A Salute to Food & Wine but Mostly Wine..12/21 FINAL THOUGHTS...a Solo Trip Adventure

[2xcited2sleep]

Christine it sounds like a lovely start to your vacation. Now perhaps if you had a telescope you could have seen Spaceship Earth? LOL! Oh well...like you said, who cares-your at Disney!

Maybe! Next time I'll add that to the packing list! Who knows. I have such a bad sense of direction I have NO idea if SE was just through those trees or on the complete opposite side of the building. But I spent so little time in the room it wouldn't have mattered!

 

[Circusgirl]

Yaaay! So glad to hear about your arrival and see the pictures of the BCV. I have never ridden the Magical Express, so I loved hearing about that too.

 

[Lady Lallie]

What a beautiful room! I love your pictures of lights too but I am sure that is not so surprising.

Seeing the wonderful pictures of your room, makes me interested in Villas. Hmmmm.

 

[2xcited2sleep]

Yaaay! So glad to hear about your arrival and see the pictures of the BCV. I have never ridden the Magical Express, so I loved hearing about that too.

Thanks. I know ME gets very mixed reviews but I like it. I like everything except getting picked up on the back-end 3 hours pre-flight. I like to spend every last second at Disney! But overall I think not having to worry about transportation - renting a car or calling a cab- is well worth it!

What a beautiful room! I love your pictures of lights too but I am sure that is not so surprising.

Seeing the wonderful pictures of your room, makes me interested in Villas. Hmmmm.

I think villas are great. Hmmm .... wonder what Wilderness Lodge Villas look like? Something to google after this. I really like having the kitchenette. I'm not a big breakfast eater but having the fridge for my bottled water and a place to have my croissant, coffee cake or whatever baked goodness I pick up in the evening for breakfast is awesome! If it weren't food and wine time I would also have probably used it for cheese and crackers or something at "happy hour" time. One thing I definitely learned/remembered the hard way this trip is that you need to take a break!!!

OOOH! Just noticing your new ticker LL. LOVE it!!!!!!!!!

 

[cdotla]

Great start!

LOL - I am just like you about the last minute scrambling before the trip. My last trip I was literally almost up all night, maybe getting an hour or two sleep before the early morning alarm.

And as for your comments on the "Girlfriends Trip", well I just did one for Expedition Everest and Food & Wine myself. Highly recommend it. So much fun!!!

Can't wait to read more!

 

[ILuvCrush]

HI Christine!!!

The wait for your TR was worth it It is starting off wonderfully!! I'm so excited for you! Great room.... are you sure she said "Spaceship" Earth??? Cause you did get Earth

I like ME too... even the early departure pickup... I'm always afraid of being late, so if I took a cab... I'd still be there 3hrs early

We're going to have to talk about that "lack of a ticker" come December.... I think I have a PLAN

Keep up the great TR... I'll be sure to check at least hourly for updates


Paula

 

[Donald is #1]

I love your pictures of BCV! I can't wait to see it myself in December.

 

[2xcited2sleep]

Great start!

LOL - I am just like you about the last minute scrambling before the trip. My last trip I was literally almost up all night, maybe getting an hour or two sleep before the early morning alarm.

And as for your comments on the "Girlfriends Trip", well I just did one for Expedition Everest and Food & Wine myself. Highly recommend it. So much fun!!!

Can't wait to read more!

Thanks! The more I think about a girlfriends trip the more I think it is a must-do. Anyone else hear the plan wheels in motion??

HI Christine!!!

The wait for your TR was worth it It is starting off wonderfully!! I'm so excited for you! Great room.... are you sure she said "Spaceship" Earth??? Cause you did get Earth

I like ME too... even the early departure pickup... I'm always afraid of being late, so if I took a cab... I'd still be there 3hrs early

We're going to have to talk about that "lack of a ticker" come December.... I think I have a PLAN

Keep up the great TR... I'll be sure to check at least hourly for updates


Paula

Awww... thanks. You have a plan? Interesting. Who was it that said "I love it when a plan comes together?" I don't have any idea what your plan is and haven't been invited but I'm in!!

I love your pictures of BCV! I can't wait to see it myself in December.

You're going to LOVE BCV!!!!

 

[Circusgirl]

:: The planning time is definitely disproportionate to the actual WDW time but it is all so much fun! I ran into so many people on this trip who had no plans whatsoever. Checking out the Le Cellier menu saying to eachother, want to try this for dinner? Oy. Thank goodness for the DIS. I am really enjoying your TR, by the way!

Oy, indeed! I hate to think of how different and disappointing the experience could be without planning. I remember walking up to MGM and hearing a family actively and loudly being disappointed that RnRC was down for rehab. How in the world can you get all the way there without doing the tiniest bit of research? Besides, as you say, the planning is FUN!!!!
Glad you're enjoying my TR! It's now one of my favorite trip extending strategies!

 

[2xcited2sleep]

Where was I?? Oh yes excited to be in WDW and ready to explore. Let's see what BCV is all about! I head out without any idea of where I'm going. I head back into the main building, breeze through the marketplace (hmmm... there may be some souvenirs with my name on them! ), and head out the "back door" toward the Boardwalk view and international gateway.

So as long as I'm here I decide to exchange my voucher for my annual pass. Not sure what I was expecting but seemed like a run of the mill transaction for the cast member (who was very nice) while I was jumping out of my skin and somehow expecting much more pomp and circumstance. Before I know it I an an official annual passholder. Oddly enough, the AP's are paper tickets? Seems odd, doesn't it, that AP's would be less durable than the KTTW tickets you get for a week's stay? Here's my AP:

And you even get a “special” sleeve to keep your AP in:

And in addition to the AP, I wanted a Tables In Wonderland (formerly Disney Dining Experience) card – that offers 20% off meals including alcohol. Of course I had to go to a separate window to get this but again, I’m at Disney and nothing bothers me.

So after indulging in the beauty that is the lagoon view and the international gateway, I realize I am hungry and am faced with a choice. Do I go ahead into Epcot and get my first taste of F&W or do I find the fabled Beaches 'n Cream as planned?

I figure there is plenty of time ahead to indulge in F&W and I am a burgers and fries kind of gal so I head back. Now part of the awesomeness that is BCV is that “heading back” is a ~5 min walk. I consult the map to try to find where Beaches ‘n Cream is. Along the way:

Continuing the beach theme… how cute is this sandcastle on the wall?

I get to Beaches ‘n Cream right around noon time. Too cute!

I get up to the podium that says “wait to be seated.” I go up to the CM at the podium and say something like “Hi. Um. It’s just me. Any chance there is some room at the counter?” Ken is the CM at the door to BnC and god bless his heart he says exactly what I need to hear. He says, “JUST you? It’s JUST you? Well, my dear, there is no such thing as “just” you; you are enough all by yourself. Welcome. We’re happy to have you here. Right this way.”

Sigh. There is nothing. NOTHING. That a shy, self conscious girl feeling a bit uncomfortable about her solo trip would rather hear. This was perfect. And I took it as an omen.

 

[Lady Lallie]

Oh, bless that CM. I got teary eyed reading that. What a perfect start to your solo trip!

 

[cdotla]

Awwww...that's so sweet!

I actually took my 1st ever solo trip to WDW in June 08. I was staying at the Yacht Club for a conference, and of course had just returned from a family trip in May, one month earlier. However, I still booked a couple extra days onto the trip for my "solo" trip.

What a wonderful welcome that would have been!!!

Like you, I had the same mixed feelings throughout the trip. One minute being a bit self-conscious traveling solo and missing family, followed by a minute of sheer joy the next moment in being able to do, eat and enjoy the Parks whatever way I wished. And enjoying my big old room all to myself, while not having to worry about waking anyone by coming in at 2am, running to the pool for a quick dip before bed, and then reading until the wee hours of the morning! Heaven!

So I certainly can't wait to hear more from you about all of your solo adventures!

 

[ILuvCrush]

Awww... thanks. You have a plan? Interesting. Who was it that said "I love it when a plan comes together?" I don't have any idea what your plan is and haven't been invited but I'm in!!

Hmmmm that would have been the white haired dude from the A-team DH says his name's Hanibal Smith I don't know.... by bro loved that show... I endured it

Oh YES... you are definately invited in on the PLAN.... it's a doozie You;re gonna love it!!

Paula

 

[ILuvCrush]

So as long as I'm here I decide to exchange my voucher for my annual pass. Not sure what I was expecting but seemed like a run of the mill transaction for the cast member (who was very nice) while I was jumping out of my skin and somehow expecting much more pomp and circumstance. Before I know it I an an official annual passholder. Oddly enough, the AP's are paper tickets? Seems odd, doesn't it, that AP's would be less durable than the KTTW tickets you get for a week's stay? And you even get a “special” sleeve to keep your AP in:

that was my reaction too when I got mine in Feb!! I was so excited and the CM was 'hummdy ho" about the whole thing. I have to say, though, that paper AP seems to be holding up OK... I wish it was like a GOLD or PLATINUM key to the world card... that would be AWESOME and SO much more appropriate to the Awesomeness that is the AP!!

Now part of the awesomeness that is BCV is that “heading back” is a ~5 min walk.

I so want to stay there

I get up to the podium that says “wait to be seated.” I go up to the CM at the podium and say something like “Hi. Um. It’s just me. Any chance there is some room at the counter?” Ken is the CM at the door to BnC and god bless his heart he says exactly what I need to hear. He says, “JUST you? It’s JUST you? Well, my dear, there is no such thing as “just” you; you are enough all by yourself. Welcome. We’re happy to have you here. Right this way.”

Awwww I'm all teared up!!! How terrific was HE!!! That is why I love Disney... right there... Ken.... how sweet is he????


Great update!! I love the pics... I have yet to make it to that side of the 'world' hmmmmm getting out the blueprints for the plan


Paula

 

[If U Had Wings]

The pics of the Beach club are just beautiful. I had never really thought of staying there, but the pictures are making me change my mind. I especially love the one of the multicolored umbrellas. So pretty!

I'm curious, I know this is probably in your PTR, but I can't rememeber. Are you a DVC owner, or did you rent points or just make a studio reservation through CRO?

It's so good to hear that everything went so smoothly as a solo traveler.

 

[Charleston Princess]

Hurray! You have started your TR!

I love the room and all of the photos you have taken of the Beach Club -- how gorgeous!

You have your real, honest-to-goodness AP now! What a great feeling that must be. I really like your Tables in Wonderland card with the Mary Blair Alice illustration!

What an awesome CM!

 

[askelton]

Is that paper too? The DDE is like a credit card.

I love it!

Ken is the CM at the door to BnC and god bless his heart he says exactly what I need to hear. He says, “JUST you? It’s JUST you? Well, my dear, there is no such thing as “just” you; you are enough all by yourself. Welcome. We’re happy to have you here. Right this way.”

Go Ken! And you too!

 

[2xcited2sleep]

Oh, bless that CM. I got teary eyed reading that. What a perfect start to your solo trip!

Wasn't it just perfect? Unfortunately not all dining experiences were like that.

Awwww...that's so sweet!

I actually took my 1st ever solo trip to WDW in June 08. I was staying at the Yacht Club for a conference, and of course had just returned from a family trip in May, one month earlier. However, I still booked a couple extra days onto the trip for my "solo" trip.

What a wonderful welcome that would have been!!!

Like you, I had the same mixed feelings throughout the trip. One minute being a bit self-conscious traveling solo and missing family, followed by a minute of sheer joy the next moment in being able to do, eat and enjoy the Parks whatever way I wished. And enjoying my big old room all to myself, while not having to worry about waking anyone by coming in at 2am, running to the pool for a quick dip before bed, and then reading until the wee hours of the morning! Heaven!

So I certainly can't wait to hear more from you about all of your solo adventures!

Thanks. I can't wait to tell you about them! Doing what you want when you want is pretty awesome!!!

Hmmmm that would have been the white haired dude from the A-team DH says his name's Hanibal Smith I don't know.... by bro loved that show... I endured it

Oh YES... you are definately invited in on the PLAN.... it's a doozie You;re gonna love it!!

Paula

The A Team! I used to love that show. I watched with my brother too. Don't keep the plan to yourself for too long!

that was my reaction too when I got mine in Feb!! I was so excited and the CM was 'hummdy ho" about the whole thing. I have to say, though, that paper AP seems to be holding up OK... I wish it was like a GOLD or PLATINUM key to the world card... that would be AWESOME and SO much more appropriate to the Awesomeness that is the AP!!

I agree - a platinum card would be appropriate!

I so want to stay there

Well, work it into the plan!

Awwww I'm all teared up!!! How terrific was HE!!! That is why I love Disney... right there... Ken.... how sweet is he????

He really was awesome. He probably has no idea how big of a deal that was for me. How awesome to have a job where you can make that kind of impact and leave such memories!

The pics of the Beach club are just beautiful. I had never really thought of staying there, but the pictures are making me change my mind. I especially love the one of the multicolored umbrellas. So pretty!

I'm curious, I know this is probably in your PTR, but I can't rememeber. Are you a DVC owner, or did you rent points or just make a studio reservation through CRO?

It's so good to hear that everything went so smoothly as a solo traveler.

I am a DVC-wannabe but have not taken the plunge. I am tempted but this economy and recent glimpses of my 401k have me holding off for now. I probably should have rented points but I got carried away with a 40% off code and booked through central reservations. But when I checked in it was like I was DVC -- I got welcomed home and received the latest book of DVC perks and discounts.

Hurray! You have started your TR!

I love the room and all of the photos you have taken of the Beach Club -- how gorgeous!

You have your real, honest-to-goodness AP now! What a great feeling that must be. I really like your Tables in Wonderland card with the Mary Blair Alice illustration!

What an awesome CM!

Yes an official AP holder now. It expires 10/23/09... and I'm plotting like mad to figure out how I can really get my moneys worth. I feel certain it will involve another trip to F&W next October. It was that fun!

Is that paper too? The DDE is like a credit card.

Yes it's paper too. They both make me nervous that I'll lose them b/c they aren't very "substantial."

Go Ken! And you too!

Ken definitely gets kudos. I should write a letter.

 

[wdwgirl03]

OK now I am already excited about our trip in December but seeing all your pictures of the BCV and the surrounding area are making me even more excited! I can't believe we will be there...next month!!! I'm looking forward to more of your adventures!

 

[2xcited2sleep]

So I am sitting at the counter at Beaches n Cream. Feeling empowered. I am enough. All by myself.

I’m not sure what it was but I didn’t take pictures. I was surprised (shocked , really) at how small BnC is. Given the hype it receives on the boards I don’t know how they manage the volume. It is teeny tiny! I think maybe ~5 booths, the same # of small tables and then ~12 seats at the counter. I think I’ve heard rumors of expansion, which seems like it would be $ well spent. I sat at the counter right in front of the grill. Would you believe that even their burger presses have mickey head cut outs? I wanted to take a picture but thought it would be too weird. Despite Ken’s welcome I was still a bit self conscious. The waitress came over and asked if I needed time with the menu… umm…no… 4 months is long enough. So a burger, fries and coke it was.

While waiting for my order Ken sat another male singleton next to me. I am just guessing but I think maybe he was trying to make a match? Or maybe it was the most efficient seating. But anyway this other singleton was not into conversation. But I was reveling in just being there and didn't mind. I enjoyed watching the hustle and bustle of the small open kitchen.

The burger was ready before I knew it and… heaven on a bun. With a side of fries. And some syrupy goodness. So. Freakin’. Yummy.

I gobbled that up and was anxious to get into the parks. I happily turned over my doesn’t-even-seem-like-money KTTW card and was on my way. Unfortunately Ken was with other customers or I would have been sure to thank him again.

So off I was in the direction of World Showcase. I had a celebratory glass of champagne with my name on it just waiting for me!

I don’t know how many times I used the international gateway entrance during my trip but one thing is for sure it NEVER got old! Being able to walk into Epcot from your resort. No buses. And generally minimal lines at the gateway is PRICELESS. As much as I want to try other resorts (esp. Wilderness Lodge!) I know that I will always come back to BC for this reason. Especially during F&W or F&G when there is so much to see in Epcot!I used my AP for the first time (again, no one seemed impressed but me ) and off I went to the champagne booth. I knew exactly where it was, of course. I was tempted w/ a grand marnier slushie but given the overcast clouds I decided to save it for a day when (hopefully!) the sun would be out. So the $11 glass of champagne it was! I had a Disney Rewards card with some Visa points on it and used that. Very convenient. And again, doesn't even seem like $. And in the case of rewards $ it really is like being free... right??

I sipped my champagne and just reveled in being there. In the happy place. I’m sure you know what I’m talking about. And words can hardly do it justice. But it’s that feeling of happiness, familiarity and memories that come rushing back. Even though sitting back in Connecticut I might not be able to conjure up certain images as soon as I saw them I again it was like “oh yeah.” I just love being there. I guess that’s what it comes down to.

So the original plan had me sipping my champagne en route to the monorail to see MK b/c I just felt like I needed to see that on day 1. Slight modification to plans. I really meandered around World Showcase- stopping in some shops, stopping for another drink…

I love the pottery in Morocco!

Funny story about this next photo. I saw it and thought of LL so of course needed to take a photo. As I’m taking it a family walks by with a mom, dad and two teenage boys. I hear one boy say to the other, “dude, she’s taking a picture of the lamp!”

Japan

Italy

At this point it was ~2pm and I’d already had a glass of champagne and a bellini! I knew I’d be back to Italy for dinner at Tutto Italia so I decided I’d better get a move on and head over to the MK so I could get my first view of the castle!

On my way ran into these characters:

Up next: MK in its fall finery!!