3 Brits and 3 weeks at Disneys Grand Floridian (**Completed**)

[CarolynK]

I'm a bit late to your report; it's fun to read and you take really good pictures! I actually went to your PTR and read through that also...the part about your previous trip with your in-laws really hit home. We took my parents with us twice to WDW:the first time, they stayed with us in a 2 br at BWV. I expected oohhhs and aaahhhhs when we first showed them around, but nothing. I know they have never stayed anywhere as nice as that (we drove everywhere for our vaca's & stayed in campgrounds as kids), and I didn't get the reaction I was waiting for either....
We learned our lesson the second time: I booked them into Shades of Green (my dad is retired army) and we did LOTS of things without them--much better trip!
I really believe that it is hard enough to travel with your own immediate family, to bring anyone else along can be a disaster. I think it's wonderful that your parents have the same excitement as you for WDW and it looks as if you all get along great! You are very fortunate

 

[Sweet Pea UK]

Loving the updates!! So happy to hear we will go straight into a PTR for your next trip!

Brigitte

I am excited about getting it started too!! Thanks for reading along.

I love your TR! You have a lovely family. It looks like you all had a magical wonderful vacation! Thanks for sharing! I'm also glad your Dad found his wallet, he was very lucky someone turned it in. I love hearing stories that show that there are still kind and honest people left in this world!

It was a very lucky story!! The pixie dust had followed us out of Disney! Thank you for your comments about my family - I to think they are lovely!

Oh no-- you guys must have been terrified when you thought your dad's wallet was gone! That's so great that some nice person turned it in without taking anything!!

We did panic - we wished we had known who it was who had turned it in to thank them in person.

I'm a bit late to your report; it's fun to read and you take really good pictures! I actually went to your PTR and read through that also...the part about your previous trip with your in-laws really hit home. We took my parents with us twice to WDW:the first time, they stayed with us in a 2 br at BWV. I expected oohhhs and aaahhhhs when we first showed them around, but nothing. I know they have never stayed anywhere as nice as that (we drove everywhere for our vaca's & stayed in campgrounds as kids), and I didn't get the reaction I was waiting for either....
We learned our lesson the second time: I booked them into Shades of Green (my dad is retired army) and we did LOTS of things without them--much better trip!
I really believe that it is hard enough to travel with your own immediate family, to bring anyone else along can be a disaster. I think it's wonderful that your parents have the same excitement as you for WDW and it looks as if you all get along great! You are very fortunate

I am really lucky with my family - my Dad loves it just as much as I do. In fact Mum and Dad are going out alone about 3 weeks after us this year. I wish they were coming with us but its their busy time in the shop.

We are going with the In-Laws again this year but things have changed considerably there and I am sure we will all have a great time. Thanks for reading along.

 

[Sweet Pea UK]

Wednesday 8th September

I heard Jonathan get up about 6am and leave to play the Players Course at Sawgrass. Me and Amber didn’t wake until 9am – lovely!!! We watched a little bit of television and then got our things together. We went down to the Lobby and checked out. We could store our luggage there so Amber and I popped into Starbucks (there was one in the hotel) and got some lemon cake for a snack.

We then went out to the Pool! It was really really hot! It was lovely to lay there and relax.

When we got too hot we went to the Pool Bar and got some drinks and fruit. We then returned to the Pool for more swimming and sunbathing.

At 12:30 we went to the front of the hotel and got the shuttle across to the Golf Course.

When we arrived we saw Jonathan, Mum and Dad on the 9th Hole – it was there last as they had started on the 10th. Jonathan came and picked us up in the buggy and took us to see the famous 17th.

We then had a look in the Pro shop and things were actually quite reasonably priced. We got Amber a Sawgrass golf shirt. Jonathan got one too as well as some golf balls and some pitch repair things for his friends.

We went and had lunch in the clubhouse. It was very nice. Me, Mum and Dad had a Caprese Salad, Jonathan had a Caesar Salad and Amber had pasta and red sauce.

Once we had finshed I checked out the Ladies changing rooms – very nice!!! We then got the shuttle back to the hotel.

We loaded the car up with the luggage and made our way back.

On the way back we pulled into a car park and had a paddle in the Atlantic – it was lovely. There was a really lovely breeze.

We stopped off for Petrol (being careful to keep hold of the wallet!) We went into Publix and I got some delicious red velvet cupcakes – my favourite!!!

It was a long drive back. Mum and Dad dropped us off at our hotel and we got washed and changed. Jonathan then went to pick Mum and Dad up from their hotel and bring them back to ours as we were eating at 1900 Park Fare.

Amber and I had a look round the shops and I bought another summer dress.

They then all arrived – looking a little rushed. We had our picture taken on the way in.

It was a good buffet and the characters were good although I was expecting there to be more arguing between the ugly sisters.

When Cinderella and Prince Charming had a dance the Prince chose Amber to dance with him so that was nice.

We then took Mum and Dad back with a little visitor!! Amber was staying at the hotel with them tonight! Jonathan and I were alone!

When we dropped them off we went and had a drive round Saratoga Springs to have a look at where we will be staying on the next holiday. It looks very nice and we were pleased we had picked it.

Once back at the hotel we parked and walked to our room. We were absolutely exhausted! What a busy couple of days it had been!

 

[jbbt]

What a TREAT to have so many updates!! Of course the Prince chose Amber - she is sooo precious!!

Brigitte

 

[davebon23]

I finally finished your trip report. Your kitty is adorable. I think we are going to be at Disney the same time you are. In August/September. Maybe we will see you around. Amber and your family are very photogenic. You all look great in the pictures. I wish I could take such good pictures.

 

[Zeebs]

A bit late to the party but have enjoyed your trip report.

Could I ask how much the boat you rented cost? Think that would be something we would really enjoy and a good chance to have a bit of a look around.

Amber is lovely as are her clothes, do you make those lovely little dresses? I have a sewing machine but it doesn't make an apperance very often mainly because I have no idea what I am doing.

I am sure I had more to say I should have quoted as I read

Kirsten

 

[tinytreasures]

I am still sick to my stomach thinking about the wallet. So glad someone turned it in
Thank you for taking us along on your trip

 

[klacey1]

What a gorgeous resort!! How beautiful! Seems like it was a nice way to break up your trip. Aww, I usually hear that the stepsisters are a riot-- sorry they didn't fight more.

 

[disneygeeks]

I was juist wondering if your husband liked the golfing in WDW because I love to golf as well and was it worth it and challanging courses?

 

[dacamper]

We have a breakfast at Akershus Royal Banquet Hall at 9:15, any idea how long it might take to get in there from the Epcot entrance? I assume they might let us in?

Also, bad job bottling the SheiKra, it makes the Oblivion look rubbish, especially as it has an actual ride after the vertical drop, and then another vertical drop! I really liked the Kumba too because of the zero gee section.

 

[billdog1977]

Enjoying the report keep'em coming!!

 

[JOCELYNM]

I really enjoyed reading your TR..thanks for sharing. I am just amazed at all the things you did.....I am exhausted just reading...looks like you had a wonderful vacation!!!

 

[Sweet Pea UK]

What a TREAT to have so many updates!! Of course the Prince chose Amber - she is sooo precious!!

Brigitte

Thanks Brigitte - I think she is precious - but I'm biased!!

I finally finished your trip report. Your kitty is adorable. I think we are going to be at Disney the same time you are. In August/September. Maybe we will see you around. Amber and your family are very photogenic. You all look great in the pictures. I wish I could take such good pictures.

Believe me - my picture taking is pure luck!! I did do a digital photo course a couple of years ago but I'm afraid I have reverted back to snapping away!! It is a nice camera so I suppose that helps! I will post some new pictures of the cat - it is huge!!!

It would be great to see you around - I will need to see a picture though so I recognise you

A bit late to the party but have enjoyed your trip report.

Could I ask how much the boat you rented cost? Think that would be something we would really enjoy and a good chance to have a bit of a look around.

Amber is lovely as are her clothes, do you make those lovely little dresses? I have a sewing machine but it doesn't make an apperance very often mainly because I have no idea what I am doing.

I am sure I had more to say I should have quoted as I read

Kirsten

Hi Kirsten - thanks for joining in. I think the boat was about $40 - I relaly can't remember - I am sure I took a picture of the sign at the Grand Floridian though so will look through and find it - they were the same price there. It was a really enjoyable experience and I was going to go back so know I wouldn't have paid a fortune. It was very relaxing. We also got to see parts that we would never normally see, like the back of Port Orleans etc, the treehouses etc. Highly recommended.

My Mum made a couple of those dresses - they were so simple. I think she is going to make her a couple more for this year - they were ideal in that heat!! I wouldn't have a clue where to start with sewing!!

I am still sick to my stomach thinking about the wallet. So glad someone turned it in
Thank you for taking us along on your trip

It was a worrying time but we were so lucky that it was turned in. Thanks for reading along.

What a gorgeous resort!! How beautiful! Seems like it was a nice way to break up your trip. Aww, I usually hear that the stepsisters are a riot-- sorry they didn't fight more.

Hi Kylie - how are you? Could have done with a bit more fighting but it was fun all the same. The MArriott Sawgrass was very beautiful!!

I was juist wondering if your husband liked the golfing in WDW because I love to golf as well and was it worth it and challanging courses?

My husband loves the Disney Golf. He is a fairly good golfer and plays off a 9 handicap and finds them challenging. He is playing a couple of them again this time so they must be good! He just loves golf in America generally.

We have a breakfast at Akershus Royal Banquet Hall at 9:15, any idea how long it might take to get in there from the Epcot entrance? I assume they might let us in?

Also, bad job bottling the SheiKra, it makes the Oblivion look rubbish, especially as it has an actual ride after the vertical drop, and then another vertical drop! I really liked the Kumba too because of the zero gee section.

Welcome back Dave!!!! I don't need to answer your question now as you have been!! I take it they let you in

Now you should be able to tell me what Sheikra was like and if I should force myself to go on it this year!!

Enjoying the report keep'em coming!!

I hope to catch up again now!!!

I really enjoyed reading your TR..thanks for sharing. I am just amazed at all the things you did.....I am exhausted just reading...looks like you had a wonderful vacation!!!

It was an amazing holiday - we really pushed ourselves and fitted so much in. It was worth every penny as we talk about it every day!! I think this years might be slightly more relaxing - but only slightly

I am pleased you are enjoying reading along.

Sara xxx

 

[Sweet Pea UK]

Hi Everybody!!

I'm back. Last few weeks have flown by and I just haven't had a chance to update! I am going to rectify that today!!

We had Easter and I worked for Mum and Dad. It was busy and we had some great weather for a change!

I also had my birthday. I got my Kindle which is great. I will be able to put lots of books on for my holiday!! It is getting really close!

I've been very busy at work again and splitting myself between the Court and the shop.

I had a lovely day on Monday. For a Christmas present I booked for my Mum and Mother in Law, along with myself, to go for Afternoon Tea at the Ritz and Monday was the day we went. It was lovely. We got the train to London and then did lots of shopping - I got some nice holiday bits and treated Amber to a few clothes and then we went along for tea. I will post some pictures tonight.

Anyway ... at work now so better get on - but be prepared for Day 19 tonight. It is so much fun reliving our wonderful holiday.

Sara xx

 

[cooks]

Great Trip report so far .
We are there the same time as you this year, we stayed at SSR last year and loved it but staying at OKW this year. The GF looks stunning ive looked around it but would love to stay there .

 

[Sweet Pea UK]

Thursday 9th September 2010

We woke up alone – that was weird and made our way over to Mum and Dads pretty early. Amber said she hadn’t slept well because Nanny and Grandad had snored!!

We made out way back out to the car and headed over to Seaworld. We arrived at opening time and went straight over to the Dolphins.

Mum and Amber queued for her to feed them while Dad, Jonathan and I went over to Manta. We got straight on and I really enjoyed it. I was a bit scared about it but it was so good. We then rushed over to Kraken and managed to get straight on the front. It was my first time and I loved it.

Dad and Jonathan then rode Manta again and I went back to find Amber and Mum. They had had a great time feeding the dolphins and had had a fantastic picture taken (I will try and get it back from Mum so that I can scan it in!!)

Mum pretended to get on a ride!!! Chances!!!

We all met back at the Cypress Bakery and had some drinks and pastries. I had a delicious Apple Danish.

We left the park (via the gift shop) and went straight to Aquatica.

Once inside we got some lockers and towels which I thought were quite expensive at $4 each!! They were only $2 at Disney! I also bought an underwater camera as we had used the ones we brought with us.

We secured ourselves a bed (a lot were taken) and got straight into the wave pool – it was lovely – it was such a hot day!

From there we went on Omaka Rocka which was OK.

Then we all went in the Roa Rapids. We made Amber wear a life vest as they looked so fast, Mum and Dad wore them too.

We went round quite a few times and all loved it. Then it came time to get out – Mum couldn’t!! it was so funny. We had to get out and then grab her!!

From there we went to the wet play area thing (I’ve forgotten the name!) It was great!! We loved standing under the great big bucket until it tipped all the water out. So much fun, even for adults!!

We then went on the coloured slides (can’t remember their name either) but they were good!

We went on the big rubber ring slide – me and Dad! I came down backwards!!

We went back into the pool and Dad went off to get some drinks. It was so hot!!

After this we went on the Dolphin slide but to be honest it was my least favourite. You don’t really get to see the dolphins.

I have one big complaint about Aquatica! The ground was so hot! You couldn’t walk on it!

We all had a go around the lazy river and then got changed.

As we were all hungry (must have been all the swimming) we went to the McDonalds on International Drive. It was very strange in here – you could order anything – bizarre!!! I did have the most delicious McDonalds strawberry thick shake I had ever had though – it had whipped cream on the top!

From there we went to the Florida Mall for some more shopping!

We separated once inside. Mum and Dad went one way and we went the other. We got Amber a Lotso from the Disney Store as they had sold out all over Disneyworld. We also got her some Converse – finally!!! Jonathan got some trainers and he bought me the Chamilia “I love you, I love you more bead” which looks great on my bracelet!!

Once we met back up again we went straight over to EPCOT. Once inside we dashed to Soarin in the hope we would get on. There was only a 20 minute queue so we just queued up. Mum and Dad love this ride.

We went on Test Track twice.

We had reservations at Corel Reef for dinner so went straight there. The food was excellent but the service was very slow.

When we came out the fireworks had already started. Jonathan took Mum and Dad back to their hotel and me and Amber went and had a look around Mousegear. We got a few souvenirs and then got the monorail back to our hotel. Jonathan was already back!

What a day – 3 parks, shopping rides, great food and great company – a very special day!!

 

[Sweet Pea UK]

Friday 10th September 2011

It was weird to wake up on our last full day! Our dream holiday was coming to a close!!

Jonathan left early to go and play golf.

Me and Amber got up shortly afterwards and went to Gasparillas for some breakfast. Amber was going on her Pirate Cruise today so at 9am we walked over there. She got registered and dressed up in her pirate life vest – she looked really cool! She then set sail!! I was alone!!

I went into the hotel and paid up our room charges and then got myself a drink (in my refillable mug!) from Gasperillas! I then found a lovely spot by the pool and laid there reading my book. Just taking in the smells and surroundings of the Grand Floridian – I was well aware that I would probably never get a chance to do this again. It truly had been a wonderful experience. I had a quick swim and then went back to the room to get changed.

It was time to get Amber so I walked back over to the Marina. I saw them come sailing in and when she got off she said she had really enjoyed it. We went back to the room so that she could remove her tattoo and get changed. She popped on all the little bits from her goody bag.

We then got the monorail over to the Magic Kingdom. While we were there I got a text from my friend to say his wife had had a little girl and they had called her Betty – an excuse to do more shopping!!!

Once inside Amber and I went to the Main Street Bakery. The portions are so huge! I had a piece of crumb cake and Amber had some cheeso things.

We then went to see if we could see Tiana but the line was closed so we went through to Toon Town and queued up for the fairies. It said it was a 45 minute queue but we only waited for 25.

Amber got to see Rosetta, Tink and Vida. I thought it was all nicely set out.

We then went back to Tiana and whilst waiting in the queue, Mum, Dad and Jonathan arrived. Amber got to see Tiana and Naveen and they really made a fuss of her. Especially her autograph book that I had made so that was nice.

Everyone was hungry so we went to Pecos Bills. Amber thoroughly enjoyed her Chill Cheese Fries!

From here we did Splash Mountain and Thunder Mountain. As we walked through to Fantasyland we passed the parade so we got to see everyone and gave them all a wave!!

We then did Peter Pan, Philharmagic, Winnie the Pooh and we all did Space Mountain – even Mum!!! She hates fast rides so she was really brave! We did really laugh on it.

I then did something I hadn’t done before which was the Laugh Floor Comedy Club. Guess what … Dad was “that guy”. His face kept coming up on the screen – it was hilarious – for us of course! What made Dad laugh was that Jonathan was creeping further and further away from him everytime his face appeared!!

They came and gave him a sticker at the end of it!

We all went and got a delicious ice cream from Main Street which was much needed by all!!!

We got the boat back to the Grand Floridian and Mum and Dad went back to their hotel.

Amber and I went for a swim while Jonathan had a rest – it was lovely – so refreshing as it was another scorcher of a day!!

Once back inside the room we started to do a bit of packing. I made the decision there and then that next year I was going to pack a bit as I went along so I don’t get left with it all at the end!

We all got ready and went and picked Mum and Dad up from their hotel. We only had to drive across the road as we were eating at Benihana inside the Hilton hotel. It is one of Ambers favourite places so we had saved it for our last night.

Once we were seated we had rather a long wait for drinks but once the chef started it didn’t disappoint. The food was excellent and everything we remembered.

When we had finished we went back to the hotel and Mum and Dad walked back to theirs.

I finished the packing and was very late to bad. Our last night at the GF which had been our home for the last 16 nights ….

 

[dekkerdisneydreamer]

Hi Sara,
So many updates in a row! I can't believe you're almost finished and only have a little over three months and you'll be back at Saratoga Springs. It's always hard to have the last day, but yours looked like it was pretty perfect.

How long will you be staying this time?

 

[MaryAz]

I have really enjoyed your report! Such a photogenic bunch you are!! I also love ur unique english sayings. Looks like an amazing vacation. Excited to see you have another coming up! We have stayed at Saratoga twice-it is a nice resort. Thanks for sharing your trip with us.

 

[Disneydad4676]

Nearly finished your story then about your epic holiday. Thank you so much for putting on those nice pictures of your Mum and Dad. They really made us laugh. So I shall be posting one of you when we were there in 1991. We can then all have a good laugh together. Still, the pictures of my grandaughter are as lovely as she is. Keep making us laugh. Disneydad.