My First trip with "S" (Boyfriend) 10/17/13

I am really considering trying to change my ADR from Kona to Ohana (if it is even possible at this point)
 
I Love the shameless Mickey/Disney theming at the the resorts.
I will be staying in a crappy Econo Lodge. I already have plans to bring some cleaning supplies and room freshener in case I need to clean it up a little.

But why not add my own Disney Theme?

A box of Disney tissues, a Plush or two, maybe some window clings.
I think I could have some fun with this and amuse "S" at the same time.
I just need to keep the item cheap & small.
Heck, I could cut out my own Mickey Heads from construction paper to decorate with ahead of time and lay them flat in my suitcase! Print a couple of really pretty Disney pictures on a color printer and put them in cheap Dollar Tree Frames (they can later go in my office).
As usual ideas and input are welcome. Not that I have many readers yet. I think I made the Trip Planning Report Title too boring to catch any eyes. My own fault. I am usually far more creative than that!
joni-5.png

Even though we are staying on-site, I'm planning on decorating our room for Halloween. I've been trying to find stuff that will be easily packed and that I will be okay with throwing away, if anything happens to them.

So far, I bought some of those suction cup hooks (not the sticky ones) to hang a flat wreath I found at the local craft store. I am also planning on getting some window clings and hanging some Mickey heads.

I love your idea about the pictures in the frames. I do that with almost every holiday.
 
A Real life, but related Side Bar:

My DBF and I hit up a local Food and Brew fest for a little vacation preview. I must say we had fun, but I filled away a few lessons for F&W.
Side Note: Did I mention how cheap this event was. No admission. Most beer samples were only $1 and most of the food Samples were $3-5. Unlike Epcot I got VERY far with $20

1. Pace yourself on the Snacks. Even though we shared most of the things we tried, we both got full too quickly. We have to really decide on the ones we want and really stick to the one taste per place limit.

2. Be choosy with the Drinks. I really can't say I ever got drunk, but I might want to be selective on what I drink. I know this will sound strange to some people, but I kind of got sick of the taste of beer by the end of the day, and that was sad because when we ended the day at my favorite brew-pub I was not really enjoying my favorite beer there. (they only release it periodically so it is a shame I did not enjoy it)

3. Hydrate. More water. I knew I should have been carrying a bottle around with me but kind of forgot. I think that is also part of why I got sick of the taste of beer. My mouth was so sticky.

4. The DBF and I need to go on more walks together. I was fine but he was a bit sore the next day.


The biggest issue really was in our pacing. We both felt overwhelmed bit, then we only had a few hours to hit a dozen places at this fest. We will have a few days at Epcot.
Still we had a very good day.

The real shame is that we lost the notebook that we were keeping notes in. Gah! I really hope that does not happen on our vacation. I really hope I do not forget to take pics of the food too. I forgot on Saturday.


Highlight of the Day was a lovely Tripple "Weyerbacher Merry Monks" and the Asparagus Tempura we tasted at Kildaire's. (pic from the web)

Weyerbacher-Merry-Monks.jpg




Also the Chicken and Spinach pizza at Cosi really impressed me. (pic from the web)
White+Pizza_Chicken+and+Spinach_2.jpg



51f61aef17ae0.image.jpg


We got caught in the background of a local news photo of the day. It's and unflattering photo but what the hay.... (far right corner, I am wearing lavender shirt, he is the head with the beard I am talking to.)

FoodBrew_Logo.png


added 09/19/13 Got another photo from the festival off my DBF's phone:
IMG_20130727_174439_zpsc4d5bc55.jpg
 

Have you seen if you can just change to a different hotel that has better shuttle service, instead of cancelling all together?

The Econo Lodge is part of Choice Hotels. Maybe you could contact them and see if you have any choices dealing with them rather than Priceline.

Another option, which is time consuming, is to call priceline and every time you talk to someone ask to speak to their manager, eventually you'll get someone willing to help.. Let them know of the situation and you feel like you made your reservation under false information about the shuttle to WDW. Let them know you are willing to keep your reservation through them, but would just like to change hotels. They absolutely have the ability to do this, it's basically about bugging them enough and finding someone who is willing to do this.

Good luck. I went through the same issue a few years back, and have since decided the money you save in a cheaper hotel, you spend on trying to get to and from the parks... I've since stayed at All Star's... It may be more expensive, but much less of a headache to plan. :)
 
Have you seen if you can just change to a different hotel that has better shuttle service, instead of cancelling all together?

The Econo Lodge is part of Choice Hotels. Maybe you could contact them and see if you have any choices dealing with them rather than Priceline.


Good luck. I went through the same issue a few years back, and have since decided the money you save in a cheaper hotel, you spend on trying to get to and from the parks... I've since stayed at All Star's... It may be more expensive, but much less of a headache to plan. :)

I JUST SPENT YET ANOTHER HOUR ON THE PHONE WITH THEM.

I have been told with increasing attitude that there is NO CHANGING or canceling my reservation and that their website is very clear on that.

I escalated as high as they would let me talking to managers.
I have to quit fighting this and just go with the flow.
I am in tears of frustration once more and I can't take anymore.

Oh I wish I had a spare $200 to just book a different hotel on my own.

I have really had no issues staying off-site before. But one of my requirements is shuttle service. This one did advertise free shuttle service. I think it is a misleading cheat though that is one ones once each way per day. I had stayed here in the past 10 years ago. It's not like I blind booked. I had just been unaware how bad the place had slipped.
Anyway I have got to make the most of this. Otherwise I am starting to almost dread my trip.
 
/
I'm so sorry. My heart just hurts for you. As I know how frustrating (and tear inducing) it can be :(

but, it's best to take it as a learning experience. POSITIVE THOUGHTS!
It might be a hassle getting to and from the parks, but once you are there, its gonna be AMAZING! SOOO magical... and thats what matters. :)

I know you previously said you didn't want to do a rental car, but if thats due to cost check different websites, they are constantly changing prices. (and google discount codes on top of that. Ive gotten 40% off before) I looked on Budget and Expedia and found for your dates ranging in from $130 to $380.. and, as far as paying for parking goes... Parking is free at DTD and then catch a bus to get to the park you want. It does add extra steps in, but they are on your own accord and not a stupid once a day shuttle.

Second thought, I wonder if your trip insurance would be of help? I've heard of trip insurance helping out in crazy situations. Maybe they can help in some way... not sure what though.

I have a feeling this situation is going to be on my mind a lot today.
I'll be thinking of you! (:
 
I'm so sorry. My heart just hurts for you. As I know how frustrating (and tear inducing) it can be :(

but, it's best to take it as a learning experience. POSITIVE THOUGHTS!
It might be a hassle getting to and from the parks, but once you are there, its gonna be AMAZING! SOOO magical... and thats what matters. :)



You are very correct and I will be making the most of it. No matter what. Frustration as the situation is, the bonus here is, We get to go to Disney World!

I know you previously said you didn't want to do a rental car, but if thats due to cost check different websites, they are constantly changing prices. (and google discount codes on top of that. Ive gotten 40% off before) I looked on Budget and Expedia and found for your dates ranging in from $130 to $380

I have really looked into and had to rule it out. Heck, if I had that extra money, I could likely (did some research) get a Name you own Price deal at one of the hotels IN Downtown Disney and just not show up to the other Hotel! Sadly, if we want to eat, and have anything to at the Food and Wine Fest we cannot do this. Next time, if I cannot afford to be on property, I will at least aim for DTD.

Second thought, I wonder if your trip insurance would be of help? I've heard of trip insurance helping out in crazy situations. Maybe they can help in some way... not sure what though.

Trust me, I tried to use that. NO deal. That's part of why I was in tears. Not only do I feel I got suckered in with misleading amenities descriptions, but I had in fact forked over for insurance and even that was of no help. I am pretty disappointed in the lack of Customer service values I have been shown by Priceline. Sadly, as a budget traveler, I may still end up using them from time to time. I just need to be a little more careful.

I have a feeling this situation is going to be on my mind a lot today.
I'll be thinking of you! (:

:grouphug: Thank you for caring.

So it's rally the troops, use my creativity and make the most of things! As you have read I plan do bring cleaning supplies and decorations to fix up what might be a shabby room. (wasn't ten years ago but a decade can be a VERY long time in the hotel world as I am learning.
I will be printing out bus schedules and doing my best to have all the research and planning in place so that if things get a little wonky, I at least know what my alternatives are!
 
Back to the Plans!

I now present to you the first draft of our Five Day Trip schedule! :banana:

I did look at some of those crowd prediction calendars. I didn't always keep my choices to green days, but I did use it to help a little.


Keep in mind I do not have Park Hoppers.

Mon 10/14 :
TRAVEL DAY
Mid afternoon flight and a 2-3hr drive to the airport. I would have gone for an earlier flight but DBF will have to get his son to School and such first so it was safer to push it back to give us time. IT still might be close. After dropping the boy-child off he will be going home to get his luggage and then coming to my place to pick me up.
HOPEFULLY he will make it to my place by 10am (latest and we will be on the road shortly thereafter. Putting us at the airport by 1pm with a 2:30 flight. That is cutting it closer than I like but I am still hoping I can convince him to load his things the night before instead (he is not very organized so it will be like pulling teeth to get us on the road on time)

Arriving in Orlando at 5pm! Hopefully will be checked in at hotel around 7pm-ish.
Walk to Dollar store right next door for bottled water and snacks.
Get some dinner. (either a cheap pizza or McDonald's or something)
Clean/Decorate room.
Unpack and arrange things for the next day.
Sleep. (this may be optimistic. I have insomnia normally, when I am excited...)


Tues 10/15
MAGIC KINGDOM
Choosing the Magic Kingdom for the First Day is a no brainer. I just really want to START there. This choice however di result in my ignoring some of the recommended Park Days.

Wake up reluctant DBF really early. It's going to be a long day.
Scarf down bagle/donut/coffee.
TRY to make the only morning bus my Hotel offers @ 7am (if not go outside and wait for next public bus)

I have never been to a rope drop before and I would really like to just once.
We will be staying through Wishes. I plan to give a mid-day break of sorts by doing some indoor shows and such since going back to the room is not really an option.
cinderella-castle-00.jpg


Weds 10/16
EPCOT
Allow for a slightly later start to the day but still try to get to the bus stop by 9am. (This is a goal anyway)
Wander the front of the park. Hit some attractions there that we are interested in. Got to the Chase Lounge for wristbands if available.
Noonish or a little later go to the World Showcase for the F&W fest. (trying not to hit it too early or we will peak way too soon in the day)
Maybe watch Illuminations.


250px-1_epcot_spaceship_earth_2010a.JPG


Thurs 10/17
EPCOT
Ok, this is the one part I do not think is the greatest about my game plan. We are doing out two Epcot days back to bach. But I am really trying to avoid the F&W Fest on the weekend and I really wanted to start with MK.

Anyway this day is pretty much a lather/rinse repeat. Hit ore attractions and FW booths that we didn't hit the day before.

If we did not see Illuminations the night before we WILL see it this night.



Fri 10/18
Hollywood Studios
Plan to arrive arrive mid-morning. :rotfl:
By this point I anticipate my DBF, who love to sleep in, wanting to strangle me if it means he gets to sleep. This is one major reason I only plan to get get up early enough for Park Opening the First Day.
Explore HS and leave late afternoon to head off to the Polynesian. (I am not interested in Fantasmic, seen it a few times, it's ok, but not really exciting to me)
8PM Dinner at Kona! This will be our only Table service meal of our budget trip. (still wondering if I could/should switch to Ohana)
After dinner we will try to watch Halloween Wishes from the beach.


Sat 10/19
UNPLANNED
Yes, you heard me right.
We have one more day. One more park we could hit.
I know you are thinking, well they haven't been to Animal Kingdom yet.
Maybe we will, maybe we won't.
We are both ok with skipping it, but not against going.
I decided that we will wait till Friday night and figure out what we REALLY still want to do. I am going to resist my naturally pushy impulses and really try to let the world most indecisive man have the greater say (while trying not to commit acts of violence against him, because he really can be frustratingly indecisive)
I will have made most of the plans and called most of the shots thus far so I really will want him to feel like he has control over this day (with my input of course)
So we will see what becomes of this last Park day. You will all have to wait for my actual trip report to know.
;)


Sun 10/20
Travel Home
Return Flight leave Orlando at 11:45 so really it's wake up, check out, get our shuttle, and sit at the airport.
:sad2:


Coming To a Future PTR. More details about what we want to do at each of the parks.
Attractions Wish-lists, Hopes & Dreams


STAY TUNED
:happytv:
 
Less than 60 DAYS!!!!

Last week Disney store had a free shipping deal for the release of Planes.

I logged on and found a few sale items!

I got myself a long sleeve Tinker Bell Tee (for that random chill Disney Day)
5712047575364


I ordered a Muppets Animal plush for my collection. I have Kermit, Beaker, & Gonzo (Gonzo was purchased at HS on my last Disney vacation).

Also this little buddy (who is going in my suitcase and coming with me. I had actually planned to buy him on my trip because my local Disney Store keeps selling out, but with free shipping and Sale price of $6 I HAD to go ahead an pre-purchase him!)
1263041280006-1



pixiedust:
 
:) I am subbing to your PTR. Our trip is after yours 10/31-11/09. We are once or twice a year WDW visitors. I love hearing about all your plans and only wish pixie dust and happiness for you both.
 
:) I am subbing to your PTR. Our trip is after yours 10/31-11/09. We are once or twice a year WDW visitors. I love hearing about all your plans and only wish pixie dust and happiness for you both.


Welcome aboard!:woohoo:
Thank you so much! I am very happy at least one or two people are enjoying sharing in my excitement!

Tell me, any suggestion are ideas you have for us based off of our schedule/plans! Always happy for ideas (especially budget friendly ones)?

Heading over soon to look at your trip plans too!
 
:) Sounds like your plans are great so far. I would love watching fire works from the beach at Poly. I have sent you a PM.
 
OK, This is just pure Fun.
Time for a park by park Wishlist - Must Do's - Hopes List!!!!

I expect to edit this a few times as I am certain that my compulsive mind with think up "just one more thing" about three dozen times thru out the day!

For All Parks: Pin Trading! (I have a separate Pin Wish List)

MAGIC KINGDOM
-Explore New Fantasy Land in general (it's new, I need to see as much of it as is currently open)
-Search for hidden Pascals in Rapunzel's area while the DBF charges his phone.
-Look at BOG as close as I can even if I cannot afford to eat there.
-Under the Sea, I love the Little Mermaid and all of the characters.
-Monsters Inc Laugh Floor, never done it before.
-Check out Sorcerers Game
-Barber Shop (treat "S" to a haircut?) Has anyone gone there as an adult before?
-Space Mountain (I actually get a little nervous on this one, but I LOVE thrill rides)
-TinkeBell's Magical Nook (I really hope the DBF is feeling patient)
-POTC (Love)
-Classics like Tiki Room, COP, Hop, Small World (do not know if I will get away with it all)
-Splash Mountain! (Love)
-Big Thunder Mountain
-Haunted Mansion (Love)
-Philharmagic
-Walk around Main Street
-Watch Wishes and cry. (Crying is not a goal, but somehow always a result)
-Main Street Electric Parade (I miss Spectro Magic but I still love Parades!)




EPCOT!

FUTURE WORLD:
-Soarin! I have only been once and the ride broke down so was stuck in line 2 hours, on top of that I had to pee very badly as I had been to Club Cool just before that, having to pee very badly on that ride not a good thing! So I need to give it a 2nd chance.
-Captain EO!!!!!!!! I love Michael Jackson and admit it freely. I am "Thrilled" to have a chance to see it one last time. I remember Captain EO as a very special experience for my as a teen ( Long Story )

-Club Cool and Coca Cola gift shop (I collect Coke stuff)
-Sum of All Thrills (never done before)
-Journey Into Imagination With Figment ("S" loves Figment)
-Test Track
-Explore Innoventions (geeky play time)
-SpaceShip Earth
-Land, Seas, Energy Etc, as time allows (no high priorities)

WORLD SHOWCASE:
-Food and Wine Festival. Plan to try and sample at least one item (either food or drink but not necessarily both) at each Booth!
-Gran Fiesta Tour
-Maelstrom
-Jeweled Dragon Acrobats
-Matsuriza
-Miyuki (she rocks!)
-Pick a Pearl In Japan (decided I really want to do this if I have some spending money left)
-Window Shopping everywhere! (I want to Visit ALL of the Countries at least for a few minutes , we have two Epcot Days)

-ILLUMINATIONS! (love)




HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS
-Start Tours (a few times if we can manage it) We are both Star Wars geeks. First time to see the new Star Tours.
-Muppet Vision!!!!! (Love)
-Rock 'n' Roller Coaster (love)
-Tower of Terror (love)
-Toy Story Midway Mania (first time, was on my last trip's wish list but I was feeling ill that day and we called it quits very early)
-Drawing Class
-The Legend of Captain Jack Sparrow (not sure what this really is but will give it a look-see)
-Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant (if we can afford it, We are doing our nice dinner at Kona that night, maybe we can split a Rueben, but I really want check it out)




7951-disney-disney-characters.jpg



CHARACTER MEETS:

OK, honestly, as many as I can! (have time for)
But here are some I REALLY want (only including those I have never meet before):


-Merida
-Rapunzel
-Tinker Bell
-Mary Poppins
-Lady Tremaine (I once played her part in a children's Theatre presentation of Disney's Cinderella)
-Belle (and Beast if Possible)
- Mike and Sulley
-Stitch
-Jack Sparrow
-Vanellope and or Ralph
-Mad Hatter (and Maybe Alice)
-Eeyore
-any Star Wars character
 
:coffee:

Staying well out of the debate as to weather or not it is a good or bad thing that Starbucks is now installed at Disney, I am pleased to report that it is working to the advantage of my squeaky tight budget.
I had enough points on one of my credit cards rewards to cash in for a $10 Starbucks gift card.
So, now at least one caffeination and maybe small snack will be pretty much free!

main-street-starbucks-sign.jpg
 
I'm here!

I love your pre-Disney purchases!

Your wishlist sounds great and I hope you get as much of it done as possible!
 














Save Up to 30% on Rooms at Walt Disney World!

Save up to 30% on rooms at select Disney Resorts Collection hotels when you stay 5 consecutive nights or longer in late summer and early fall. Plus, enjoy other savings for shorter stays.This offer is valid for stays most nights from August 1 to October 11, 2025.
CLICK HERE







New Posts







DIS Facebook DIS youtube DIS Instagram DIS Pinterest

Back
Top