Looking for the Sun: Pretrip - March 23-31, 2009

[VAN]

Pre-trip
As usual my DH and I wanted a warm “Spring break” trip to look forward to during the long cold Michigan winters. Of course, our favorite place is Walt Disney World. Looking at the calendar, we wanted to go late enough that it would be warm (previous early March trips had not worked out … brrr), but we wanted to avoid the super-busy time of school breaks and Easter. To that end we decided on the last week of March.

We were able to snag RT airfare on Airtran out of Detroit for a total of $302 for both of us – That was paying $6 each way for assigned seats, but beating the checked luggage charge by two days – Yeah! To get this low fare, however, we had to travel on certain days; thus, departure on a Monday with a Tuesday return (8 nights).

Disney was offering a 2 for 1 on their golf as well as the buy 4 nights get 3 free. What could be better. The hotel deal that we booked was 7-nights @ All Star Music = $727.10 – this included room + 2 1-day MYW tickets + $200 gift card. For the 8th night, I used a room-only code for a cost of $83.62. By doing a continuing reservation, I was able to save an additional $58.

Because our plan was not to go into the parks (except maybe to see the Flower Power concert by Paul Revere and the Raiders at Epcot), we would need a car. Thanks to Mousesavers, I was able to get a free membership to the National Car Rental Emerald Club. We booked a mid-sized car to be picked up on our 2nd day at the Dolphin. Was able to use a Walmart contract ID + an on-line coupon – total $162.

Also, we purchased tickets to the Braves/Yankees spring training game via Ticketmaster. Total cost $62.60. The best seats were reserved bleachers … and that was at the exact time they became available!

Because my DH would be golfing two days (made tee times in advance), I started thinking about going on one of the behind the scenes tours. Checked into it, read a review, and booked the Behind the Scenes tour with a AAA discount = $186.

We booked the Disney’s Magical Express one week prior to the trip and didn’t get the luggage tags. Called them and they said just to show our baggage claim tickets at DME desk and they would still be able to pick up the bags for delivery to the room. Uh-okay-hope that works.

 

[VAN]

MONDAY, MARCH 23

Since our flight did not leave until 1:30 pm, we were able to sleep in a bit from when we normally get up for work. Got showered, changed, finished packing and loaded up the van for the trip to Detroit (2 hours). Trip over was uneventful. We pulled into US Park and were immediately picked up by the shuttle van. Loaded our two carry-on bags, the golf bag, and my larger bag and we are off for the North Terminal.

$2 tip to the shuttle driver (driver just drives, does not help with bags). We stop at the restroom and then the elevator for the walkway to the terminal. No wait at the Airtran check-in and got in line for Security. Some guy with tons of bags is in front of us. I think it took him a full 3 minutes to unload his pockets, take off coat/shoes, etc before he was ready to walk through. Not sure but he may have been a salesman or was carrying lots of expensive stuff on board with him. Hmmm.

Anyway, we are over an hour before boarding so we head down to the end of the terminal to Earl of Sandwich. I love their food but this particular place seems to have an issue with their employees. In September, the terminal was brand-new and they were in the process of training employees. Very slow service because they were all trying to learn how to make the sandwiches. This time – no one in front of us, but four employees all chatting with each other. I bet it was a full 3 minutes before any of them acknowledged that I was standing next to the register. Hmmm – I got the Chicken Caesar Salad and my DH got the Italian sandwich – total $13.67. Meanwhile my DH purchased a USA Today … when did they get to be $1!!!

I had brought an empty water bottle through Security so we filled that up to save a few $$.

We finished eating and then strolled back through the terminal – plane hasn’t yet arrived. Went to the other end with a bathroom stop. Noted that Jordanian Air had a gate/flight … then we are back to our gate and see the last of the passengers are deplaning. As soon as the last one is off, we are ready to board (love this about Airtran). We are in groups 4 & 5 (row 23) so there is still plenty of room for our carry-on luggage near our seats.

I really stress about this, because on previous flights I’ve either had my bag taken and checked “because there is no room on board” or have had difficulties finding a spot. Now I tend to get a seat in the back half of the plane to ensure we have a place for our bags. I really, really hate it when people either stow more than one bag above and/or put their bag in sideways and then close the doors!!! Okay – enough of that.

The flight was not completely full and we arrived right on time in Orlando.

Bathroom stop and then down to check-in at the DME. No line and we were assured once again that they could find our checked bags even without the yellow DME tag on them. Into line 7 with a few people ahead of us and then on the bus. Yeah! Oh wait, we are the first on the bus so that means we have to sit and wait for others to board. Okay … 30 minutes later the bus is 1/3 full, the driver boards, the door closes and we are off!!!

$2 tip for the driver (don’t see anyone else tipping-what’s with that!) and we get checked-in at the All Star Music (no line). We receive our $200 gift card along with our room keys and packet. We are in the Country section, Bldg 5, Room 5548 (2nd Floor). I was expecting the Country section as we had not requested anything special. We don’t mind walking and my hope was that it would be a bit quieter back there anyway. My first impression was that we would kind of far from everything; however, it didn’t take long for us to find the “shortest” routes and, in fact, appreciate our very nice location. At first the parking area (we’d have a car the next day) seemed a long way – but it really wasn’t.

We unpacked and got settled in before heading for the bus stop to go to Downtown Disney for dinner. While waiting for the bus, a couple of wheelchairs showed up, so when the bus arrived, we had to wait to load. While waiting a group of 30 girls showed up in matching track suits and started to board from the back. They were then kicked off and joined the line to board at the front. This was the first of many school groups that were staying at the resort. From their suits it looked like they were either cheerleaders or a gymnastic team from South Africa. This whole bus experience reminded me of one of the reasons we were getting a rental car … As I’ve gotten older, I have less patience for the whole Disney bus thing. Plus, I don’t think it is as relaxing as it used to be … just a lot of stress that you don’t want on vacation.

Okay, since we are without a car, our dinner plans with have to be at Disney. I’d heard good things about Raglan Road so thought we’d try it. I even had printed off a 10% coupon … oh wait, it’s in my checked bag which hadn’t been delivered to the room yet! Well, so much for that.

We went up to the podium and requested seating inside the restaurant (it was getting a little chilly for sitting outside). They were able to seat us right away; however, it was in the very back of the restaurant where we could hear, but not see the band. The meal prices were a bit high (not unusual for WDW), but it is our first night of vacation, so what the heck! I got a United Nations beer flight to start (don’t ask me what they were … four ½ size glasses of beer) $8.50 and my DH got a Boddington Draft $6.75. He got the Fish & Chips $18.50 and I ordered the Ain’t No Bleeding Chowder $23.95. The beer was fairly good (I don’t like heavy beers as a rule) and some sort of oatmeal/fiber rich muffins with olive oil and reduced honey for dipping was brought to the table. They were very good … never had anything like that before. Then our food came. DH said his was good and – oh my goodness, was that the BEST EVER seafood chowder I have ever had!!! It was EXCELLENT!!! Total with tip $70

That new restaurant, T-Rex sure takes up a lot of room. Lot’s of people waiting to get in.

On the way back to the Marketplace bus stop (figured we’d have a better chance of getting on there than the stop at Westside), we got an ice cream sundae with dark chocolate to share from Ghirardelli. First time for my DH … we both absolutely loved it! $8.47.

I stopped in at the World of Disney Store as my DD (who was home watching the dog – she’s a college student), wanted some more watch bands for her Disney watch. They don’t sell them anymore!! Also, they said they couldn’t help our with the three Disney-brand watches we have that need batteries. The CM suggested we try a Sears store. I’m a bit disappointed, because a lot of the regular stores will not touch a Disney-brand watch because they have unusual batteries and they need special tools to take the backs off. Very disappointing!

Okay, we are on the bus (what a madhouse) … it’s full so we don’t let anyone on at the Westside stop (told ya). Lots of loud chatting, screaming baby, and kids testing and looking at digital camera pics.

Back to ASMu and walk by the big inflatable screen at the main pool where they are showing Nemo. Nice idea.

Yeah! Our checked bags (golf clubs and larger bag) have been delivered. Thanks DME! I unpacked the coffeepot and collapsible cooler, etc. and put the bags away.

Spoke to my DD on the phone and she said the dog was acting weird. He must be missing us. It usually takes him a day or two to adjust with us being gone.

Okay – long day. Off to bed.

 

[VAN]

TUESDAY, MARCH 24

We slept in until 8:30 (usual workday we are up by 5:30 and in bed by 10:00). We made coffee in the room and then DH went to get a paper $1 to read by the Piano pool which was near our room. It isn’t the main pool for our resort, so was never a hectic as the other one. I ate a granola bar before joining my DH at the pool with a book. It was about 75 degrees and breezy, but felt warmer in the sun. Oh, got to love that sun!

We needed to pick up the rental car from the Dolphin Hotel at 11:00, so we let the pool and got dressed at 10:00 in order to catch the bus to the Studios. We planned to either take the boat or walk from there over to the Dolphin. Well for some reason my mind quite working and I told my DH we needed to get in the Epcot bus line. He didn’t question me because he, of course, knows that I know what I’m doing. We watch the Studios bus pull away, before I suddenly realize. Oh wait, that was the bus we were suppose to be on!! Okay, DH, why didn’t you say something!!

Twenty minutes later another Studio bus pulls up and we arrived at the park at 11:00. I hate to be late, but I’m sure 30 minutes isn’t going to be a big deal. We took the walkway over to the Dolphin. I just love walking along the waterway. Lots of big fish in the water and a beautiful sunny day at WDW to enjoy.

We got to the Dolphin and found the car rental place at the Customer Service desk. The rep for National Car Rental was very nice – upgraded us to a full-size, Chevy Malibu, gave us the keys and were told to give them to the valet out front. It was such a trip-interrupter to have to go get the car, that I asked whether it would cost any more to return the car to the airport. She checked and said, not at all (it was still within a 7 day rental) – so we made the change.

[Note: What I’m finding is that using the DME upon arrival, you don’t have to mess with your checked bags. It is also cheaper to rent from the Dolphin site vs the airport site. I was able to use an on-line coupon that was not applicable at the airport as well. In future, I will keep this in mind. So even though it is a bit of a hassle to pick the car up there, the savings may be worth it.]

He brought the car around, $2 tip, inspection of the car and we’re off. I had a printed copy of the WDW property map which was EXTREMELY helpful in getting around. This is the same one that is printed on the back of the resort maps that you get at check-in.

We made our way to the Winn Dixie in Lake Buena Vista (down the road from Goodings) and picked up some sandwich makings, potato salad, chips, bagels, cereal, milk, pop, water, beer, coolers (Bartle & James Margarita .. haven’t had these in years … they were very good – like a margarita on ice but only lighter). I had forgotten to bring my Winn Dixie customer card (we don’t have them in Michigan so only use the card when in Florida), so went up to the customer service desk to get a new one. She asked for my phone number and said I was still in the system and to just give my phone number to the cashier. Very nice – saved us $7 off the bill. Total spent was $66.10.

We drove back to ASMu. The back of the parking lot where we were suppose to park, was near Celebrity Hall and was blocked off for some functions they had going on there. There were also several school buses parked back there. We were able to park close, but not quite as close had that not been blocked (only blocked for a couple of days though). Managed all our groceries in one trip (barely)

We had planned to make sandwiches for lunch and then head for the pool. Unfortunately, the maid had not yet arrived when we returned with the groceries – but did soon after. I told her “give us 10 minutes” and then, of course, my DH wanted to grumble that he was being rushed.

Okay, I had brought a collapsible cooler with us and a plastic tray to put in the bottom for water leakage. This worked fairly well, but we still had water seeping down around the tray. I had brought a couple of gallon size zip-lock freezer bags along, so started putting ice (from the hotel ice machine) in there and then placing them top-side up amongst the items. This worked much better. We put fresh ice in morning and evening and were able to keep everything cold.

We finished the afternoon at the pool enjoying the sun. Have to say that I am more conscientious about putting on sun screen. Now that I’m older, I have noticed that my skin gets blotchy and is not as supple. Figure it’s not worth the risk of skin cancer for a few weeks of deep color. I do get some color, but nothing like when I was younger. In fact, at a recent meeting I noticed a couple gals about my age that do the whole tanner thing and get a deep tan. My gosh, their skin looked like leather and all the wrinkles around their eyes were quite deep. Well if the threat of cancer doesn’t scare you, that unattractive look sure would! Needless to say, I was a good Dobie and used sunscreen everyday. Probably first trip that I didn’t get a burn on the nose and/or chest. Closest I came was the tops of my legs at the baseball game (didn’t put sunscreen on my legs that day – only my face and arms) – but even that wasn’t bad.

Okay, since we didn’t plan to do much on Disney property this trip (did Free Dining Sept ’08 and will be there for Sept ’09), I had researched some nearby off-site restaurants. We like Mexican food and had read about Chevys at the Crossroads shopping area. Driving there wasn’t too bad until you get to the Downtown Disney area, where traffic picks up … otherwise it was quite close. We got better through the week finding the best way to get places.

Anyway, arrived and got seated right away. The food was very good and reasonably priced but the service was probably the very best I have ever experienced. I mean everyone just really anticipated your needs even before I did. Refills on the water. Prompt attention to when we needed drinks. More napkins (I must have looked like I’d need them), more chips/salsa, etc. Excellent, excellent service! I had a raspberry/strawberry margarita $6.25, my DH a Bud Light $4. I had the mixed fajitas $16.49 and DH the Grande Chimichunga Chicken $10.49. $40 bill with a $10 tip.

As long as we were over that way, we stopped at DTD and walked around West Side. We saw the tethered balloon ride – it wasn’t open but looked like it would be soon. I think this will be a nice addition. We also watched the street magician in front of the Adventurer’s Club … also shed a few tears for its demise. We’ll miss you AC!

Back in our room by 9:00. Boy does it get dark in Florida!

 

[VAN]

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25

Up nice and early. We make coffee and DH takes a bagel up to the food court to toast + to purchase a USA Today. I have some cereal using one of the plastic room cups for a “bowl” – we got some plastic ware from the food court.

I’ve got my Baggalini all packed and ready for my Backstage Magic Tour and my DH has his golf clubs all packed and ready to go. I give him the $200 gift card to use for the golf – Tee Up for Twice the Golfing Fun. It will cost $216 for a round at Magnolia (Wed) and the Palm (Fri) courses. Not too bad considering he has 9:05 am tee times both days and it’s during spring break season.

We head out in the car following the signs to the MK. My DH drops me off at the MK Kennel (okay, no snide remarks please) parking lot, so I can catch the Epcot Monorail. The Kennel is next to the Ticket & Transportation Center and allowed him to just drop me off easily since he had to pass by on his way to the Golf Club anyway.

They were very clear about the fact that you needed to be at the Epcot tour-meeting sign by 8:45 am … do not be late! Well I ended up getting there at 8:15 which allowed me plenty of time for a restroom break.

Okay walked around the corner from the Kennel and boarded the monorail to Epcot. I was hoping to ride up front, but a family was already waiting. As stated above, arrived in plenty of time and was soon joined by others on the tour. I think they limit the number to 25 or 30 and you have to be at least 16 to take the tour. It is normally over $200 but with my AAA discount I only paid $186. It is a lot, but you do not have to have a park pass for the day and they feed you lunch at a table service restaurant – also, it is a 7 hour tour.

Anyway, the guides (3 of them) showed up at 8:50 – checked us in, gave us each a simple lanyard with a name badge, then a listening device and earphone.

I think we had close to 25 in the tour and everyone seemed really nice. As you can imagine with the price of the tour, most of us were over 40 with grown kids. The comment from many was that they were glad there were no children on the tour … they see enough children in the parks and all around. I know this sounds mean, but once your kids are older and before you have grandchildren, you do get kind of used to there not being so much “activity” and noise around. I am at that stage myself. I love children (from a big family with 50 nieces/nephews); however, am less tolerant of the parents that do not supervise and/or parent their children properly. I do totally appreciate those parents that enjoy their children while still having some control. Okay – moving on.

Now, I had read the full review of this tour on – I believe Mousesavers – and so had a good idea of what was going to happen. Now this, of course, took some of the surprise out of the tour but with the money spent, I wanted to be sure it would be something worthwhile as I consider myself quite the WDW expert.

I kind of paired up with Jill (from Liverpool, England) who was on her own that day as well … her DH was at Bay Hill watching the golf tournament and she had dropped him off earlier that day. Jill was thinking that she would go buy a bottle of water, but I told her based on the review, they would provide bottled water on the bus. I also said, I can’t be 100% certain, but that’s what the reviewer said. Thank goodness they did have water available; otherwise, my new best friend would have deserted me!

We were on a full-size Disney Cruise line bus and our guides were Brian, Monica, and Maggie – all from the Disney Institute. Brian only had one leg and used a wheelchair, but was able to get himself on the bus and seated in a front row. The bus driver would stow and/or retrieve his chair from under the bus at each stop. His disability was never an issue on the tour. Anyway, each of them gave a brief history of their employment with the Disney Company while we journeyed to our first stop backstage at the American Adventure pavilion. They used a microphone on the bus, but once we were off, they asked us to turn on our listening devices to a certain channel. This worked really well so that you were able to hear everything that the guide said regardless of how far away you might be from the front. It made us feel kind of special as well – very high-tech!

Jill and I were on the driver’s side of the bus and so when they split the group into two our side got Brian & Monica and the other side of the bus got Maggie.

During the day, we would visit the backstage area of three parks. At the entrance of each of the areas, a security guard would board the bus and check our bags (like they do at the entrances). Kind of silly, really, but not a big deal.

The backstage area of Epcot is much like you would imagine and maybe have glimpsed one time or another. Very stark, utility type buildings. The guides explained that Walt didn’t believe in spending unnecessary $$ on anything that didn’t add to the “story” for the guests. The guests don’t see the backstage as a rule and so there is no need to “pretty” them up.

As mentioned, our first stop was backstage of the America Adventure pavilion. We actually entered the park on the left side of the building (the road near the restrooms). This is “prettied-up” somewhat with nice landscaping because the school bands, etc will enter the park at this point and the guests will look through the opening. At the front of the building they talked about the placement of the America or “host” pavilion and well as the optical allusion that the building is smaller than it really is. Originally, they were going to put the building at the gateway from Future world, but then realized it was too large. It was moved to the back and they used movie tricks to make the building look a bit smaller (larger features further up on the building vs. smaller windows, etc on the building at the MK main street to make them look bigger).

World Showcase was not yet open, and so landscaping crews were busy planting flowers as apart of the Garden and Flower show. They really had a system and were able to do whole flowerbeds in a matter of minutes!

To the back of the building where we entered the backstage area. We were able to observe all the animatronic figures and how they change the sets so quickly and quietly for the show. One of the guides had worked at that attraction at one point and told a funny story about the time a hydraulic line broke under Susan B. Anthony’s arm and red fluid was spewing out of her armpit! Anyway, it was fascinating to see. They also have an identical backup figure for each of the animatronics in case something goes wrong that is not easily fixed. They can then just swap out the figure with the “understudy.”

Back on the bus and headed for the CM administration building. I have to say that the guides were very good about scheduling in restroom breaks … that was our first stop upon entering the building. This is the building that houses the costumes, training and development areas, administration, break rooms, locker rooms, etc for the Epcot CM. Unlike the MK where the CM get to their areas via the Utilicorridors (more on that later), here, there is a circular roadway where a shuttle bus distributes the CMs to the various areas. So once a CM is ready to go to work, they will just catch the bus and then get off at their pavilion whether it is in Future World or World Showcase. So we saw many CM in various costumes preparing to go to work.

Overhead in the main hallway, were “affirmation” banners for the CMs reminding them about putting the customers first, being friendly, etc. Like most businesses, they also had bulletin boards with announcements and boards recognizing outstanding CMs. There was a company store where they could purchase items for CMs only and rooms with computers for them to do CBT (computer-based training), etc.

Then we journeyed past a vending machine that held pantyhose, shaving kits, etc (for the Disney look) on our way to the costuming department. We passed by the lockers and the signs reminding everyone that changing of clothing was to be done in the dressing rooms. The costuming department had all the costumes that the various CM would wear. They were all bar-coded by item/costume/size. So at the beginning of your work day (or week) you were able to select 5 costume pieces in your size and check them out at the desk. If I understood correctly, you would change at home and come in wearing your costume. But I may have misunderstood. Anyway, costumes are provided to all employees and they were all there.

In the back we saw where there were seamstresses that worked on character costumes and we even saw Aladdin and Jasmine getting ready for work. They had their wigs on and were applying makeup. Now the usually question came up as to how many Mickey Mouse’s there were – only one, but he has a lot of friends.

 

[VAN]

Wed, March 25th continued .....

Over the course of the day, a lot of facts and figures were given out mostly in answer to questions, but I am doing this report two weeks later from memory so forgive me if I get something slightly wrong or omit some of the numbers. We were all sworn in that was happens/is said on the backstage tour – stays on the backstage tour. But since I’m not a real CM and since someone else beat me to it with the Mousesavers review, I’m not too concerned about spilling the beans!

Back on the bus and over to the studios. After the Security check, we were taken to the back of the Hollywood Tower Hotel and they discussed how the ride works. There were a couple of the mechanics/ride maintenance folks there available to answer questions and we saw various parts from the ride being worked on.

Then over to the costuming department. This is the one that you will see on the Studios backstage tour, except that you get to go inside and see a lot more. The various costumes used at all of the Disney parks globally are designed and made here. The operation CM costumes are designed here, but then the making of them are contracted out to an outside vendor. Once the design is approved, they use computers to develop the pattern pieces and then there is a computerized cutting machine that will cut the fabric. This process was demonstrated for us. While there, we saw them sewing together the bird person costume for the Festival of the Lion King at AK. The design was displayed on the wall and so we were able to recognize the costume. It looks like a bit of a redesign from the one that has been used. More info was given than I have described, but you get the general idea for this tour stop.

Back on the bus and I believe that our next stop was Whispering Canyon restaurant at Wilderness Lodge for lunch. They had three tables set up for our group and lunch was served family style. It was basically the “Unlimited Skillet” meal – baked beans, garlic mashed potatoes, cornbread, ribs, chicken, sausage and for dessert – a wonderful, fresh peach cobbler with ice cream. Everything was very good.

A couple things I didn’t mention is that when checking in for the day, you were able to pass along any dietary requests and those had been passed along to the chef. The chef came out and spoke to each person who had made a special request.

Also, we were not allowed to take pictures except when we were in the public areas. So really my only pictures from the tour were when we were at the MK …. Later in my report.

Okay, restroom break and back on the bus to the backstage area of the Magic Kingdom. I believe our first stop was the Laundry facility. This is very hard to describe in that the people working there really, really work their tails off! There are 3 or 4 laundry buildings for WDW and the one we visited handled the operational costumes – those used by the restaurant staff, ride operators, housekeeping, etc. All of these come in big bins which are transferred to large 400 lb bags that are attached to an overhead track. They progress and are dumped for sorting by color (the sorting is done by hand), rebagged and then off to the HUGE washers. Once done, most of the items have to be hung on hangers BY HAND. Sleeves pulled out and hung and then pants are safety pinned to hangers …. Every single piece of clothing!!! I guess I never gave this much thought but there is no way that could be automated. All of this is done in an environment with that constant noise in the background. Then most of the items go through a steamer to dry/get the wrinkles out. Some items have to be pressed, but then each hanger has some sort of bar code reader so that the automatic sorting of the pieces can be done by item, destination and size. There are also people there who must mend and repair items as well.

What a big operation and exhausting just thinking about it.

Across the road and into the Central Shops area. This is where they actually build all the items that you see around the place. They were in process of building several different ride vehicles that were easily identifiable from the parks – Pooh honey pot, Dinosaur, etc. They will use a computer to cut the form out of Styrofoam and then form the fiberglass around it. Of course this is all placed on top of the ride mechanism. Then it is painted, etc. In the painting department they were working on some carousel horses. The craftsmanship is incredible. Of course, all of the signage you see at WDW is done here as well. Again, a huge operation!

Okay, now we are off to the back of one of the stores on Main street for a trip into the mysterious utilicorridors. For those who don’t know, Walt did not want the story of the various lands interrupted by people with different costumes traveling through (like at Disneyland – A guy from Frontierland going through Tomorrowland). Anyway, they came up with the idea of building the utility lines/piping and CM areas on the “first” floor of the MK. The MK itself is actually on the 2nd floor, and then the upper parts of some of the buildings are considered the 3rd floor. Anyway, we got to go down there. It looked a little different than I was expecting – not quite as shiny and gleaming (don’t know where I got that from). It does, however, look like it was built in the 70’s … lots of signage to point the CM to the various lands and lots of utility piping overhead. Those little carts with the lights and horns traveling through with supplies for the various vendor areas, etc. Kind of reminds me of our manufacturing building basement. No windows and lots of people buzzing around.

Back upstairs and out onto Main street to watch the afternoon Celebrations parade. After the parade we grouped together for a group photo and then got back on the bus for our ride back to Epcot. We were each given a special pin that is only available to those going on the Backstage Tour. Kind of matches our name badges. We turned in our listening devises and earphones upon boarding the bus.

Wrapping up my thoughts on the tour. It was expensive but I only had to buy one ticket as my DH was golfing and it did include lunch and we didn’t have to buy a park pass. It was something I had not done before and I learned a lot. Always wanted to see the Utilicorridors so got to do that. Lots of great people on the tour. I LOVED our tour guides of Monica and Brian. Maggie was nice but I caught her giving out misinformation in response to questions quite a bit – am so GLAD she was not our primary guide (the other side of the bus had her). Monica and Brian were great, knowledgeable and provided very accurate info. I’m glad I went on the tour. The tour finished right at 4:00.

Wished Jill, my tour buddy, well and headed for the bus stop back to ASMu. Found DH at the piano pool. He had a good time golfing and had gotten back to the hotel about 1:30.

We hung around the pool for a little bit more before heading out to Bahama Breeze on Vineland Ave for dinner. Have read lots of good things about this place and was not disappointed. It was the perfect restaurant for a Florida vacation. We were seated right away and had good service throughout the meal. I had the Ultimate Pina Colada $5.89 and DH had an Aruba Red 20 oz beer $3.89. We started with onion rings $8.29 that were fabulous. We had a huge platter of them and they were deep fried in a coconut batter (like coconut shrimp) – best I ever had! Definitely enough for 4 people. Came with two types of sauce too. Then I got the seafood paella $17.29 and DH the Calypso Pasta (Shrimp Linguini) $16.79. Yum – Yum! Huge portions which we could not eat all of. We are thinking that next time we should split an entree. Total with tip $65.

On the way back to ASMu, we stopped off at Fort Wilderness and caught the internal bus back to the marina (we used to stay at FtW so knew our way around) for a boat ride around Bay Lake. Stopped in at Wilderness Lodge for a look-see and then the boat back to the campground, bus to front, and back to car for the drive to ASMu.

If I recall, I think I was in time to watch a little of American Idol on TV before night-night.

 

[VAN]

THURSDAY, MARCH 26

Up early. Usual morning routine – coffee and cereal in the room, DH to food court to toast bagel and to purchase USA Today.

Today we are heading to Cocoa Beach. It is around 80 degrees but very, very windy. We drive off Disney Property on Osceola to get on the 417 Tollway. First toll booth requires 50 cents. Oh no, I only have 1 quarter. My DH thinks he has a quarter in his golf bag in the truck and fishes that out. We are safe in paying our first toll. That was an unmanned toll booth where you have to have exact change. At the next toll booth ($1) we give her a $10 and ask for $4 in quarters and the rest in $1 bills. That should do us for the rest of the day.

Our trip over to the beach is uneventful except there are no restrooms and I have to go really, really bad. Being raised on a farm, I am not adverse to a quick stop …. Carefully looking for snakes and other critters as I venture quickly into the brush, I manage to take care of business without being spotted. Oooh, I feel much better now – on to the beach!!

We go through Cape Canaveral and see some of the cruise ships docked, including one of the Disney ships. Boy are they big! We park at public parking area – can’t remember the name, but I think it cost $7 for the day. I know we could have parked on the street, but I always feel better if we are in a regular lot. We take our stuff (towels, books, etc) down to the beach and then head off to the right (South?) for a stroll. Very windy but it feels good. Not too many people on the beach yet, but there are a lot of washed up jelly fish that we try not to step on. We did see one park ranger on a tracker picking them up though. Something I’ve never noticed before on the condos is that they have some sort of blind or cover that can be pulled around/over the cover the patio/balcony area. This probably helps to keep damage to a minimum from the sand, wind, storms, sun, etc when no one is occupying the room.

Anyway, we walk a way and then turn around because, yes, I have to go again and they have a park restroom. Then we settle in for a couple hours on the towels. I was good about putting on sunscreen and the beach gets increasingly busy. People are just pouring in around noontime. Because the wind is blowing so hard, anyone who even walks by us on one side by 12 feet gets sand blown on us. But most people seem to be careful. I did see a couple of school groups show up – looks like one of them was a bunch of guys (water polo) with Speedo trunks and then it looked like some Moms (chaperones).

On about 1:00, we decide to put our items away in the trunk and walk down to the pier for lunch. We’ve been on the pier before, but have never eaten there. It appeared to be your typical bar type of restaurant. We were seated right away and shortly thereafter a group was seated behind us. The guy that was doing the most of the talking must think he is a big mover and shaker, because it sounded like he managed a band and, yea would have to go back to LA to earn some money – you know the alimony to ex-wife and child support, blah, blah. I love to eavesdrop on people like that. At one point he got up and did indeed look like what you would think a band manager would look like.

Anyway we had terrible service here. I asked the waitress to bring me a salad BEFORE we got our burgers. NOT! In fact she brought the salad after the burgers. Never looked our way or anything. If I’d had more change I think I would have given her much less of a tip. Worst service of the entire trip by far. I got a Bud Light $2.83, 2 burgers $17.58 and a side salad $2.99. With tip $30.

She did explain that our receipt would get us free admittance to the end of the pier (otherwise it was $1 per person) and a buy-one-get-one ice cream at “Ricky’s”.

Well we went to the end of the pier and took some really cool pictures of the pelicans that were just sitting there posing. We enjoyed the breeze and watching the many surfers that we making attempts near the pier. It was a beautiful day out. Eventually we left the pier in search of Ricky’s ice cream and found it near the end. $3 for two cones with our receipt. I looked for a brochure with Ron Jon coupons at the visitor hut but didn’t have any luck. I think you might actually have to go to Kennedy Space Center to get them.

We then walked back up the beach and over to Ron Jon’s Surf Shop for some shopping. Before entering I got a free “spring break” bag that they were handing out to the college age kids. It had some good Crest samples and a razor as well as coupons. I didn’t find much at Ron Jon’s that excited me. I think their tee shirts have gone way up in price over the years. We ended up with two pair of flip-flops for my daughter and a clearance tee shirt for my DH – total $33.54.

Back to the car and on the road back to Orlando and our resort. I think we must have gotten back about 5:45 or so.

There were some NCAA games on television so we thought we’d look for a lounge nearby that we could watch. Since Coronado Springs was nearby, we thought we’d check it out. They did have a lounge but it was a tad up-scale; because they were pretty slow (no conventions at the moment) we had an entire seating area with big flat-screen TV to ourselves. Very nice. Four beers and tip came to $29 – Ouch! At least they were the larger 16 oz bottles. My DH was hungry and the lounge only had fancy-expensive type snacks, so I went to the Pepper Market to get him a sandwich. BIG MISTAKE. We should have just picked up some McDonald’s on the way over. In fact, I could have left and gotten McDonald’s sooner than it took me at the Pepper Market. There weren’t that many people in there but I had to wait in line for 20 minutes before they would even take my order for a chicken sandwich (this was at the Grill section). Then another 10 minutes – then another 5 minutes because they hadn’t put the cheese on after asking me if I wanted cheese. I then reminded them that it was a to-go order, so then he transferred the food to a box.

I just cannot imagine how they move people through there. Just imagine if you were staying there for a convention and wanted to get something to eat …you’d be in there for over an hour!!! Note to self – never go there again!! 1 chicken sandwich & fries and 35 minutes later - $14.86. You’ve got to be kidding!!!

Technically we weren’t supposed to bring food from outside into the lounge, but because they were slow the CM’s agreed to ignore it. We headed back to the ASMu and our room after the first game was over. Hey we had beers in the room that cost us $1 each – why were we paying $6 plus tip at a bar!

Okay, live and learn – right.

 

[VAN]

FRIDAY, MARCH 27

Okay, today my DH is golfing at the Palms course; I decide to leave with him and mess around by the Magic Kingdom and go for a walk through Fort Wilderness.

Usual morning routine and then in the car. My DH again drops me off at the MK Kennel parking lot (no comments please) and I visit the T&T gift shop. They really have some cute key chains this year. I purchase a Mickey and a Minnie keychain for myself and daughter $10.65. After that I get in line for the resort monorail and ask to ride in the front. I’ve never taken that many pictures of the T&T before, so I take the time to snap a few shots and then take pictures of the driver and out the window. I don’t think the first driver liked it, but then we got a new driver at the Poly. A couple of little girls join me up front at the Poly and then get off at the MK stop. A man with his two little kids gets on next and they are also going for a little ride. We chat on the trip and when they exit the driver gives us all cards saying we rode up front. I got off at the Contemporary and preceded to the gift shops to look around for a while. I looked at the coffee cups again – some really cute ones out there – but decide against buying any. I must have at least 20 at home now so it’s the last thing I need.

Back on the monorail – I went to the very last car which I had all to myself and rode it to the MK station. I got off and boarded the boat to Fort Wilderness. Another gorgeous day and not too many on the boat so I sat up front. There was a young couple also up front who said they were going to the Fort for a Segway tour. They needed to meet at the Mickey’s BBQ pavilion so I told them that it would be near Pioneer Hall at the end of the dock. Sure enough, there was signage pointing the way for them. I wished them a good day and stopped into the gift shop to see if there was anything new.

Well not new, but I hadn’t had a Mickey bar yet, so I got one out of the freezer - $2.50.

My goal today was to get some exercise and to check out the pool renovations at the Meadowlands Recreation area. I strolled down the sidewalk eating my Mickey bar and taking in all the sights and sounds of the Fort. As mentioned before, my family usually hauls the camper down from Michigan to stay at the campground. With the kids grown, the price of gas, and the discounts being offered for the hotels/airfare we have been flying down and staying at Values the last couple years. Anyway, I get down to the recreation area and see where I can casually (mind you) enter the outskirts of the fenced off area to get some snapshots of the pool construction. It really looks nice. The slide is quite long and high so will be a big hit once finished. They took the water tower from River Country to incorporate with the slide. The pool has been made shallower (to match the other WDW pools) and a couple of hot tubs are being installed. Should be very nice when finished. I always liked the pool area even without a slide because it was so large. People have been asking for a slide for years, so it’s nice to see one put in.

I exited the construction area, took pictures of the construction of a new loop across the waterway and entered the Trading Post. Again, nothing new or that would urge me to throw down some greenbacks. I depart the area and head back to Pioneer Hall.

Once there, I check-in at Customer Service to get a map of the walking trail to Wilderness Lodge. She said it was just across from the bus stop and that it was all paved. I went there and just didn’t see it. Oh, there it is … more like across from the horse stables if you ask me. I took the trail for about ¼ mile and then saw the turn-off into the woods that we had taken once before. It is a trail used by personnel and their golf carts so it is clear but unpaved. I like this better than the sidewalk, because it is surrounded by nature and runs closer to Bay Lake. I come out by the Marina of Wilderness Lodge and headed toward the boat dock for the boat back to the Magic Kingdom.

Upon boarding the boat, we were told that we had to wait because the ferries were causing the other boats to hold up. Rather than cause a traffic jam, we just sat there for about 5 minutes and then off we went to the MK.

I have to say that the times where we just go out boat-riding and visiting other resorts is so relaxing. It doesn’t cost anything (unless you buy something at the gift shops) and is very relaxing. A good way to enjoy the atmosphere and beautiful weather.

At the MK I head over to the bus stop and see that an ASMu has just pulled away. An ASMo is still there so I board with the intention of walking from the ASMo to ASMu. This works out well and was sure faster than waiting for another bus.

By this time it is early afternoon so I call my DH to see where he is. He’s just leaving the golf course, so I asked him if he wanted to pick up a couple of fish sandwiches $10 at McDonald’s (no meat today – Lenten Friday). He did and we ate them out by the pool. Sunbathed and dipped in the pool until 5:30 or so.

Back to the room to clean up and head out for a meal. When we had been at Bahama Breeze on Vineland the other day, we saw that there was a Landry’s Seafood House so thought we’d try them. I had a Rainforest Café Safari card so we could get a discount. Well we got there and it was a 40 minute wait. We looked at the menu and decided that the prices were a bit more than we wanted to pay for the atmosphere (seemed to be a lot of mature people there … not so much a “fun” kind of place). We turned in our pager and drove across the way to Bahama Breeze. There was a 30 minute wait but they could seat us right away on the front patio. Sounds good!

I got the Pineapple-Coconut Martini which looked so good on the menu $5.79 – it was okay, kind of like a melted Pina Colada. DH got the Aruba Red beer again $3.89. We split the onion rings $8.29 and the Calypso Pasta $16.79. Again, everything was good and we had plenty of food splitting the entrée. Total with tip was $45.

I just have to say that the intersection of 535 and Vineland is just CRAZY. Several restaurants and lots, and lots of condos and hotels. This is one reason I like staying on-site at WDW, the traffic is much, much less.

Anyway, I believe that we just headed back to the hotel.

 

[VAN]

SATURDAY, MARCH 28

Today we have tickets for the spring training game at the Wide World of Sports between the Atlanta Braves and the New York Yankees. We have never been to the WWS before and were excited about seeing it. Also, we wanted to root on our hometown boy – Derek Jeter! His mom used to work at the same company as me and was able to get Derek to sign a baseball for my son … this was the first year that Derek was in the minors. Soon after, Dot quite taking requests for autographs. A funny story – I was at a retirement function for someone and seated at the same table as Dot Jeter. I asked her if Derek was going to buy her a new house. She said – Not right now; I’m going to wait until he is making the big bucks!! Great sense of humor, his mom.

Okay, back to our day. Usual start – coffee, etc. A little pool time. Lunch in the room and then we depart for the stadium. It wasn’t that far of a drive and we planned to arrive about 45 minutes before game time. Lots and lots of cars, but they were doing a good job with parking in the fields. Nice walk up to the stadium. Beautiful! Very old-Florida looking. I had my purse checked, ticket scanned and was inside the concourse. Much like any other ball stadium except, of course, it’s Disney. All the old-Florida detailing – beautiful. We had reserved bleacher seats which weren’t bad. Nobody sitting next to us so we were able to spread out a little (which was good because a rather large man sat next to my DH). About ½ way through the game, the seat holders showed up but indicated they’d sit behind us on some now empty seats. Nice.

A beautiful day. More Yankee fans than Braves. The Yankees did end up winning. Mickey came out with a little fan for the first pitch of the game. The sun was shining with a slight breeze. The bleachers had backs on them (thank goodness) so were fairly comfortable.

Not sure what inning it was, but between pitches we heard two sonic booms, one right after the other and then a jet stream across the sky. Even some of the players were looking. Turns out it was the Discovery Shuttle returning to earth at the Kennedy Space Center. It didn’t look like much but was exciting to say we saw it all the same.

During the course of the game I had a couple rest room breaks and then stood in line to purchase a frozen lemonade $3.75.

I believe that we left the game a little early. We made a quick stop at our resort and then headed out to catch the 5:00 mass at Holy Cross Catholic Church off John Young Parkway. Well, we got caught in the traffic coming out of the game … I think we were stopped for a good 10 minutes before we got moving through the intersection at Victory Way/Osceola Parkway. Onto 417 and off at exit 10 – arriving just in time for mass.

After mass we headed into Celebration. We wanted to eat dinner plus watch some of the NCAA tournament. I had heard that the Celebration Town Tavern was nice, so we headed there. There was a wait for tables, but it appeared that there was room at the bar. It was a very nice place but not your usual sports/neighborhood bar. It was more like an upscale restaurant with a bar. Anyway, we had great service and were able to watch the game. The Bud Lights were just $3 each (5 between the two of us), onion rings $5, Cheese steak $10 (DH) and Cape Cobb $15 (me) - $55 including tip.

We had a little difficulty finding our way out of Celebration. I thought we should be able to get back to ASMu without getting on the tollway, but couldn’t seem to find the right road. So, back on the 417 to ASMu.

 

[VAN]

SUNDAY, MARCH 29

Okay, we were thinking that we might go into Epcot to see Paul Revere and the Raiders performing as part of the Garden & Flower show on this day. The Orlando area got a line of thunderstorms through the area overnight and it was still raining when we got up in the morning. Well that kind of shoots any sort of outdoor activity, so why not spend the day at the parks? I was at WDW twice in 2008, most recently in September for Free Dining so was fully prepared to take some time off from the parks. I always say that a rainy day is a good day for Epcot because so many of the attractions are inside.

Meanwhile, my DH has picked up some sort of cold and isn’t feeling 100%. I only brought sinus-headache medicine from home which wasn’t fully taking care of the problem.

So, I head up to the ASMu gift shop to purchase ponchos and some sort of cold medicine. I also grabbed a USA Today but later threw it away because it was the weekend version which my DH read two days ago! $27.19

We decided to split the day between Epcot and the Studios and would park at the Boardwalk as an in between. First we stopped to gas up the car at the Hess Station $24 – then parked and walked in the International Entrance of Epcot before heading to The Land to get Soarin’ fastpasses. While waiting for those to come up we got a coffee and ham sandwich to split from Sunshine Season Food Fair $9.57. We then rode Living with the Land with no wait. I got a couple more fastpasses for Soarin’ and then we rode with our first passes.

It was still raining off and on – ponchos off and on. We road Spaceship Earth next. Probably a 10 minute wait in line. I have to say its been a long time since I waited in line for this ride as we usually catch it later in the day when it is a walk-on.

By this time the rain had pretty much stopped so we went to the la Cantina to get a couple of combo meals $19.71. We had dry off a table and chairs with napkins (everyone was doing this, using copious amounts of napkins … you’d think it would have been easier if a CM has used a squeegee on the tables/chairs).

We head out the International Gateway – I’m not sure if we walked to the Studios or rode a boat. I think we walked.

My DH still wasn’t feeling well, but was a good sport about moving on. I believe that we got fastpasses for the Tower of Terror – the standby said 40 minutes, then went to ride the Great Movie Ride. We entered into the back of the pre-show room, so about a 15 minute wait. It was nice that we were in the second row of the first car so had a good view of the “action”. We had the Western scene with a female hombre taking over our ride. The Toy Story parade was going on so we stopped to watch the last 10 minutes of the show where the CMs pull kids from the crowd to dance, etc. A fun and very colorful event.

We went back to ride the TT, still showing a 40-min wait …. But it wasn’t, it was a walk on. We used our fastpasses and then walked back on for a second ride. Somewhere in here I got an ice cream cone $2.87 and then after the rides a frozen lemonade $3.51 which I shared with DH while we sat on a bench to people-watch.

We existed the park and got on the boat. Because it had to stop at all the resorts, we decided to get off at the Dolphin and walk back to Epcot for the Raiders 5:15 show. We managed to get there in the middle of their first song and had seats ½ way down on the left side. Talk about a mature audience … ahemmm. Okay, so we’re not “young” but I think we may have been the youngest ones there by a decade! Paul Revere declared he was 71 – I hope I have that much energy when I’m his age. Good show though.

Back to The Land to use our Soarin’ fastpasses and then out of the park to retrieve our car at the Boardwalk.

 

[VAN]

MONDAY, MARCH 30

Well this was our last day in Florida and we didn’t have anything scheduled. I really didn’t want to spend the entire day at the pool (although my DH said he did), so I suggested a trip to Gatorland which is really only a ½ day attraction. Before leaving home, we had talked about maybe visiting Gatorland again since it had been 20 years since we took our kids there. I’d gotten directions and it was just exit 11 off of the 417, so real close.

DH was game so we headed out. Funny thing at the unmanned toll booth. Remember when we were scrambling with quarters on the day we went to Cocoa Beach. Well, the same tollbooth the couple ahead of us were just sitting there and you could see them scrambling around. I told my DH, hey they don’t have change either; why don’t you just get out and throw 50 cents in the hopper (we had plenty) for them. Just as he’s getting out, the wife jumps out of their car …… no problem lady – been there. Hey, pay it forward!

Okay, we got there within 15 minutes and with a AAA discount admission for 2 came to $39.17.

Gatorland had rebuilt the gift shop after the 2006 fire and was able to retain the original gator mouth entrance. We got photos taken “in” the gator mouth and then proceeded into the park. They had three separate shows scheduled throughout the day and we decided to see the next Jumperoo Gator show. It looked similar to what I remembered but the show wasn’t nearly as good … in fact, downright lame. The gator just came out of the water a little. On our previous visit, they had strung chickens (not live ones – one’s that are dressed out like you buy in the grocery store) across a line and the gators actually came ¾ of the way out of the water. Well not this time.

A bit disappointed, we proceeded to the animal exhibits. The big item was the white alligators – not albino, but white. Very rare too.

Time for the “Up Close” show. We sat on bleachers and they had two handlers that had various boxes. One had tarantulas that they let crawl on their arms and took around for people to touch. Then they had a rattler that they were extremely careful to handle with hooks … no audience touching on this one. Last was an albino boa constrictor that they had four audience members hold on stage. Photo time.

Very entertaining show. Afterward you could get your picture taken with the boa constrictor or with a parrot. The pictures were for sale later.

I have to comment that Gatorland does a good job in generating revenue for operations form optional things like the pictures - this allows them to keep the entrance fee reasonable. So you can still enjoy Gatorland for a reasonable price and not feel like you are missing out on something. They also had gator food you could buy, other picture opportunities, a $2 train ride, etc. Very impressive with how they are managing and maintaining this old Florida attraction.

Okay, we want to watch the Gator Wrestling show but have time to go on the Swamp trail first. This is a wood/decking trail through the natural Florida woods. I think very similar to what WDW looked when Walt first saw it. A very nice elevated trail through the swampland.

I got some treats from the concession stand $7.50 and then we settled in on the bleachers for the Gator Wrestling show. The bleachers surrounded a cemented island whose center was all sand. The moot had about 8 mid-size alligators in it. One of the gators had been pulled onto the sand with had the snout taped closed. You could have your picture taken on the back of the gator. It was all very safe and I suspect the gators are well-feed and used to being handled. Anyway, they had the photographer, a handler with the gator and a handler that ushered people in one at a time. This went very quickly and those in line when it was show time could get their picture taken after the show. You would then, of course, see the photo later on with an opportunity to buy.

The show: They had a little kid come out and pick out a gator for the handler to “wrestle”. He, of course, picked the biggest he could find. The handler pulled the gator out of the moot and then sat on its back holding the snout closed. Through the show he was giving info about gators, myths, etc. He ended up just holding the snout closed with his chin!!!! Amazing! Then one handler sang a lullaby and the other turned the gator onto his back. He just lay there “asleep.” The handler than gave him a tickle and he “woke up.” Yeah – great show!!!

Two other areas that we wanted to explore was the trail by the crocodile pens. These were similar to what you might expect to see in zoos. They were in double-fences very secure “ponds”. The other area was quite a large breeding pond – a rather large pond or even a small lake. It contained about 100 female and 10 male alligators. There were tons of birds nesting in the trees – ibis and herons. It was amazing! You could go up on the observation tower to overlook it all and/or walk around on the elevated decking/trails. I kid-you-not, I couldn’t believe how close we were to the gators and to all of the nesting birds. That attraction alone was worth the price of admission!!

On the way out we saw that they had yet another area that was like a mini-water park for the kids to play in. They sold swimming suits (or if you knew about it you could bring your own) and towels and such. No separate admission … very, very nice for the little ones.

We didn’t purchase anything in the gift shop although I was looking at the tee shirts. Anyway, we were there a lot longer than we anticipated but felt it was time well spent. We really, really enjoyed ourselves and I can highly recommend this attraction to everyone.

Very close to Disney, very clean and well-maintained. Entertaining to anyone who enjoys zoos.

Back in the car and to the resort. We spent the rest of the afternoon by the pool before getting ready to eat dinner.

Since we went to the Tappan Edo restaurant at Epcot last September I have been very interested in the table cooking restaurants. I knew there was a Beni Hana at the Hilton at DTD but had heard some very good things about the Kobe Japanese Steakhouse. Before leaving home, I had printed off directions and so talked my DH into doing that for our last dinner of the trip. I phoned them with an ETA and they said they could accommodate us.

We found the restaurant in Lake Buena Vista (Palm Court) with no trouble and were immediately taken to join two groups at a table. It looked like they had already finished their soup. We each ordered the Steak & Shrimp meal @$23 and then I got a Scorpion drink $9 and DH got a Bud Light $3. We had Chef Hirano Tuon who was excellent. Probably the best chef that we’ve had at this type of restaurant. The meal came with soup, salad, grilled vegetables, fried rice, noodles, steak/mushrooms, and shrimp. EXCELLENT! Thanks to the excellent recommendation from Mousesavers! I had another drink. Total with tip $85.

Excellent service and food – and I felt the price was reasonable.

Stopped at Hess to top off the tank $5. Back to the resort to do some packing and sleep.

 

[VAN]

TUESDAY, MARCH 31

Tuesday, March 31
We got up early to get our bags up to the front. We found our boarding passes printed off and left on the door, so took them with us to check in the golf bag and larger bag. We were flying Airtran which is a partner airline, thus allowing us to do a remote check-in of our luggage. This just left our carry-on bags to pack.

Originally, we were going to turn our car in at the Dolphin and use DME, but were able to keep the car to turn in at the airport. This worked out really well. The signage at the airport was easy to follow and we just pulled in, they did a scan of the car and we headed for Security. Once home, I received a copy of my car rental receipt via e-mail.

We got through Security easily and rode the tram to our terminal. Ate breakfast at Burger King $11.27.

The flight coming in was delayed by 20 minutes, but once it arrived they quickly got unloaded, us loaded and we arrived back in Detroit just a few minutes late. Our bags were some of the first out, we caught our shuttle right away ($2 to driver). I had a parking lot coupon and was expecting it to be $72 but were told $60 … okay, that’s even better. Two hours later we are home. Boy is our dog glad to see us!

Now I need a vacation to rest up. Back to work and the 5:30 am alarm in the morning.

FINAL THOUGHTS

We could have done this trip for a lot less money without too many problems. It was, however, a reasonably priced trip in my opinion. Breaking down the expenditures for the two of us for 8 nights: Lodging $511, Transportation $609, Misc/Entertainment $697, Food/Drinks $609 = Total $2,426

We are still finding things to do at WDW that we’ve never done before, which is always a goal of mine.

The crowds were not too bad. Several school groups at the resort, but they were either very well behaved and/or busy elsewhere or the resort staff did a good job in isolating their rooms from families at the resorts.

I do like being at the back of the resort as I find that it is a bit quieter and less hectic. Glad we had breakfast in the room because the food court was a madhouse each morning when my DH went up to toast his bagel.

Very good trip all the way around. Next WDW trip will be for free dining in late September – 8 nights at Pop Century.