PTR - Disney History in the Making!

[zanzibar138]

Yay another update from Screamscape!

First of all, they now have a note at the top saying 'Opening Spring/Summer 2016'. I'm guessing this means that the opening date has been pushed back by 6 months and we can probably expect a June/July opening date now. That would work out better for me

The entertainment district has been described in more detail, and will include an art decor theatre which will host the Mandarin version of The Lion King musical. There will be a separate eating zone called Spice Street or something. Along the waterfront of the huge lake there will be parklands and a 2.5km walking path.

There has also been a map of the whole park released, which has been tagged with the lands and rides on offer. There is another blog post afterwards reminding people to keep their expectations in check. Upon opening, SDL will only have 3 real lands, and half a dozen new attractions. Works for me, means less time standing in lines

The main new attractions are the Tron Lightcycles Coaster (which will take the place of Space Mountain), highly anticipated POTC 2.0, Roaring Rapids (which reminds me of GRR but is supposed to have a dinosaur theme), and Journey to the Crystal Grotto (which is the boat ride under/around the castle). There will be no 'transportation rides' eg riverboat, train, monorail or street cars.

There have also been some new pictures put up from the construction zone. I can't believe how things are starting to come together now and starting to actually look like what they're supposed to be It's been such a long time to get to this point!

 

[PrincessInOz]

Yay another update from Screamscape!

First of all, they now have a note at the top saying 'Opening Spring/Summer 2016'. I'm guessing this means that the opening date has been pushed back by 6 months and we can probably expect a June/July opening date now. That would work out better for me

The entertainment district has been described in more detail, and will include an art decor theatre which will host the Mandarin version of The Lion King musical. There will be a separate eating zone called Spice Street or something. Along the waterfront of the huge lake there will be parklands and a 2.5km walking path.

There has also been a map of the whole park released, which has been tagged with the lands and rides on offer. There is another blog post afterwards reminding people to keep their expectations in check. Upon opening, SDL will only have 3 real lands, and half a dozen new attractions. Works for me, means less time standing in lines

The main new attractions are the Tron Lightcycles Coaster (which will take the place of Space Mountain), highly anticipated POTC 2.0, Roaring Rapids (which reminds me of GRR but is supposed to have a dinosaur theme), and Journey to the Crystal Grotto (which is the boat ride under/around the castle). There will be no 'transportation rides' eg riverboat, train, monorail or street cars.

There have also been some new pictures put up from the construction zone. I can't believe how things are starting to come together now and starting to actually look like what they're supposed to be It's been such a long time to get to this point!

Disney's track record in recent times has been underwhelming on delivery.

 

[Aussie Wendy]

I also have been a closet watcher on what was happening with Shanghai Disney as we have talked about a China visit though I wasn't quite thinking opening day as DH would freak at the crowds-though I would quite like to do it!

A school friend of DD's went to China solo with another Uni friend whose father worked there and he'd stayed Uni hols with him so he knew his stuff and some of the language. Em had an amazing time (including walking a stretch of the non touristy part of the Great Wall involving a flying fox over a scary gorge with very very dodgy fixings) but said that it would have been so hard doing it solo without any language skills - this was about 3 years ago. She has travelled elsewhere independently. Another of DD's friends did a small group tour before meeting up with a friend on exchange in Shanghai-not sure who with or how much it cost. I was planning on investigating further. Her friend on exchange did travel with other western exchange students to various parts of China but they had the language skills (as a second language skill). So I guess I am saying I would assess after careful research - all of 2015 and into 2016 probably=time to learn some basic language?? I suspect China is still hard to travel independently, like Russia. China is one country we are not considering it but the cost of tours are making us baulk.

 

[WanderlustNZ]

I also have been a closet watcher on what was happening with Shanghai Disney as we have talked about a China visit though I wasn't quite thinking opening day as DH would freak at the crowds-though I would quite like to do it! A school friend of DD's went to China solo with another Uni friend whose father worked there and he'd stayed Uni hols with him so he knew his stuff and some of the language. Em had an amazing time (including walking a stretch of the non touristy part of the Great Wall involving a flying fox over a scary gorge with very very dodgy fixings) but said that it would have been so hard doing it solo without any language skills - this was about 3 years ago. She has travelled elsewhere independently. Another of DD's friends did a small group tour before meeting up with a friend on exchange in Shanghai-not sure who with or how much it cost. I was planning on investigating further. Her friend on exchange did travel with other western exchange students to various parts of China but they had the language skills (as a second language skill). So I guess I am saying I would assess after careful research - all of 2015 and into 2016 probably=time to learn some basic language?? I suspect China is still hard to travel independently, like Russia. China is one country we are not considering it but the cost of tours are making us baulk.

Hi Wendy,
I travelled to quite a few parts of China about 8 years ago and almost no one we encountered besides our guides and a few hotel and cruise staff spoke English. 8 years later, I still wouldn't visit China without a tour guide. I'm sure it's probably changed quite a bit, but I doubt it would have been enough for me to feel relaxed travelling independently.
The tour company we used were an American one who were, and still are, pretty cheap. They use 4star accommodation and 4-5star Yangtse cruise ships. If you want more info, let me know.

 

[dmband]

http://io9.com/disney-is-building-a-gigantic-toy-story-hotel-and-it-lo-1660108740

 

[zanzibar138]

Disney's track record in recent times has been underwhelming on delivery.

I tend to disagree with this. Carsland at DLR and Grizzly Gulch at HKDL certainly delivered for me. And I've heard great things about the new FL at WDW. They seem to really be doing the theming well these days, and that's what I'm looking forward to most about Shanghai.

I also have been a closet watcher on what was happening with Shanghai Disney as we have talked about a China visit though I wasn't quite thinking opening day as DH would freak at the crowds-though I would quite like to do it!

A school friend of DD's went to China solo with another Uni friend whose father worked there and he'd stayed Uni hols with him so he knew his stuff and some of the language. Em had an amazing time (including walking a stretch of the non touristy part of the Great Wall involving a flying fox over a scary gorge with very very dodgy fixings) but said that it would have been so hard doing it solo without any language skills - this was about 3 years ago. She has travelled elsewhere independently. Another of DD's friends did a small group tour before meeting up with a friend on exchange in Shanghai-not sure who with or how much it cost. I was planning on investigating further. Her friend on exchange did travel with other western exchange students to various parts of China but they had the language skills (as a second language skill). So I guess I am saying I would assess after careful research - all of 2015 and into 2016 probably=time to learn some basic language?? I suspect China is still hard to travel independently, like Russia. China is one country we are not considering it but the cost of tours are making us baulk.

I haven't ruled out learning a few basics. It's Mandarin they speak up there right?

Hi Wendy,
I travelled to quite a few parts of China about 8 years ago and almost no one we encountered besides our guides and a few hotel and cruise staff spoke English. 8 years later, I still wouldn't visit China without a tour guide. I'm sure it's probably changed quite a bit, but I doubt it would have been enough for me to feel relaxed travelling independently.
The tour company we used were an American one who were, and still are, pretty cheap. They use 4star accommodation and 4-5star Yangtse cruise ships. If you want more info, let me know.

I'm still torn about whether to consider an organised tour, try to organise an independent tour, or even *just* visit SDL. If it was going to be opening in December, I would have struggled to get any time off work, so have been getting more used to the idea of just going for a long weekend. But if I do have the time, it seems silly to go all that way and not see anything of the country.

http://io9.com/disney-is-building-a-gigantic-toy-story-hotel-and-it-lo-1660108740

I've seen artist concepts of the rooms and, while they look nice, there is no mention of oversized furniture or anything like that. It does look like a fun hotel though!

 

[Aussie Wendy]

Thanks Wanderlust-if it becomes more definite I will talk to you further. Singapore Air had a great trip to the Seven Villages where there are panda forests and very scenic rustic villages, recently advertised. I keep seeing all these tantalising expensive add-ons! I might do some serious research in the next 6 months - need to be planning something!! though China is vying with Scandinavia as my next short listed destination - probably for 2016.

 

[zanzibar138]

Singapore Air had a great trip to the Seven Villages where there are panda forests and very scenic rustic villages, recently advertised.

Oooh that sounds awesome!

 

[WanderlustNZ]

Thanks Wanderlust-if it becomes more definite I will talk to you further. Singapore Air had a great trip to the Seven Villages where there are panda forests and very scenic rustic villages, recently advertised. I keep seeing all these tantalising expensive add-ons! I might do some serious research in the next 6 months - need to be planning something!! though China is vying with Scandinavia as my next short listed destination - probably for 2016.

Oooo, Scandinavia - I'd certainly be envious if you headed there next. I so desperately want to do a Scandinavian cruise up to Russia and the Baltics. It's the part of Europe we never got to while we were living in London, and really wish we had. So pretty.

That Singapore Air tour sounds awesome. I'm not familiar with the Seven Villages, but the scenic countryside along the Li River was our favourite part of China. There is something to be said for getting out of the cities.

 

[Aussie Wendy]

I was wrong its Nine Villages-(from Kris flyer circular): I am not a big fan of tours but this was tempting. I presume it will reappear from time to time.

Nature Escape
13 days from $5,498 per person, based on twin share, low season. Price includes international flights. 3 Star to 5 Star

Departing from Adelaide Airport, Brisbane Airport, Darwin Airport, Melbourne Airport, Perth Airport, Sydney Airport

This tour will take you to a part of China that is unknown to many Westerners: Wulong and the wonderful Nine Villages Valley. The beautiful alpine Jiuzhaigou Valley takes its name from the nine Tibetan villages scattered throughout the valley. It is a place of natural wonders with thick forests, 114 turquoise lakes, springs, waterfalls and streams.

DAYS 1-2: AUSTRALIA TO CHONGQING
Fly overnight with Singapore Airlines to Chongqing. Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free at your leisure.

DAY 3: CHONGQING
Explore Chongqing visiting the Old Town of Ciqikou, an important centre of porcelain production during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Later, visit the traditional Erlin Gardens and the General Stilwell Museum. (B,L)

DAY 4: CHONGQING TO WULONG – BLACK MOUNTAIN VALLEY
Drive to Wulong, en route visiting the Black Mountain Valley (Heishangu) and follow a path through the spectacular gorge.
Be immersed in the natural beauty of this picturesque area with its rushing streams, waterfalls and lush vegetation. Continue by road to Wulong for a two night stay. (B,L)

DAY 5: WULONG – BLACK MOUNTAIN VALLEY
Visit the Three Bridges National Park, featuring some of the highest natural arches in the world. Also trek through the Longshuixia Fissure, a deep and narrow valley with sheer cliffs. (B,L)

DAY 6: WULONG TO CHONGQING
Spend the morning taking a further scenic walk in the Wulong area. In the afternoon visit Furong Cave to see the illuminated stalactites and stalagmites. Return to Chongqing by road. (B,L)

DAY 7: CHONGQING TO NINE VILLAGES VALLEY
Fly to the breathtaking Nine Villages Valley. The area is heavily forested and home to many protected species. Entering the valley is like being transported into a different world, where crystal clear lakes and rich coloured forests dotted with flowers gather at the foot of every waterfall. You will stay in the valley for three nights to explore its beauty and natural wonder. Please note: you will have a two day entrance to the valley on Days 8-9. (B,L)

DAYS 8-9: NINE VILLAGES VALLEY
Enjoy the next two days exploring the pristine natural scenery of the Nine Villages Valley. The scenery here is stunning and is a true paradise for photographers and artists. (B,L)

DAY 10: NINE VILLAGES VALLEY TO CHENGDU
Visit Huanglong Valley, known as ‘Five-Coloured Ponds’ and you will see beautiful colours intertwined into a rainbow splendour. Later you have the option to take a cable car (at your own expense) to visit Huanglong Temple. Leave the Nine Villages Valley and drive to Juizhaigou airport for your flight to Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, where you will stay for the next two nights. (B,L)

DAY 11: CHENGDU
Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding to see the famous animals in an environment similar to their natural habitat. The base also includes a protected wilderness and breeding area, as well as a museum and research facility. You will also visit Wuhou Temple, Nanjiao Park and explore the Old Jinli Street. (B,L)

DAY 12: DEPART CHENGDU
This morning is free at your leisure before you are transferred to Chengdu airport to board your overnight flight to Australia. (B)

DAY 13: ARRIVE AUSTRALIA

 

[zanzibar138]

Wow that trip would tick off a few of my wishlist destinations

 

[WanderlustNZ]

To best honest, I can't decide what I think of that tour. I try hard not to be a cliche traveller who only visits the well-known areas of the world, but I do think the well-known areas of China are well-known for a reason. There is something special about seeing the likes of the Terracotta Army and the Great Wall with your own eyes.

If you plan on visiting China multiple times, I think a trip to the quiet mountain regions would be amazing. If it's a once in a lifetime visit, I think at the very least it's worth trying to fit in Beijing.

I found Beijing to be a dirty, crowded, not very pretty city, yet it's actually been one of my favourite cities to date. In all our travels, both DH and I have never felt so immersed in history. The Chinese Dynasty was one of the most powerful in the world, and we were lucky to have a good guide who blew us away with all there was to learn and see.

Like Beijing, Chongqing is a polluted, over-populated city. I'm not familiar with it's attractions as we were only there to board our Yangste River cruise. It almost seems a shame to visit this city and not get on a boat as life on the river is very interesting.

The visit to the Panda sanctuary in Chengdu would be awesome. When it came to picking a China tour, I remember being torn between an option that included Chengdu and another that included Yangshou and the Li River. I have no regrets as the Li River turned out to be stunningly beautiful and so different to any landscape we have here at home, but I so wish we had seen Pandas in a sanctuary rather than that awful zoo.

 

[Aussie Wendy]

If I did it I'd do it as an add on to seeing Beijing, Xi'an warriors and Shanghai as well. I agree going to China I have a few must do's of the 'famous' spots but the above trip alerted to me to some other options I could work into a trip, maybe a shorter time in these areas but include some of these features into part of a bigger trip. I quite like doing say half of the "must do" spots in a new area mixed in with some off the beaten track trips and then catch up on the other must dos in a later second trip. Then there are always some "must do's" for everyone else that fall into the "not interested" category for us!

 

[zanzibar138]

I have the Great Wall and Terracotta Warriors on my list too. I'd really love to do a multi-day hike of the Great Wall in one of the less touristy areas. All of the many places on my list are of equal importance to me. If I don't get to it on this trip, I'll just have to go again

 

[WanderlustNZ]

Then there are always some "must do's" for everyone else that fall into the "not interested" category for us!

I fully understand, we have many places like that. We saw quite a bit of Europe, but never did get to many of the big cities like Paris, Rome, and Athens. Many would consider that sacrilege, but they didn't interest us then, and still don't interest us now. I'm not even sure the draw of Disney would get me to Paris, when there are gorgeous little villages all over Europe that I'd much prefer to visit with my limited time and finances.

I think a trip to China that includes some well-known destinations, along with some lesser-known places would be wonderful. It will give you a great overview should the opportunity not present itself to return at a later date.

While we enjoyed our trip to China, there's only a small chance that DH and I will ever return. The historical places we loved (Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven etc) are not going to change anytime soon (other than perhaps become more touristy), so we pretty much have a 'been there, seen that' attitude to that part of the world. The places we visited that are racing ahead and constantly changing (e.g Shanghai) didn't appeal to me. DH found the modern architecture of Shanghai interesting, but other than our excursions to the much more traditional Suzhou, I wasn't keen on the area at all.

 

[zanzibar138]

I fully understand, we have many places like that. We saw quite a bit of Europe, but never did get to many of the big cities like Paris, Rome, and Athens. Many would consider that sacrilege, but they didn't interest us then, and still don't interest us now. I'm not even sure the draw of Disney would get me to Paris, when there are gorgeous little villages all over Europe that I'd much prefer to visit with my limited time and finances.

I think a trip to China that includes some well-known destinations, along with some lesser-known places would be wonderful. It will give you a great overview should the opportunity not present itself to return at a later date.

While we enjoyed our trip to China, there's only a small chance that DH and I will ever return. The historical places we loved (Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven etc) are not going to change anytime soon (other than perhaps become more touristy), so we pretty much have a 'been there, seen that' attitude to that part of the world. The places we visited that are racing ahead and constantly changing (e.g Shanghai) didn't appeal to me. DH found the modern architecture of Shanghai interesting, but other than our excursions to the much more traditional Suzhou, I wasn't keen on the area at all.

FWIW I wasn't at all interested in Paris either. I was pleasantly surprised on my trip by how much I liked it. I wouldn't say it's one of my favourite cities, nor do I have much interest to go back, but I did enjoy my couple of days there. Disneyland is quite a way out of the city, and could definitely be done without ever visiting Paris if that's what you wanted (kind of like HKDL I guess).

My ideal trip to China would definitely be a combo of the touristy places and the lesser known ones. But I'm thinking this trip will be a maximum of a week + Disney, so I definitely won't have time to do everything that I want to.

 

[WanderlustNZ]

FWIW I wasn't at all interested in Paris either. I was pleasantly surprised on my trip by how much I liked it. I wouldn't say it's one of my favourite cities, nor do I have much interest to go back, but I did enjoy my couple of days there. Disneyland is quite a way out of the city, and could definitely be done without ever visiting Paris if that's what you wanted (kind of like HKDL I guess).

The ironic thing is that I would probably end up loving Paris. The European cities I wasn't expecting to love, ended up pleasantly surprising me, while the cities I thought I'd love (e.g. Amsterdam, Venice, and Vienna) disappointed me.

Even if I did visit though, I still don't think I would be able to get my brain around how a building that looks to me like an oversized electricity pylon, has become a world recognised symbol for romance and love.