Random Thoughts (April 16th - 23rd 2016)

[KEVD]

Fifth trip to WDW, first time on property

• Loved Disney transportation to/from the parks... more so that I thought I would!
• Not sure if I could go back to staying off property
• I've heard some say you're "too immersed" in Disney at a WDW resort. I did not find that to be the case at all.

Absolutely loved Saratoga Springs

• Gorgeous setting/surroundings... so peaceful and laid back
• Impeccably clean
• Villas are perfectly laid out
• Really enjoyed being a stroll or short boat ride away from to Disney Springs.

Recommendations to those staying on prop for first time:

• Request a room that is close to the main building, pool, restaurant(s).
• In my opinion, this would trump any other preference such as newer (or larger) rooms.

Contrary to the negative comments I've read recently, I still find Disney customer service to be second to none.

• They really go above and beyond to ensure you have a wonderful experience.
• The bathrooms were fine, except for one but there was also a CM in the process of cleaning it.
• All of the CMs were pleasant and helpful.
• The bus drivers are especially nice.

TTA is no longer a "walk-on".. the queue is large but does move quickly

My favorite county in The World Showcase is Mexico

DHS is definitely a park in transition right now. Looking forward to going back in a couple of years when some the new attractions are open... Star Wars land, Toy Story Land etc.

The weather was awesome!

MCO is a great airport... easy to navigate, efficiently run

Visited the water parks for the first time and had a blast:

• The water slides are longer and smoother at BB
• More elbow room and better layout at TL
• The Shark Reef at TL is really cool
• Loved the wave pool at TL
• Overall, we Liked TL slightly better than BB (although with Summit Plummet & Slush Gusher being closed, it was probably not a fair assessment).

As heartbreaking as it was having Soarin' closed for refurb while we were there, it made touring EPCOT a lot easier!

I had no idea how enormous the "No Way Jose" sundae was. Speaking of sundaes, the Sea Salt Caramel sundae at Ghiradelli's is amazing!

Second visit using FP+ and I really like it. It's nice to be able to arrive at the parks later and still have FP(s) for your fav(s).

Not sure why but I really enjoyed the animals exhibits at AK this trip... even more than usual.


Pre-park opening ADR at BOG:

• Worth it to avoid the mob scene and waiting 30+ mins at rope drop.
• Great way to grab some pics by the castle with no crowds.
• Be sure to pre-order your meal.
• Once you wrap up your meal hop in line for Mine Train (we were the second group in line).
• Portions are big... consider splitting. We ordered three entrees for four people, which was plenty.

Since I love to eat, I'll go ahead and list my food favs:

• Meal (overall)- Sanna
• Buffet- Trail's End
• Snack- tie between: Samosas at Mr. Kamals (AK) / Nachos at La Cantina de San Angel (Epcot)
• Dessert- The "No Way Jose" at B&C
• Character Meal- Crystal Palace
• Atmosphere- Sanna
• Park "sweet treat"- Iced Coffee Float at Aunti Gravities
• Bakery item- Cinnamon Roll at Starring Rolls
• Drink- an ice cold Bass Ale in UK, Epcot