WDW Trip Report
I also posted a WD cruise report on the cruise report board
This report includes the following sites:
July 1-7th-Walt Disney World
2nd Magic Kingdom
3rd Epcot
4th Epcot
5th Animal Kingdom
6th MGM
7th Disney Quest/River Country
July 8th-Holiday Inn Express-Airport, Florida Mall
July 9th-Fly home
Cast of Characters From Northern California
Goofy, AKA The Beast, 43, Soon to be retired military member
The Good Fairy, AKA Beauty/Belle, 32, Homemaker and planner extrodinairre
(yours truly)
Buzz, 7, Son.
Pooh Bear, 3, Daughter
Why we choose going to Fla. over CA.
1) The best cruises are there! Correction...the BEST cruise is there! (Our main focus
anyway!)
2) More to do and see/more bang for your buck
3)It really feels like getting away. I am born and raised in So Cal, so going there is old hat
to me, even though we do go there at least every other year.
Best planning tips
BUY the Passporter book. Passporter.com. It has the most thorough and updated info I
have ever seen. Website is updated regularly. Get the snap ring type instead of the
older, spiral bound type. You can take to the parks just what you need for that day.
There are spaces for all your notes, budget planning, all the numbers you need, places to
put receipts, chock full of ideas, etc.
READ the Dis boards. There are people who are diehards who know what they are
talking about. Their advice should be taken into consideration.
PLAN out your basic structure of your trip. Let everyone in your party have at least one
MUST SEE attraction/show/ride they want. Allow flexibility and have a general idea
what you will see/what you will eat/how many hours you are planning to spend in the
parks, etc. (The best guide books and the DIS site can help you get an idea what to go
for) If you fail to plan, you plan to fail! I saw so many people at the parks that did not
have the foggiest what to do our how everything was run (such as Fast Pass). They did
not prepare for the cost of food, for how much walking they would do, for the heat, etc.
Those are the most miserable people to be around! They drag themselves through the
parks and look like they are trying to force themselves to have fun!
Have a brainstorming session with the entire family/vacationers. Let each person tell
what their ideal trip is. Not perfect. If you plan for perfect you will not attain it.
Learn this creed. Slap on a hat, Slop on some sunscreen, and Slip on comfortable shoes.
Blister blocking Band-Aids and extra socks can make or break your whole day! Carry
your own sunscreen from home. The new Bullfrog gel kind is easy to apply, dries fast and
even feels cool. It does have a lot of alcohol, so you might want to use a cream based
lotion on the face. Dont forget tops of feet, neck, ears, collar bone, back of knees, etc. I
had a nasty sun cancer scare and now advocate safe sunning.
Lisas Murphy-esque law.
If you have it, you will not need it. If you need it, you will not have it. Carry a basic first
aid pouch. I dipped into and replenished mine several times.
I included, Band-Aids, small tube of Band-Aid blister blockers (get the biggest ones, they
can be cut to size), small scissors, Imodium AD caplets, Sinus Motrin, Tylenol, Phazyme,
chewable Pepto tablets. I had at least 2, no more than 4 caplets of each med. Takes no
space at all, and its nice to have when you need it. Tummy probs on vacation is a NONO!
You will be annoyed at some time-face it and embrace it.
WDW is the #1 US travel destination. It attracts guests from many countries and walks of
life. I am amazed how many people I meet from foreign countries in all the parks. I have
some of the most charming conversations and some of the most annoying experiences.
Simply put; Some people do not know how to conduct themselves in public or do not
have the same cultural values of personal space as most westerners do. Some guests
simply have blinders on that any one other than they exist at the parks.
You will tick some else off......Someone will tick you off. It may be a matter of culture or
bad manners, but either way...it will happen. Keep your cool. Take a breath and
remember YOUR manners. Your vacation is also someone elses vacation. However,
dont be afraid to speak up (kindly) if some injustice has been done. Cast members are
extremely helpful and talented at finding solutions to problems.
On to the reports!
Oh, we stayed at Shades of Green which is a military resort "on property" at WDW. If you are active duty, retired, reserves, a govt employee, etc. You may want to check if you qualify. The price can not be beat for the proximity to the parks!
SOG is really spread out. When making room reservations, I would check to see if you
could get a room near an elevator or near the main entrance. However, be warned, the
main entrance is a noisy hallway because everyone must pass through that passageway. A
room on the ground level is nice (request near the family or adult pool) because you can
walk right out your back sliding door to the pool. We were near the restaurant/family
pool, so it made it nice to have an easy meal too.
The main restaurant, the Garden Grill, has a basic menu. It needs some adjustment. Some
foods (such as the Onion Soup) are just waaaaaaay too salty. This rest. specializes in their
evening themed buffets. We didnt eat at any of them, since we preferred to dine in the
parks or off WDW property. Most the buffet foods had too many starches, not enough
veggie offerings (from what we viewed on the menu listed). We did go to the breakfast
buffets a few times. I was disappointed they did not have an A la carte breakfast menu.
The kids and hubby are big breakfast eaters, I am not. I wish I knew what coffee brand
they were using, it was really good. The buffet cost at SOG is more cost effective than a
coffee and fruit cup at the parks.
There is also a snack cart right out front that offers some basic fruit, coffee, smoothie
drinks, junk food snacks, ice cream, soda, juice, etc. However, do NOT buy and start
consuming if you are right about to get on the bus. They will let you take it on the bus,
but some drivers are very particular about eating on the bus.
Take your Shades of Green card with you. Its your form of ID to get back on the bus
from the ticket and transportation center. Some drivers will ask for it, some wont. (I think
they need to be more consistent on that!) But, you dont want to NOT have it when you
are asked for it!
The buses run every 20 minutes, right after the hour. So be aware of timing! It takes
about 5 minutes to get to the TTC and there is usually plenty of time to catch another bus.
From the TTC you take the Monorails to either the MK or Epcot. You will need to take
another bus to the water parks, MGM, or AK.
SOG grounds are beautiful. They are so expansive, lush and green. The trees are full
of dripping Spanish Moss and you usually can spot some wildlife along the waterways.
That evening, we went to Downtown Disney to check out the marketplace. Go to the
World of Disney to find some of the best Disney merchandise. This is a great place to
meet pin traders too. (In the back of the store where the jewelry is) I found some silver
charms that I had been looking for a long time! This is a good place to shop BEFORE the
parks if you know what you are looking for. I collect the animated feature artist books, so
I went to the Art of Disney for that. I also wanted to find some name tag pins, similar to
what the cast members wear. At a kiosk near the middle of the Marketplace I found a
place to buy the common names, and have a custom badge made for my daughters
unusual name. Each person had their own tag, in their own color and symbol. My Son
was Mickey, I was Minnie, my daughter was Pooh, and my hubby was Tigger!
For dinner, we just went to the deli that inside the gourmet store and got some kids
packs. Hubby and I ordered a small pizza at SOG. Before we left, we checked out a kiosk
for the Disney Vacation Club. I was really interested in this and after a nasty timeshare
presentation in CocoaBeach, I coaxed my husband to attend a DVC presentation. The
presentation is only 1 hour long and they pick you up from your hotel. To sweeten the
deal, the rep even said that we would be given two fast passes for each member of our
family! You do have to say exactly what day and what time you want them, so its good
to have some idea of what you want. They have the list of which rides take FP if you
forget.
DAY one Magic Kingdom
Early in the day we were picked up by the DVC bus. What great VIP treatment! The
driver was very helpful with our stroller and quickly took us to the Boardwalk facility
where the main offices and models are. He didnt just drop us off. He walked us all the
way to the office, gave us great directions how to get back to the van site, and announced
us to the desk clerk. By the way, the Boardwalk is a beautiful facility! The are doing
some renovation work (mainly painting) but nothing really in the way or ugly.
Anyway, to shorten this part of the report, my husband loved the presentation and we
signed up for DVC! I am so excited!
We received our fastpasses and headed back to the van. This time it was a different
driver, but he took us right to our planned destination, MK. We didnt even have to take a
bus or monorail that morning.
Our main plan for MK was to do our childhood faves and the unique rides to MK. We
grew up in CA (Me in So.CAL) so Disneyland was a regular staple of life. I figured we
would do our regular approach to DL, since both parks are laid out about the same. We
go through mainstreet and head left into adventureland. We get a FP for the Jungle cruise
and take in some of the other attractions. Hubby managed to get right on the Aladdin
carpet rides (works much like the Dumbo ride) with our daughter and then we entered the
Tiki Room-Under new management. There was something refreshing about the changes
of this show, but there was also something very sad about what was missing. Lets all
sing as the birdies sing is missing and the show seems shorter. By the time we finished
walking the Swiss Family Tree (which is a Tarzan house in CA) our FP for the jungle
cruise were ready. I always liked this simple ride. However, the speaker on the boat went
out halfway through the ride and the guide was yelling at the top of her lungs. Her voice
could not carry and some passengers in the back were yelling and very angry. (Like it was
her fault). I wish some people could get a grip.
Next, we headed to Fantasyland and did the Legend of the Lion King, the Carousel, Its a
small world (which seems really small compared to Disneylands). We had a FP for Pooh,
but my daughter fell fast asleep! We tried to wake her, but she simply would not budge.
We did go on the ride, because hubby had the FP, and by darn he was going to use it!
(Hubby has obsessive compulsive disorder) Also, we walked by the Peter Pan ride, which
I think is to be passed, and he went to get FP for this!? We walked to Tommorrowland
and found a cool restful spot for a cold drink. Hubby saw that Magical Moments parade
was going to start soon. I am not a parade person unless it is the quaint, small town kind.
The idea of standing in 94 F, 80% humid with thousands of people who forgot to put on
deodorant is NOT my idea of fun. But, we planned for moments like this, so while the
kids and hubby went to see the parade, I took off to go into the Alien Encounter
attraction. I have been on this before and it is an intense sensory experience. I did end
having permission to grab the hand of the man next to me if I needed it. I did..once.
There is something about the rush of being scared and realizing its your OWN mind doing
it! I met up with my family and we went on the transportation authority. (The people
mover in CA) and it took us on a little tour of tommorrowland including space mountain
with all the lights on! It was closed that day. Who would think that it was so ugly with the
lights on? Its all ugly gray scaffolding. I then took our son on the Buzz Lightyear ride.
We headed over to Fantasyland to use the FP for the Pan ride. I was a little miffed that
hubby felt the need to do this, but he was living out his own childhood too, so I had to cut
him some slack. We easily enter the ride and then.....get stuck for 5-8 mins in the middle!
The warning speaker message (stay in your car) is very loud. I could see my daughter and
hubby in the car behind us and she thought it was funny. When we got off the ride, there
was no explanation for the delay, and I dont want to see Pan for a long time!
Next, we got a picture with Ariel, in Ariels Grotto. This was very special for my
daughter, as well as for me! We were one of the last 2 people to be allowed in!
Dad took our daughter to the Pooh ride while she was awake. (She loved it!) and I took
our son to the Goofys Barnstormer. We did hop over to check out Mickey and Minnies
House. These are darling to look at. Mickey was in his tent area for autographs, but
there was a LONG wait. That was the last one for my collection, and I never got it!
Hubby had made dinner reservations for the Liberty Tavern, but first we walked right into
Pirates of the Caribbean and then jotted over for dinner. They give you HUGE portions.
We did the family dinner and that was just great for us. We did take leftovers home and
had no room for dessert! Minnie, the chipmunks, goofy and Pluto were the characters
present that night. We did get a few good pics and autographs. I never knew there was a
difference between Chip and Dale, the chipmunks. When the first one came over, I told
him that his autograph would let me know. He pantomimed something about the nose and
teeth and then I understood his message. The noses are different (red vs. black) and the
teeth are different (close vs. far apart). Well, we saw Dale coming towards us and my
husband said to our kids, Look, its Chips little sister. Dale came over and with some
agitation asked for our autograph book. He signed his name and then emphasized
underneath, CHIPS TWIN BROTHER, and underlined brother several times. Nothing
like insulting a chipmunks sexuality to get him all lathered up.
I really wanted to see the Hall of Presidents, but it was already closed. This attraction is
unique to MK and I hoped that maybe we would come back another time to see it. Hubby
wanted to see the parade I wanted to see the Haunted Mansion. My son was very tired
and I struck a bargain with him. He could go on the Haunted Mansion with me and then
go back to the hotel or go with Dad and return later. He chose to go with me and shut his
eyes tightly the entire time. We caught the monorail back and waited at our SOG stop.
My husband and daughter made it just and time to catch the bus.
We were so tired and found it easy to snuggle into bed.
I wore a pedometer (measures the miles walked each day) and my final mileage was 3.55!
Day TWO-Epcot, Early Entry Day Total Miles-5.57!
The day started off late and with a misunderstanding. Hubby wanted FP for Test Track,
so he said to meet him at Innoventions while he went to get our FPs. We all walked to
Innoventions East and roamed around while Dad did his errand. We waited, and waited.
We had our walkie-talkies that day, but did not think to use them since he was just going
around the corner. Big mistake. (Why have them if you arent going to use them?) I
planted my son in a prominent area where Dad first separated from the group. I took my
daughter and one walkie and left the other with our son. I started roaming towards the
Test Track and saw no sign of my husband. I had a weird intuition and started heading
towards Innoventions WEST and sure enough, there was my hubby. He was got turned
around and was very upset WE had moved. When I explained to him that he went to the
wrong side, he was upset I didnt give him a walkie talkie. I dropped the issue and we
went to get our son. (I did place a walkie talkie in hubbys pocket EVERY day since
then)
We went to a personal Favorite, Honey I shrunk the Audience. Since my son had negative
experiences with 3D effects glasses, I just told him to put them on when he felt like it.
That made the event enjoyable and he could control how intense he wanted the
experience. We headed out to the World Showcase. I could spend my entire trip here. I
love the entertainment they have in each pavilion. We took the friendship over to Japan
and had our lunch. (This was the third time I have eaten here and I have never been
disappointed. The prices have always been reasonable for lunch; very comparable to
Benihana or Kobe) I could have just continued to stroll through the counties, but hubby
wanted to start at the beginning of Canada. So, we walked BACK and started over. I
would NEVER do this on my own, but as I mentioned before, my hubby is OCD and his
coping mechanisms to enjoy life are not normal. I love that man and accept him for all
his many wonderful qualities as well as his quirks. (Its a behavioral illness he is working
on) So, we did the O Canada presentation. Very moving and scenic. I bought my son a
Epcot passport in one of the stores. Each Pavilion had a special kids craft table where
they could create a special mask and have their passport signed and stamped by someone
from that country. If you chose not to do an Epcot passport, you could just have them
stamp the wooden handle of the mask or sign your own autograph book. (They really need
more than one rep at each Kidcot table. Sometimes they were overwhelmed with kids) I
was impressed that the passport was still the same price I paid 5 years ago (10.00) It
comes with full color, photographic stamps to arrange on each countries page. This book
kept my son very entertained and excited about what he would see in the next pavilion.
We passed through the UK, since we would be eating at the Rose and Crown on the
fourth. We could explore it then. We took a few photos in France and roamed the shops.
Normally we would go to the Patisserie, but we opted to get some Baklava in Morocco
instead. Morocco is one of my favorite pavilions. There was a belly dancer and modern
Moroccan band. Hubby and I went into the cool Tangerine Cafe and entered the back
room where they have Moroccan mint tea and pastries. We asked for a cup of ice to make
iced tea . We got funny looks for, but it is a social faux pas to have it that way. It was so
much more refreshing that way in 90F/80%humidity weather. Also, I stopped at a Henna
tent and had a design painted on my wrist. It was costly, about $20, but I always wanted
to try it. It is supposed to last up to 6 weeks, but after one week it is already fading, but
that is because of sun and chlorine exposure.
Next we passed through Japans stores that we had missed at lunchtime and watched some
Taiko drummers. My son used some of his money to buy Japanese pokemon cards. He
could get those at home, but he was happy to buying them in a real Japanese store.
Next, was the American Pavilion. We viewed The American Adventure. I thought this
was always a beautiful pavilion and presentation. I like the painted quotes on the walls, as
well as the paintings of prominent historical events. Many people dont understand the
colonial look to the US pavilion, but it is meant to share the foundation of US history, not
current culture or trends. I still can shed a tear when Two Brothers is played on the
screen. Oh, before the show, a group of singers in colonial/plantation dress came into the
rotunda (waiting area in the pavilion) to sing Civil War era songs. They were very good!
Italy was being refurbished and the main building had a huge, painted tent over it. It
wasnt as pretty as I last saw it. There was a show starting with elaborately dressed
masqueraded characters. We only stayed long enough to take some pictures.
Our FP for Test Track was coming up, so we took a friendship back to FutureWorld.
This ride is a MUST DO if you have not done it!
We headed back to the World showcase and toured Mexico. Hubby was curious to see if
we could get into the Mexican sit-down rest. I told him NO chance. (That is why we
made reservation plans a few weeks in advance) We did the Rio del Tiempo ride and then
ate at the cafe across the pavilion. (It was very tasty and a first to eat in this pavilion for
me) This isnt one of my favorite pavilions since I lived in So. Cal most of my life and
traveled to Mexico and Central American many times. Its just not an exotic experience
for me. There were some Aztec type dancers (Ballet Folklorico type?) that were very
interesting. The paths were starting to be roped off and closed for the Tapestry of Nations
parade, so we hurried to have our sons passport signed in Norway and China.
Tapestry was so beautiful. Interesting costumes and music. In Norway, we did the
Maelstrom ride. China was starting to close down completely, so we decided to save that
for day three. After the parade, is was like the mass exodus. From the side of the World
Showcase, we had to crowd around what seemed to be an unused building (I know they
use it for many functions such as the Flower and Food and Wine Festivals) I wish it would
be removed altogether for better traffic flow with large crowds!
Day Three-Epcot, Fourth of July Total Miles 5.19
Spaceship Earth First, hardly any crowds if you do this early!
Past Innoventions EAST is the Coca Cola sponsored, Ice Station Cool. This is a nice
chilly place to go on a HOT day. (So cold, the people on the inside are warmly dressed!)
There are drink sample stations to try different flavored carbonated drinks from around the
world. If you want to try the NASTIEST flavor, try Beverly from Italy. What were the
Italians thinking? This is FOUL. Try the Chinese Watermelon flavored or Germanys
slightly beer flavor. Its compares to American Cola.
Next was the Universe of Energy where you ride through a dinosaur ride. It briefly
explains where energy comes from. Narrated by Ellen DeGeneres and Bill Nye the Science
Guy. Wonders of life-Cranium Command. Great for kids, especially young boys. You are
along for the ride inside a boys mind to see how the body works together under times of
stress (real and imaginary!) We debated about seeing the Where did I come from film,
but passed. Son was not interested in learning the facts of life yet, and I did not push the
issue.
Journey into Imagination. A lot of misgivings on this one. It is VERY LOUD and lacks
some of the charm the original ride had. The shop at the end has some figment
merchandise you cant find anywhere else. I guess WDW had a lot of flak for the changes
made here. A cast member told me that there are plans to change it BACK to the original
attraction.
The Land-We did the Land boat ride and the Food rocks show. (Dont sit right up
front-you lose some perspective) Cute show with music and characters based on popular
western artists. The show could use some updating, as the musical tunes are about 10
years old. There are some nice places to eat in this Pavilion. Its all air-conditioned too.
Living Seas- I could have passed on this, but hubby likes it. You travel down a mock
elevator to the bottom of the sea. Once at the bottom you get on a short, slow ride
through the bottom windows of the aquarium. Once at Seabase Alpha, you walk around
different exhibits of fish, sea preservation, etc. The dolphin and Manatee exhibits are
worth looking at. Oh, and for any Atlantis fans, if you are going this summer, look out for
50% off Atlantis merchandise in the gift area. (Many of the other parks also have this
discount.) I dont know why it is discounted, a cast member told me there is a deeper
story behind it, but wouldnt tell me why. I hate it when they tease you like that!
Since we were going to make it a late night, we headed back to our hotel to have a rest.
Well, a least that was the plan. I was dead tired, but didnt get much rest since the kids
couldnt settle down. (Next family trip we will have a one-bedroom suite, so I will be able
to have a REAL retreat!) I was a bit frustrated going back to the parks for the rest of the
Fourth, I knew it would be crowded (sure glad I didnt plan to go to MK, I heard they
closed it off from new patrons around 2pm). We did get back to Epcot to see our priority
seating for the show BLAST. We got a show package including dinner at the Rose and
Crown. We were a little late for the show, but it was fabulous! Dinner was great too.
Hubby had the famous fish and chips and I had the cottage pie sampler (the leek and
chicken is delicious!). Our dinner package included starters, maincourse, AND dessert. I
also had a pint of ale...very good. Hubby had a special dessert for that evening. It was a
chocolate Epcot Spaceship Earth form, filled with ALE flavored mousse. WOW. I had
the Trifle. The kids tried the Lemon Passat, which is much like Lemon mousse. It was
pretty tart, but tasty.
We didnt realize it at first, but it seemed pretty funny that we were eating at a British
style pub on the fourth. Is that unpatriotic?
We finished up our missed World Pavilion countries, China and Germany. I really like the
China 360 degree film. I just wish there was a way to view it sitting down. After all the
walking I was doing, my feet were very tired. I started to get some blisters, but Band-Aid
makes a lifesaver,,,,new blisterblock Band-Aids. These are a must have and I carried them
with me in my mini first aidkit. Which came in handy later for some booboos my kids had.
Animal Kingdom Day 3.69 miles walked!
Bring cups with straws if you need them,(they dont sell them in the park due to the
animals health, but you can bring your own) sunscreen, hats, personal mister. This park
seems to get hotter than the rest. I dont think its because of lack of shade, I think its
the humidity. Its like being in the jungle. I wore my tank top this day, but LOTS of
sunblock. Oh, and you are allowed to walk your strollers INSIDE most of the lines. The
stroller parking is usually halfway within the waiting line, instead of outside the line like
the other parks.
Kilimanjaro Safari. A must do ride. Very, very bumpy, you may not get good pictures.
Enjoy the ride. We saw hippos, crocodiles, lions, elephants, gazelle, rhino. We went early
and I think the cooler it is, the more the animals will be out.
Rafikis Planet watch-You take a short train ride (you must leave your stroller
behind or be able to fold it up. Dont worry, there are lender strollers at the other
station) After touring some of the backlot animal care centers, you stop near
Rafikis Conservation Station and view a petting farm. There are interesting
exhibits inside the building. When you get off the train a crowd with gather at the
(Tamarin?) exhibit. Pass it up and look at on your way back when there is no crowd.
Check out the listening booths, but be warned, small kids might not like the sounds of
buzzing insects in their ears. We also met Pocahontas here.
Bugs Life/Tree of Life. This tree is amazing! The size, the designs in the trunk, etc. When
you get in line for the attraction you actually wind down and around UNDER the roots
into a theater inside the tree. Another warning, this is a 3-D sensory experience. Many
children DO become frightened. I let my son choose weather or not to use the glasses.
But, there is a section when it becomes very dark and the audience is engulfed in a misty
fog. Out of the fog comes dandling spiders from the ceiling. You will also get sprayed
(water mist) and a stinkbug smell. (passes quickly). My son was NOT happy about the
squirt and it took a few times to convince him it was JUST water. My 3 yo daughter was
fine as long as she could be in Daddys lap.
Lunch was at the Rainforest Cafe. A fun place to go if you have never been there. Very
noisy though. If you are looking for a quiet place, try the Tusker house in Africa. The
Rainforest is changing its menu, so if you have a favorite from the past, they may not
have it this time.
Dinosaur ride-This is much like the Indiana Jones ride. Very bumpy and quick turns. Very
dark. We did a child swap on this one. DD was too small and I know DS would hate it.
As soon as we got out, it was raining. We headed to the Tarzan show for shelter.
Soon it was POURING DOWN. It was still 1/2 hour until the show, but many people
were gathering for refuge. Hey, as long as the animals didnt start gathering two by two, I
had nothing to worry about. The thunder DID spook me some.
The show was interesting, but a bit confusing. It was promoted like a rock concert with
the Tarzan story. The singers were very good, but the show lacked something. I was
personally glad for the shelter. The scene of Jane and Tarzan swinging was romantic to
watch. The rain was lighter after the show, but still coming down. AK had smart
planning by having a kiosk right outside the exit selling rain ponchos. We bought some
for the kids (we already brought ours from a previous trip) and were much more
comfortable.
Festival of Lion King Show-A must DO. We sat right near the front. (There are some
NON-handicapped seating up front...a good view!) Music, dancing and show are fun. My
husband got to have a small, interactive part playing a warthog. LOL. No flash photos, so
take some FAST film. My pics came out a bit dark.
Majaraja walk-I really loved this exhibit It had the fantasy of walking through ruins in
India and viewing tigers, deer, etc.
Kali Rapids-hubby and son went on with a FP. I passed. In SoCal, I went on enough
water rides. The environment was beautiful, but essentially it was a typical raft ride. I
would not do this ride with anything but FP. The people who waited the typical line
regretted it and were disappointed. At least with FP, you can do other things and not feel
like you are wasting your time.
Not enough places to rest and sit (Tusker House is a good choice in Africa)
MGM day
We went on got FPs for Tower of Terror and the Rock and Roller Coaster. Since we
knew our kids would not ride those rides, we took their passes and did childswaps.
While we were waiting for the FPs to become active, we went to the Little Mermaid
show. My daughter really loved seeing Ariel.
Our FP for Tower was active, so we hubby and I took turns. I met a wonderful family
from Australia and I even sat in the front row this time! Wow! This ride used to terrify me
and this time I laughed hysterically all the way down..and up...down and up! (four times!)
The Rock and Roller Coaster is just right around the corner, so we headed for that next.
The concept is that you are entering a recording studio to see Aerosmith cut a new record.
They have to leave for a concert so Steve Tyler and the Band welcome you along. They
even have a stretch limo waiting for you. Your limo is the coaster. Its mainly in the
dark and very fast! It has many twists and turns, loops, etc. Loud Aerosmith music too.
It was very different listening to Love on an Elevator in a roller coaster!
In the New York area, we saw the Hunchback show, the Muppets in 3-D,(one of my
faves-I love that 3-D clown thing!) and The Great Movie Ride. I cant believe my kids
went on this one! I did tell them there was a scary Alien part, but they just closed their
eyes.
We had Lunch at 50s Primetime Cafe. We went here before on our last trip and hubby
decided he wanted to go here in the morning. So, when we first got to the park, we made
some meal reservations. Our waitress was fully in character and even called our kids
scooter and princess. Think Donna Reed and you get the picture! The food is
great..very home-cooked style. Your booth is a mini-kitchen from the 50s with its own
TV playing snippets of old, B&W sitcoms. (I love Lucy for example) I remember last
time there was actual sound and this time there wasnt? Oh well, it would be even noisier
than last time. Our waitress tells us that Mom is in the kitchen cooking the meals and we
do not leave the table with out permission. (Yes, you need a potty pass!) LOL. Elbows
are expected to be off the table and you should eat your veggies. My son loved the
scooter treatment and informed us later that was his new nickname.
On a nearby table, one of the patrons didnt eat his green beans and tried to hide them in
his milkshake cup. His waitress took the cup, went to the kitchen and came back with
them on the plate with whipped cream and a cherry! She said that was all the dessert he
got! LOL. Either that, or he could stand in the corner! Guess what? He did and the rest
of the group were coerced to shake fingers and say Shame, Shame, Shame on you for
wasting Moms food.
In the Mickey Ave Area, we made our way through the Backlot tour and then the Magic
of Disney Animation tour. I like this tour! They changed it a bit since the last time I was
there (5 years ago). Since Disney animation is mostly colored by computer and not paint
now, the paint department is gone. Another part that was new was an actual animator
interview session. This was fun for kids especially because they learned that you could
have a real JOB drawing pictures! Sadly, they do not let you take ANY pictures on this
tour because of copyright restrictions. I asked before I snapped and I was glad I did. I
was told that if I took pics in there that my film could be take away? Would they really? I
dont know, but I wasnt willing to take chances!
The last even for the day was the Fantasmic show. I was sore and dead tired. First, you
have to walk quite a distance INTO the amphitheater type seating. It is HUGE, but if you
dont get their early you will have standing room only. There are great BIG crowds! We
stood on an elevated platform area in the back of the amphitheater. No matter where you
sit, you will get a good view! The show is wonderful and well worth my aching feet. The
show takes place on the multi-level stage, in the water that surrounds the stage, and actual
film clips on a water screen. DO see this!
Plan on waiting a while to get back to the main area of the park, as it takes awhile to for
the crowds to filter out.
Disney Quest/RiverCountry Day: Last Day
Packing, DQ. Very costly if not part of your pass. We had a special military package that
included this opportunity.
5 stories of video and interactive virtual reality games. Restaurant on top floor had good
and reasonably priced choices. Supposed to be the Cheesecake factory, but it was actually
broken up into several food counters. The dining areas are nice and we retreated into a
quieter, darker, semi-curtained off, booth.
DS and I went to try Ride the Comix where you are a superhero in training and are
fending off the bad guys. It felt like fighting big paper cut outs with a special light saber.
Some floors are just higher tech video games. Since we were short on time and have most
of those kinds of games at home, we just focused on the VR attractions.
My son and I tried the Jungle Cruise, which really should be called the Jungle River Raft
Dinosaur adventure. Its not the Disneyland or MK Jungle cruise. You are on a river raft
and are trying to find some gadget a professor dropped in another dinosaur time. You
even get sprayed with a little water from the river as you paddle down the rapids. We also
tried the Human Pinball game, and that was interesting. Some people didnt really get a
feel how to control their ball. Just wiggle and jump and hope for the best. On the second
floor we just tried Aladdins carpet ride. It would have been so much cooler if we sat on
an actual carpet?
We did walk around the Artistic areas around floor 2. It seemed to me like you had to pay
extra for any extra time to create anything and as expected, you paid extra for purchasing
a print or item, such as Sids create a toy. I can go to goodwill and create my own toy
under 3 bucks!
The last floor was the main entrance, gift store, and a few VR rides (Jungle Cruise and
Pirates of the Carib.) We passed on Pirates because there was a LONG line (being fairly
new) I dont know if I would ever do DQ again, but I can understand how it appeals to
many teens. I thought for what you paid, you would only get your value if you spent ALL
day there. Disney has been experimenting with these centers and the one in Orlando is the
only present one. The one in Chicago? was scheduled for closing and other openings were
postponed/cancelled. I do realize that there were experiences I missed, but I just dont
think DQ had the charm that many other Disney attractions have.
Next was going to the water park to wind down from our busy vacation. We chose River
Country since I heard it was the most relaxing, least crowded, and closest to our hotel.
We only had a few hours to enjoy it, but we thought it was a fitting end to the trip.
We drove to the River Country area (near Fort Wilderness Camp) and had no clue we had
to take a bus into the camp/waterpark area. After a short ride, we entered the park and
quickly changed and established a base camp. They rent towels here if you forget your
own. Renting a locker is costly for a day and they do not prorate. (I think it was $6 or $8)
We set up a spot on the sand by the bay and cooled off. We tried the tube ride and what
made it even better is that Goofy showed up in his long john PJ/swimsuit and went a few
times himself! I took my daughter to the small kids area while my son and hubby
wandered off into the water. We then watched them try the tube ride.
For being the oldest of all the Disney waterparks, they have kept it well-maintained and
clean. We realized that we were also right across the lake from the Wilderness lodge.
We think that next time we come to Orlando and stay there via the Disney club, it would
be fun to rent the bike surreys and ride to the River Country side. Also, there are places
to ride horses!
After a rest by the pool and watching hubby on the big poolslides, we gathered up our
things and called it a day.
The next day we checked out of SOG and checked into a Holiday Inn near the Airport.
We had a very early trip home to Sacramento.
Over all, it was a very good trip!
I also posted a WD cruise report on the cruise report board
This report includes the following sites:
July 1-7th-Walt Disney World
2nd Magic Kingdom
3rd Epcot
4th Epcot
5th Animal Kingdom
6th MGM
7th Disney Quest/River Country
July 8th-Holiday Inn Express-Airport, Florida Mall
July 9th-Fly home
Cast of Characters From Northern California
Goofy, AKA The Beast, 43, Soon to be retired military member
The Good Fairy, AKA Beauty/Belle, 32, Homemaker and planner extrodinairre
(yours truly)
Buzz, 7, Son.
Pooh Bear, 3, Daughter
Why we choose going to Fla. over CA.
1) The best cruises are there! Correction...the BEST cruise is there! (Our main focus
anyway!)
2) More to do and see/more bang for your buck
3)It really feels like getting away. I am born and raised in So Cal, so going there is old hat
to me, even though we do go there at least every other year.
Best planning tips
BUY the Passporter book. Passporter.com. It has the most thorough and updated info I
have ever seen. Website is updated regularly. Get the snap ring type instead of the
older, spiral bound type. You can take to the parks just what you need for that day.
There are spaces for all your notes, budget planning, all the numbers you need, places to
put receipts, chock full of ideas, etc.
READ the Dis boards. There are people who are diehards who know what they are
talking about. Their advice should be taken into consideration.
PLAN out your basic structure of your trip. Let everyone in your party have at least one
MUST SEE attraction/show/ride they want. Allow flexibility and have a general idea
what you will see/what you will eat/how many hours you are planning to spend in the
parks, etc. (The best guide books and the DIS site can help you get an idea what to go
for) If you fail to plan, you plan to fail! I saw so many people at the parks that did not
have the foggiest what to do our how everything was run (such as Fast Pass). They did
not prepare for the cost of food, for how much walking they would do, for the heat, etc.
Those are the most miserable people to be around! They drag themselves through the
parks and look like they are trying to force themselves to have fun!
Have a brainstorming session with the entire family/vacationers. Let each person tell
what their ideal trip is. Not perfect. If you plan for perfect you will not attain it.
Learn this creed. Slap on a hat, Slop on some sunscreen, and Slip on comfortable shoes.
Blister blocking Band-Aids and extra socks can make or break your whole day! Carry
your own sunscreen from home. The new Bullfrog gel kind is easy to apply, dries fast and
even feels cool. It does have a lot of alcohol, so you might want to use a cream based
lotion on the face. Dont forget tops of feet, neck, ears, collar bone, back of knees, etc. I
had a nasty sun cancer scare and now advocate safe sunning.
Lisas Murphy-esque law.
If you have it, you will not need it. If you need it, you will not have it. Carry a basic first
aid pouch. I dipped into and replenished mine several times.
I included, Band-Aids, small tube of Band-Aid blister blockers (get the biggest ones, they
can be cut to size), small scissors, Imodium AD caplets, Sinus Motrin, Tylenol, Phazyme,
chewable Pepto tablets. I had at least 2, no more than 4 caplets of each med. Takes no
space at all, and its nice to have when you need it. Tummy probs on vacation is a NONO!
You will be annoyed at some time-face it and embrace it.
WDW is the #1 US travel destination. It attracts guests from many countries and walks of
life. I am amazed how many people I meet from foreign countries in all the parks. I have
some of the most charming conversations and some of the most annoying experiences.
Simply put; Some people do not know how to conduct themselves in public or do not
have the same cultural values of personal space as most westerners do. Some guests
simply have blinders on that any one other than they exist at the parks.
You will tick some else off......Someone will tick you off. It may be a matter of culture or
bad manners, but either way...it will happen. Keep your cool. Take a breath and
remember YOUR manners. Your vacation is also someone elses vacation. However,
dont be afraid to speak up (kindly) if some injustice has been done. Cast members are
extremely helpful and talented at finding solutions to problems.
On to the reports!
Oh, we stayed at Shades of Green which is a military resort "on property" at WDW. If you are active duty, retired, reserves, a govt employee, etc. You may want to check if you qualify. The price can not be beat for the proximity to the parks!
SOG is really spread out. When making room reservations, I would check to see if you
could get a room near an elevator or near the main entrance. However, be warned, the
main entrance is a noisy hallway because everyone must pass through that passageway. A
room on the ground level is nice (request near the family or adult pool) because you can
walk right out your back sliding door to the pool. We were near the restaurant/family
pool, so it made it nice to have an easy meal too.
The main restaurant, the Garden Grill, has a basic menu. It needs some adjustment. Some
foods (such as the Onion Soup) are just waaaaaaay too salty. This rest. specializes in their
evening themed buffets. We didnt eat at any of them, since we preferred to dine in the
parks or off WDW property. Most the buffet foods had too many starches, not enough
veggie offerings (from what we viewed on the menu listed). We did go to the breakfast
buffets a few times. I was disappointed they did not have an A la carte breakfast menu.
The kids and hubby are big breakfast eaters, I am not. I wish I knew what coffee brand
they were using, it was really good. The buffet cost at SOG is more cost effective than a
coffee and fruit cup at the parks.
There is also a snack cart right out front that offers some basic fruit, coffee, smoothie
drinks, junk food snacks, ice cream, soda, juice, etc. However, do NOT buy and start
consuming if you are right about to get on the bus. They will let you take it on the bus,
but some drivers are very particular about eating on the bus.
Take your Shades of Green card with you. Its your form of ID to get back on the bus
from the ticket and transportation center. Some drivers will ask for it, some wont. (I think
they need to be more consistent on that!) But, you dont want to NOT have it when you
are asked for it!
The buses run every 20 minutes, right after the hour. So be aware of timing! It takes
about 5 minutes to get to the TTC and there is usually plenty of time to catch another bus.
From the TTC you take the Monorails to either the MK or Epcot. You will need to take
another bus to the water parks, MGM, or AK.
SOG grounds are beautiful. They are so expansive, lush and green. The trees are full
of dripping Spanish Moss and you usually can spot some wildlife along the waterways.
That evening, we went to Downtown Disney to check out the marketplace. Go to the
World of Disney to find some of the best Disney merchandise. This is a great place to
meet pin traders too. (In the back of the store where the jewelry is) I found some silver
charms that I had been looking for a long time! This is a good place to shop BEFORE the
parks if you know what you are looking for. I collect the animated feature artist books, so
I went to the Art of Disney for that. I also wanted to find some name tag pins, similar to
what the cast members wear. At a kiosk near the middle of the Marketplace I found a
place to buy the common names, and have a custom badge made for my daughters
unusual name. Each person had their own tag, in their own color and symbol. My Son
was Mickey, I was Minnie, my daughter was Pooh, and my hubby was Tigger!
For dinner, we just went to the deli that inside the gourmet store and got some kids
packs. Hubby and I ordered a small pizza at SOG. Before we left, we checked out a kiosk
for the Disney Vacation Club. I was really interested in this and after a nasty timeshare
presentation in CocoaBeach, I coaxed my husband to attend a DVC presentation. The
presentation is only 1 hour long and they pick you up from your hotel. To sweeten the
deal, the rep even said that we would be given two fast passes for each member of our
family! You do have to say exactly what day and what time you want them, so its good
to have some idea of what you want. They have the list of which rides take FP if you
forget.
DAY one Magic Kingdom
Early in the day we were picked up by the DVC bus. What great VIP treatment! The
driver was very helpful with our stroller and quickly took us to the Boardwalk facility
where the main offices and models are. He didnt just drop us off. He walked us all the
way to the office, gave us great directions how to get back to the van site, and announced
us to the desk clerk. By the way, the Boardwalk is a beautiful facility! The are doing
some renovation work (mainly painting) but nothing really in the way or ugly.
Anyway, to shorten this part of the report, my husband loved the presentation and we
signed up for DVC! I am so excited!
We received our fastpasses and headed back to the van. This time it was a different
driver, but he took us right to our planned destination, MK. We didnt even have to take a
bus or monorail that morning.
Our main plan for MK was to do our childhood faves and the unique rides to MK. We
grew up in CA (Me in So.CAL) so Disneyland was a regular staple of life. I figured we
would do our regular approach to DL, since both parks are laid out about the same. We
go through mainstreet and head left into adventureland. We get a FP for the Jungle cruise
and take in some of the other attractions. Hubby managed to get right on the Aladdin
carpet rides (works much like the Dumbo ride) with our daughter and then we entered the
Tiki Room-Under new management. There was something refreshing about the changes
of this show, but there was also something very sad about what was missing. Lets all
sing as the birdies sing is missing and the show seems shorter. By the time we finished
walking the Swiss Family Tree (which is a Tarzan house in CA) our FP for the jungle
cruise were ready. I always liked this simple ride. However, the speaker on the boat went
out halfway through the ride and the guide was yelling at the top of her lungs. Her voice
could not carry and some passengers in the back were yelling and very angry. (Like it was
her fault). I wish some people could get a grip.
Next, we headed to Fantasyland and did the Legend of the Lion King, the Carousel, Its a
small world (which seems really small compared to Disneylands). We had a FP for Pooh,
but my daughter fell fast asleep! We tried to wake her, but she simply would not budge.
We did go on the ride, because hubby had the FP, and by darn he was going to use it!
(Hubby has obsessive compulsive disorder) Also, we walked by the Peter Pan ride, which
I think is to be passed, and he went to get FP for this!? We walked to Tommorrowland
and found a cool restful spot for a cold drink. Hubby saw that Magical Moments parade
was going to start soon. I am not a parade person unless it is the quaint, small town kind.
The idea of standing in 94 F, 80% humid with thousands of people who forgot to put on
deodorant is NOT my idea of fun. But, we planned for moments like this, so while the
kids and hubby went to see the parade, I took off to go into the Alien Encounter
attraction. I have been on this before and it is an intense sensory experience. I did end
having permission to grab the hand of the man next to me if I needed it. I did..once.
There is something about the rush of being scared and realizing its your OWN mind doing
it! I met up with my family and we went on the transportation authority. (The people
mover in CA) and it took us on a little tour of tommorrowland including space mountain
with all the lights on! It was closed that day. Who would think that it was so ugly with the
lights on? Its all ugly gray scaffolding. I then took our son on the Buzz Lightyear ride.
We headed over to Fantasyland to use the FP for the Pan ride. I was a little miffed that
hubby felt the need to do this, but he was living out his own childhood too, so I had to cut
him some slack. We easily enter the ride and then.....get stuck for 5-8 mins in the middle!
The warning speaker message (stay in your car) is very loud. I could see my daughter and
hubby in the car behind us and she thought it was funny. When we got off the ride, there
was no explanation for the delay, and I dont want to see Pan for a long time!
Next, we got a picture with Ariel, in Ariels Grotto. This was very special for my
daughter, as well as for me! We were one of the last 2 people to be allowed in!
Dad took our daughter to the Pooh ride while she was awake. (She loved it!) and I took
our son to the Goofys Barnstormer. We did hop over to check out Mickey and Minnies
House. These are darling to look at. Mickey was in his tent area for autographs, but
there was a LONG wait. That was the last one for my collection, and I never got it!
Hubby had made dinner reservations for the Liberty Tavern, but first we walked right into
Pirates of the Caribbean and then jotted over for dinner. They give you HUGE portions.
We did the family dinner and that was just great for us. We did take leftovers home and
had no room for dessert! Minnie, the chipmunks, goofy and Pluto were the characters
present that night. We did get a few good pics and autographs. I never knew there was a
difference between Chip and Dale, the chipmunks. When the first one came over, I told
him that his autograph would let me know. He pantomimed something about the nose and
teeth and then I understood his message. The noses are different (red vs. black) and the
teeth are different (close vs. far apart). Well, we saw Dale coming towards us and my
husband said to our kids, Look, its Chips little sister. Dale came over and with some
agitation asked for our autograph book. He signed his name and then emphasized
underneath, CHIPS TWIN BROTHER, and underlined brother several times. Nothing
like insulting a chipmunks sexuality to get him all lathered up.
I really wanted to see the Hall of Presidents, but it was already closed. This attraction is
unique to MK and I hoped that maybe we would come back another time to see it. Hubby
wanted to see the parade I wanted to see the Haunted Mansion. My son was very tired
and I struck a bargain with him. He could go on the Haunted Mansion with me and then
go back to the hotel or go with Dad and return later. He chose to go with me and shut his
eyes tightly the entire time. We caught the monorail back and waited at our SOG stop.
My husband and daughter made it just and time to catch the bus.
We were so tired and found it easy to snuggle into bed.
I wore a pedometer (measures the miles walked each day) and my final mileage was 3.55!
Day TWO-Epcot, Early Entry Day Total Miles-5.57!
The day started off late and with a misunderstanding. Hubby wanted FP for Test Track,
so he said to meet him at Innoventions while he went to get our FPs. We all walked to
Innoventions East and roamed around while Dad did his errand. We waited, and waited.
We had our walkie-talkies that day, but did not think to use them since he was just going
around the corner. Big mistake. (Why have them if you arent going to use them?) I
planted my son in a prominent area where Dad first separated from the group. I took my
daughter and one walkie and left the other with our son. I started roaming towards the
Test Track and saw no sign of my husband. I had a weird intuition and started heading
towards Innoventions WEST and sure enough, there was my hubby. He was got turned
around and was very upset WE had moved. When I explained to him that he went to the
wrong side, he was upset I didnt give him a walkie talkie. I dropped the issue and we
went to get our son. (I did place a walkie talkie in hubbys pocket EVERY day since
then)
We went to a personal Favorite, Honey I shrunk the Audience. Since my son had negative
experiences with 3D effects glasses, I just told him to put them on when he felt like it.
That made the event enjoyable and he could control how intense he wanted the
experience. We headed out to the World Showcase. I could spend my entire trip here. I
love the entertainment they have in each pavilion. We took the friendship over to Japan
and had our lunch. (This was the third time I have eaten here and I have never been
disappointed. The prices have always been reasonable for lunch; very comparable to
Benihana or Kobe) I could have just continued to stroll through the counties, but hubby
wanted to start at the beginning of Canada. So, we walked BACK and started over. I
would NEVER do this on my own, but as I mentioned before, my hubby is OCD and his
coping mechanisms to enjoy life are not normal. I love that man and accept him for all
his many wonderful qualities as well as his quirks. (Its a behavioral illness he is working
on) So, we did the O Canada presentation. Very moving and scenic. I bought my son a
Epcot passport in one of the stores. Each Pavilion had a special kids craft table where
they could create a special mask and have their passport signed and stamped by someone
from that country. If you chose not to do an Epcot passport, you could just have them
stamp the wooden handle of the mask or sign your own autograph book. (They really need
more than one rep at each Kidcot table. Sometimes they were overwhelmed with kids) I
was impressed that the passport was still the same price I paid 5 years ago (10.00) It
comes with full color, photographic stamps to arrange on each countries page. This book
kept my son very entertained and excited about what he would see in the next pavilion.
We passed through the UK, since we would be eating at the Rose and Crown on the
fourth. We could explore it then. We took a few photos in France and roamed the shops.
Normally we would go to the Patisserie, but we opted to get some Baklava in Morocco
instead. Morocco is one of my favorite pavilions. There was a belly dancer and modern
Moroccan band. Hubby and I went into the cool Tangerine Cafe and entered the back
room where they have Moroccan mint tea and pastries. We asked for a cup of ice to make
iced tea . We got funny looks for, but it is a social faux pas to have it that way. It was so
much more refreshing that way in 90F/80%humidity weather. Also, I stopped at a Henna
tent and had a design painted on my wrist. It was costly, about $20, but I always wanted
to try it. It is supposed to last up to 6 weeks, but after one week it is already fading, but
that is because of sun and chlorine exposure.
Next we passed through Japans stores that we had missed at lunchtime and watched some
Taiko drummers. My son used some of his money to buy Japanese pokemon cards. He
could get those at home, but he was happy to buying them in a real Japanese store.
Next, was the American Pavilion. We viewed The American Adventure. I thought this
was always a beautiful pavilion and presentation. I like the painted quotes on the walls, as
well as the paintings of prominent historical events. Many people dont understand the
colonial look to the US pavilion, but it is meant to share the foundation of US history, not
current culture or trends. I still can shed a tear when Two Brothers is played on the
screen. Oh, before the show, a group of singers in colonial/plantation dress came into the
rotunda (waiting area in the pavilion) to sing Civil War era songs. They were very good!
Italy was being refurbished and the main building had a huge, painted tent over it. It
wasnt as pretty as I last saw it. There was a show starting with elaborately dressed
masqueraded characters. We only stayed long enough to take some pictures.
Our FP for Test Track was coming up, so we took a friendship back to FutureWorld.
This ride is a MUST DO if you have not done it!
We headed back to the World showcase and toured Mexico. Hubby was curious to see if
we could get into the Mexican sit-down rest. I told him NO chance. (That is why we
made reservation plans a few weeks in advance) We did the Rio del Tiempo ride and then
ate at the cafe across the pavilion. (It was very tasty and a first to eat in this pavilion for
me) This isnt one of my favorite pavilions since I lived in So. Cal most of my life and
traveled to Mexico and Central American many times. Its just not an exotic experience
for me. There were some Aztec type dancers (Ballet Folklorico type?) that were very
interesting. The paths were starting to be roped off and closed for the Tapestry of Nations
parade, so we hurried to have our sons passport signed in Norway and China.
Tapestry was so beautiful. Interesting costumes and music. In Norway, we did the
Maelstrom ride. China was starting to close down completely, so we decided to save that
for day three. After the parade, is was like the mass exodus. From the side of the World
Showcase, we had to crowd around what seemed to be an unused building (I know they
use it for many functions such as the Flower and Food and Wine Festivals) I wish it would
be removed altogether for better traffic flow with large crowds!
Day Three-Epcot, Fourth of July Total Miles 5.19
Spaceship Earth First, hardly any crowds if you do this early!
Past Innoventions EAST is the Coca Cola sponsored, Ice Station Cool. This is a nice
chilly place to go on a HOT day. (So cold, the people on the inside are warmly dressed!)
There are drink sample stations to try different flavored carbonated drinks from around the
world. If you want to try the NASTIEST flavor, try Beverly from Italy. What were the
Italians thinking? This is FOUL. Try the Chinese Watermelon flavored or Germanys
slightly beer flavor. Its compares to American Cola.
Next was the Universe of Energy where you ride through a dinosaur ride. It briefly
explains where energy comes from. Narrated by Ellen DeGeneres and Bill Nye the Science
Guy. Wonders of life-Cranium Command. Great for kids, especially young boys. You are
along for the ride inside a boys mind to see how the body works together under times of
stress (real and imaginary!) We debated about seeing the Where did I come from film,
but passed. Son was not interested in learning the facts of life yet, and I did not push the
issue.
Journey into Imagination. A lot of misgivings on this one. It is VERY LOUD and lacks
some of the charm the original ride had. The shop at the end has some figment
merchandise you cant find anywhere else. I guess WDW had a lot of flak for the changes
made here. A cast member told me that there are plans to change it BACK to the original
attraction.
The Land-We did the Land boat ride and the Food rocks show. (Dont sit right up
front-you lose some perspective) Cute show with music and characters based on popular
western artists. The show could use some updating, as the musical tunes are about 10
years old. There are some nice places to eat in this Pavilion. Its all air-conditioned too.
Living Seas- I could have passed on this, but hubby likes it. You travel down a mock
elevator to the bottom of the sea. Once at the bottom you get on a short, slow ride
through the bottom windows of the aquarium. Once at Seabase Alpha, you walk around
different exhibits of fish, sea preservation, etc. The dolphin and Manatee exhibits are
worth looking at. Oh, and for any Atlantis fans, if you are going this summer, look out for
50% off Atlantis merchandise in the gift area. (Many of the other parks also have this
discount.) I dont know why it is discounted, a cast member told me there is a deeper
story behind it, but wouldnt tell me why. I hate it when they tease you like that!
Since we were going to make it a late night, we headed back to our hotel to have a rest.
Well, a least that was the plan. I was dead tired, but didnt get much rest since the kids
couldnt settle down. (Next family trip we will have a one-bedroom suite, so I will be able
to have a REAL retreat!) I was a bit frustrated going back to the parks for the rest of the
Fourth, I knew it would be crowded (sure glad I didnt plan to go to MK, I heard they
closed it off from new patrons around 2pm). We did get back to Epcot to see our priority
seating for the show BLAST. We got a show package including dinner at the Rose and
Crown. We were a little late for the show, but it was fabulous! Dinner was great too.
Hubby had the famous fish and chips and I had the cottage pie sampler (the leek and
chicken is delicious!). Our dinner package included starters, maincourse, AND dessert. I
also had a pint of ale...very good. Hubby had a special dessert for that evening. It was a
chocolate Epcot Spaceship Earth form, filled with ALE flavored mousse. WOW. I had
the Trifle. The kids tried the Lemon Passat, which is much like Lemon mousse. It was
pretty tart, but tasty.
We didnt realize it at first, but it seemed pretty funny that we were eating at a British
style pub on the fourth. Is that unpatriotic?
We finished up our missed World Pavilion countries, China and Germany. I really like the
China 360 degree film. I just wish there was a way to view it sitting down. After all the
walking I was doing, my feet were very tired. I started to get some blisters, but Band-Aid
makes a lifesaver,,,,new blisterblock Band-Aids. These are a must have and I carried them
with me in my mini first aidkit. Which came in handy later for some booboos my kids had.
Animal Kingdom Day 3.69 miles walked!
Bring cups with straws if you need them,(they dont sell them in the park due to the
animals health, but you can bring your own) sunscreen, hats, personal mister. This park
seems to get hotter than the rest. I dont think its because of lack of shade, I think its
the humidity. Its like being in the jungle. I wore my tank top this day, but LOTS of
sunblock. Oh, and you are allowed to walk your strollers INSIDE most of the lines. The
stroller parking is usually halfway within the waiting line, instead of outside the line like
the other parks.
Kilimanjaro Safari. A must do ride. Very, very bumpy, you may not get good pictures.
Enjoy the ride. We saw hippos, crocodiles, lions, elephants, gazelle, rhino. We went early
and I think the cooler it is, the more the animals will be out.
Rafikis Planet watch-You take a short train ride (you must leave your stroller
behind or be able to fold it up. Dont worry, there are lender strollers at the other
station) After touring some of the backlot animal care centers, you stop near
Rafikis Conservation Station and view a petting farm. There are interesting
exhibits inside the building. When you get off the train a crowd with gather at the
(Tamarin?) exhibit. Pass it up and look at on your way back when there is no crowd.
Check out the listening booths, but be warned, small kids might not like the sounds of
buzzing insects in their ears. We also met Pocahontas here.
Bugs Life/Tree of Life. This tree is amazing! The size, the designs in the trunk, etc. When
you get in line for the attraction you actually wind down and around UNDER the roots
into a theater inside the tree. Another warning, this is a 3-D sensory experience. Many
children DO become frightened. I let my son choose weather or not to use the glasses.
But, there is a section when it becomes very dark and the audience is engulfed in a misty
fog. Out of the fog comes dandling spiders from the ceiling. You will also get sprayed
(water mist) and a stinkbug smell. (passes quickly). My son was NOT happy about the
squirt and it took a few times to convince him it was JUST water. My 3 yo daughter was
fine as long as she could be in Daddys lap.
Lunch was at the Rainforest Cafe. A fun place to go if you have never been there. Very
noisy though. If you are looking for a quiet place, try the Tusker house in Africa. The
Rainforest is changing its menu, so if you have a favorite from the past, they may not
have it this time.
Dinosaur ride-This is much like the Indiana Jones ride. Very bumpy and quick turns. Very
dark. We did a child swap on this one. DD was too small and I know DS would hate it.
As soon as we got out, it was raining. We headed to the Tarzan show for shelter.
Soon it was POURING DOWN. It was still 1/2 hour until the show, but many people
were gathering for refuge. Hey, as long as the animals didnt start gathering two by two, I
had nothing to worry about. The thunder DID spook me some.
The show was interesting, but a bit confusing. It was promoted like a rock concert with
the Tarzan story. The singers were very good, but the show lacked something. I was
personally glad for the shelter. The scene of Jane and Tarzan swinging was romantic to
watch. The rain was lighter after the show, but still coming down. AK had smart
planning by having a kiosk right outside the exit selling rain ponchos. We bought some
for the kids (we already brought ours from a previous trip) and were much more
comfortable.
Festival of Lion King Show-A must DO. We sat right near the front. (There are some
NON-handicapped seating up front...a good view!) Music, dancing and show are fun. My
husband got to have a small, interactive part playing a warthog. LOL. No flash photos, so
take some FAST film. My pics came out a bit dark.
Majaraja walk-I really loved this exhibit It had the fantasy of walking through ruins in
India and viewing tigers, deer, etc.
Kali Rapids-hubby and son went on with a FP. I passed. In SoCal, I went on enough
water rides. The environment was beautiful, but essentially it was a typical raft ride. I
would not do this ride with anything but FP. The people who waited the typical line
regretted it and were disappointed. At least with FP, you can do other things and not feel
like you are wasting your time.
Not enough places to rest and sit (Tusker House is a good choice in Africa)
MGM day
We went on got FPs for Tower of Terror and the Rock and Roller Coaster. Since we
knew our kids would not ride those rides, we took their passes and did childswaps.
While we were waiting for the FPs to become active, we went to the Little Mermaid
show. My daughter really loved seeing Ariel.
Our FP for Tower was active, so we hubby and I took turns. I met a wonderful family
from Australia and I even sat in the front row this time! Wow! This ride used to terrify me
and this time I laughed hysterically all the way down..and up...down and up! (four times!)
The Rock and Roller Coaster is just right around the corner, so we headed for that next.
The concept is that you are entering a recording studio to see Aerosmith cut a new record.
They have to leave for a concert so Steve Tyler and the Band welcome you along. They
even have a stretch limo waiting for you. Your limo is the coaster. Its mainly in the
dark and very fast! It has many twists and turns, loops, etc. Loud Aerosmith music too.
It was very different listening to Love on an Elevator in a roller coaster!
In the New York area, we saw the Hunchback show, the Muppets in 3-D,(one of my
faves-I love that 3-D clown thing!) and The Great Movie Ride. I cant believe my kids
went on this one! I did tell them there was a scary Alien part, but they just closed their
eyes.
We had Lunch at 50s Primetime Cafe. We went here before on our last trip and hubby
decided he wanted to go here in the morning. So, when we first got to the park, we made
some meal reservations. Our waitress was fully in character and even called our kids
scooter and princess. Think Donna Reed and you get the picture! The food is
great..very home-cooked style. Your booth is a mini-kitchen from the 50s with its own
TV playing snippets of old, B&W sitcoms. (I love Lucy for example) I remember last
time there was actual sound and this time there wasnt? Oh well, it would be even noisier
than last time. Our waitress tells us that Mom is in the kitchen cooking the meals and we
do not leave the table with out permission. (Yes, you need a potty pass!) LOL. Elbows
are expected to be off the table and you should eat your veggies. My son loved the
scooter treatment and informed us later that was his new nickname.
On a nearby table, one of the patrons didnt eat his green beans and tried to hide them in
his milkshake cup. His waitress took the cup, went to the kitchen and came back with
them on the plate with whipped cream and a cherry! She said that was all the dessert he
got! LOL. Either that, or he could stand in the corner! Guess what? He did and the rest
of the group were coerced to shake fingers and say Shame, Shame, Shame on you for
wasting Moms food.
In the Mickey Ave Area, we made our way through the Backlot tour and then the Magic
of Disney Animation tour. I like this tour! They changed it a bit since the last time I was
there (5 years ago). Since Disney animation is mostly colored by computer and not paint
now, the paint department is gone. Another part that was new was an actual animator
interview session. This was fun for kids especially because they learned that you could
have a real JOB drawing pictures! Sadly, they do not let you take ANY pictures on this
tour because of copyright restrictions. I asked before I snapped and I was glad I did. I
was told that if I took pics in there that my film could be take away? Would they really? I
dont know, but I wasnt willing to take chances!
The last even for the day was the Fantasmic show. I was sore and dead tired. First, you
have to walk quite a distance INTO the amphitheater type seating. It is HUGE, but if you
dont get their early you will have standing room only. There are great BIG crowds! We
stood on an elevated platform area in the back of the amphitheater. No matter where you
sit, you will get a good view! The show is wonderful and well worth my aching feet. The
show takes place on the multi-level stage, in the water that surrounds the stage, and actual
film clips on a water screen. DO see this!
Plan on waiting a while to get back to the main area of the park, as it takes awhile to for
the crowds to filter out.
Disney Quest/RiverCountry Day: Last Day
Packing, DQ. Very costly if not part of your pass. We had a special military package that
included this opportunity.
5 stories of video and interactive virtual reality games. Restaurant on top floor had good
and reasonably priced choices. Supposed to be the Cheesecake factory, but it was actually
broken up into several food counters. The dining areas are nice and we retreated into a
quieter, darker, semi-curtained off, booth.
DS and I went to try Ride the Comix where you are a superhero in training and are
fending off the bad guys. It felt like fighting big paper cut outs with a special light saber.
Some floors are just higher tech video games. Since we were short on time and have most
of those kinds of games at home, we just focused on the VR attractions.
My son and I tried the Jungle Cruise, which really should be called the Jungle River Raft
Dinosaur adventure. Its not the Disneyland or MK Jungle cruise. You are on a river raft
and are trying to find some gadget a professor dropped in another dinosaur time. You
even get sprayed with a little water from the river as you paddle down the rapids. We also
tried the Human Pinball game, and that was interesting. Some people didnt really get a
feel how to control their ball. Just wiggle and jump and hope for the best. On the second
floor we just tried Aladdins carpet ride. It would have been so much cooler if we sat on
an actual carpet?
We did walk around the Artistic areas around floor 2. It seemed to me like you had to pay
extra for any extra time to create anything and as expected, you paid extra for purchasing
a print or item, such as Sids create a toy. I can go to goodwill and create my own toy
under 3 bucks!
The last floor was the main entrance, gift store, and a few VR rides (Jungle Cruise and
Pirates of the Carib.) We passed on Pirates because there was a LONG line (being fairly
new) I dont know if I would ever do DQ again, but I can understand how it appeals to
many teens. I thought for what you paid, you would only get your value if you spent ALL
day there. Disney has been experimenting with these centers and the one in Orlando is the
only present one. The one in Chicago? was scheduled for closing and other openings were
postponed/cancelled. I do realize that there were experiences I missed, but I just dont
think DQ had the charm that many other Disney attractions have.
Next was going to the water park to wind down from our busy vacation. We chose River
Country since I heard it was the most relaxing, least crowded, and closest to our hotel.
We only had a few hours to enjoy it, but we thought it was a fitting end to the trip.
We drove to the River Country area (near Fort Wilderness Camp) and had no clue we had
to take a bus into the camp/waterpark area. After a short ride, we entered the park and
quickly changed and established a base camp. They rent towels here if you forget your
own. Renting a locker is costly for a day and they do not prorate. (I think it was $6 or $8)
We set up a spot on the sand by the bay and cooled off. We tried the tube ride and what
made it even better is that Goofy showed up in his long john PJ/swimsuit and went a few
times himself! I took my daughter to the small kids area while my son and hubby
wandered off into the water. We then watched them try the tube ride.
For being the oldest of all the Disney waterparks, they have kept it well-maintained and
clean. We realized that we were also right across the lake from the Wilderness lodge.
We think that next time we come to Orlando and stay there via the Disney club, it would
be fun to rent the bike surreys and ride to the River Country side. Also, there are places
to ride horses!
After a rest by the pool and watching hubby on the big poolslides, we gathered up our
things and called it a day.
The next day we checked out of SOG and checked into a Holiday Inn near the Airport.
We had a very early trip home to Sacramento.
Over all, it was a very good trip!
