many signatures. They deal with kids all the time so the servers know how to pace the meal and most people at Disney should know there are going to be kids there! We also liked eating at the GF Cafe because it had a relaxed atmosphere and there were many other families there. Have a great trip!

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anpeck said:

Lol we definitely will not try V&A but one restaurant I was going to dearly miss was the Yachtsman but I may have to reconsider. You and Tom are right. It's our vacation and we should be able to eat wherever we want regardless if we have a child with us. I'm sure 99% of the other guests wouldn't think anything of it but there always seems to be that one person that likes to give the stink eye.



Thank you! I totally get what you're saying. Been there and done that Our little guy likes to drop his food on the floor and follow it up with an uh oh lol. I've yet to eat at BOG but have heard a lot of good things. I hope you have a great dinner!



That is so reassuring to hear! May I ask where all you ate? My husband LOVES Narcoossee's so I'm tempted to make an ADR if any are available for when we are there. I love the french toast at the GF Cafe and I'd be surprised if we didn't end up there for breakfast at least once.

Thanks everyone for your kind words of reassurance. I am definitely reconsidering my mainly counter service dining plans for the week. You guys and gals are fabulous!

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trishadono said:

Spent the day at the hospital with mil and found Blue's multi quote when I got home. Not sure how I misses these earlier posts, sorry!

However after a day with mil chemo treatment I lol'd when I read you responses. Thanks!!!

Kitchen Reno is 98% done, mil is now 75% done with chemo and my kids leave for school aka empty nest in 3weeks. I am SO DISTRACTED!!!

Summer is tricky to pack since you are wearing those items but! I am getting organized and am ready to go!

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anpeck said:

This isn't really a question regarding the Grand Floridian but I'm hoping maybe to get some input anyways from all of you lovely people we currently have some ADR's booked but I'm very particular about where we are going to dine with a 1 year old. He is usually very well behaved but every once in a while he'll let out a squeal or shriek as typical babies do lol. I don't want to disrupt others while they are enjoying a meal but I figure maybe in the louder restaurants it would be more... tolerated I guess? So far we are eating at Chef Mickey's, Kona Cafe, Crystal Palace and Le Cellier. I know Le Cellier is a little more upscale but it is my favorite restaurant besides the Yachtsman and I just can't miss it. So, after all that, my question is do any of you have recommendations on places to eat for us? Am I overthinking it? Do people really get mad at a squealing baby while they're eating their steak dinner? Obviously we would take him out if he would get too fussy but he has never once caused a scene. In fact staff members usually comment how good he is and love stopping at our table to see him because he's such a happy baby. Not that I'm bragging or anything...

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anpeck said:

Lol we definitely will not try V&A but one restaurant I was going to dearly miss was the Yachtsman but I may have to reconsider. You and Tom are right. It's our vacation and we should be able to eat wherever we want regardless if we have a child with us. I'm sure 99% of the other guests wouldn't think anything of it but there always seems to be that one person that likes to give the stink eye.



Thank you! I totally get what you're saying. Been there and done that Our little guy likes to drop his food on the floor and follow it up with an uh oh lol. I've yet to eat at BOG but have heard a lot of good things. I hope you have a great dinner!



That is so reassuring to hear! May I ask where all you ate? My husband LOVES Narcoossee's so I'm tempted to make an ADR if any are available for when we are there. I love the french toast at the GF Cafe and I'd be surprised if we didn't end up there for breakfast at least once.

Thanks everyone for your kind words of reassurance. I am definitely reconsidering my mainly counter service dining plans for the week. You guys and gals are fabulous!

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trishadono said:

I need to remember to "pack" your cell number in my phone to send you pics!!!

Won't Lys be surprised!! Lol!!

Spent the day at the hospital with mil and found Blue's multi quote when I got home. Not sure how I misses these earlier posts, sorry!


However after a day with mil chemo treatment I lol'd when I read you responses. Thanks!!!

Kitchen Reno is 98% done, mil is now 75% done with chemo and my kids leave for school aka empty nest in 3weeks. I am SO DISTRACTED!!!

Summer is tricky to pack since you are wearing those items but! I am getting organized and am ready to go!

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mmmears said:

loveshak22 - I can't say I'm completely surprised, but I am so sorry you are dealing with all of this. It's so frustrating when you keep getting different answers to your questions. I hope you can book your tour soon so that you can finalize all of your plans.

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mickeynut1 said:

I agree with what others have said, eat where you want to eat . As far as suggestions for places to eat, two of our favorites are Boma at AKL and Cape May at the BC. Both are great buffets with plenty of variety, as well as very relaxed atmospheres. Boma does have some unique dishes with different spices/seasonings, but there's also plenty of other choices for the non-adventurous eater. Cape May has characters at breakfast, but not dinner. Cape May is our favorite breakfast as the buffet is very good (IMO) and the characters are cute as they are dressed in beach wear .



You are going to love the GF!! I can't answer about DME as we've never taken it, but I know others here will be able to give some insight on that .

If the monorail is working somewhat on schedule, it shouldn't take too long from the GF as the TTC will be the 2nd stop. However, taking the boat to the Poly and then walking to the TTC would be an option as well.

I can't help with RD at the parks as we never go that early...lol......but I'm sure others will be able to help .

I hope you have a great trip and enjoy the GF .



I'm so sorry about you're going through to book just 1 tour! It's a shame how much incorrect information is given out by some CMs . I hope you can finally get someone who knows what's going on and get that tour booked for you.



I agree .



I would definitely reconsider and do more TS if that's what you're used to. Kids are everywhere at Disney (including signatures) and as the pp said, the CMs are used to dealing with kids of all ages .



Sounds like you have alot going on, you will be ready for your trip! I hope your MIL is doing ok .

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