“IF THIS IS A DREAM, I DON’T WANT TO WAKE UP!” – POP! Goes The Solo Trip **THE END**

[khertz]

I think you hit the nail on the head with Splash, and that's totally why it's my favorite. I remember vividly going on it for the first time and thinking it was JUST a flume ride that would take me to the top of the mountain and drop me to the bottom. But after going down that first little hill and dropping straight into the amazing story, I was hooked!!! It's been my favorite ever since.

Awww, the pirate worried about your "shoulder injury." Disney pirates are so sweet!!!

I know we definitely need to stop for an entire viewing of Dream Along With Mickey. I know the whole thing by heart from DS making us listen to it in the car all of the time, but I have never actually SEEN the whole show in MK. I'm kind of excited about it!

 

[TheMaxRebo]

Adding my

to the Splash and ToT theming, I full agree and is anothe reason why going to WDW is not just going to a themepark. Also why expectations are so high for new attractions.

I think what has always helped with Disneyland and WDW is that they were the first to realize that people will pay for an experience more than just a ride and were willing to invest in that. I mean, Splash Mountain cost $75m at the time it was built - not sure how many other theme parks could spend that on "a flume ride". I guess Universal is starting to do that with the Harry Potter attractions to some extent.

And the idea that Splash is based on a movie most people have never seen also I think plays into arguments against Avatarland being based on a movie not everyone loves .... if the attractions/experiences the build are top notch people won't care what they are based on

 

[blklotus]

Oh my gosh, I DIED when I saw your Splash/Ariel "photo"! I'm sure the people in my office thought there was something wrong with me -- I couldn't stop laughing! I sure hope you at least got her phone number...you know, so you two can chat about the ride experience!

 

[maryj11]

Nice photos

 

[ThisIsBrenn]

That's probably the best Splash Mountain picture I've seen, it's so great

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

You're absolutely right. I forgot that I've never seen Song of the South... yet I love the theming on that ride. Going to have to find me a copy of that movie now!
WOW! You got to ride Splash with Ariel? So cool. I wonder if all the water rides are connected so she can get around easier.
I LOVE the castle stage show! I get goosebumps, it's so fun and sweet. A great way to see lots of characters!

It may be tough to find a copy as I don't think it's ever been released in North America. But you never know, there must be a copy out there somewhere.

Ahh good you could see it. That means you're a believer. Yes, she told me that there is a water way from her Grotto over to Splash Mountain. She can also get out into Bay Lake and the Seven Seas Lagoon too.

Ahh me tooo! It's so enjoyable. And you get 4 of the fab 5 (weird that they couldn't find a place for Pluto). I just adore that they do so much stuff around the castle.

Bahahaha nice Splash picture, I believe it, it happened….

I do like stopping to check out the pirates and jedi show, they’re super cute and the kids totally take it so seriously, and you never really know what they\ll do, it’s always a surprise!

AH! I follow a good friend of Wendy’s on tumblr, I may have posted that pic on tumblr as well..Oh that blonde is so cute!! I really liked her last time I saw the show, she’s great! Also, I have to say, not sure if it’s the angle, but man does Aurora look TALL, especially compared to the height difference between Cindy and her Prince!

YAY another Believer!!!

OMG they really are cute. I think that's the real beauty of it in that the kids are the real stars, so it's pretty unpredictable. It's usually hilarious.

I remember your Wendy photos. She really was a perfect Wendy. And yeah, I think I remember you commenting on that particular dancer as well. She was really adorable and really into her role.
Haha, you know what, I didn't notice that, but wow you're right. Cindy is WAYYYYY shorter than her prince. Like WAYYYYYYYY shorter.

Seriously, that splash photo is the best!!

I love cast members. I always tell people that I go to wdw as often as I do because I don't need to feel weird about being me, about being nice or polite. I love how cast members go the distance every single day. It was very nice of that pirate to be so concerned. Maybe he is a prince in disguise! Someone get Belle so we can find out!

That show looks so cute. I will have to stop next month to see it. Great shots, even from the side of the castle! Soooo cute.

Ahhh, so glad you are a believer!! It's so amazing what can happen when everybody puts their hearts together.

Oh me too. Honestly, I really think they can make the difference between an ok visit and an extraordinary visit. They really are the glue.
You know it really was so sweet. He never for a second thought I was just making an excuse. I love them.
You know, maybe he was a prince. Sadly, I only have an "in" with Ariel.

OMG Jennifer, you absolutely MUST watch it. It's not overly long and just so... Disney. I can't wait to see it again!!!

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

I think you hit the nail on the head with Splash, and that's totally why it's my favorite. I remember vividly going on it for the first time and thinking it was JUST a flume ride that would take me to the top of the mountain and drop me to the bottom. But after going down that first little hill and dropping straight into the amazing story, I was hooked!!! It's been my favorite ever since.

Awww, the pirate worried about your "shoulder injury." Disney pirates are so sweet!!!

I know we definitely need to stop for an entire viewing of Dream Along With Mickey. I know the whole thing by heart from DS making us listen to it in the car all of the time, but I have never actually SEEN the whole show in MK. I'm kind of excited about it!

Thanks, I try. And obviously I so agree. I know that really everything Disney does tells a story, whether it's an attraction or a bathroom, but I really think because Splash is based on the most basic of concepts (A flume), that it is really the gold standard. Such a special thing.

Haha, I know right? He was so genuine that I really felt bad about it.

Yes you do!!! Make sure you get right up close. I think it is truly spectacular and amazing sweet and fun. It's wonderful.

Adding my

to the Splash and ToT theming, I full agree and is anothe reason why going to WDW is not just going to a themepark. Also why expectations are so high for new attractions.

I think what has always helped with Disneyland and WDW is that they were the first to realize that people will pay for an experience more than just a ride and were willing to invest in that. I mean, Splash Mountain cost $75m at the time it was built - not sure how many other theme parks could spend that on "a flume ride". I guess Universal is starting to do that with the Harry Potter attractions to some extent.

And the idea that Splash is based on a movie most people have never seen also I think plays into arguments against Avatarland being based on a movie not everyone loves .... if the attractions/experiences the build are top notch people won't care what they are based on

Excellent 2 cent addition.

You are completely right and it's what always separated Disney from the rest. Well that and the inherent "memories" of Disney in general.
Comcast has definitely upped the ante at Universal, but it's really no surprise what's happened at Wizarding World since it was largely designed by ex-Imagineers.

Yeah, I agree here too. Splash focuses on the animated characters of the movie, so most people's experience with these characters comes directly from the ride. I'm kind of the mind of wait and see regarding Avatar, since I do think the Imagineers can do amazing things here. Twilight Zone after all is not a Disney property either.

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

Oh my gosh, I DIED when I saw your Splash/Ariel "photo"! I'm sure the people in my office thought there was something wrong with me -- I couldn't stop laughing! I sure hope you at least got her phone number...you know, so you two can chat about the ride experience!

Haha, that's so AWESOME!!!! I'm so glad. And the best news is it means you're a true believer in the Magic. Otherwise you wouldn't be able to see it.

Oh and don't worry, I have a direct line to her clamshell.

Nice photos

Thanks so much Mary!

That's probably the best Splash Mountain picture I've seen, it's so great

Ahhh haha, thanks Brennah! I'm so glad to hear that you believe in the magic!

 

[sunnysideup3]

So I'm finally chiming in. I started reading your TRs when I was in labor with my son...and so glad I did! Over the last 5 weeks I've caught up and have to say you're doing a great job and I'm really enjoying reading!! Love the story about the little kid and now the Splash picture... So great! Can't wait to read more!

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

So I'm finally chiming in. I started reading your TRs when I was in labor with my son...and so glad I did! Over the last 5 weeks I've caught up and have to say you're doing a great job and I'm really enjoying reading!! Love the story about the little kid and now the Splash picture... So great! Can't wait to read more!

I am so very happy you did chime in.

Oh my goodness, I have to say that this is definitely a new one I've not heard before. In Labor??!! Wow! Just... wow. I am deeply honored. Thank you SOOOOO much for reading along and for your kind words.

That wishes story was for sure one of my favourite memories ever. I'm glad you liked the Splash picture too. Congratulations on being a true believer!!

 

[DisneyKid4Life]

"I’M GONNA RIDE THAT PUPPY... AND I’M GONNA GET WEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEET!"
Day 5 – May 1, 2013 Part 3


After enjoying the magic of Dream Along With Mickey, I made my way towards Fantasyland.

It seemed appropriate since I was in a “dreamin’’ state of mind and I also think Fantasyland is the true heartbeat of Magic Kingdom.

And right away as if on queue, I came across a young lady on her way to her rabbit hole.

I just love random encounters.

I remember the days when random character encounters were the rule, not the exception.

You just never knew who you might see, or what they might do.

Yes, the characters do get a little lazy sometimes. And yes, that would be me to the right.

I do understand the need to have scheduled meet and greets these days though.

An entire family’s vacation could be ruined if they missed the chance to get the kid’s picture with Mickey or the Princesses or the Fairies.

It’s still a magical thing, but the spontaneity really added to the experience I think and I do miss it sometimes.

Since I still had no agenda, I was completely content to just roam around my favorite park.

On my way towards New Fanatasyland, I encountered the Royal Majesty Makers on their way out.

I only watched for a little bit before moving on, but again, it’s things like this that make it impossible not to believe that you are indeed in a Magic Kingdom.

As I was walking into New Fantasyland with Beast’s castle in the distance I overheard a girl say to her mother,

"Look Mom... It's Harry Potter!!"

… And sadly the public school system suffers yet another casualty in the war against stupid.

You know, while we’re on the subject, I just have to get something off my chest.

Wizarding World is in Universal (or Islands of Adventure if you want to be all “correct” about it), and Universal is NOT Disney.

We all know this, but honestly, it’s shocking how many people don’t get that.

Not people on here of course, but so many people actually believe that you can buy a Disney ticket that somehow includes Universal, since you know… It’s the same thing!

Anyway…

I continued on into NFL before encountering yet another character, this time Gaston.

I didn’t get in line, but I did watch some of the interactions for a bit, because the Gaston M&G’s are truly hysterical.

After that I just continued wandering and snapping random photos apparently.

I still haven’t eaten here, but after reading about other people’s experiences, it sounds like a new must do.

Plus, I absolutely must get a photo with Beast; because unlike with Gaston, a photo with Beast makes you look that much better.

I didn’t ever remember getting in a photo behind the castle before, so I figured this would be a good time to do that.

I had skipped breakfast this morning, so even though it was still before noon, I was getting a bit hungry.

I was craving on some chicken nuggets, so I headed over to the nearest place, Pinocchio’s Village Haus.

On the way I noticed the following so I just HAD to get photo evidence.

Incidentally, this was at about 11:30am.

Of course, the real story is the system wasn’t working, and neither were the Peter Pan Fastpass machines.
The real wait time was obviously MUCH higher than the 10 minutes showing.

But honestly, how often do you get the chance to have a photo of PPF with a 10 minute wait displayed?
I mean, the wait is usually at least 45 minutes even when the park is closed.

There was a CM stationed out front holding the real wait time on a pole, but clearly a lot of people didn’t notice.

It was so funny to watch them walk right by the CM excitedly thinking they were heading into a 10 minute wait.

Well… I thought it was funny anyway.

I went into the Village Haus and ordered my chicken nuggets, finding a seat with a window looking down on Small World.

That is as close as I get to Small World.

And not for nothing, but WDW chicken nuggets are seriously off the chain.
I don’t know how they’re prepared or anything; whether they’re just frozen nuggets or what… not a clue.
But they are so unbelievably good, and believe me, I know chicken nuggets! I want some right now!!

After lunch, I had one more thing I NEEDED to do.

I had now met all the princesses over the years except for one… Tiana.

Knowing she would be out meeting soon, that is where I went.

I had some entertainment in the line waiting for Tiana to arrive in the form of these 2 squirrels chasing each other.

For me it was enough to pass the time until she arrived.

...But then I’m pretty easily entertained.

And just like that, all the princesses were now officially checked off and accounted for…




… Until Disney decided to go ahead and coronate Merida barely a week later.

And the (Disney) World just keeps on turnin’.



TO BE CONTINUED…
​

 

[courtneybelle]

Okay, my apologies for this one, but I have no idea who the character is in the picture with young Rob...he looks adorable though!

HARRY POTTER?! None of that here! Yeah, a lot of people I know who haven't been to Orlando get the parks all mixed up.

A 10 minute wait at PP is pretty legendary, even if not entirely accurate.

DISNEY CHICKEN NUGGETS. Again, Disney takes an ordinary food and makes me love it 100x more.

Tiana is in my top 3 princesses, and I love meeting her. Merida is a great meet though! It's just hard because the line is always so long!

 

[Sundancer UK]

Courtneybelle, I think it's the Walrus from wonderland

Disneykid, this update is so cool! Just what I needed, a little WDW pick me up, thanks!

I love the royal majesty makers! Is this a new thing? I've never heard of them, what time are they around - tell me more!

I'd love to know who this girl thought was Harry Potter I do love those books and the films are great, but come on!

Eek this thread just gives me butterflies with each update. So long to go and yet I'm still so excited!

 

[JessM]

I don't know what it is either but I love those Disney chicken nuggets, they are the best!

I love wandering around the Magic Kingdom with no agenda, I really want to take more long trips to allow for that.

Tiana is on my list for my next trip, she's the only Princess I haven't met, I watched her movie on ABC family last week and it secured for me that I definitely have to meet her! I think Gaston will be on my list as well, I didn't get a chance to see him at all last trip and he sounds like a riot!

 

[Tracy161]

But honestly, how often do you get the chance to have a photo of PPF with a 10 minute wait displayed?
I mean, the wait is usually at least 45 minutes even when the park is closed.

HAHAHAHAHA! Yeah, so true Rob!

UGH! I get so frustrated with people when they combine Disney and Universal! Get it straight, people!

LOVE your shirt... also funny that you made the comment about having your chicken nuggets whilst looking down on iasw and how that's the closest you get to that ride! I have to admit that iasw is a ride I have to do every trip, but I'm usually set with just once.

 

[mcnealrkn]

Yes it is the Walrus from Alice in Wonderland. They use to have characters from most of the movies not just the select few that have all the merchandise!

 

[emmysmommy]

Hi Rob! I've missed your TR updates while I was gone but it was awesome to come back and get caught up! You are my first TR to get caught up on. (I would have done it sooner but the klutz in me broke my ankle so there's my excuse!)

What no photo with Gaston?? He doesn't have anything on you with the ladies since who else would get Ariel with fins to ride with him on Splash? That was completely awesome to see her with you on that ride. I totally believe she was there! The Splash reference from the movie with Darryl Hannah makes this even more amusing!

Ahhhh now that I've taken the keys tour I will ALWAYS go left in the parks!! ha ha! And yeah, no bathrooms in Liberty Square... I think they are cheating when they say the washrooms in LTT and CHH are in another land... Hmmm...

Your Dream Along with Mickey photos are awesome. I watched that show about 6 or 7 times and have the song and narrative stuck in my head so it was funny to see you include some of those in your update. (It didn't help get the song out of my head mind you!!) Perfect timing with the pop of fireworks from the castle photo my friend!!!

When I saw your Alice photo it reminded me of your "scamp" comment about her. She's just so adorable!

Next I'm going back and re-reading your KTTK tour update since I want to see if they included other fun facts in your version. Do you recall who your tour guide was??

Like I said, this was thoroughly enjoyable getting caught up!!

 

[maryj11]

PPF with a 10 minute wait Never ever seen that

 

[11point5]

I KNEW there would be food in this one!! Your view from Pinocchio's was awesome, I really have to remember to eat there and watch over it's a small world!

The walrus picture is so cute, I wish he was still out greeting sometimes!

That must have felt AMAZING to have checked off all the princesses from your meet-and-greet list! ....until Merida was added....and then I assume you felt great anyway because you have a fabulous excuse to go back!

 

[khertz]

Okay, little Rob & the Walrus is a GREAT picture!!

I can't wait to meet Gaston... I'll have to think of something clever. He seems hilarious from all the TRs I've read where they have met him.

Maybe it's that fact that you're eating them in Disney World, but WDW chicken nuggets do, in fact, taste better than all others! They must feed the chickens pixie dust before making them into nuggets (I almost said chopping them into nuggets, but then it made me feel sad for the poor pixie dust eating chickens ).

We've never gotten to eat by the window to Small World, and I'd love to try that out this year with DS since he loves that ride. I'll have to bring some Windex wipes to get rid of other kids boogers off the glass first though. Our go-to spot to eat there is upstairs!

Tiana is on my list of characters to meet this year, and she's a first for us. Being from NOLA, we all LOVE Princess & the Frog! And I think Tiana has the prettiest dress of all the princesses.