My one and only trip to WDW

[Vivianne]

You are right. Disney is not for everyone. So I would be glad not sad if I were you. However, one thing you will learn is never to say never. Maybe someday when you are older you may return with different expectations.

Congratulations on your marriage. I see that your birthday is the one month later than my anniversary date. By the way, I too honeymooned at Disney. It was great. Keep it mind that marriage is a big lifetime hurdle, a lot of work with ups and downs. It's all in what you make of it. Much success.

 

[OhMari]

I guess my main reason for posting was just to share my astonishment. I mean does everyone out there actually believe that WDW is the "happiest place on earth" ? I felt like I had to keep reminding myself that it was called this.

People are just trying to let you know their point of view. To answer your question if everyone out their believes WDW is the "happiest place on earth" my answer yes, my godchild who is 17 and 20 of her friends no.

Our h.s. band was asked to march in the spectro parade at the MK. We were there all day and were asked to line up at 6:30 for the 9:00 parade. I can't tell you how many miserable teens we had. We had 2 with ankles that got run over by strollers, one ended up with a broken ankle.

As I said, my goddaughter and her friends were miserable. They stayed in line twice at Space Mountain because they would rather not get run over by strollers, they could stay in the air-condition and they were bored to death being at the MK all day. All the girls said to, they would never take their babies and toddlers to WDW. I told them, it is all in the planning too. They all rolled their eyes at me when I told them different times of the year are better than others, going back to the hotel for breaks, etc. They all said, whatever, they did not feel the Magic either.

 

[lilkitty819]

Hi

So sorry you had a terrible time on your honeymoon, but WDW is not just for family's with children.
My husband and I are in our mid 40's and our child is grown, but we enjoy WDW very much. You need to learn how to embrace the magic and find your inner child .

The first time I went to Epcot I thought it was boring too till I found out that there's alot of things hidden in there, we also go during the food and wine fest and have a great time...maybe you should try it again but try during it f&w fest.

Good luck and have fun at six flags, but you couldn't pay me to go to six flags around here.

 

[ZPT1022]

Sorry to hear you had a bad time. It sounds like that first negative experience at check in really haunted your whole stay. If it were me I would take the time to cool down and then write a polite letter to the manager of POR and CC it to guest services,etc.... (people here may be able to help you get a better idea of who to write to). I would explain some of my frustrations with the resort. Crowds and other guests are nothing that they can do anything about, so stick with things that were within their control such as your room assignment. Who knows what will come of it but at least you may feel better knowing that you got it off your chest and perhaps it will help them in their guest service training so that others may not have the same experience and perhaps even you, in the future will have a better time. That being said, try to rela and let go. Unfortunately you can't change it but perhaps a "second honeymoon" maybe on your first anniversary would be in order. It sounds to me like you were looking for a nice relaxing vacation and DW is never going to be that! I love it dearly, but we tend to come home feeling like we need to recuperate (sp?) from our trips. There's just so much to see and do we don't want to stop the whole time we're there. My husband and I also took our honeymoon to WDW and we had a great time. We also went in September, miserable heat but not too bad on the crowds. We looked at it as our last chance to do WDW without kids. I would hope that if you do eventually have kids you would try taking them at least once. When we took DD for the first time, she was 22 months and it was wonderful. The kids really force you to slow down and enjoy the atmosphere and the little things, which are really what you're paying so much for. Although I have to say that I don't think WDW prices are that outrageous compared to local theme parks. We live in CT and pre-kids used to go to Six Flags but it is so dirty and nasty. And rude people are the rule rather than the exception. But someone else may look at it differently. I'm sorry to hear that your honeymoon wasn't everything you dreamed of but I do hope that you'll try it again some time. Give yourself a few years and try to remember that as much as we all love this board, it can lead to unrealistic expectations. It's so easy to read about the people that got bumped to concierge or got free desserts or free fastpasses or whatever since it was their honeymoon and feel sad when you don't get those things. I know I had told DH about some of the things I'd heard prior to our honeymoon and we spent the first few days waiting for our turn. Once we let go of that notion and just enjoyed being there it was so much nicer. We all need to remember that these wonderful over the top things aren't to be expected. It's easy to think that way but sad when reality hits. All in all, I'm sorry you didn't have the trip you hoped for, but please by all means try again!

 

[Jacksmom99]

It seems to me that you are a 'thrill ride seeking' gal, and you're right, you're expectations may have been too high. I've found the magic at WDW isn't the kind that jumps out and grabs me, but that creeps in around me as I become immersed in the theming, ect. You seem to be the type who would enjoy Universal much more. Also, a resort geared more towards 'romance' and couples may have provided the special attention that may have made you're honeymoon more memorible. I went to WDW on my honeymoon. Although we did the commando thing for a few days, we also strolled over to Epcot each night just to browse and wander the countries while holding hands. Hey 9 years later and we still do that, it's just harder since we have to push the stroller with our other hands.
I love Disney, but can understand why if you're expectation has been burst, that it seems like a tourist trap. I mean we all sarcastically comment on how each ride and attraction lets you out into a gift shop. I know you're not getting a lot of sympathy here from others, but bear in mind, Disney is an addiction that all of us with defend to the end so we are not the most objective of people. We just can't understand why everyone doesn't love it as much as we do. I wouldn't make any decisions right now about whether or not you bring any future children, the disappointment is just too fresh.

 

[DisneyDotty]

I guess I just didn't "feel" the magic that I had hoped I would. And you guys are right, children do have a different perspective on things and perhaps that's why this is who the parks are geared for: naive children who think that Mickey is real and that money grows on trees.

Just wasn't for me or my husband I guess... I think in the future if we need to see a place with bad service and crowds where adults behave like children and try to run over innocent bystanders with their strollers...we'll just go to Wal-Mart.

Ouch! I think I'm going to cry...

Sorry it was so awful for you!

 

[taylorstimac]

Okay, now I feel like I'm under a microscope being poked at.

I actually think that because I was "raised on disney" I was even more upset. I mean don't stone me or anything for having an opinion. I also don't want everyone thinking I walked around with my arms crossed the whole time with a negative opinion about everything. yeah, it kinda sounded that way, but it wasn't the case.

I just felt hurt because I begged my DH to go to WDW for honeymoon...he was pushing for Hawaii. I assured him that we would have a much better time here. By the time we got out of Epcot, grass skirts were looking a lot better.

Once again....it's not a horrible place by any means and sure it was neat to see the same things that you see on TV, I guess they just seemed more exciting on TV.

 

[fynook12]

I totally understand what you mean. My future husband had never been to WDW in his entire life!!! I on the other hand was raised on the mouse~and i felt it my duty to introduce him to WDW!! We went for the first time in August of 2003 with my first child who was 2. He loved it!! And as a matter of fact, both of my other children were conceived at WDW!!! LOL....I'm not joking! At different times of course...And i looooove it so much were getting married there next year in March! But i guess it isn't for everyone. Maybe if you would've had someone with you who's been there before and knows there way around and what to do! Hell, the first time i took my future husband there, i was like his mickey mouse drill seargant!!!! He knew if he wanted to be with me, he would have to learn to love the mouse!!! I truly hope you try it again in the future!! There is so much more to it than just the parks!!!

 

[Disney Enthusiast]

I was raised on the mouse, took my DH for his first time just before we were married, and we stayed at Port Orleans French Quarter. We had an awesome time and, because of his love of the mouse, we moved on w/ the wedding. For our 5th anniversary, we stayed at the Floridian in one of their turret rooms (talk about romance ) and had the best vacation of our lives. We went during a slower time, w/ less strollers and people, we ate at V&A's and watched the light parade go by each evening on the beach before going to Pleasure Island to watch the comedy club or hang w/ the CM's at the Adventurer's Club. We spent very little time on the rides. Now we did request the turret room facing the castle, but didn't get one of those, and instead stayed on the other side overlooking the wedding pavilion/monorail station. Yes, I was a bit disappointed since I had planned this over a year in advance, but I got over it really quickly. I also didn't get the Chef's Table at V&A's, but the regular table suited us just fine.

Anyway, I guess what I'm trying to say is the magic is everywhere, but you soak it in, rather than it hitting you upside the head. This last trip, I saw fireworks every night from my balcony and we were 1 of 3 families at the pool each day. Nice. A trip before that, we thought the Biergarten was the magical place to be and went their twice, but this last time, we found pure magic at Alfredo's in Italy. So it's different each time. And we try to be flexible w/ our plans. Our last night in WDW, we went there, ordered our favorite bottle of sparkling wine, and dined w/ Italian music in the background, 2 children asleep in the stroller (perfection), and enjoyed the company of the best waitstaff around. When we exited, we were immediately entertained by Illuminations, and strolled slowly home to the Beach Club, savoring every moment. That's what happens at WDW, the magic just envelops you and the pixie dust literally starts flying.

I did have one bad experience, many years ago at the Contemporary Hotel. I planned a dinner at the CG during the MK fireworks of course in order to show my in-laws how delectable their BBQ Filets were. We were to go to Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party at the MK later. While having drinks, the entire place became smoky and they evacuated all guests onto the roof terrace. 2 or 3 hours went by and all but 2 families had left the restaurant. I wanted that dinner and so we stayed, eating bread and drinking wine. We sat down to dinner (all 8 of us) even though we were late for our party. We had the marvelous steaks and they were worth the wait. We were all smiling and happy and ready for our bill when the server told us that it was on the house. Woo hoo! Our "bad" experience was one of our favorite memories because we chatted it up w/ all of the staff and felt like members of the family. We made many friends that evening and so enjoyed being part of the behind the scenes experience. They really turned our frowns upside down. Then the awesome dinner... and then the no charge.... Wow. What a night!

I am so so sorry you had a bad experience. My best friend and her DH went before kids and had a "ehhh" experience as well, and I scratch my head thinking, "How can that be?!" Maybe she needed more time, maybe she needed more planning, maybe she hung out in the parks and did the rides too much rather than enjoy the dinners or pools. Who knows. Maybe it's just not for her. Like it isn't for you. And that is o.k. That's what makes the world go round... and honestly, if everyone loved it so much, there'd be no room even during the slower seasons. So, I'm glad it's not everyone's cup of tea. I hope for your 1st or 5th anniversary, you can go to the islands and whoop it up as if it was your honeymoon. Best of luck to you. Thanks for sharing your experience w/ us.

 

[LovePug]

I am so sorry you did not enjoy yourself.

For our first trip we went in early December and we were completely enchanted. The weather was great, the Christmas decorations were beautiful, and we walked on almost everything since there were no crowds. We got completely hooked. Our second trip was in June and, although we still enjoyed ourselves, I said to my spouse multiple times that I was so glad that our first trip was in December. If June had been our first trip, I doubt that we would be returning as often as our current two trips a year. It was just a completely different experience. It was HOT and crowded compared to December. I tell my friends, who have not been yet and are planning to go because of everything they hear from me, to make sure they go in value season for the first trip. With the sheer size and infinite activities available, add to that the crowds, and I can see how it could be overwhelming and disenchanting to a first timer.

Although WDW has some "thrill" rides, it wouldn't be the first place I'd recommend to someone who lives for that sort of experience. What captures us about WDW is the details and the atmosphere. It is more approached as an experience for us. We always tour at a slow pace and take it all in. We continue to notice things that we haven't before...especially from our first trip.

Possibly, some day you'll want to give it another try knowing what you know now. Maybe not. It's not for everyone. My brother and his family aren't too keen on it, but are willing to go one more time with us as a the whole extended family goes in December this year. I think he'll enjoy it more because he's only ever been during the summer before, but maybe he won't .

By the way...congratulations on your recent marriage!

 

[joannwalton12]

So sorry you did not enjoy Disney. My family and I were there in March and it was the best trip in all of my life. Best wishes for a happy marriage.

 

[jenrose66]

I also tend to see the glass as "half full" but I had a completely different Disney experience.

I also had to convince my husband to go for our honeymoon last July. We stayed from the 4th to the 11th and had a great time.

I recently found these boards and everyone talks about how 4th of July is so busy. I was oblivious. We stayed at the French Quarter and thought it was great. Crowds didn't bother me one bit.

We even wore the bride and groom ears the whole trip. Complete strangers would congratulate us. We were given lots of fast passes (which suprised me, I wasn't really expecting anything). We even had a woman from Idaho take our picture! My husband admits he found this slightly embarassing, but I'm a little kid at heart and ate up the attention

I had such a great time that we're going back for our 1 year anniversary and I can't wait.

 

[calie_j]

I'm sorry you had an "unmagical time". I'm curious how old you are? I went to DW at 19 with a friend and had much the same thoughts you did about it being a huge place for little kids. Of course we didn't stay on property and I knew nothing about it, didn't do any planning and missed alot of what was there, the trip that turned me into an obsessive planner after that, lol. After I had my own kids I took them to WDW and had a much better time living it thru their eyes and remembering the magic of my own childhood that consisted of watching the Sunday Night Disney movie that started with tink & the castle (brought back warm fuzzies). Don't give up on taking your own children to WDW when you have them, you may have a change of heart and experience the magic thru your children like I did.

Calie

 

[Rachie0507]

I'm sorry your trip wasn't what you expected. I think sometimes when we plan something for so long it can never meet our expectations. Perhaps that is what happened.

My DH and I love going to WDW. We went once before kids, once after kids but without them and we are planning our first trip with them later this year. And yes, I do believe it is the happiest place on earth.

 

[jellymanoffspring]

I think that Disney provides the atmosphere (sorry I don't think it looks like the 80's/dated)

You make your own magic by soaking it in and if a CM does something extra that is just added pixie dust

Even though I LOVE Disney..I don't think I would want to honeymoon there...

I think a HM should be more intimate and relaxing...


I especially don't understand the 3 hours at EPCOT...did you even get to the world showcase?

SO much to see ..this last trip we barely touched on it...missed all of the performances at the countries...

My favorite time at WS is just after Illuminations ...strolling through the atmosphere of the countries....even though the buildings are closed....most of the time you are almost alone and it is so peaceful...
especially Morocco

I can tell you that most rides are not for 2 year olds...but they are not huge coasters.....

Oh well I hope you get to have a relaxing second honeymoon....

and most importantly a wonderful marriage........

 

[Joann]

I am sorry you had a bad honeymoon! I went to Hawaii for mine for 17 days and honestly.... I would rather 17 days in WDW!!! But thats just me I have been to Hawaii 3 times and yes I was brought up with DWD, my husband on the other hand had never been to disney till I took him. Now this trip will be his 3rd in 4 years. He didn't want to go to Disney but we took a trip with friends without our kids to cancun and he felt bad so when we got back he said book a trip anywhere for the kids so I picked you guessed it!!!! DW...... well he was HOOKED this year I actually wanted to do Mexico again and I loss the vote and he was worse then the kids telling me Disney is where we are going. I never knew about this board for my last 2 trips so being I hadn't been since a kid I didn't have big expectations but I knew it was gonna be magical and it was even tho we still havn't seen the night shows because I didn't know of them, we still had a great time and I agree mabey you needed to do universals two parks aswell as they are great parks! I do have to say I have been to six flags and I honestly thought IT was a waste of my money it was dirty and not alot of rides and no magic like WDW. Try it again it really is a great place!

 

[jason]

Geeze people it was only an opinion from the OP. No need to flame her to death. Not everyone is a "disney freak" like most on these boards.

 

[Kuzco]

I'm sorry you didn't enjoy your trip as much as you had hoped! Don't feel badly about your opinion - WDW isn't for everyone! Most of the people that post here are extremely pro-WDW and will defend it to the bitter end. But rude/unfriendly service like you received at check-in is not acceptable, even if most of us do love WDW with all of our hearts!

On a side note, I'm really glad I went to WDW the first time before the age of the internet. My family and I went to WDW expecting a nice time at an amusement park and ended up with a magical experience full of memories that we keep returning to. I think that if we had expected the magical experience, we might not have been as impressed. It's just my opinion...

Back on topic, OP, I think that a nice relaxing vacation on the beach does sound much more up your alley! Go and enjoy yourselves!

 

[jellymanoffspring]

On a side note, I'm really glad I went to WDW the first time before the age of the internet. My family and I went to WDW expecting a nice time at an amusement park and ended up with a magical experience full of memories that we keep returning to. I think that if we had expected the magical experience, we might not have been as impressed. It's just my opinion...

I think you are right!! Too many expect perfection and magical gifts etc.

I was surprised when I heard some folks never had towel animals ..we always got them.... now everyone expects them!

we celebrated my DD 15th BDay last summer....we did not get anything from the hotel but I had brought my own things and made my own magic....
but if all I knew about disney came from the net..I would have expected lots of perks...

Hey even a lot of Disney fans are saying the magic is not what it was...

Still a huge WDW fan..but sad to hear about rude CM at check in....that should NEVER happen!!

 

[patsal]

Not to sound mean spirited, but you did choose to book a moderate for a honeymoon and then hope that someone would comp you the magic? If I were going on my honeymoon I would have booked everything I wanted and not leave it up to someone else to surprise me. As for the lines I guess maybe you had unepected crowds since planning would had alleviated the stress during a busy season? I guess your just not a Disney kind of person and you would have been happier in Cancun.