As the Ticker Turns~The next chapter of the Resort Changers Saga...*RC trips pg.238

[gwynne]

Good morning RCers!

Well all your prayers and positive thoughts worked. The doctor was able to get all the cancer off of DH's ear on the second try! So now back to his checkups unless he notices something else. His doctor has been really great just telling us to call anytime if we notice anything. This time they got him in on the day he called and then had the surgery scheduled within a week. So his next scheduled face and head treatment is in Oct when he gets back from WDW. Thanks again everyone.

So my grandson called the other night ... he talked to me for over TWO HOURS! He is enjoying the CP .... is still working in the stores at the All Stars. In the next couple of weeks the should be sending out the paperwork for extensions. If he gets excepted he'll be there at least until January if not the program ends in August. He is trying to pull some strings to transfer to HS in August to either a shop or an attraction.

Now after all that rambling what I wanted to tell you all was that he told me that AoA is amazing and he's so jealous that he isn't working there. He loves the store .... starts out all black and white and as you advance in further begins to get more colorful. So I may need to add a day at the end of my Oct trip at POP so I can walk across the bridge and see for myself!

Hope everyone is having a great day!

Hi GG,So glad things went well with your DH.
That is wonderful that your grandson is enjoying working at Disney. Hope he is able to extend!
I keep hearing AoA is amazing. So many resorts, so little time...

 

[chimo2u]

Hi PAS welcome back!!! glad you had a great trip, sorry to hear you got hope you are all back to normal quickly!
you didn't miss much with me.....I am still sticking to POLY CL, but.....I am now all PIF so that's my good news! it feels nice! I truly think free dining x 4 is our best discount... It saves us a bundle!
all I need now is to save another $1500 for spending money and I am done :good vibes three months and a half to get it done!

My BFF is driving me a little batty by saying can't we save money why so expensive? Do we need taxis, tips, etc....???? I am the one paying the majority of this trip! When it comes to holidays I hate to scrimp and be a Scrooge......so yes, I have a little higher spending money budget, but that's just because I'd rather be safe than sorry! besides who wants to say NO on holiday???! I can see a little dilemma on our trip, cause my BFF does not believe in tipping at all.....I can't see walking out of a TS restaurant and not tipping, especially Cali Grill!! so I guess I'm the one who'll be handling that side of things! She doesn't get why I feel obligated......but I do, even moreso at Disney because they treat us so well! She's a WONDERFUL gal, and a great friend, but just has this steadfast conviction against tipping....I don't hold it against her, as everyone's views on that are different and each is entitled to their own, I am not one to judge at all.....I'll just discreetly be sure to leave something for our poor servers!!

MM: WOOHOO for 39 days!!! It's getting close now! I must admit, I am a little sad I won't be getting your POLY review/ thoughts, but I agree I think WL will suit your family perfectly! I think you'll love it there......I've never stayed, but AKL is my family's current favorite resort, and I know WL has muchof the same wow factor/ appeal....plus e same peson designed both resorts! The lobby at WL sure wows when you walk in as does AKL! perhaps I'll try WL one day, I think it would be the perfect Christmas resort.....if I can ever work up the nerve to go at that time!

Janet: Happy belated BD to your DD, I agree.....as they get older time goes so fast! That's why this last trip with my boys will be so special and will give me memories to carry on into my future! Cherish the time with your beautiful teen

Happy Hump Day to my RCer family! I hope you all have a wonderful Wednesday!

~ Marie

 

[pas130]

So no pics uploaded yet (no pics from the first 3 days since I needed a new memory card Only me.....

our janet was kind enough to put up with my "where are we now texts"

The ride down, DH drove straight thru...no traffic, kiddos slept the night away...in the morning I drove maybe 2 hours...got to cross the Fla. border get my OJ...then around Jacksonville I stopped for milkshakes and DH had a fit and insisted he drive (he said they would make a mess (they didn't)

Arrived at POP a little before 3pm...rooms not ready, CM at check in was not so friendly, I got a little 'tude on, and a manager got us 2 ready rooms (then I felt guilty for being angry and started to cry) we were upgraded to preferred. Pop was great! I am glad we saved the money. We never went to the parks....it was HOT! Mid 90s til Monday I think. Not July/August hot, but melting hot/humid. No rain so lots of Pool time. Day 1 Hippy Dippy Pool....food court for dinner Lo Mein & pizza...cheesecakes & Mickey Ice cream for dessert

5pm MIL passed out in bed...kids asleep by 8pm...DH & I took a walk, had some Mango Margaritas....very yummy...enjoyed the walk around te lake and checked out AoA. It's coming together nicely!

Day 2...come on guys let's go to MK...no...no they wanted Bowling pin pool...HRH & I went over to the GF, had a snack, and walked hand & hand in the lobby. We shared a coffee (yep she likes coffee) went back to Pop just in time...before we left DH pointed out smoke from the pool to one of the lifeguards...soon after helicopters were all over. I honestly thought nothing of it. On the bus ride back the driver mentioned a large brush fire right off of I4 and they were closing down the road..weliterally watched the traffic pile up...but we made it back to Pop....imagine closing a busy road at 5pm on a Friday before Memorial Day Back we went...to computer pool then hippy dippy! The grounds were beautiful, plenty of flowers for my girls...quiet. FANTASTIC!!! Booked a BB for August to Pop $69/nt....now DH wants the beach for August...we will see. It WILL be super duper hot...ugh. dunno

Saturday...check in Lake Buena Vista Resort & Spa...I paid about $100/nt and didn't expect much. No check in before 3pm...so off to SeaWorld. LOVED it! So many more rides than I remember, the Shamu show isn't what it used to be, but it was great nonetheless...I guess after the "trainer incident" Who knows. Did stingray feeding, and dolphin feeding...Excellent!

Went back to check in. condo was huge, did some laundry...bought some beer & wine...pool was great but cold. In a shaded area, zero entry, cool pirate slide...but getting out...brrrrr. All good. Honestly my only issue. There was a cool whirlpool with a light that changes colors in the master BR so all the kids had a turn!

Next day...back to SeaWorld..they offer buy 1 get 1..beware if you do this you have to activate it before you leave 1st day and everyone needs ID. a good idea so no scamming but....I was hot and ddn't expect it...I had to do 8 passes after all...hee hee. You need 2 days to really enjoy Seaworld..We paid $6 more for preferred parking...money well spent..rain that evening as we left Beryl I think. VERY short walk to the Pasmobile !

Next Day...Katie's Birthday! Checked in RPR, very pretty..HRH said like the Poly but brighter. We got our express passes, and went to lunch. Had the worst waiter ever. Food was very yummy. Spoke to a manager, just said, I think the food is great here, but that it was one of the worst services I've ever had...long wait...I mean an hour long for food. My kids were so good...and I was disappointed as wehad plans to take the birthday girl for dinner and I couldn't as she just ate lunch...Plus the mandatory large party 18% tip...ugh. As I put my credit card away and heard the waiter say he comped the drinks for the inconvience..at this point DH was like...whatever just go away. Suddenly the manager brought Katie cake, ice cream, balloons, a candy bouquet...Nice! (we got an email from them Friday apologizing again...nice service recovery) So off to Universal...but Katie wanted ice cream with Daddy (RPR gave Katie a certificate for a free dessert since it was her birthday when we checked in) After ice cream Katie & Dad met us at IoA...our rooms had the comfiest beds EVER!we were 3rd floor same as lobby, and Tower 3..closest to the pool. The kids club there is open for Arts & crafts, movies, snacks, so the kiddos really liked to stop in there too.

I was able to go out to City Walk with DH one night. Loved the boat ride there! Even after fireworks NO WAIT for a boat!!! Express Passes....WDW needs to step up their game..just saying...so daily I checked for any CL openings finally...CL opened up. But at HRH...OK why not...CL was truly all we needed to feed the family, and at 90 bucks a meal, we saved money upgrading!

Pool slide was cool..ALL the girls did the slide. Liked I could see all the kids all the time unlike RPR &PBH pool. But I kept getting lost, and the lobby was too loud and busy for us. We liked our serenity and peacefulness at RPR. HRH is cool though, very cool. Just not our cup of tea. Plus Katie got sick...and the Pasfection begins...

Overall I am teetering on crossing over to the darkside....I almost handed over my RC crown. I love WDW but US/IoA as a resort has more to offer for the Pas family...hoping GF will capture my heart back. August is up in the air....maybe Pop, RPR, beach...

Ask my kiddos their favorite part of vacation....the beach!

The "real beach you can swim in" DD5 sweet words. Myrtle beach was amazing, weather was perfect. Another huge condo with a HUGE oceanview balcony!

Despite 4 of the kids getting sick, (and me) vacation rocked! I couldn't have asked for a more perfect trip...OK RPR CL maybe

 

[Grumpy Grandma]

Jeanette a few little glitches but overall it sounds like a wonderful vacation! You can't give up your RC crown .... now you have just added a few more resorts to change too!

 

[pas130]

Well all your prayers and positive thoughts worked. The doctor was able to get all the cancer off of DH's ear on the second try! So now back to his checkups unless he notices something else. His doctor has been really great just telling us to call anytime if we notice anything. This time they got him in on the day he called and then had the surgery scheduled within a week. So his next scheduled face and head treatment is in Oct when he gets back from WDW. Thanks again everyone.

So my grandson called the other night ... he talked to me for over TWO HOURS! He is enjoying the CP .... is still working in the stores at the All Stars. In the next couple of weeks the should be sending out the paperwork for extensions. If he gets excepted he'll be there at least until January if not the program ends in August. He is trying to pull some strings to transfer to HS in August to either a shop or an attraction.

Now after all that rambling what I wanted to tell you all was that he told me that AoA is amazing and he's so jealous that he isn't working there. He loves the store .... starts out all black and white and as you advance in further begins to get more colorful. So I may need to add a day at the end of my Oct trip at POP so I can walk across the bridge and see for myself!

Hope everyone is having a great day!

Yay for DH & my apopted nephew (AoA does look amazing...even just from across the lake

Hi PAS welcome back!!! glad you had a great trip, sorry to hear you got hope you are all back to normal quickly!
you didn't miss much with me.....I am still sticking to POLY CL, but.....I am now all PIF so that's my good news! it feels nice! I truly think free dining x 4 is our best discount... It saves us a bundle!
all I need now is to save another $1500 for spending money and I am done :good vibes three months and a half to get it done!

My BFF is driving me a little batty by saying can't we save money why so expensive? Do we need taxis, tips, etc....???? I am the one paying the majority of this trip! When it comes to holidays I hate to scrimp and be a Scrooge......so yes, I have a little higher spending money budget, but that's just because I'd rather be safe than sorry! besides who wants to say NO on holiday???! I can see a little dilemma on our trip, cause my BFF does not believe in tipping at all.....I can't see walking out of a TS restaurant and not tipping, especially Cali Grill!! so I guess I'm the one who'll be handling that side of things! She doesn't get why I feel obligated......but I do, even moreso at Disney because they treat us so well! She's a WONDERFUL gal, and a great friend, but just has this steadfast conviction against tipping....I don't hold it against her, as everyone's views on that are different and each is entitled to their own, I am not one to judge at all.....I'll just discreetly be sure to leave something for our poor servers!!


~ Marie

No tipping, oh boy Marie...another expense for you...MIL picked up a least one meal a day for us...and we did QS fast food most of the time..but even fast food Orlando style is 50 bucks for the 8 of us.

Jeanette a few little glitches but overall it sounds like a wonderful vacation! You can't give up your RC crown .... now you have just added a few more resorts to change too!

Not even glitches Mama Linda....vacation was great. Even from GF didn't feel the "pull of the castle" So now I've added offsite & Loews resorts...I will need so much help with the August trip....maybe WL.... And I did entertain the thought of NYE at WDW the drive wasn't bad...for me anyway

 

[Grumpy Grandma]

Yay for DH & my apopted nephew (AoA does look amazing...even just from across the lake


No tipping, oh boy Marie...another expense for you...MIL picked up a least one meal a day for us...and we did QS fast food most of the time..but even fast food Orlando style is 50 bucks for the 8 of us.


Not even glitches Mama Linda....vacation was great. Even from GF didn't feel the "pull of the castle" So now I've added offsite & Loews resorts...I will need so much help with the August trip....maybe WL.... And I did entertain the thought of NYE at WDW the drive wasn't bad...for me anyway

I spend about half my time staying offsite in timeshares .... all the Marriotts are nice and I've also enjoyed the Sheraton. Sometimes it's nice to have all that room. And I do enjoy the cost .... so much cheaper! How long and what are your dates in August? And how many people????

 

[pas130]

I spend about half my time staying offsite in timeshares .... all the Marriotts are nice and I've also enjoyed the Sheraton. Sometimes it's nice to have all that room. And I do enjoy the cost .... so much cheaper! How long and what are your dates in August? And how many people????

DH & I~ 9th to the 12th

 

[jennyjinx3]

So no pics uploaded yet (no pics from the first 3 days since I needed a new memory card Only me.....

our janet was kind enough to put up with my "where are we now texts"

The ride down, DH drove straight thru...no traffic, kiddos slept the night away...in the morning I drove maybe 2 hours...got to cross the Fla. border get my OJ...then around Jacksonville I stopped for milkshakes and DH had a fit and insisted he drive (he said they would make a mess (they didn't)

Arrived at POP a little before 3pm...rooms not ready, CM at check in was not so friendly, I got a little 'tude on, and a manager got us 2 ready rooms (then I felt guilty for being angry and started to cry) we were upgraded to preferred. Pop was great! I am glad we saved the money. We never went to the parks....it was HOT! Mid 90s til Monday I think. Not July/August hot, but melting hot/humid. No rain so lots of Pool time. Day 1 Hippy Dippy Pool....food court for dinner Lo Mein & pizza...cheesecakes & Mickey Ice cream for dessert

5pm MIL passed out in bed...kids asleep by 8pm...DH & I took a walk, had some Mango Margaritas....very yummy...enjoyed the walk around te lake and checked out AoA. It's coming together nicely!

Day 2...come on guys let's go to MK...no...no they wanted Bowling pin pool...HRH & I went over to the GF, had a snack, and walked hand & hand in the lobby. We shared a coffee (yep she likes coffee) went back to Pop just in time...before we left DH pointed out smoke from the pool to one of the lifeguards...soon after helicopters were all over. I honestly thought nothing of it. On the bus ride back the driver mentioned a large brush fire right off of I4 and they were closing down the road..weliterally watched the traffic pile up...but we made it back to Pop....imagine closing a busy road at 5pm on a Friday before Memorial Day Back we went...to computer pool then hippy dippy! The grounds were beautiful, plenty of flowers for my girls...quiet. FANTASTIC!!! Booked a BB for August to Pop $69/nt....now DH wants the beach for August...we will see. It WILL be super duper hot...ugh. dunno

Saturday...check in Lake Buena Vista Resort & Spa...I paid about $100/nt and didn't expect much. No check in before 3pm...so off to SeaWorld. LOVED it! So many more rides than I remember, the Shamu show isn't what it used to be, but it was great nonetheless...I guess after the "trainer incident" Who knows. Did stingray feeding, and dolphin feeding...Excellent!

Went back to check in. condo was huge, did some laundry...bought some beer & wine...pool was great but cold. In a shaded area, zero entry, cool pirate slide...but getting out...brrrrr. All good. Honestly my only issue. There was a cool whirlpool with a light that changes colors in the master BR so all the kids had a turn!

Next day...back to SeaWorld..they offer buy 1 get 1..beware if you do this you have to activate it before you leave 1st day and everyone needs ID. a good idea so no scamming but....I was hot and ddn't expect it...I had to do 8 passes after all...hee hee. You need 2 days to really enjoy Seaworld..We paid $6 more for preferred parking...money well spent..rain that evening as we left Beryl I think. VERY short walk to the Pasmobile !

Next Day...Katie's Birthday! Checked in RPR, very pretty..HRH said like the Poly but brighter. We got our express passes, and went to lunch. Had the worst waiter ever. Food was very yummy. Spoke to a manager, just said, I think the food is great here, but that it was one of the worst services I've ever had...long wait...I mean an hour long for food. My kids were so good...and I was disappointed as wehad plans to take the birthday girl for dinner and I couldn't as she just ate lunch...Plus the mandatory large party 18% tip...ugh. As I put my credit card away and heard the waiter say he comped the drinks for the inconvience..at this point DH was like...whatever just go away. Suddenly the manager brought Katie cake, ice cream, balloons, a candy bouquet...Nice! (we got an email from them Friday apologizing again...nice service recovery) So off to Universal...but Katie wanted ice cream with Daddy (RPR gave Katie a certificate for a free dessert since it was her birthday when we checked in) After ice cream Katie & Dad met us at IoA...our rooms had the comfiest beds EVER!we were 3rd floor same as lobby, and Tower 3..closest to the pool. The kids club there is open for Arts & crafts, movies, snacks, so the kiddos really liked to stop in there too.

I was able to go out to City Walk with DH one night. Loved the boat ride there! Even after fireworks NO WAIT for a boat!!! Express Passes....WDW needs to step up their game..just saying...so daily I checked for any CL openings finally...CL opened up. But at HRH...OK why not...CL was truly all we needed to feed the family, and at 90 bucks a meal, we saved money upgrading!

Pool slide was cool..ALL the girls did the slide. Liked I could see all the kids all the time unlike RPR &PBH pool. But I kept getting lost, and the lobby was too loud and busy for us. We liked our serenity and peacefulness at RPR. HRH is cool though, very cool. Just not our cup of tea. Plus Katie got sick...and the Pasfection begins...

Overall I am teetering on crossing over to the darkside....I almost handed over my RC crown. I love WDW but US/IoA as a resort has more to offer for the Pas family...hoping GF will capture my heart back. August is up in the air....maybe Pop, RPR, beach...

Ask my kiddos their favorite part of vacation....the beach!

The "real beach you can swim in" DD5 sweet words. Myrtle beach was amazing, weather was perfect. Another huge condo with a HUGE oceanview balcony!

Despite 4 of the kids getting sick, (and me) vacation rocked! I couldn't have asked for a more perfect trip...OK RPR CL maybe

Nice little trip report!! A friend of ours is always trying to persuade us to try Myrtle Beach, and I admit it does sound amazing!! We could drive there too...hmmmm..someday! Glad you are feeling better. $69 / night at POP? Jeez we could get two rooms there and still pay less than half of what we are paying at the Poly!!! That's ok....10th anniversary is worth it

 

[amandaw]

Pas: I'm so happy to hear that y'all had such a nice trip! Even if y'all did get sick. The only Universal hotel we've ever stayed at is HRH. We loved it! I may have to try some of the others one day. I'm thinking about starting at Universal for a couple of days & then moving to WDW for our 2014 trip.

 

[Mousemommy1]

Marie~ I am very, very excited!!! We are starting to pile things in a corner that will eventually end up in suitcases!!! Again, I am sure you will have an amazing time at the Poly. I was thinking about asking mgmt there to see a room while we are there at some point.

Jeanette~ Your trip sounds wonderful, glad everyone had a great time, other than the illness.

Jenny~ Yes! Your 10th anniversary is worth it!!! Our actual 10 year anniversary is next Friday!!!! We are going away for a night down to Foxwoods casino in CT!!! We are pretty excited abou that, but our real celebration is our WL CL trip!!! Yeah, its alot of $$ but worth it!!!

On another note, my sister had her c-section today at 12:30!!! I haven't heard from my mom yet, but can't wait to post details!!!

 

[LynnTH]

Hi everyone. I am not a Resort Changer as I have not booked my resort yet. I am a resort undecider... that's where I need help.

Here is the plan. Going to Disney 2013 end of May, Early June for 9-10 nights. Have been every other year for past 12 years or so. 1st years kids were little and I didn't know much and we stayed at all the Values. Then I found the Dis and found out about renting DVC Points. Last 3 trips were at AKV and BWV. All were great.

This time it will be my family - Me, DH, DS14, DD12 and going with Sister-in-law and her 2 kids DS11 and DD8. They have never been. Looking to keep costs reasonable but still do things right.

I really wanted to stay at the Beach Club Villas this time but they are too pricey. It would be about $1800 for 10 night if renting points. So, even though this is my dream place am ruling this out as it is too much for Sis in law. (She is newly divorced but has a good job).

So, reading the threads about Bonnet Creek and how that looks really nice and we could get a 2 Bedroom Room for about $1400 (so $700 each). That is a great deal. And my sis-in-law is leaning towards this. She is not a Disney Fanatic like me so any place to stay is fine for them. Kids don't know any different either.

But, I do know the difference and am having a hard time not staying on Disney Property. I don't mind the busses. I like not having to think about transportation. I like taking advantage of the EMH especially since we will be there in hot weather (we have only gone in March in the past) and may need to take breaks (have not done that before) and then go back to the parks in the evening. I like having my key and tickets on one card and being able to just charge everything to the room and pay that. Also, like the Mara and the refillable Mugs (Ok - So, I'm a fountain pop-aholic). So, those are the reasons I love staying on property. (Would have loved walking/boating to Epcot and DHS but that is not to be...)

So, if I can rent points from the same lady I have in the past I can get a AKV Value Studio for 10 nights for about $1000. To me it seems like a no brainer to stay here again instead of off site. I know the room is smaller but then each family would have their own room. I'm not really up for cooking on vaction so the kitchenette in the villas would be fine for breakfast.

Would like to hear any other perspectives before I try to convice sis-in-law this would be best. (She lives in Georgia and is driving. We are in MN so are flying but then would have to rent a car if staying offsite...well, we wouldn't have to but it would be easier).

Help!!!

 

[peeputt]

Yup another resort changer here
We wanted to go back to POFQ when the free dining offer 1st came out but it was booked up so we talked about it and decided to splurge since it's our 15th Anniversary and stay at a deluxe for the 1st time. We booked ALK months ago. Just last week we were talking and decided to see if they had any rooms with free dining come available over at POFQ and sure enough they had one, and we ended up saving $850.00! WOOT!
We just couldn't justify the extra cost, and money is VERY TIGHT!
But that's fine because we just LOVE POFQ anyway! It feels like our home away from home!



Besides resort changing I am one heck of a terrible ADR changer as well!

 

[WDWKOOK]

Just read this week's AllEars. Read about AoA and watched the video of the FS! Looks like fun. Your DD could have her own bathroom AND a choice of the Murphy bed or the pull out couch! I also looked at the menus, some things look very yummy...and they have Mickey Waffes for breakfast Go for it!

I love all the "exotic" menu options and that you used FS


http://www.wdwinfo.com/wdwinfo/dining/diningdetail.cfm?Restaurant.ID=606

I'll be patiently waiting. I won't believe it until I see it...the Queen of Club Level NOT staying club level????

I see what you're doing, you're challenging me to book AoA - you don't think I'd do it, huh? Well, we shall see (you might be right...)

I say go book AoA, Kook! I would stay at AoA, but DBF doesn't want to stay in The Little Mermaid room.

Cars is my favorite - wouldn't he like that?

Good Morning RCs!!

Love the beach photo!

11 days??!! Yep...you will! When we were there the last time, the kids were still getting up really early, so I would take a book & coffee...sit in a lounge chair and let them play....it was And since you're an early morning riser like me...make sure you take time to walk around when the sun is coming up....soooooooo beautiful!!! Y'all will really like WL!! DH says it is probably his favorite in terms of atmosphere...he loves the boat ride over to MK, too. Ya know we are huge monorail idiots, and Bill has always said that if the monorail ran through WL, he would be there every time. The CMs there are super friendly, also...very welcoming. They make you feel right at home. In fact, when DS10 was looking for Hidden Mickeys, one of the CMs stopped what he was doing and spent about 15 minutes with Stephen showing him the places to search and explaining the significance of Hidden Mickeys. Are you going to do Whispering Canyon or Artist Point? AP is on our list to try...one day.

Ok...let me stop blabbing about WL.....it's just such a great resort that I can't help myself

Blabbing? About WL? Not possible! Blab all you want

Kook - I also really want to try AofA. I think we would love the extra space. I have two problems though - 1) since its a value, the FD discount only gives you QS and 2) I haven't been able to get an answer on the comfort of the murphy bed.

I think someone posted on the AoA thread that one of the extra beds wasn't very comfortable and the "bedspread" on the queen was as stiff as a board and awful.

Kook I love the looks of AOA and the food selections at the resort sound amazing. I vote yes too

You're all making this so hard - I'm feeling the pressure

Basketlacey here is my two cents. If having a daybed is important I would book a stay at someplace where it is guaranteed. BC has too may ifs.. You are suppose to be given a room with a daybed "if" you are a family of 5

You may or may not get a balcony.

As far as SAB and the water parks when we stayed at YC we went to TL and only used the quiet pool as SAB was too loud(noisy) and too busy to make it enjoyable

ITA with Sheila on BC - go for the guarantee - no worries then.

OK...what did Deena do Missed you too

My thought on AoA Do it! As someone a little nervous to go back to a value (and who cringes at the though of a Deluxe without CL) I loved Pop! And from what I saw across the bridge...very cool! You can job along the lake...me thinks...you'll like...but will you and DH end up in the living room...or will DD do the Inova bed

Maybe this was before you left? Seems our HDDKR gal is pullin' up stakes and movin' on down to O-Land-O. I was vicariously living through her and hoping she'd work at WDW. I thought BBB would have been perfect.

WDWKOOK:[/B] I also can't wait to stay AoA FS -- Cars. As for burgers... we had burgers and shakes last time we stayed at POP because we heard the shakes were awesome. Shakes WERE good but the burgers were bad. Maybe due to the later hour but hopefully that shoe-leather taste and dryness doesn't apply to AoA quality. PS -- I can't wait to try the Innova Table Bed. I looked into them 10 yrs ago for my home office, but since they were still a very small company, it would have cost thousands $$ to ship it to FL. More than the cost of the bed.

I really like Cars the best, too and it's the least "flashy" and a little easier on the eyes.

I LOVE a good shake, well, even a bad one would be fine. I don't eat burgers often though, so a good one is essential if it's going down my gullet.

Can you drive to an Innova dealer and haul it home in a mail truck?

I am pretty darn good! Just got off the phone with CRO....no availability RPC with the BB offer for my HRH & I trip...but you know with the 35% off that's a lot of snacks I can buy my little Princess

She's back, baby! If you're calling CRO then you're feeling much better and I can stop worrying - as much. Don't give-up on RPC - I hear that people CANCEL all the time

WELCOME BACK JEANETTE!!!
I hope you had a great time, and we are happy to have you back!!! Small recap---I'm staying at Mystic Dunes in a 1BR villa with W/D, Jacuzzi, full Kitchen for $481 which is a steal for 5 nights, got a great rate at Dollar rental cars with GPS and Toll Pass, Added Economy Comfort to my flight. I'll be looking at about 15 places give or take--we just added more last night. I know I'm eating at Via Napoli on Sunday night, but will probably do quick service the rest of the time--except for maybe Fulton's. I love Fulton's.

Kook.... Canceling AoA for October broke my heart. I want to stay there soooooooooooooo bad. I'm thinking that I may stay there for New Years Eve so we don't have to drive. I think it'll be fun!!

I did 2 updates to my TR yesterday... but I think it fell to page 2, lol. Have a great day everyone!!

"WE just added"? Are you going with DH? I'll just bet you'll be staying at AoA soon. I am off to read your TR update

Thanks everyone for the warm welcomes. I am off work today and going to sit at my computer and feed my Disney addiction. My hubby doesn't get it, but that's okay, as long as he lets me indulge. I've taken him to WDW once and he was so overwhelmed since he was expecting a Six Flags type park and experience, lol. Although not a Disney lover (gasp!) He's agreed to return and he wants to stay at the AKL. We stayed at ASMu and really enjoyed it but when we had dinner at Boma at the Animal Kingdom Lodge, he turned to me and said, "This is where we should have stayed!" so I made a decision that our next trip we would spend at least 1 night at AKL. Now it's a matter of budgeting. The values fit my budget best as we are also saving to buy our first ever house, but DH is more of a pool lounger and drink sipper and would rather be kicked back at the resort than in the parks, so I thought a deluxe would be better suited for him, and I wouldn't complain either about staying deluxe. Too bad they don't offer a "hotel flight" so you could stay in several over 1 trip.

You can always book split stays and have room-only bookings for each resort. Splits are lots of fun and Disney makes it very easy to do.

Good morning RCers!

Well all your prayers and positive thoughts worked. The doctor was able to get all the cancer off of DH's ear on the second try! So now back to his checkups unless he notices something else. His doctor has been really great just telling us to call anytime if we notice anything. This time they got him in on the day he called and then had the surgery scheduled within a week. So his next scheduled face and head treatment is in Oct when he gets back from WDW. Thanks again everyone.

So my grandson called the other night ... he talked to me for over TWO HOURS! He is enjoying the CP .... is still working in the stores at the All Stars. In the next couple of weeks the should be sending out the paperwork for extensions. If he gets excepted he'll be there at least until January if not the program ends in August. He is trying to pull some strings to transfer to HS in August to either a shop or an attraction.

Now after all that rambling what I wanted to tell you all was that he told me that AoA is amazing and he's so jealous that he isn't working there. He loves the store .... starts out all black and white and as you advance in further begins to get more colorful. So I may need to add a day at the end of my Oct trip at POP so I can walk across the bridge and see for myself!

Hope everyone is having a great day!

Great news about DH, GG! That is so neat that your DGS works at WDW. I hope he gets the extension. Would he like to work there after he graduates?

So no pics uploaded yet (no pics from the first 3 days since I needed a new memory card Only me.....

our janet was kind enough to put up with my "where are we now texts"

The ride down, DH drove straight thru...no traffic, kiddos slept the night away...in the morning I drove maybe 2 hours...got to cross the Fla. border get my OJ...then around Jacksonville I stopped for milkshakes and DH had a fit and insisted he drive (he said they would make a mess (they didn't)

Arrived at POP a little before 3pm...rooms not ready, CM at check in was not so friendly, I got a little 'tude on, and a manager got us 2 ready rooms (then I felt guilty for being angry and started to cry) we were upgraded to preferred. Pop was great! I am glad we saved the money. We never went to the parks....it was HOT! Mid 90s til Monday I think. Not July/August hot, but melting hot/humid. No rain so lots of Pool time. Day 1 Hippy Dippy Pool....food court for dinner Lo Mein & pizza...cheesecakes & Mickey Ice cream for dessert

5pm MIL passed out in bed...kids asleep by 8pm...DH & I took a walk, had some Mango Margaritas....very yummy...enjoyed the walk around te lake and checked out AoA. It's coming together nicely!

Day 2...come on guys let's go to MK...no...no they wanted Bowling pin pool...HRH & I went over to the GF, had a snack, and walked hand & hand in the lobby. We shared a coffee (yep she likes coffee) went back to Pop just in time...before we left DH pointed out smoke from the pool to one of the lifeguards...soon after helicopters were all over. I honestly thought nothing of it. On the bus ride back the driver mentioned a large brush fire right off of I4 and they were closing down the road..weliterally watched the traffic pile up...but we made it back to Pop....imagine closing a busy road at 5pm on a Friday before Memorial Day Back we went...to computer pool then hippy dippy! The grounds were beautiful, plenty of flowers for my girls...quiet. FANTASTIC!!! Booked a BB for August to Pop $69/nt....now DH wants the beach for August...we will see. It WILL be super duper hot...ugh. dunno

Saturday...check in Lake Buena Vista Resort & Spa...I paid about $100/nt and didn't expect much. No check in before 3pm...so off to SeaWorld. LOVED it! So many more rides than I remember, the Shamu show isn't what it used to be, but it was great nonetheless...I guess after the "trainer incident" Who knows. Did stingray feeding, and dolphin feeding...Excellent!

Went back to check in. condo was huge, did some laundry...bought some beer & wine...pool was great but cold. In a shaded area, zero entry, cool pirate slide...but getting out...brrrrr. All good. Honestly my only issue. There was a cool whirlpool with a light that changes colors in the master BR so all the kids had a turn!

Next day...back to SeaWorld..they offer buy 1 get 1..beware if you do this you have to activate it before you leave 1st day and everyone needs ID. a good idea so no scamming but....I was hot and ddn't expect it...I had to do 8 passes after all...hee hee. You need 2 days to really enjoy Seaworld..We paid $6 more for preferred parking...money well spent..rain that evening as we left Beryl I think. VERY short walk to the Pasmobile !

Next Day...Katie's Birthday! Checked in RPR, very pretty..HRH said like the Poly but brighter. We got our express passes, and went to lunch. Had the worst waiter ever. Food was very yummy. Spoke to a manager, just said, I think the food is great here, but that it was one of the worst services I've ever had...long wait...I mean an hour long for food. My kids were so good...and I was disappointed as wehad plans to take the birthday girl for dinner and I couldn't as she just ate lunch...Plus the mandatory large party 18% tip...ugh. As I put my credit card away and heard the waiter say he comped the drinks for the inconvience..at this point DH was like...whatever just go away. Suddenly the manager brought Katie cake, ice cream, balloons, a candy bouquet...Nice! (we got an email from them Friday apologizing again...nice service recovery) So off to Universal...but Katie wanted ice cream with Daddy (RPR gave Katie a certificate for a free dessert since it was her birthday when we checked in) After ice cream Katie & Dad met us at IoA...our rooms had the comfiest beds EVER!we were 3rd floor same as lobby, and Tower 3..closest to the pool. The kids club there is open for Arts & crafts, movies, snacks, so the kiddos really liked to stop in there too.

I was able to go out to City Walk with DH one night. Loved the boat ride there! Even after fireworks NO WAIT for a boat!!! Express Passes....WDW needs to step up their game..just saying...so daily I checked for any CL openings finally...CL opened up. But at HRH...OK why not...CL was truly all we needed to feed the family, and at 90 bucks a meal, we saved money upgrading!

Pool slide was cool..ALL the girls did the slide. Liked I could see all the kids all the time unlike RPR &PBH pool. But I kept getting lost, and the lobby was too loud and busy for us. We liked our serenity and peacefulness at RPR. HRH is cool though, very cool. Just not our cup of tea. Plus Katie got sick...and the Pasfection begins...

Overall I am teetering on crossing over to the darkside....I almost handed over my RC crown. I love WDW but US/IoA as a resort has more to offer for the Pas family...hoping GF will capture my heart back. August is up in the air....maybe Pop, RPR, beach...

Ask my kiddos their favorite part of vacation....the beach!

The "real beach you can swim in" DD5 sweet words. Myrtle beach was amazing, weather was perfect. Another huge condo with a HUGE oceanview balcony!

Despite 4 of the kids getting sick, (and me) vacation rocked! I couldn't have asked for a more perfect trip...OK RPR CL maybe

Thank you for updating us on your trip - I loved it - even w/o photos. You will never be allowed to relinquish your RC crown - no way. You still have at least two WDW trips booked? Everything you say makes perfect sense for your family and I think it's great you're willing to accommodate everyone's likes and dislikes, which are probably ever-evolving. I want to hear all about your past and future family vacations, no matter where there are

 

[Grumpy Grandma]

Hi everyone. I am not a Resort Changer as I have not booked my resort yet. I am a resort undecider... that's where I need help.

Here is the plan. Going to Disney 2013 end of May, Early June for 9-10 nights. Have been every other year for past 12 years or so. 1st years kids were little and I didn't know much and we stayed at all the Values. Then I found the Dis and found out about renting DVC Points. Last 3 trips were at AKV and BWV. All were great.

This time it will be my family - Me, DH, DS14, DD12 and going with Sister-in-law and her 2 kids DS11 and DD8. They have never been. Looking to keep costs reasonable but still do things right.

I really wanted to stay at the Beach Club Villas this time but they are too pricey. It would be about $1800 for 10 night if renting points. So, even though this is my dream place am ruling this out as it is too much for Sis in law. (She is newly divorced but has a good job).

So, reading the threads about Bonnet Creek and how that looks really nice and we could get a 2 Bedroom Room for about $1400 (so $700 each). That is a great deal. And my sis-in-law is leaning towards this. She is not a Disney Fanatic like me so any place to stay is fine for them. Kids don't know any different either.

But, I do know the difference and am having a hard time not staying on Disney Property. I don't mind the busses. I like not having to think about transportation. I like taking advantage of the EMH especially since we will be there in hot weather (we have only gone in March in the past) and may need to take breaks (have not done that before) and then go back to the parks in the evening. I like having my key and tickets on one card and being able to just charge everything to the room and pay that. Also, like the Mara and the refillable Mugs (Ok - So, I'm a fountain pop-aholic). So, those are the reasons I love staying on property. (Would have loved walking/boating to Epcot and DHS but that is not to be...)

So, if I can rent points from the same lady I have in the past I can get a AKV Value Studio for 10 nights for about $1000. To me it seems like a no brainer to stay here again instead of off site. I know the room is smaller but then each family would have their own room. I'm not really up for cooking on vaction so the kitchenette in the villas would be fine for breakfast.

Would like to hear any other perspectives before I try to convice sis-in-law this would be best. (She lives in Georgia and is driving. We are in MN so are flying but then would have to rent a car if staying offsite...well, we wouldn't have to but it would be easier).

Help!!!

I stayed at Bonnet Creek in a 1 bedroom for a week. It is a beautiful resort. I used there shuttle service which worked great for me. the only problem is that there is a break mid day when there are no shuttles going back and forth so if you are planning to take breaks that is something to think about ... I was there in Jan/Feb so maybe in the busier months that wouldn't be the case.

Have you thought about OKW? The studios have two beds instead of a bed and a foldout couch. OKW is also the cheapest number of points. It's been about 4 years since I've stayed there. I believe since then the resort has had a refurb. I'll be there for 4 nights in Oct. This might be an option to keep the cost down and still be on site.

I've stayed in all the DVC studios except BLT .... only visited family there. If you look at my ticker you'll see that on my next trip I'll be at BWV, AKV (Jambo), VWL, and OKW .... all in a studio. If there's anything else I can help you with let me know. Also I would suggest subbing to the threads about the resorts you are considering ... lots of good info there.

 

[Grumpy Grandma]

Sheila yes my DGS wants to work at WDW after graduation. If he gets his extension he'll begin working on establishing himself as a FL resident. He told me that he has no desire to come back to CA so I guess I'll just have to go there to see him.

 

[hstrickland]

Pas...thanks for the mini TR! We have never taken the kids to Universal...could be a possibility in the near future. By the way... you are scaring me..."crossing over to the dark side"..."giving up your RC crown"....DON'T DO IT!! Say it isn't so!

Grumpy G...so glad to hear the good news!!! I know y'all are relieved to say the least.

Luv...yep...we will be there the 20th -24th. Good luck looking for places to live! (you did say your were looking to move, right?) My DH was born and raised in Orlando...I lived there for 5 years before I dragged him back to Georgia with me

Lynn & Peeputt.... You're certainly in the right place!!!

Marie...No tipping, huh?....You sound like a good friend! Your trip will be fine, and hopefully your BFF will understand why you spend the extra money....Disney will not disappoint!

KOOK......no reverse psychology being used...promise...but it's not gonna happen

Heather

 

[MAGIC...itis!]

GrumpyGrandma: Just a quickie to say I am glad your DH got through surgery a-ok. My DH just had his first cancer-free screening this past January with no slicing and dicing involved. He had gotten accustomed to surgery being involved. I worry so much about him as he still works outdoors. My DH has had so many SC surgeries already and I have had MOHS. A day at the beach just doesn't hold the same appeal anymore.

 

[Grumpy Grandma]

GrumpyGrandma: Just a quickie to say I am glad your DH got through surgery a-ok. My DH just had his first cancer-free screening this past January with no slicing and dicing involved. He had gotten accustomed to surgery being involved. I worry so much about him as he still works outdoors. My DH has had so many SC surgeries already and I have had MOHS. A day at the beach just doesn't hold the same appeal anymore.

I am new to this. Prior to this DH has had treatments to his face and the top of his head .... a cream that he puts on and it seem to burn away the pre cancerous cells. I guess what he had was MOHS .... which I guess is less than what your DH has had. I'm new to this so am just trying to figure it all out. So happy that your DH had a cancer-free screening. What a relief for both of you.

 

[Minnie&Nana]

Originally Posted by Grumpy Grandma
Good morning RCers!

Well all your prayers and positive thoughts worked. The doctor was able to get all the cancer off of DH's ear on the second try! So now back to his checkups unless he notices something else. His doctor has been really great just telling us to call anytime if we notice anything. This time they got him in on the day he called and then had the surgery scheduled within a week. So his next scheduled face and head treatment is in Oct when he gets back from WDW. Thanks again everyone.

So my grandson called the other night ... he talked to me for over TWO HOURS! He is enjoying the CP .... is still working in the stores at the All Stars. In the next couple of weeks the should be sending out the paperwork for extensions. If he gets excepted he'll be there at least until January if not the program ends in August. He is trying to pull some strings to transfer to HS in August to either a shop or an attraction.

Now after all that rambling what I wanted to tell you all was that he told me that AoA is amazing and he's so jealous that he isn't working there. He loves the store .... starts out all black and white and as you advance in further begins to get more colorful. So I may need to add a day at the end of my Oct trip at POP so I can walk across the bridge and see for myself!

Hope everyone is having a great day!

My goodness, I have been so out of the loop. Linda, such a relief for you to know your DH is okay...please do keep us posted, but of course we will think positive thoughts and expect all will be well!

How wonderful you had a nice long telephone visit with your grandson! Somehow I managed to miss he is in the CP at WDW! Sending lots of dust for the extension.

Why not add a night at AOA? The LM rooms open Sept 15th!! Best way to get a first hand look see - then you can tell us!!

RCers!! A quick hello from St. Pete, FL! Lots of rain here this week, but so far we haven't melted from the rain...and it has been keeping temps reasonable in the high 80's and low 90's. Haven't really gotten a good sense of a particular area, but will likely need one more trip.

Hope everyone is having a good week!

 

[disneydreamin247]

Hello from the Jesey shore! We arrived around 9. Now just relaxing. Tomorrow is food shopping and a long walk for Lilyana and I!