Who we are.
Me, Ali (40-but only just!) - chief planner, packer, and organiser
Tim (47) - husband, driver, generally willing to go along with my plans, hates queuing.
Thomas (9)- son, Harry Potter fan
Molly (6) daughter, loves Ariel and all the other Disney Princesses.
This is my first attempt at a trip report and I shall be working largely from memory. Forgive me if I ramble on (and on!) but remember as first-timers, it was all wonderful and new to us!
Day 6 Thurs 27/3/03
We had the luxury of a lie in this morning didnt wake until 7.20am and then we lay in bed drinking coffee for ages! Anyone would have thought we were on holiday! It was around 9am by the time we set off for breakfast Id even had time to wash and style my hair.
It was the first morning we had left the hotel at that time; we really noticed the increase in traffic. We also noticed the difference in the queues in the restaurants! There was hardly a free space in any of the car parks. After driving up and down the 192 for some considerable time we finally stopped at the Golden Corral where there was only a small queue. This had the largest selection of food we had seen for breakfast although we were not so keen on the décor. In addition to the usual choice of fruit, cereals, bacon, French toast, sausage etc., there was some delicious gammon, an egg station and waffles. Molly was in heaven and had several courses of waffles and pancakes with various syrups and an ice cream cone to finish!
After we had finished breakfast, we heaved our swelling stomachs into the adjacent gift shop and bought some postcards.
By the time we returned to the hotel it was 11am half the day gone! We wanted to go on the Boggy Creek Airboat ride (having been recommended it on the DIS boards) and as it was forecast rain later in the day, we hurriedly collected together our cameras etc. and drove the half an hour or so to the lake. It was good to get out into the countryside and we were amazed at the abundance of wildlife we saw before we had even boarded the boat. The ride was most enjoyable and exhilarating; Thomas was grinning from ear to ear for the duration! The guide managed to find one baby and two adult alligators for us to observe at close quarters. After the ride, we stayed around the lake watching the herons and storks for a while until Molly became bored.
During our drive back to the hotel, it began to rain so we had timed our trip to perfection! I think we then spent some time in the hotel room writing some of our postcards and had crisps and biscuits (and I expect a beer or two). As usual, after being in a confined space together for a while, Thomas and Molly began to squabble. As things were getting violent, we agreed they could go in the swimming pool and try out their new noodle the rain had just about abated. Tim joined them and I finished writing my cards in the peace of the poolside.
The hotel ran a childrens club five evenings a week at 5.00pm, called Herbies, which was free to Virgin guests (normal price $10). Not being one to refuse any free offer, we took Thomas and Molly along that evening to see if they would like to attend. A mature lady called Miss Mary ran the club, and when we arrived, the only other children there, were 2 English boys. Miss Mary explained that the children could play with any of the toys or games in the room for about an hour, then they would go down to the hotels Pizza Hut for dinner (all included!) After that they would play in the hotel play area and then maybe, watch a video. Thomas and Mollys faces lit up at the words pizza, play area and video and were really keen to stay. My face lit up at the thought of not having to pay for the kids to eat, and having 4 hours to ourselves!
Strictly speaking, we should have stayed at the hotel but Miss Mary said so long as we didnt go too far, it would be OK to go to a local restaurant. So after freshening up, we decided to go back to the Magic Mining Co. next door as wed had a good meal there.
We decided to share a starter of hot wings and things, but when we were only about half way through, the waitress came with our main courses and threw them on the table with such force that several chips (sorry fries) flew onto the floor. Not only that but she had given Tims meal to me and mine to Tim. We caught her attention as she past and asked if she could keep the main dishes warm for us whilst we finished our starter. She snatched the plates back without a word. This level of service surprised us, as we had been impressed on our first visit. We finished our starter and the main dishes were returned to us (still the wrong way round!). The food was very good but on our first meal with just the two of us, we had hoped for a more pleasant experience. We asked for the check. When it came we realised that it was not ours but for a table of four people. This was the last straw for Tim and he called the manageress over to complain. She was so apologetic it was embarrassing! She insisted on us having a complimentary drink so we ordered a coffee and a white wine. When the wine arrived it was a red wine! I didnt want to complain again so accepted it but as the manageress came to check on us she looked at the incorrect drink with disbelief! Once more she launched into her apologies then went to get the drink changed and give someone some earache!
It may just be coincidental, but the next day when we drove past the restaurant, there was a sign outside Help Wanted. OOPS!
After the meal we went back to the hotel bar for free cocktails (we had been given 4 free vouchers), then picked up the kids from Herbies. They had had a great time and didnt want to leave. Honestly! We spend a fortune taking them to Disneyland and they are just as happy with a few colouring sheets and a video!
Day 7 Fri 28/3/03 Universal Studios
We all woke early as usual, raring to go. The day off yesterday had been very welcome but we were keen to get to Universal Studios. It was to be our only experience of Universal as we had decided not to visit Island of Adventure this time. I got the impression it was geared to older children and adults who arent wimps (that counts me out!)
Breakfast at IHOP one of the places that had been too full the previous day. Molly chose a plate-sized pancake, complete with smiley face made from whipped cream and chocolate! Just dont expect it when we get home!! I tried to choose the smallest, simplest breakfast and ended up with a tower of approximately 8 pancakes. (I couldnt finish them all).
Universal was the furthest theme park from our hotel, around a 20-minute drive. Even so, we were passing through the entrance at 9.10am. As we walked up the Plaza of the Stars we noted that neither the Jimmy Neutron nor Shrek 4D attractions were open.
We had decided to head first to the San Francisco area at the furthest side of the park. Poor Mollys legs were given their morning exercise, trotting along behind us. We particularly wanted to do Earthquake-The Big One, as it is always associated with Universal but as it didnt open until 10 am, we got Universal Express passes and walked on to Jaws. The park was so empty at this stage, that we were able to take the photo opportunity with the shark hanging up, without anyone else getting in the picture. We walked straight on to the Jaws ride. The verdict, Thomas and Molly found it a little scary (and hot by the explosions), Tim and I were a bit disappointed.
Still no crowds so onto Men In Black-Alien Attack. Fantastic! We all loved this one, great fun, rubbish scores. How on earth do you shoot the exhaust of your opponents?
We were tempted to go straight back on to MIB but decided to try something else whilst it was quiet. So then we did Back To The Future again no wait. The kind people in our car let us take the front row; did they know something we didnt? This was our favourite simulator ride, really exciting. Nevertheless Tim and I agreed we wouldnt repeat it as we had both jarred our necks.
Working our way round the lake, our next ride was E.T. Adventure. Once again, no queue. This ride got the thumbs up all round.
We couldnt believe how much we had seen in such a short time; it was barely mid-morning and we had seen most of the major attractions we had planned to see!
Woody Woodpeckers Nuthouse Coaster was our next conquest twice. Then the kids let off steam in Fievels Playground, they particularly enjoyed the water slide.
Twister was next on the agenda. The standby time was I think around 30 minutes so we acquired UE passes- no point in waiting if we didnt need to.
We then caught most of the Ghostbusters Show. It was getting pretty hot by then, so after having a wander round the New York area, we found a shady spot by the wharf where we had a rest and ate our snack lunch.
On checking the show times, we realised the next Animal Planet Live show was on at 1.15pm and if we hurried we could catch it, which we did. Although we went for the benefit of Thomas who is interested in animals, we found that we all enjoyed this fast moving and varied show.
By then it was time for our UE for Earthquake. I must admit that this was one of the attractions I had most looked forward too when we had booked to go to Florida, but unfortunately my expectations were so high, I was a little disappointed. The pre-show where they show the special effects I thought was weak much better at MGM Backlot tour. It didnt help that Molly bumped her head on the barrier on the way in, so the first half of the show was spent pacifying her. The main attraction in the subway, although good seemed a little dated.
Outside, it was very hot, we were thirsty and the pull of Finnigans Bar proved too much. Tim had a glass of real beer and I had a lovely glass of chilled white wine, the bar was just like the one in Cheers and as we arrived, a singer/guitarist was just starting his set perfect! We were soon happily singing along to all the old favourites and could have easily stayed there all afternoon! The children however were not so happy; Molly complained that the orange juice tasted funny and Thomas insisted that he was cold and kept going outside to stand in the sunshine. Im sure, however, that they were just embarrassed by their Mum and Dad singing along in public!
Lamentably, we bowed to the pressure of the children and left the convivial atmosphere of the bar; something the kids were soon to regret! It was time for Twister!!
I had read reports that said Twister was a bit tame so I had no worries about the children going; they are not usually bothered by anything. By the time we had entered the second pre-show room I was getting apprehensive, as Molly was holding on to me rather tightly. Tim and I were really impressed by the main attraction it was awe-inspiring although we felt really vulnerable. Molly however, spent the entire show clinging to me; at least she didnt get wet as I took the full force of the water! I couldnt see if Tom had been scared until we left the set, his angry reaction left me in no doubt. First Extra Terrorestrial Alien Encounter, then Twister what terrible parents we were!
We quickly went back to do the MIB ride again to boost spirits. We had UE passes I cant remember when we got those. I think it is good the way you can get second UE passes sooner than at Disney. Our second MIB ride was even more pleasing than the first, we were still rubbish but at least we werent as rubbish as our opponents!
Next we were just in time to catch the 4.00pm Wild, Wild, Wild West Stunt Show. The kids were impressed by this show.
Based on the childrens reaction to Twister, we decided against Terminator 2 and the Horror Make-up Show. Instead we went over to check out Curious George Goes to Town.
Even though I had read Simon Vs guidebook where he advises to bring swimsuits for the kids, for some reason I had chosen to ignore this, OK so Im not perfect. Not to worry, Molly had soon stripped down to her pants and was having a brilliant time amongst the water hoses and sprays. And Thomas? Despite the two 500 gallon buckets of water intermittently being tipped from the roofs, he stated that he would not get wet! So off he went fully clothed, following the blue footprints (the dry route). Ten minutes later he re-appeared, dripping from the brim of his cap, down to his squelching trainers! Didnt like to say I told you so but we did, once we had stopped laughing! We then had to wring his clothes out and dry them in the sun while he and Molly went off to have a wonderful time.
I dont recall exactly how long we stayed at Curious Georges but it was long enough for Toms clothes to dry out (more or less). The children dried off and dressed and we set off to have something to eat before the parade at 8.00pm. Tim and I knew where we wanted to go Finnigans Bar! Ignoring the kids moaning we headed back there and were surprised how easily we acquired a table. This had been the least busy park of our stay so far.
The food was good, I had a chicken pie and it came with real vegetables! (A rarity up until then). The children didnt fancy anything from the kids menu, so they shared an adult fish and chips meal which arrived already divided onto two plates, and was enormous! The meals were accompanied by freshly baked bread and of course real beer for Tim. It was probably something to do with the beer that encouraged Tim to start singing American Pie at the top of his voice when he spotted the singer that we had sung along with at lunchtime. You can imagine the look of horror and embarrassment on the kids faces! Tom in particular was hoping the floor would open up and swallow him especially as his Dad seemed to know the words to all the songs that were sung. It was a most enjoyable meal, for us adults at least!
As we stepped out of the bar, we realised a transformation had taken place outside. It had become dark and the Mardi Gras party had begun in the Yard. The atmosphere was vibrant with live music, street performers and stalls selling New Orleans specialities and of course loads of beads everywhere. We stayed in the Yard for a while, dancing to the music and soaking up the atmosphere. The children were getting tired so we decided to go and find a place to watch the parade and sit down. We positioned ourselves on South Street opposite the lake to wait.
We found the Mardi Gras parade spectacular and quite different to the Disney ones we had seen previously. It was really lively and vibrant. My only criticism was unlike Disney, the crowd control was not so good. After waiting patiently on the edge of the pavement, as soon as the parade arrived, we found ourselves about three rows back as a swarm of teenage cheer leaders pushed in front of us and stood in the road. The people on the floats throwing beads, tended to give them to the girls right at the front or they would hurl them to people behind us, some of whom were following the parade around just to collect the beads. Nevertheless, we managed to get about 13 strings between the four of us and the children seemed happy with that.
After the parade, the children were ready for bed and it was a long walk back to the car. As we were heading down CityWalk, we met hundreds of people just setting off for a full-filled evening! Oh well, I bet they hadnt spent the last 12 hours at a theme park!
It was after 9pm by the time we reached the car and then a 20-minute drive back to the hotel. Once again it was straight to bed that night.
The verdict on Universal Studios? We were all really pleased we had chosen to go there; I think it is more geared towards adults and older children. Although the kids had a wonderful time, I think they preferred Disney because of the characters and that magic. Tim and I enjoyed it for the change, particularly Finnigans Bar!!
Me, Ali (40-but only just!) - chief planner, packer, and organiser
Tim (47) - husband, driver, generally willing to go along with my plans, hates queuing.
Thomas (9)- son, Harry Potter fan
Molly (6) daughter, loves Ariel and all the other Disney Princesses.
This is my first attempt at a trip report and I shall be working largely from memory. Forgive me if I ramble on (and on!) but remember as first-timers, it was all wonderful and new to us!
Day 6 Thurs 27/3/03
We had the luxury of a lie in this morning didnt wake until 7.20am and then we lay in bed drinking coffee for ages! Anyone would have thought we were on holiday! It was around 9am by the time we set off for breakfast Id even had time to wash and style my hair.
It was the first morning we had left the hotel at that time; we really noticed the increase in traffic. We also noticed the difference in the queues in the restaurants! There was hardly a free space in any of the car parks. After driving up and down the 192 for some considerable time we finally stopped at the Golden Corral where there was only a small queue. This had the largest selection of food we had seen for breakfast although we were not so keen on the décor. In addition to the usual choice of fruit, cereals, bacon, French toast, sausage etc., there was some delicious gammon, an egg station and waffles. Molly was in heaven and had several courses of waffles and pancakes with various syrups and an ice cream cone to finish!
After we had finished breakfast, we heaved our swelling stomachs into the adjacent gift shop and bought some postcards.
By the time we returned to the hotel it was 11am half the day gone! We wanted to go on the Boggy Creek Airboat ride (having been recommended it on the DIS boards) and as it was forecast rain later in the day, we hurriedly collected together our cameras etc. and drove the half an hour or so to the lake. It was good to get out into the countryside and we were amazed at the abundance of wildlife we saw before we had even boarded the boat. The ride was most enjoyable and exhilarating; Thomas was grinning from ear to ear for the duration! The guide managed to find one baby and two adult alligators for us to observe at close quarters. After the ride, we stayed around the lake watching the herons and storks for a while until Molly became bored.
During our drive back to the hotel, it began to rain so we had timed our trip to perfection! I think we then spent some time in the hotel room writing some of our postcards and had crisps and biscuits (and I expect a beer or two). As usual, after being in a confined space together for a while, Thomas and Molly began to squabble. As things were getting violent, we agreed they could go in the swimming pool and try out their new noodle the rain had just about abated. Tim joined them and I finished writing my cards in the peace of the poolside.
The hotel ran a childrens club five evenings a week at 5.00pm, called Herbies, which was free to Virgin guests (normal price $10). Not being one to refuse any free offer, we took Thomas and Molly along that evening to see if they would like to attend. A mature lady called Miss Mary ran the club, and when we arrived, the only other children there, were 2 English boys. Miss Mary explained that the children could play with any of the toys or games in the room for about an hour, then they would go down to the hotels Pizza Hut for dinner (all included!) After that they would play in the hotel play area and then maybe, watch a video. Thomas and Mollys faces lit up at the words pizza, play area and video and were really keen to stay. My face lit up at the thought of not having to pay for the kids to eat, and having 4 hours to ourselves!
Strictly speaking, we should have stayed at the hotel but Miss Mary said so long as we didnt go too far, it would be OK to go to a local restaurant. So after freshening up, we decided to go back to the Magic Mining Co. next door as wed had a good meal there.
We decided to share a starter of hot wings and things, but when we were only about half way through, the waitress came with our main courses and threw them on the table with such force that several chips (sorry fries) flew onto the floor. Not only that but she had given Tims meal to me and mine to Tim. We caught her attention as she past and asked if she could keep the main dishes warm for us whilst we finished our starter. She snatched the plates back without a word. This level of service surprised us, as we had been impressed on our first visit. We finished our starter and the main dishes were returned to us (still the wrong way round!). The food was very good but on our first meal with just the two of us, we had hoped for a more pleasant experience. We asked for the check. When it came we realised that it was not ours but for a table of four people. This was the last straw for Tim and he called the manageress over to complain. She was so apologetic it was embarrassing! She insisted on us having a complimentary drink so we ordered a coffee and a white wine. When the wine arrived it was a red wine! I didnt want to complain again so accepted it but as the manageress came to check on us she looked at the incorrect drink with disbelief! Once more she launched into her apologies then went to get the drink changed and give someone some earache!
It may just be coincidental, but the next day when we drove past the restaurant, there was a sign outside Help Wanted. OOPS!
After the meal we went back to the hotel bar for free cocktails (we had been given 4 free vouchers), then picked up the kids from Herbies. They had had a great time and didnt want to leave. Honestly! We spend a fortune taking them to Disneyland and they are just as happy with a few colouring sheets and a video!
Day 7 Fri 28/3/03 Universal Studios
We all woke early as usual, raring to go. The day off yesterday had been very welcome but we were keen to get to Universal Studios. It was to be our only experience of Universal as we had decided not to visit Island of Adventure this time. I got the impression it was geared to older children and adults who arent wimps (that counts me out!)
Breakfast at IHOP one of the places that had been too full the previous day. Molly chose a plate-sized pancake, complete with smiley face made from whipped cream and chocolate! Just dont expect it when we get home!! I tried to choose the smallest, simplest breakfast and ended up with a tower of approximately 8 pancakes. (I couldnt finish them all).
Universal was the furthest theme park from our hotel, around a 20-minute drive. Even so, we were passing through the entrance at 9.10am. As we walked up the Plaza of the Stars we noted that neither the Jimmy Neutron nor Shrek 4D attractions were open.
We had decided to head first to the San Francisco area at the furthest side of the park. Poor Mollys legs were given their morning exercise, trotting along behind us. We particularly wanted to do Earthquake-The Big One, as it is always associated with Universal but as it didnt open until 10 am, we got Universal Express passes and walked on to Jaws. The park was so empty at this stage, that we were able to take the photo opportunity with the shark hanging up, without anyone else getting in the picture. We walked straight on to the Jaws ride. The verdict, Thomas and Molly found it a little scary (and hot by the explosions), Tim and I were a bit disappointed.
Still no crowds so onto Men In Black-Alien Attack. Fantastic! We all loved this one, great fun, rubbish scores. How on earth do you shoot the exhaust of your opponents?
We were tempted to go straight back on to MIB but decided to try something else whilst it was quiet. So then we did Back To The Future again no wait. The kind people in our car let us take the front row; did they know something we didnt? This was our favourite simulator ride, really exciting. Nevertheless Tim and I agreed we wouldnt repeat it as we had both jarred our necks.
Working our way round the lake, our next ride was E.T. Adventure. Once again, no queue. This ride got the thumbs up all round.
We couldnt believe how much we had seen in such a short time; it was barely mid-morning and we had seen most of the major attractions we had planned to see!
Woody Woodpeckers Nuthouse Coaster was our next conquest twice. Then the kids let off steam in Fievels Playground, they particularly enjoyed the water slide.
Twister was next on the agenda. The standby time was I think around 30 minutes so we acquired UE passes- no point in waiting if we didnt need to.
We then caught most of the Ghostbusters Show. It was getting pretty hot by then, so after having a wander round the New York area, we found a shady spot by the wharf where we had a rest and ate our snack lunch.
On checking the show times, we realised the next Animal Planet Live show was on at 1.15pm and if we hurried we could catch it, which we did. Although we went for the benefit of Thomas who is interested in animals, we found that we all enjoyed this fast moving and varied show.
By then it was time for our UE for Earthquake. I must admit that this was one of the attractions I had most looked forward too when we had booked to go to Florida, but unfortunately my expectations were so high, I was a little disappointed. The pre-show where they show the special effects I thought was weak much better at MGM Backlot tour. It didnt help that Molly bumped her head on the barrier on the way in, so the first half of the show was spent pacifying her. The main attraction in the subway, although good seemed a little dated.
Outside, it was very hot, we were thirsty and the pull of Finnigans Bar proved too much. Tim had a glass of real beer and I had a lovely glass of chilled white wine, the bar was just like the one in Cheers and as we arrived, a singer/guitarist was just starting his set perfect! We were soon happily singing along to all the old favourites and could have easily stayed there all afternoon! The children however were not so happy; Molly complained that the orange juice tasted funny and Thomas insisted that he was cold and kept going outside to stand in the sunshine. Im sure, however, that they were just embarrassed by their Mum and Dad singing along in public!
Lamentably, we bowed to the pressure of the children and left the convivial atmosphere of the bar; something the kids were soon to regret! It was time for Twister!!
I had read reports that said Twister was a bit tame so I had no worries about the children going; they are not usually bothered by anything. By the time we had entered the second pre-show room I was getting apprehensive, as Molly was holding on to me rather tightly. Tim and I were really impressed by the main attraction it was awe-inspiring although we felt really vulnerable. Molly however, spent the entire show clinging to me; at least she didnt get wet as I took the full force of the water! I couldnt see if Tom had been scared until we left the set, his angry reaction left me in no doubt. First Extra Terrorestrial Alien Encounter, then Twister what terrible parents we were!
We quickly went back to do the MIB ride again to boost spirits. We had UE passes I cant remember when we got those. I think it is good the way you can get second UE passes sooner than at Disney. Our second MIB ride was even more pleasing than the first, we were still rubbish but at least we werent as rubbish as our opponents!
Next we were just in time to catch the 4.00pm Wild, Wild, Wild West Stunt Show. The kids were impressed by this show.
Based on the childrens reaction to Twister, we decided against Terminator 2 and the Horror Make-up Show. Instead we went over to check out Curious George Goes to Town.
Even though I had read Simon Vs guidebook where he advises to bring swimsuits for the kids, for some reason I had chosen to ignore this, OK so Im not perfect. Not to worry, Molly had soon stripped down to her pants and was having a brilliant time amongst the water hoses and sprays. And Thomas? Despite the two 500 gallon buckets of water intermittently being tipped from the roofs, he stated that he would not get wet! So off he went fully clothed, following the blue footprints (the dry route). Ten minutes later he re-appeared, dripping from the brim of his cap, down to his squelching trainers! Didnt like to say I told you so but we did, once we had stopped laughing! We then had to wring his clothes out and dry them in the sun while he and Molly went off to have a wonderful time.
I dont recall exactly how long we stayed at Curious Georges but it was long enough for Toms clothes to dry out (more or less). The children dried off and dressed and we set off to have something to eat before the parade at 8.00pm. Tim and I knew where we wanted to go Finnigans Bar! Ignoring the kids moaning we headed back there and were surprised how easily we acquired a table. This had been the least busy park of our stay so far.
The food was good, I had a chicken pie and it came with real vegetables! (A rarity up until then). The children didnt fancy anything from the kids menu, so they shared an adult fish and chips meal which arrived already divided onto two plates, and was enormous! The meals were accompanied by freshly baked bread and of course real beer for Tim. It was probably something to do with the beer that encouraged Tim to start singing American Pie at the top of his voice when he spotted the singer that we had sung along with at lunchtime. You can imagine the look of horror and embarrassment on the kids faces! Tom in particular was hoping the floor would open up and swallow him especially as his Dad seemed to know the words to all the songs that were sung. It was a most enjoyable meal, for us adults at least!
As we stepped out of the bar, we realised a transformation had taken place outside. It had become dark and the Mardi Gras party had begun in the Yard. The atmosphere was vibrant with live music, street performers and stalls selling New Orleans specialities and of course loads of beads everywhere. We stayed in the Yard for a while, dancing to the music and soaking up the atmosphere. The children were getting tired so we decided to go and find a place to watch the parade and sit down. We positioned ourselves on South Street opposite the lake to wait.
We found the Mardi Gras parade spectacular and quite different to the Disney ones we had seen previously. It was really lively and vibrant. My only criticism was unlike Disney, the crowd control was not so good. After waiting patiently on the edge of the pavement, as soon as the parade arrived, we found ourselves about three rows back as a swarm of teenage cheer leaders pushed in front of us and stood in the road. The people on the floats throwing beads, tended to give them to the girls right at the front or they would hurl them to people behind us, some of whom were following the parade around just to collect the beads. Nevertheless, we managed to get about 13 strings between the four of us and the children seemed happy with that.
After the parade, the children were ready for bed and it was a long walk back to the car. As we were heading down CityWalk, we met hundreds of people just setting off for a full-filled evening! Oh well, I bet they hadnt spent the last 12 hours at a theme park!
It was after 9pm by the time we reached the car and then a 20-minute drive back to the hotel. Once again it was straight to bed that night.
The verdict on Universal Studios? We were all really pleased we had chosen to go there; I think it is more geared towards adults and older children. Although the kids had a wonderful time, I think they preferred Disney because of the characters and that magic. Tim and I enjoyed it for the change, particularly Finnigans Bar!!
