Poly, Princesses and Pixie Dust

[LexisAuntieLala]

I love reading your trip report especially all you have written about the Poly as we will be there in a little over 3 weeks! YIKES! I need to start my packing....I am also bringing my 4-year old niece, so reading what your daughter likes is giving me some ideas of things to try with her.

 

[BreezysMom]

I agree that Epcot is a two day plan. We still have so much we want to try there. DD is still a little bummed that we did not do Nemo this trip.

We also did the Kim Possible Mission! That was so fun. I do think the point is to take it slow and be able to wander around that particular country and shop and explore but we were ON A MISSION! We had a job to do!

Kim Possible will be a must do for us next trip!

Can't wait to read more!

 

[wdwgirl03]

Aww, what a sweet moment for your daughter! Very cool.

Glad you had a good server at WCC. That place is so much fun. When we went our server wasn't the greatest but it was still funny watching the other servers and seeing all the little acts (like if you asked for ketchup they'd bring all the ketchup bottles in the whole place ).

 

[thechesters420]

Well at least you can get a gift card with the DVC tour right?

 

[AGPrincess]

I adore the Polynesian, so I love seeing your pics and hearing about it! Looks like your view was amazing. Great TR so far!

 

[iloveeeyore]

maiapapaya,

Thank you so much for your TR! I'm really enjoying all the helpful tips. You and BreezysMom (whom I follow on the Poly FAQ thread) are inspiring me to do my own TR, but I don't know if I have the patience...

We always plan AT LEAST 2 full Epcot days. We just LOVE all the dining options there, and have trouble narrowing it down to just 2. Our next trip is 11 nights and I think we might do 3 dinners in Epcot, maybe more if we get hoppers. We also really enjoy the street entertainment at all the countries, and there's no way to do all that in just 1 or 2 days. My kids are teenagers now, and they both really appreciate World Showcase.

I can relate to how the server makes the experience at certain dining venues. We had disappointing meals at both 50's Prime Time and WCC, but we would give both another chance if the perfect opportunity presented itself (not going out of our way, if you know what I mean).

Your family is just beautiful, thank you for sharing. I'll keep following.

 

[maiapapaya]

Well at least you can get a gift card with the DVC tour right?

Yes, we each got a $15 gift card and ice cream sundaes.
The model suite of the Bay Lake Tower was very cool and the AK Villa was very nice too (much more our taste style-wise).
We really were considering it, but unfortunately as long as DD18 continues to travel with us we would need a 1 bedroom villa and that would have been a little $$ for us to buy that many points (we didn't want to be locked into having to save our points and only going every couple of years). We also fell in love with the Poly and the way the point structure is set up it would have been prohibitive for us. Oh, well, maybe we'll reconsider in a few years.

 

[maiapapaya]

I agree that Epcot is a two day plan. We still have so much we want to try there. DD is still a little bummed that we did not do Nemo this trip.

We also did the Kim Possible Mission! That was so fun. I do think the point is to take it slow and be able to wander around that particular country and shop and explore but we were ON A MISSION! We had a job to do!

Kim Possible will be a must do for us next trip!

Can't wait to read more!

Oh, yes, DH was on a mission! I think he was more into it than DD7!

 

[maiapapaya]

Aww, what a sweet moment for your daughter! Very cool.

Glad you had a good server at WCC. That place is so much fun. When we went our server wasn't the greatest but it was still funny watching the other servers and seeing all the little acts (like if you asked for ketchup they'd bring all the ketchup bottles in the whole place ).

Ah, yes, I forgot to mention the ketchup! The kids were on a mission to ask for ketchup (they'd already heard what happens!)

 

[maiapapaya]

Thanks wdwgirl03 and AGPrincess!

 

[maiapapaya]

For AuntieLala's niece here's some of DD4's favorites from our trip :

In the MK DD4 she loved the Barnstormer. She also enjoyed Peter Pan, The Many Adventures of Winnie The Pooh (she liked bouncing with Tigger), all of the flying rides (Dumbo, Magic Carpets), The Speedway and - bust out your earplugs - It's a Small World. I don't ever remember riding it before and if I'm honest, I didn't really mind it. DD4 was quite intrigued with all the colours and scenes. She also loved the Philharmagic. She really got a kick out of Donald Duck.

We went to BBB at the castle and while it is pricey it was worth it for DD4's (and DD7's) reaction. They felt so special and important.

Her favs from the other parks were TSM and Nemo. She also loved just playing around at Innoventions.

DD4 really enjoyed meeting the characters. We weren't sure how she would react to them, but she became so excited everytime we encountered someone new. We didn't actually do a lot of character lines since we had four character meals and that took care of a lot of them. A few of the other characters we just ran into and hadn't planned on seeking them out. She loved having the characters sign her autograph book and having her picture taken. While she is obsessed with "the pink princess" (Sleeping Beauty) her favorite character meetings were with the more huggy ones (ie. the ones that are like big stuffed animals and fun to cuddle with, like Winnie The Pooh and Eeyore).

DD4's favorite thing about the Poly was the volcano pool. She really liked the zero entry. She had no interest in the beach at all.

DD4 really didn't have much interest in the parades or the fireworks either. She didn't mind watching them, but would not have cared if we missed them.

A big life saver for us was our umbrella stroller. We didn't want to be burdened with one of those big rental strollers, but DD4 did end up riding a lot, not only when she was tired, but also when we wanted to move quickly through a crowd. Oh, and she spent a lot of time napping in it too, which probably saved us a lot of grumpy scenes and allowed us to stay in the parks longer that she might have tolerated otherwise.

 

[1971DBday]

For AuntieLala's niece here's some of DD4's favorites from our trip :


We went to BBB at the castle and while it is pricey it was worth it for DD4's (and DD7's) reaction. They felt so special and important.

Her favs from the other parks were TSM and Nemo. She also loved just playing around at Innoventions.

DD4 really enjoyed meeting the characters. We weren't sure how she would react to them, but she became so excited everytime we encountered someone new. We didn't actually do a lot of character lines since we had four character meals and that took care of a lot of them. A few of the other characters we just ran into and hadn't planned on seeking them out. She loved having the characters sign her autograph book and having her picture taken. While she is obsessed with "the pink princess" (Sleeping Beauty) her favorite character meetings were with the more huggy ones (ie. the ones that are like big stuffed animals and fun to cuddle with, like Winnie The Pooh and Eeyore).

DD4's favorite thing about the Poly was the volcano pool. She really liked the zero entry. She had no interest in the beach at all.

DD(4) and DD(7) look adorable! My DD(3) is getting so excited to go to BBB! We have reservations there and then straight to CRT for dinner to meet her favorite Cinderella! Every day she keeps asking how many days until Disney and her response is always a big smile and a "we're getting closer". I should videotape it, because she says it in souch a cute, but somewhat pre-meditated way (best way to describe it) - she can be such a ham. How did DD(4) handle BBB initially - was she hesitant or did she plop right into the chair?

Also, a recommendation to AuntieLala - if you are going to CRT you can order the glass slipper dessert. Yes it is extra and I know the meal comes with a dessert. I decided to order this at first for DD(3). They put a message on the plate so I am having them put "Princess Cinderella Hannah" - which she refers to herself ALL THE TIME - even when introducing herself to strangers. I also decided this would be a good point to embarass my DD(13) and order it for her as well. She is not a fan of princesses, but I think it will put a smile on her face.

DD(3) can't wait to try the slide at the Volcano pool. I can't remember it from my past trip to the Poly; I heard it's kind of dark going down. I hope that is not a turn-off.

By the way - I can't sleep - as you may note the time. This is my last week of work before the trip and I am stressing about all I need to get done at work before I leave. I hate this part - I really need sleep since I am on meds for a sinus infection that won't go away.

 

[maiapapaya]

DD(4) and DD(7) look adorable! My DD(3) is getting so excited to go to BBB! We have reservations there and then straight to CRT for dinner to meet her favorite Cinderella! Every day she keeps asking how many days until Disney and her response is always a big smile and a "we're getting closer". I should videotape it, because she says it in souch a cute, but somewhat pre-meditated way (best way to describe it) - she can be such a ham. How did DD(4) handle BBB initially - was she hesitant or did she plop right into the chair?

Also, a recommendation to AuntieLala - if you are going to CRT you can order the glass slipper dessert. Yes it is extra and I know the meal comes with a dessert. I decided to order this at first for DD(3). They put a message on the plate so I am having them put "Princess Cinderella Hannah" - which she refers to herself ALL THE TIME - even when introducing herself to strangers. I also decided this would be a good point to embarass my DD(13) and order it for her as well. She is not a fan of princesses, but I think it will put a smile on her face.

DD(3) can't wait to try the slide at the Volcano pool. I can't remember it from my past trip to the Poly; I heard it's kind of dark going down. I hope that is not a turn-off.

By the way - I can't sleep - as you may note the time. This is my last week of work before the trip and I am stressing about all I need to get done at work before I leave. I hate this part - I really need sleep since I am on meds for a sinus infection that won't go away.

DD4 went straight into the chair. She knew why she was there and she was all business. It was pretty cute. She was very serious until they were all finished with her and then she was all smiles.

Is DD3 are real dare devil? The slide is pretty fast and is in the dark. DD7 wouldn't even go down!

Have a great trip. I hope you're feeling better!

 

[maiapapaya]

maiapapaya,

Thank you so much for your TR! I'm really enjoying all the helpful tips. You and BreezysMom (whom I follow on the Poly FAQ thread) are inspiring me to do my own TR, but I don't know if I have the patience...

We always plan AT LEAST 2 full Epcot days. We just LOVE all the dining options there, and have trouble narrowing it down to just 2. Our next trip is 11 nights and I think we might do 3 dinners in Epcot, maybe more if we get hoppers. We also really enjoy the street entertainment at all the countries, and there's no way to do all that in just 1 or 2 days. My kids are teenagers now, and they both really appreciate World Showcase.

I can relate to how the server makes the experience at certain dining venues. We had disappointing meals at both 50's Prime Time and WCC, but we would give both another chance if the perfect opportunity presented itself (not going out of our way, if you know what I mean).

Your family is just beautiful, thank you for sharing. I'll keep following.

Thank you! I hope you do your own TR!

 

[1971DBday]

DD4 went straight into the chair. She knew why she was there and she was all business. It was pretty cute. She was very serious until they were all finished with her and then she was all smiles.

Is DD3 are real dare devil? The slide is pretty fast and is in the dark. DD7 wouldn't even go down!

Have a great trip. I hope you're feeling better!

DD3 can be a real dare devil...in fact her theme song is the Elvis Presley "Devil in Desguise" - loves Stitch. She remembers the water slides at BB and loved them. Now I know these are much slower, but she did them on her own at the age of 2. Now that she knows what a water slide is she will try everything. This summer we were at a park that had a zipline. She cried because she was not big enough to go on it!!!!

We have a system that her brother or sister comes down first and then she goes so we are ready to catch. Arm floaties can pop off, but I might have her do a life jacket for slide time since the resort provides one.

Thanks of the wishes on my health...bad few days (now add insomnia). However, I only have two more days of work and then I am taking a little RNR before the trip.

By the way I love your style of trip report....I'm contemplating whether to do one.

 

[LexisAuntieLala]

Thank you so much for all of your great ideas! I have added them to my list of things to try and do! The only difference I see is that my niece loves parades, no matter how big or small! We watch the Celebrate parade on you tube alot and she is just mesmorized! We made a reservation for BBB too as she loves to be pampered. I have no idea where she gets that from!! Thanks again!! Look forward to more of your report!

 

[ols386]

Wow, I just read and looked through your whole trip report.

It's wonderful!

We will be staying at the Poly in about 3 weeks.

Thanks for sharing!!

 

[Jenvenza]

I just found yout TR and read through it all! Your girls are adorable!! I cannot wait for the next installment!

 

[maiapapaya]

Thanks ols386 and Jenvenza and welcome!

 

[maiapapaya]

It's been a little difficult to bring myself here and do another post. The other day DH dropped the bomb on me that we aren't going back next year. He wants to build up our savings more before we plan another big trip. While I do agree with this in principle, it is still very disappointing when we had already been talking dates. I'm not quite sure how the girls are going to react. He can be the one to tell them. I'm hoping that once the new year comes and he gets his raise (he's due for a nice increase in pay) that I can start working the budget like crazy and surprise him with some super crazy savings. Anyways, enough of the pity party and on with the report ...

We planned a day at Downtown Disney in the middle of our trip just to slow the pace down and schedule in some shopping.

The bus ride there was not fun. It wasn't as long as I had expected, but it was still BORING. bah

The first store we hit was the Christmas shop. The choice of ornaments was overwhelming. There were so many different styles/themes. Initially I had planned on getting an ornament for each of the girls, but I had a lot of difficulty choosing. I finally decided just to get one for the whole family. It was a blue glass ball with Mickey and Minnie in tourist garb. It says "our Disney Vacation." A very nice little German woman personalized it for me in about five minutes by adding the year surrounded by some pixie dust.

Our next stop was Once Upon A Toy. What a great toy store! DD4 and DD7 were on a mission for My Little Pony stuff. This store (along with the one in Mickey's Toontown at the exit of Pixie Hollow) has a station where you can fill a box, as much as you can fit, for $20. They had all kinds of princess outfits, Minnie clothes and other little accessories as well as the ponies themselves. The girls already have ponies, so they just filled their boxes with everything else. Without the ponies I think they could have fit two of everything into one box (and split on the cost). However, they each insisted on having their own box. Since they had been given quite a bit of spending money by grandparents I didn't push it and let them each have their own.

Then it was Mommy's turn. I hit the Mr. Potato Head station. It is the same idea as the ponies, fill a box with all you can fit for $20 (I think there is another station like this in Tatooine Traders at DHS). I got a cool variety of goodies for my potato heads. They are now hanging out on my desk, one sporting Mickey ears, Mickey hands and a suitcase with a WDW bumper sticker. The other is dressed in Minnie shoes & hat, holding her refillable mug and a Mickey ice cream bar. They're my buds! (or should that be spuds?! ) Whenever I'm feeling blue I just look at them and they make me smile. I also got a Mickey Santa hat, Christmas tree, Mickey balloon, Goofy hat, Mickey trick-o-treat pail and a soft pretzel.

By the time we were done playing with the toys it was time for our Vacation Club appointment. As I mentioned in a pp, we got snared by a VC sales person and DH and BIL booked us an appointment for a tour. We checked in at our assigned time and were told to go wait by the parking for our ride. Within minutes a dark van pulled up. We were then blindfolded and wisked away to an undisclosed location.
Ok, so I just made that last part up ... it made the story so much more interesting. We were picked up in a dark van though, but we were taken to Saratoga Springs and not some super secret Disney hideout.

We were introduced to our sales person who we spent the next couple of hours with. I think he very quickly took a disliking to my family. It started when DD4 and DD7 refused to go hang out in their kids' club/babysitting room. The nice ladies there outfitted them with colouring books and sent us all down the hall with our somewhat irritated sales guy.
I will admit I don't entirely blame him. It must have been difficult giving his sales pitch while I was continually having to hush, and otherwise keep the girls under control. I do blame him though for pulling an attitude with DD18. She made a few comments (that weren't actually snotty or out of line) and he just blew her off and completely ignored her presence. Rude.

After the initial spiel he took us to see the model suites. They were very impressive! Right now VC is selling AK villas and BLT, so those were the suites we saw. The AK model was beautiful. Totally our style with lots of room (we were considering the 1 bdrm villa since, for the next couple of years at least, we are travelling as a group of five). The only drawback to AK is the location. We really loved being on the monorail at Poly, so it was hard to imagine staying at one of the farthest resorts.

Next sales dude took us to see the BLT suites. FUNKY! They were very contemporary (go figure! ) and totally not DH's style. I could deal with it, but way too mod and cold for him. We found ourselves very torn. Location or style?

We then returned to the meeting room for round two of the sales pitch - time to talk numbers. It was interesting. Sometime during our tour, sales dude seemed to have decided that we wasn't going to make a sale to my family and started completely focusing his pitch on DS and BIL. He didn't even give us a quote. He literally just started talking to BIL and my family might as well have not been there. This was ironic because between the two couples we were probably the ones closer to committing and in a better position financially to purchase. Interesting sales technique ... His ignoring of myself and DH did give us a chance to look at the number charts and do some calculations though.

Finally he gave us each our packages and escorted us to the ice cream parlour where we were treated to complimentary sundaes. When we were done we were wisked back to DD to continue shopping ... with the $15 gift cards that each of us were given.

By this time we were pretty tired though and only had the mental energy to make The World Of Disney our last stop. We made a few more purchases and then headed back to the Poly.

After DH and I had a chance to discuss things more we decided that VC is probably not for us at this point. We would either have to buy a nice chunk of points in order to have a one bedroom villa for our visits ($$$) or be resolved to save our points and only visit every couple of years (which actually seems to be the place DH is at right now anyways, but I digress ... ) The other problem we had was that we have fallen in love with the Poly. At least for now, we can't imagine staying at another resort. Unfortunately the way the points are set up it is very prohibitive for us to stay there (I'm sure TPTB have done this on purpose). So for now, no VC for us. At least we got free ice cream and gift cards.

As for DD. Here's my take:
It seems kind of dead and sad. I'm wondering if the closing of Pleasure Island has just sucked the life out of the place. There was just no sparkle, excitement or anything "Disney magic-ish" about the place.

We also realized that there probably isn't anyting for sale there that cannot be found either in the parks or the resort gift shops. Next time we will not be including it in our itinerary. I enjoyed the atmosphere of shopping in the parks and the resort much better.