My Trip Report - Walter's Disney World Trip

[Walter C]

I just got back from my trip to Walt Disney World, which was from 11/08 to 11/14.

This was my first visit to Disney World since 1994, and the first time going there alone. I was not sure if it was possible for a single 30-year old male to have a good time. Well, as it turned out, I did not a good time. I had a GREAT time, and I hope to return again! This time, it will definitely be less than 12 years between visits.

I will be sharing about the trip day by day later on.

 

[Bee]

cant wait!

 

[jess20k]

I can't wait to read your review!

 

[Walter C]

Thursday, November 9 (Day 1)
The trip has finally came! I have been very low key about it, not really sharing about it with too many people. I always have that feeling that having too much excitement and hopes set high, would be bad luck, and lead to a horrible trip.

I was able to catch an earlier flight than I originally planned, hoping to get to the theme parks on the same day. Once I arrived at the airport, I took a cab to the hotel, which turned out to be a big mistake, because it costs so much. I stayed at the Magic Castle Inn, which was about 3 miles outside of Disney World.

Also, the hotel had shuttle buses only at certain times, and only to 2 of the theme parks. So I tried to rely on the local public transportation, but I decided not to, because I waited too long, and my patience was long gone. So I went to Old Town, which was a little carnival. I did not go on any rides, but it was a good diversion.

This day, I thought about my previous visits to Disney World. I have been there for a total of 5 times, but have not been there for 12 years. My visits include... (feel free to skip if you're not interested)
1) 1978 (?) - I think I was only 2, but no memory of it.
2) 1984 - First one that I do remember, going with my family. I had a great time, and remember not being able to contain myself afterwards, as I shared about the trip with people back home. It came to a point where people got tired of hearing about it.
3) 1989 - I went with my mom and sister. And had a great time, although the lines were so long, as we went during Christmas season. I did get sick for a little while. I can also remember the bus driver jokingly saying that EPCOT stood for "Every Person Comes Out Tired". We also went to Sea World.
4) 1991 - This visit was forgettable, as I went with my cousin and his family. My sister and I ended up spending more time not with them, than with them. Plus they turned out to be relatives that I don't want to be with. We went to Universal Studios for the 1st time.
5) 1994 - For my senior class trip, shortly before graduating from high school. I had a great time, as I was more out of myself. We also went to Wet n' Wild, Universal Studios, and Medieval Times.

Since 1994, I've had thoughts of visiting Disney World, either with people from my church or alone, but nothing came of it. Plus I felt like I should try traveling to places that I've never been to, which I have done for some time. But then, after seeing some ride videos on YouTube, and learning that I needed time off from work, I decided that I am due for another visit. I AM GOING TO DISNEY WORLD! (Sorry couldn’t resist!)

So I returned to the hotel room, and just had to wait one more day until I can finally hit the theme parks.

 

[Bee]

You are doing a great job.. Cant wait to hear more.

 

[Walter C]

Friday, November 10 (Day 2)
This was my first full day at Disney World. After getting ready, eating breakfast, then hopping onto the shuttle bus, I was not sure if the Disney magic would be there for me, after reading about all the changes that has happened since my last visit, like the fact that Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride was no longer around.

Anyway, I felt like the bus took too long, since it had to pick up other people from other hotels. My excitement level was really low, as the bus was going towards Disney World. But when it passed through the entrance arch with Mickey, Minnie, and Donald standing on the side, and a sign that says “Welcome to Walt Disney World Resort”, my excitement level shot straight up. Now, I just couldn’t wait until I got to the theme parks.

So I got to the Ticket and Transportation Center, and ran to the first monorail that took me to Epcot. I always thought riding the monorail was part of the Disney experience, whether going to Epcot or the Magic Kingdom. Once it arrived in Epcot, I got off and had to go through 2 lines, the bag inspection and admission. After all that, it was time to enjoy!

I start off by riding Spaceship Earth. I’ve enjoyed riding it in the past, but never really remembered what exactly was in it. I always thought this would be a good start to a day in Epcot. After the ride, I went through Innoventions, and got to tour a home of the future, which was very interesting. Almost like living in the age of the Jetsons. I looked around for a little bit afterwards.

After that, I had to muster the courage to finally go onto one of the thrill rides, and stood in line for Mission: Space. I chose the Orange Team, which is the more intense version, and wasn’t sure what to expect. I talked with some people in line, and then being a party of one, I got to skip a few people, and finally got on the ride. It has been a long time since I’ve gone on any thrill rides, and I am prone to motion sickness. Plus being older, I was not sure if I could handle it. Well, I got on the ride, and it was like a more intense version of Mission to Mars. I had fun, but felt sick afterwards. I had to rest for a little while, then go onto an easy ride.

Next, Universe of Energy. I was burning up, and then remembered that this attraction is powered by solar energy. Once inside, the introduction was a lot different than the last time I saw it. None of those blocks turning, and giving people a science lesson. Instead, we got Ellen DeGeneres and Bill the Science Guy and their adventure through the prehistoric era, and the different types of energy. I thought it was an upgrade from the original version, which was kind of dull.

Then I went to the Imagination ride. The wait was not long, but definitely different. Figment was there, but not that other guy whose name I can’t remember. Kind of fun, and a little nice diversion. After that, I went into The Land. I took the boat ride on Living with the Land. After that, I thought about doing Soarin’, but the wait was just too long.

I ate lunch, and ate so much! It was hard for me to move, but I went to The Seas With Nemo and Friends, which I still refer to as The Living Seas. I waited in line, which stalled when the ride stopped for a while. Eventually, I got on, and thought it was ok, but not worth going on again. Then again, I have not seen Finding Nemo. I looked around at some marine animals then went out and sat for a little bit.

I did pass by the fountain show, and felt it raining on me, which did feel good. Just added to the fun that I was having. At times, I wanted to yell “I love this place”.

There were still a few things to do in Future World, but I felt like it was time for the World Showcase. It has always been a tradition of mine to start on the left side, and work clockwise. And the Food and Wine Festival was in full swing. I looked around the various booths, but didn’t really try anything. So the first stop in the World Showcase, is Mexico. Rode the El Rio del Tiempo, which was kind of like It’s a Small World. A relaxing ride, and good time to rest my feet. After the ride, I got to see a little band and some people doing the Mexican dance, which was fun to watch.

Next up: Norway! I saw the waiting time to be around 40 minutes, so I decided to use FASTPASS for Maelstrom. After getting the FASTPASS, I headed to the China Pavilion, and caught the 360 movie there. Then I went back to Maelstrom, and rode it, then watched the film there as well.

I continued on, until I got to the American Adventure, since some of the nations just has restaurants and shops. But the waiting time was too long, so I went ahead and watched the film at the France Pavilion. Then tried to return to the American Adventure, but bad timing once again. But I did get to see Jon Secada perform, and watch a band play at the Morocco Pavilion. Then I headed to the Canada section, and watched a film there. It was funny when the Cast Member doing the announcement, had a hard time containing her laugh.

Afterwards, I had the urge to go to the Magic Kingdom, so I headed over there by monorail. Once I got there, I went to Liberty Square, and to the Haunted Mansion. I always loved this ride, and enjoy watching the paintings unfold, as the room is going down. After that, it was The Hall of Presidents, which was a bit of a letdown.

Then it was off to Fantasyland, where I would get a FASTPASS for Peter Pan’s Flight, then rode It’s a Small World, then watched the 3-D film at Mickey’s PhilharMagic. That film was great! Then I went back to Peter Pan’s Flight, where I decided to wait in the standby line. While waiting, the Wishes fireworks was in progress. I didn’t plan to see any shows, but this was worth watching. Once I rode the Peter Pan ride, then I went to Snow White’s Scary Adventure. Very different and more light-hearted than the last time I saw it. I can remember being freaked by that witch, especially that Mirror scene, when the Queen suddenly turns around, and it’s her scary self. And Snow White has an appearance on the ride.

Then it was off to Adventureland, where I would have time for only one more ride, which would be Pirates of the Caribbean. The wait was not long, but the ride looked different. Obviously the changes were made after the movie, which was odd, because the movie was based on the ride. Still, I enjoyed it very much.

But I had to catch my shuttle bus back to the hotel, so I had to leave. While walking through Main Street, I saw that a parade was in progress. It looked very nice and the music was good as well. I realize that I should catch it next time. I got back to the bus parking lot on time, and went back to the hotel. There is more to come at Disney World.

 

[Bee]

enjoyed that report.. cant wait for more!!!

 

[Walter C]

Saturday, November 11 (Day 3)
Today, I would hop on the bus, which was behind schedule as usual. On the way, I called my mom and wished her a happy birthday. Well, the day is off to a slow start, because the driver decides to go to Sea World first, even though it is farther away. I would not get to the Ticket and Transportation Center until around 9:30 AM, which is late to me.

Once there, I had to wait for the next Disney bus to MGM Studios, since the hotel bus did not stop by there. I talked with some people while waiting, then rode the bus to MGM. I have not been there since 1991, when it was still relatively new. I remember thinking that Universal Studios was better than MGM Studios, so I expected a half-day to cover this theme park.

Once inside, it was time for the attractions. And the first problem that I see is that it is crowded, due to the Super Soap Weekend, or whatever it’s called. I guess a lot of locals have come as well. I went to the Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular, but the line was too long and I wanted to save my FASTPASS. So I went to the nearby Sounds Dangerous attraction, which featured Drew Carey. It was nothing special, but I did have fun playing around with the sound effects afterwards.

Then I went to Star Tours, which had no lines. I was not sure what to expect after feeling ill from Mission: Space. As it turned out, Star Tours is a lot more tamer. But I ended up getting a Dream FASTPASS, which will allow me to bypass the lines of the big attractions. After the ride, I went to the Muppets Vision 3-D show. I enjoyed it very much, even though it was very different than the last time I saw it, when the Muppets were live. I did like those 2 guys who sit in the balcony, whose names I never knew.

I saw an arcade in the Toy Story Pizza Planet Arcade, and stopped by it for some time. I played some games, then tried to decide what attraction to go to next. I did stop by the ABC Commissary, which was a restaurant with promos for ABC shows.

Then, I headed for the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror. I took advantage of the Dream FASTPASS, and bypassed the standby line, and waited anxiously to get on the ride. There were little girls in front of me, who said it was great and that there is nothing to worry about. The most nervous part is when the elevator goes forward. The ride was great, and I bought the picture.

I thought about going on the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith, but held off so I can recover. I sat around for a little while, then decided to go to The Magic of Disney Animation. I thought it was fun, even though they featured characters from animated movies that I never saw. Afterwards, I played around with some of the animation stuff. I have to admit, I had fun coloring a scene from Hercules with colors that were way off, and I see that I am most like Filk from A Bug’s Life.

I headed back to the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, and used a FASTPASS, and got on the ride. It looks like this roller coaster was different from others that I have ridden, because it’s fast from the start. I sat next to someone who has been on it before, and I screamed my head off. But it was fun, a more intense version of Space Mountain. I bought the ride photo, then headed for The Great Movie Ride. The wait was a while, but seeing the various trailers of the old movies, did make the wait more bearable. The ride was fun and entertaining. At the end, I just kept muttering the names of movies that I knew. Then I went to Walt Disney: One Man’s Dream, which starts out as a museum on the man himself, who made all of it possible. The film was about to start, but I wanted to catch the last showing of the Indiana Jones Stunt show, so I would have to watch the film after it.

I got to the stunt show, and it was good. Then ate some lunch, and did some people-watching for a little bit. Then I went to the Honey, I shrunk the Kids Movie Set, which was nothing more than a playground. So I passed, and got to the Lights, Motors, Action Extreme Stunt Show, but I was too late. There were no more shows left. Next, I would learn that the MGM Studios Backlot Tour was closed. There were some shows that I didn’t even bother, since I have not seen the movie involved. I came back to One Man’s Dream, looked around the exhibit, and saw the film. Another reminder that it all started with a mouse. Very interesting film.

Now, it was off to the Magic Kingdom. I waited for the bus, which then took me to the Ticket and Transportation Center, then I rode the monorail to the theme park. Once there, I walked through Main Street and got on the Jungle Cruise. It has been a long time since I rode it. The tour guide was funny, and took shots at It’s a Small World. I can’t remember what they were, and one has to be there to understand them.

After the cruise, it was off to the Haunted Mansion, my 2nd time riding it. I find myself repeating after the narrator at times. Then, my 2nd time watching Mickey’s PhilharMagic, which I enjoyed very much. When it was over, I headed over to the circle in Liberty Square, and got a great place to sit to watch the Spectromagic parade. I talked with some people while waiting for the parade to start, which is always fun to do. One of the ladies recommend that I check out the Lion King show at Animal Kingdom, which I wasn't originally planning to see. And I realize that I have not seen many of the Disney animated films.

The parade started, and I thought it was unbelievable. Just another reminder how magical Disney World can really be. The music is just awesome. Afterwards, I rode It’s a Small World, then got a FASTPASS for The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh. Then I rode the Tomorrowland Transit Authority, which took me around Tomorrowland that looked more futuristic than the last time I saw it in 1994. After the TTA, I caught in the middle of the Wishes fireworks. It was nice, although I had a terrible view from Tomorrowland. I’ll have to catch the entire fireworks next time. Then I went to Stitch’s Great Escape, which is at the old Mission to Mars attraction. It was nothing special, except for the fact that it smelled of garbage.

After that, I stopped by the arcade near Space Mountain, and looked at the games they had. Then, I headed for the Winnie the Pooh ride, which has replaced Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride. Used my FASTPASS and got on the ride. I was cutting it close with time, since it was almost time for the last shuttle bus to take me back to my hotel. I got through the Pooh ride, which was okay, but would still prefer Mr. Toad over Pooh.

After the ride, I had to run around people, which was always tough, as time was running out for me to catch my bus. The parade had already started, but I didn’t have to cross the path of it. I was able to make it back to the bus parking lot on time, and rode the bus back to the hotel.

 

[BigTigg'r]

Thanks, I am really enjoying your report. I know exactly how you feel when you say youwant to shout I Love This Place!!!! I feel like that a lot when I am there. Keep them coming.

 

[Walter C]

Sunday, November 12 (Day 4)
Today, I would be at the Magic Kingdom all day, my favorite of all the theme parks. Don’t get me wrong, Epcot and MGM Studios are great theme parks, with Animal Kingdom to come the next day. But this one is just a boatloads of fun, with attractions that I love going on, multiple times.

I was talking with some people, while waiting for the shuttle bus, who would tell me about Mears, which is cheaper than taking a regular cab. They gave me the number, and I arranged for a pick-up to the airport. The shuttle bus was running late, making me wish that I was staying onsite. When it finally came, it took me to the Ticket and Transportation Center, where I hopped on the monorail and went to the Magic Kingdom.

Once getting through the lines, I hopped on the Walt Disney World Railroad, which is an enjoyable way to see the Magic Kingdom, as well as getting to Frontierland more faster. Once there, I got in line for Splash Mountain, which is the best water ride that I have rode, in all of amusement parks. I held back from riding this attraction in the past few days, because I thought it was best experienced during the daytime, along with Thunder Mountain.

There was really no line at Splash Mountain, and I ended up riding it next to a woman named Donna, who turned out to be a Cast Member, along with her son and his girlfriend. We talked as we were riding through Song of the South. I always remembered the one drop that had a split in the middle, and of course, the big one! I did not get soaked, but it was fun. After that, all of us headed for Big Thunder Mountain, which also had no line. A fun ride, even though it is a lot tamer than the Rock ‘n Roller Coaster.

After that, it was off to the Haunted Mansion, my 3rd time riding it. I noticed that there were Cast Members in period costumes, and can’t imagine wearing it during the Florida summer. Well, Donna tells me that they have to wear those costumes anyway, and how the line would stretch out so long during the summer. Boy I’m glad that I never came here during the summer. We rode the ride, and just talked about how little it has changed since its opening, which is still amazing, even to today’s standards. Some things that I never noticed before, like the ghost kids in the chandelier at the party room.

After the ride, we talked as we were heading over to Tomorrowland. I learned that there is an underground world below the theme parks, which sounded like a shopping mall for Cast Members only. I don’t know! Donna would also tell me about Alien Encounters, an attraction that was between the Mission to Mars and Stitch’s Escape. When we got towards the TTA, that was when we separated, because I wanted to relax a bit and ride around Tomorrowland during the daytime. But it was nice chatting and hanging out with a Cast Member.

After riding on the TTA, it was on to the Carousel of Progress, which was an interesting show. Then I went to Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin. I thought about getting a FASTPASS, but decided to wait in line instead. This ride was a different kind, that it was an interactive game along being a ride. I did not score very high, missing the target very often. I headed to the arcade and played some video games. Interesting to see that there is a Disney version of Dance Dance Revolution game. After the arcade, it was off to the Tomorrowland Indy Speedway. It felt different this time around, because since I know how to drive, this ride was not as fun.

Afterwards, it was off to Mickey’s Toontown Fair. I have to admit, I did feel out of place, being an adult with no kids. I saw the kiddie roller coaster, which I didn’t even bother with. Then going through Minnie’s House, then the Toontown Hall of Fame tent, which has a nice shop. Then I went through Mickey’s House, and did see some people playing the Hidden Mickey game. After going through this section, I rode the railroad to Frontierland, where I would get on a raft to Tom Sawyer’s Island.

This was my first time going through Tom Sawyer’s Island, as I never really knew about this attraction. It was fun walking around, especially jumping on the log bridge. After going through caves and treehouses, I headed to the Country Bear Jamboree. By then, I was getting really tired. When we got inside, I did have some trouble staying awake. The show itself was nothing special. After that, I ate lunch at the nearby restaurant.

While eating, I heard some music, and saw that the Disney Dreams Come True Parade has started. Originally, I was not intending to watch any parades, but had to see this one, which was set to some catchy song. The parade was just tons of fun to watch, at least from what I could see. It was difficult, since I was not at a good spot. I would have to come see it the next day.

After all of that, I went to the Enchanted Tiki Room Under New Management, which was a fun show, featuring Iago from Aladdin. Then I got a FASTPASS for the Jungle Cruise, then went on the Pirates ride for the 2nd time. Afterwards, it was back to the Jungle Cruise, where I rode it during the 2nd time as well, only this time it was daylight. Next, I rode the Magic Carpets of Aladdin, and ended up sharing it with a grandfather. We talked for a little bit, then I went through the Swiss Family Treehouse. That was fun to walk through, then I rode the Haunted Mansion for the 4th time. Once again, no lines.

After that, it was the Liberty Square Riverboat, where I could relax my feet and plan out what to do next. Once this was over, I headed over to Space Mountain, and surprisingly, did not have to wait long in the standby line. It looked different, which was probably done to make the wait more interesting. It was fun. After the roller coaster ride, I got in line for the Astro Orbiter. This line moved very slow and the ride ended up making me feel dizzy. Turned out to be a waste of time.

I headed for Main Street, hoping to get a head start for the exit to catch my bus, as well as get a great view for the upcoming Wishes fireworks. This time, I will finally get a chance to see it in its entirety. The fireworks was great, and would have been a great way to close out the trip, but since the next day had it at 6 PM, I had to watch this one today.

Then, I headed to the exits, rode the monorail back to the Ticket and Transportation Center, and caught my bus back to the hotel.

 

[Bee]

Still loving your report..

thanks for changing your avator from the Pirate... he looked really mean

 

[Scutapipig]

Enjoying your report! Looking forward to more!

 

[Walter C]

Still loving your report..

thanks for changing your avator from the Pirate... he looked really mean

Thanks! It's just like reliving the trip.

My previous avatar was a crime boss from Street Fighter II, one of my favorite video games.

 

[Bee]

Well... See I was right.. he is mean.... he just isnt a pirate he is a crime boss.. Sorry, hope I didnt offend you.. I love your reports and I have this image of you in my head and then you put that mean guy on and it just wasnt working for me.

Keep going... cant wait to hear more.

 

[momrek06]

HEY WALLY C

Great trippie!!! I thoroughly enjoyed reading it!!!

 

[Minniespal]

Excellent ~ Thanx for sharing.

 

[Walter C]

Monday, November 13 (Day 5)
The night before, I called Mears Transportation Service, to get an early ride, so I can get to Animal Kingdom, right when it opens. The hotel shuttle bus takes too long, and doesn’t go there.

This was my first ever visit to Animal Kingdom. I was not sure what to expect, thinking it would be a copycat of Wild Animal Park near San Diego. I got there early, and had wait a while. When the park opened, I made a dash for the Kilimanjaro Safari, which I’m told that it’s best to see the animals in the morning. I got there, and there was no line. The safari ride was fun, though bumpy. I got to see the animals, almost like a real-live version of Jungle Cruise.

After the safari, I went through the Pangani Forest Exploration Trail. I got to see some animals, and had some fun matching the birds that I see, to the Bird Card. After that, I was not sure where to go next. So much to do, so little time! This was my last day in Disney World, and I planned to make a detour to catch the parade at the Magic Kingdom.

I decided to go to the Festival of the Lion King. I remember one woman telling me that this should not be missed, so I decided to check it out. Normally, I would skip these types of shows, either because I have not seen the movie or didn’t really like it too much. In the case of the Lion King, I did not like the movie too much. Anyway, on the way, I stopped by the Discovery Islands Trails and saw some animals. When the show time neared, I got there in the Camp Minnie-Mickey, and saw the show. It really surprised me, and I thought it was great. After that, I walked around the Camp Minnie-Mickey area, which was just like Mickey’s Toontown Fair. I skipped the Pocahontas show, since I have not seen the movie.

I was debating whether to see the It’s Tough to be a Bug, then passed on it, because of my phobia of bugs. I’ve only seen parts of the movie, which looked like fun. I walked around the Discovery Island Trails to see more, and saw some interesting animals like the sea otters. And looked at that Tree of Life, which is the symbol of Animal Kingdom.

Then it was off to DinoLand, USA. Once there, I rode the Primeval Whirl, which was like a spinning Wild Mouse ride at other amusement parks. It was fun. After that, I rode the DINOSAUR. Very bumpy. I couldn’t really see anything, because I did not wear my glasses, worrying that it would fall off. After riding these rides back-to-back, I felt motion sickness, and had to rest for a little bit, to recover. There is still question whether or not I will go on Everest. I saw the T. Rex fossil as I was resting across the path, from it.

Then it is off to Asia, and going to the Kali River Rapids. I had serious doubts about going on this one, worrying that my socks would get wet. I don’t mind if anything else getting wet, but wet socks and shoes is something that is very difficult to dry, and to tolerate. A Cast Member suggested that I get a plastic bag to cover my shoes, which I had, and did use when I got on the raft. The ride was fun, and I got drenched, as I got the full brunt of the splash. After the ride, I walked through the Maharajah Jungle Trek, where I would get to see Komodo dragons for the first time, and saw some tigers. I found it interesting with the beaded curtains (not sure what they’re called) to keep birds in. I did some bird-watching as well.

When I finished the Trek, I had limited time left, as I kept looking at my watch, to do a few more stuff before heading to the Dreams Come True Parade. I walked towards Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain. As it turned out, the ride has been shut down for an hour, as one Cast Member told me. I asked him what the ride was like, and comparing it to other roller coasters in Disney World (like Rock ‘n Roller and Space Mountain). He then gave me a special pass to bypass the lines, in case the ride started operating again. So I went on the Wildlife Express Train, which took me to Rafiki’s Planet Watch. The train went really slow, and kind of bumpy. But interesting to see the stations where the animals go for the night.

I got to the area, and walked through the Habitat Habit, skimming through the boards, then went inside the Conservation Station. I watched some film on the TV screen, about certain animals and how they are nearing extinction. Then I went inside the booth, and listened to the sounds of a tropical rainforest, which would end with the cutting and sawing of trees. With time running out, I had to leave, but came away with that reminder how it’s important that the animals are saved from extinction. I am no environmental fanatic, but I appreciate the efforts by the people who are working hard to save the animals. Seeing the part of animal parts used to make millions of dollars, made me think of my cats back home, and how it would be wrong to declaw them just for the sake of furniture. Basically just being selfish. But I digress.

I headed back to the train, which just seems to be bad timing, as I just missed the last one. I ride it back to the main park, then headed for the exit, and waited for the next bus to the Magic Kingdom. When it arrived, I rode it and got to the Ticket and Transportation Center. Then I had to wait for the next monorail, which was having a delay. The parade had already started, but fortunately, it started in Frontierland. Eventually, I got on the monorail, and while riding, talked with a Cast Member, who was sharing about working there and living in the area in general.

So I got to the Magic Kingdom, and headed for Main Street. The parade just started in that area, and I finally got to watch in its entirety. It was great, and theme song is fun to listen to, reminding me how magical it has been throughout this whole trip. After the parade, I went back to the Animal Kingdom, hoping to catch the parade there. But I was too late, because it just ended. I knew it would be a stretch, so I was not upset. Oh well!

So I went to Expedition Everest, after learning the ride was operating again. I used my pass and bypassed the lines. It was a museum in the line, so I could not stop by to see it. I rode it, and it was unbelievable, going forward and backward. I was not wearing my glasses, so I couldn’t really see the Yeti. After the ride, I browsed through some shops, and bought some stuff.

Animal Kingdom was closing up, so I exited the park, and deciding where to go next. I wanted to catch Fastasmic, but I had some time to kill, which would be a waste to just stand around. So I decided to go to Epcot, and rode Spaceship Earth. After that, I took a bus to MGM Studios, and went to the amphitheater where the show was. I got there just in time, and found seats right when the show started. And let’s just say the show is fantastic! And that I’m glad that I made this detour to catch it.

After the show, I went back to Epcot. Then I went to Soarin’, which had no line. It was fun, even though it was not the thrill ride that I thought it was. I like how it ended when we soared over the Magic Kingdom. After the ride, I ate some dinner at the Sunshine Seasons. Then it was off to IllumiNations. On the way, I noticed how deserted Future World is, but know that people are gathered at the World Showcase.

I got there right when the announcement starts, and did not really get a great view. I walked around for a little bit. When the show started, I stayed in one spot. Very different from the last time I saw it in 1994. It was very good, and a great way to close out my Disney World vacation. But it was also sad, because once this show ended, that would be the end. I walked out, looking around, and accepting the fact that this is the end.

I exited and hopped on the monorail. As it was leaving Epcot, I just kept looking at Spaceship Earth, feeling sad that it had to end. I got to the Ticket and Transportation Center, but with time to kill, I rode the monorail towards the Magic Kingdom, which was having the Christmas Party, and required separate admission. I got to ride in the front row, and see some of the fireworks, which was great! I got off, and walked up to the entrance, stood around, then walked back. I rode the monorail, and thinking of the next time that I want to come back.

When it arrived at the Ticket and Transportation Center, I got to the bus parking lot, and took it back to the hotel. As it was leaving, it passed by the billboards of various attractions and then the entrance arch. I was looking at the arch, as the bus passed through it, and I looked back and saw that this was goodbye to Walt Disney World.

I got back to the hotel and started packing. I would only get 3 hours of sleep, because of an early morning flight.

 

[Walter C]

Tuesday, November 14 (Day 6)
I had to get up early, and pack up the rest of my things. Then I missed my ride, and had to call the company to have the Mears cab come back. It did, and I got the airport. Then I learn that my flight was cancelled, so I had to wait longer. I slept for a little bit, then later boarded on the next plane back to Philly.

I had mixed feelings as I was heading back to Philly. I had a phenomenal time in Disney World, but I hated the fact that it had to end. And I thought about the next time I come back, and if I would go with someone. It would have been nice to share the moment with others, but if they don’t share the same enthusiasm as I do, then it’s just not as fun.

I like to say that this is my favorite vacation destination, but I don’t want to jinx it, worrying that my next trip back, will be a complete disaster. I remember how I felt after my first trip that I do remember, back in 1984, and how I would not stop talking about it. Well, I was feeling that way with this trip as well. Only problem is that people back home, either have little or no interest in hearing about it.

I did not take any pictures, except of the 2 ride photos that I bought. I don’t know, I just thought it was pointless since I was traveling solo, and been here multiple times. Plus I buy postcards since I collect them, and will use them in a scrapbook, along with the park maps that I saved. I number each attraction in the order that I did them. And now, I want to watch some Disney animated films.

Now, it’s back to work and to my boring life.

 

[Bee]

Thank you for sharing your trip with me!!

I love WDW.. I call myself a Disney Freak

Hope you get to go back soon!

 

[Walter C]

You're welcome!

I may get to go back next year, only that time, it will be with my mom.

The fact that I just rented some Disney films, it looks like I am on my way of becoming a Disney freak myself.