Shade Seekers return to RPR for 2 weeks

[schumigirl]

Well I wasn`t sure I was going to do another trip report, but I actually love going through it all and remember things that I may have forgotten. So i dutifully made notes every night and tried to remember to take pictures of things especially the food as I know there are a few of who enjoy those type of pics
We arrived Wed 17th Aug, till Wed 31st Aug at RPR.

There`s me Carole, my husband Tom and our 17 year son Kyle. We would prefer to visit September October time, especially for HHN`s but as Kyle is going into his second year of college, his final year before University so we couldn`t really take him out for 2 weeks, there would be too much work to catch up on. That wouldn`t be fair on him, but With our West of Scotland pale skin we have to be so careful of the hot sun, hence the Shade Seekers title....we really do seek out shade wherever possible

This will be our third year staying at this hotel for our trip as we absolutely love it. First stayed here in 09 and very quickly decided we had found our hotel.
When we arrived back after last years fantastic trip, we were home less than 2 weeks when due to watching Shrek on DVD one night with a few large glasses of white wine I just had to get booked up again for 2011. I don`t know what it is about Universal and RPR but it`s like an addiction and we just have to get back.
Anyway got on to Virgin Atlantic and we got our flights booked for August. Probably paid more than we should have but I`ll blame the Chardonnay!! So we had one more glass to celebrate

Got our car booked through USRentacar, who we use every year. We book a full size SUV which is supposed to be a Nissan Pathfinder, but normally end up with a Suburban.....which we love. Very different to the cars at home. I was so scared to drive in Orlando at first, but within a few minutes a few years ago......I became the main driver. Poor Tom, he loves to drive over in the States too......so it`s a battle when we drive somewhere to see who gets the car keys first........I occasionally let Tom win

Fast forward to July this year and as you can imagine we are terribly excited. For some reason this year Tom is looking forward to this holiday more than any of the others. I think he had been so busy at work and he was just ready for a break, although he has a job that means he only works 6 months of the year, the way things work out with his business.
So everything is organised, Passports ok, ESTA is done which we all have to do to get in to the US now, Advanced passenger Information has been given, Universal Park tickets have been bought, the 14 Day 2 park unlimited which is a fabulous buy for us at £84 which is roughly $120???? Not sure exactly as math is not my strong point! No Disney this year for us at all. We did a couple of days last year, but it`s not really got much for us now and certainly not for a 17 year old who would only be interested in ToT and RnR coaster.
Travel insurance and our hotel booked for the night before we fly.

Panic moments.........I got up just about two and half weeks to go and I have a rash on my side/stomach. It wasn`t itchy like rashes can be, it was so painful which did worry me.........get to see the pharmacist who tells me to go to Doctors. It`s late on the day by now so I head to the Walk in center at our local hospital.....see someone pretty quickly who takes one look at it and tells me I`ve got Shingles!!!! I was stunned and terrified. I told her we were due to fly in 2 weeks. She said they would give me an antiviral course of tablets......which were huge.....1 tab 5 times a day for a week and if it didn`t clear up to see Doc again. She also said have all your family had chicken pox.......eh NO!!!! Panic moment no2!!! The nurse who was sat opposite said she hope we had good travel insurance. I could have cried as Kyle had never had it, come to think of it Tom hadn`t either.
I left there and when Tom came home told him what had happened, and he said well nothing we can do if you do pass it on to us.
So I was housebound for the week until I was no longer contagious, and thankfully both were fine. But what a painful thing......got strong painkillers from doc but again thankfully by the day we left I was pain free

So Tues 16th August........We leave around lunchtime for the 3 hour drive up to Manchester Airport where we always stay at the Radisson the night before our flight. Always get a runway view so we can watch the planes take off and land.......it passes some time.

We spent some time in the pool, then had dinner which is never that great here, but we all had sandwiches which were quite nice. Kyle ordered a portion of fries...they were chunky and there was 8 of them!!! Which were around $8.
Had a drink in the bar then off to bed hoping to sleep. I had arranged an alarm call, set the tv alarm and my own little alarm....I worry a lot!

WED 17TH AUGUST

Finally.....it`s here. Got up at 5am and got showered and did my hair......why, I don`t know as after a 9 hour flight...it does not look good.
First in the queue for Virgin check in, got our extra leg room seat that we had booked. Kyle and I sat together and Tom in row behind as we are flying out on a new A330 which only has 2 engines!!!! I like 4 engines. Call me a worrier but flying over 4000 miles I prefer more engines....not less. It`s normally the Jumbo we fly out so are sat together, but this will be fine.
Get through Security where I get bleeped and have to go through the Xray scanner. As I was stood with my hands above my head a little girl behind me panicked, didn`t realise she had to wait and ran through to get her mother. So I had to start again. 2 xrays in 2 minutes!!!
Anyway got through ok and went to have breakfast which was awful, and a bit of shopping. Got some of JLo`s new perfume Love and Glamour which is gorgeous, and generally passed the time till boarding.

Got on board early and for the first time ever our plane was not full. Got to our seats and thought they were slightly bigger than the Jumbo.
Our A330 Airbus

Extra leg room seats

Kyle and I mid flight

It was a really good flight actually with brilliant IFE, we could ff/rw and start the movies whenever we wanted unlike the Jumbo which has the old system......which is not good.

We flew up by Newfoundland and then down the Eastern Seaboard, some nice views

Bonus point for anyone who can tell us where this is. It was after New York somewhere!!

Food was quite good for a change, Tom and I had sausage and mash and Kyle had macaroni cheese.
Arrived early, fairly early actually but as we got closer pilot announced MCO was closed due to storms, so we had to circle for what seemed like ages, but it wasn`t that long really.
Thought immigration was going to be a nightmare if loads of planes had been held up but it was fine and we got through in no time at all. Got a very friendly immigration officer, and we set off to wait for our luggage. Surprise surprise ours was off nearly first so st off through to car hire desk. This is always fun!!!
Handed over our papers and told him we needed nothing,but he still tried to sell us everything they had to offer. We had the Gold insurance which meant we didn`t have to pay for anything.....but they do try. Wandered over to pick up our car and got the first blast of Orlando heat......bliss
After a negotiation with the guy who gets the cars we got our much wanted Suburban...black as well, we were well happy. Drove out and immediately headed for the hotel on roads that are as familiar to us as our own are. Pulled into RPR and the three of us said at the same time "we`re home"

Parked car and walked to hotel entrance, it brings a tear to my eye as we walk through the doors. Straight to reception where Aloha rings in our ears and we check in. We were given a King Suite facing the road, but we were told we would have a pool/park view room as soon as it was available. That was ok with us

Room was immaculate, and we didn`t mind the view as it wouldn`t be for long till another King Suite became available.

Went down to Jake`s bar for something to eat. This has become something of a tradition for us on our first evening, trying to fight the tiredness. Although it was nearly 7pm, our body clocks were telling us it was nearly midnight.

We ordered Crab cakes and Volcano Shrimp to share

Tom and I shared ribs and onion rings, couple of Buds and Kyle had the macaroni and fries with a virgin strawberry daquiri

The meal was delicious but we were so tired at this point we were nearly dropping on our feet, so headed up unpacked a few things and went to bed where never heard a thing till 6am.

 

[tink1957]

I'm first! I just returned to the dis and I find you started your trip report.

Sorry to hear about your shingles and so glad you were able to go as I know how much you've been looking forward to Orlando.

It sounds like a great start to your trip. That shrimp and the ribs look so good I'm going to have to vist Jake's the next time we're at RPR. Kyle does love his mac & cheese doesn't he?

I can't wait to read more

 

[schumigirl]

. That shrimp and the ribs look so good I'm going to have to vist Jake's the next time we're at RPR. Kyle does love his mac & cheese doesn't he?

I can't wait to read more

Thanks Vicki, the food is always great in there. Ask for Oscar`s tables if you can, he`s fantastic.

Yes Kyle does love mac & Cheese......we managed to talk him in to other things this year....does chicken tenders count as different??????

 

[Bluer101]

I'm in.

RPR does feel like home.

 

[schumigirl]

THURSDAY 18TH AUGUST......FIRST FULL DAY.......

We were all awake by 7am, having had a really good sleep, Kyle needed some extra padding on the pull out bed as it was a bit hard....and creaked a bit, but he was so tired he never noticed.

Got showered and went down to Orchids for breakfast. Now we really like it in here in the mornings, whether it be a croissant or a pastry and Kyle is quite sensible.....too sensible at times and he sticks to cereal. About $25 plus a tip for all 3 of us. There is a lovely lady who works here called Elsa, she wasn`t on this morning but she is so friendly and always has a nice word for you, and so pleasant.

After breakfast we got our pool view room sorted, we only had to leave our luggage and they would move it for us. We were over the moon with our new room And we had a really good view of the pool, bula bar and some of the park near Dudley Do Rights, JP and the Castle. A real change from Tower 1 park view which we loved but the trees were growing to such a height we could only really see clearly and unobstructed from floor 7. But we were happy.

We normally go the parks on our first day, but we were all quite tired so decided to take it easy and visit Walmart (I know, I know) and Mall at Millenia......which is my favourite Mall ever. Also gave Todd a call to arrange when we were meeting and got that sorted....Saturday night.....one to look forward to.

Had a wander round Walmart and picked up some bits and bobs....flavours of Oreos we don`t get at home and Lemon Pepperidge farm cookies amongst other things. Then drove to the Mall.

I love this place and could happily wander around for hours, but they were hungry so we went to Firehouse Sub and Kyle went down and got himself a slice Of Linda`s Chocolate Fudge Cake from Cheesecake Factory.......the biggest richest darkest gooiest chocolate cake I have ever seen. He demolished it...well he had waited 10 months since the last time he had it

Spent most of the afternoon here then wandered back to hotel to unpack everything and get ready for dinner. The clouds were beginning to build a little but we decided to head to Citywalk to Margaritaville...another firm favourite. It was quite busy but we got seated upstairs where we could see the rain coming.......clouds were so dark by now.

Kyle had chicken Tenders and a non alcoholic strawberry daquiri......which became quite a pattern for him during this trip

I had the crab cake sandwich with onion rings with a Bahama Mama

Tom had the French dip sandwich, and a couple of Landsharks, all of the food was lovely

The rain was really coming down by now and so dark, so we had a wander in some of the shops and hung around in the Fossil shop to see if it would ease as we thought we mave an hour in IOA, but to be honest it looked like it was on for the night...which it was.

So we had to walk as the boats had been stopped. Wet??? We would have been dryer jumping in the pool!! It`s a long long time since we had been drenched like that and that not very long walk seemed like an age with the rain pounding on our faces......I am a wimp and moaned all the way inbetween laughing as well. When we got to the hotel they were standing giving everyone hot towels to get dried off with.....that was bliss.......I asked for another to wrap around me as I was cold.......told you I was a wimp!!

Went up to our room and we all got showered and went downstairs to Orchids Lounge for a cocktail and just relax. It`s really lovely sitting in here on a night, watching the world go by. The girls are so nice and again we recognised a couple from our previous visits.

It became quite a point for all 3 of us again, just how comfortable we all feel when we`re there in the RPR. I have tried to describe it to friends who have never been, and they just say but it just a hotel. Maybe if they went they would get it, and I`m sure there are more than few on here who get it too.

We were all in bed by 11pm.

FRIDAY 19TH AUGUST

Again all 3 of us had the best nights sleep, I was only disturbed once by someone in the corridor at around 1.30......why they had to shout at one another and ask who had the key and also let their very young son sing "it`s a small world" at the top of his voice I`ll never know!!! I get grumpy when I`m tired. I must say that was one thing that we had happen a few times, I don`t know if people just don`t realise how loud they are to folks who are sleeping, but i certainly wouldn`t let my child bellow all the way along the corridors.

Had our usual breakfast, got our factor 50 sunscreen and we were ready to go. Headed down to the boat where our first Captain looked at us a few seconds and said "You`re Scottish if I remember" we were gobsmacked he remembered us. We had a conversation or 2 with him last year when he was asking about Scotland, we recognised him straight away but never expected him to remember us. We really enjoy the boat rides, always pleasant and a nice way to get to the parks.

Got off and headed to the Studios. I could feel the sun beating into my bare shoulders, this was the first time they had been exposed to real sunlight for 10 months.....always worry if we`re going to get sunburn, so try to walk in the shade as much as possible. Never stopped for the usual picture in front of the Universal globe, as we had loads from last year and there seemed to be 200 people all waiting to get theirs done, so we just went straight in.

We love the Studios. Yes there may be a few things that could do with being updated but there is a great atmosphere in this park as well and we really enjoy it. We head to the left as everyone seemed to have gone to the right hand side turnstyles. Still a queue, but not a sbad as the other side, but I always end up behind someone with a problem.........either they haven`t signed or their fingerprint won`t work.......but hey I`m on holiday....no rush to do anything.

Headed straight to RRR......we were desperate to get back on this ride. I used to be a real ride chicken, I was that woman who was too scared to do Splash Mountain the first time we were here, but will go on anything now. The first time I saw the hill lift last year I thought ......no way will I go on that...ever!!! But after watching it a few times and nobody fell out or actually died on it.....I decided to give it a go, boy was I glad I did.

There was practically no queue, maybe 5 mins or so, and Kyle and I got on the front row. Now I wasn`t so sure if I wanted to do the front row.......my brain was telling me if I fell out I would have nothing to fall against, at least on the rows behind I could cling on to the seat in front if the harness miraculously just happened to spring open when I was in it But before I knew it I was harnessed in and choosing Gloria Gaynor "I will survive" and we were off. Oh my goodness the front row was fantastic, I even kept my eyes open going up and even more bravely looked to the side....not for long though I had to concentrate not to think about the Final Destination movies....especially the one with the Rollercoaster.......why does that one automatically pop in there!!!

It was so smooth and we loved every second of it, so Kyle says "Let`s do it again".........brilliant idea.........there still no queue........so off we wander around again.....get in the queue and as we go to get on, a few in front get their numbers mixed up so Kyle is in one row....I`m behind and Tom is in the row behind me. I`ve never gone on my own without one of them sat beside me......not that they could save me.....just feels better.

Pick my music and off we go......climb is fantastic as always and the first drop is amazing.....then very quickly I think I`m going to hurl real bad. This time it was so unbelievably rough........I couldn`t believe it.....all the way round was a nightmare. I was bumped around and up and down and all I coupld think of was the poor guy beside me and everyone behind who were going to get hurled on However managed to hold it all together and be thankful we don`t eat a big breakfast I held on to the railings and got downstairs, by this time they had got to me and we went over to the shade and sat for 5 mins while I decided if i could stand up without dropping.

I couldn`t believe the difference in the 2 rides in a few minutes. I started to feel worse and knew I had to leave the park and felt so bad for them. I told them I would go back to hotel and lay down and they should go on, but Kyle said he would happily stay and we came back. I was glad Kyle stayed as I would have felt so guilty ruining his morning too. Came back to room and it had been done, so lay down in the cool for half an hour while Tom watched some tv. Had some water and began to feel so much better. Kyle appeared back and said he was getting hungry, so with me feeling better we headed out to Chili`s in LBV.

Forgot the camera but Kyle had something with Fish, Tom had ribs and I had the Caribbean Shrimp Salad which was lovely all washed down with strawberry lemonade, really nice meal.

Head to LBV outlet, have a wander around there but we are not quite adjusted to the heat yet so we go back to the hotel and have a cool down in the pool with a couple of soft drinks and settle in the shade under an umberella. Nice and relaxing afternoon. Planning to go to Red Lobster tonight.

Showered again and out, I let Tom drive as I want a cocktail.....and I know the exact one I`m having

The famous Lobsterita......yes it really is as big as it looks

Kyle has 2 daquiris (non alcoholic) and chicken breast with fries

I have the snow crab with peppered steak and it`s lush

Tom had one of the specials that had snow crab, shrimp scallops and something else....but he said it was divine

The meal was gorgeous and I couldn`t have eaten another thing but they both ordered the Chocolate wave......don`t know where they put it

Now anyone who knows me knows I hate chocolate cake........I love cake.....long as it`s not chocolate and the only chocolate I really like is white......but they kept saying I`ll bring you a spoon so you can help them.......don`t know why they didn`t believe me when I said I don`t eat it???? Really beautiful meal and a place we always go more than once.

Went to Premium outlets for a wander, didn`t stay long and went back to hotel. Too full to go into the pool so went upstairs to our room and lazed around till bedtime........again by 11pm..............again.......we do plan a late night at some point

 

[schumigirl]

I'm in.

RPR does feel like home.

Yay.....nice to have you along

 

[keishashadow]

welcome home indeedglad the shingles didn't keep u down.

great report so far, glad to see you enjoyed WM, funny but it reminds me how we don't appreciate the conveniences we have.

im always in awe of those who calmy fly across the pond, not sure i could handle such a long flight & thought of all that water.

enjoying the booze & food pics! Did that crab cake sammie taste as good as it looks? nom nom

 

[RAPstar]

Great updates so far.......except for the fact that you've now got me hungry!! lol Thank goodness its almost my lunch time! Can't wait for more!

 

[Marquibiri]

Great food porn!!!!

Crab looks amazing....

I could probably drink three of those daiquiris... but with alcohol..

Marquibiri

HHN21 Pre-Trip Report

 

[schumigirl]

Great updates so far.......except for the fact that you've now got me hungry!! lol Thank goodness its almost my lunch time! Can't wait for more!

Thanks.......i had a very early dinner tonight going through the pics

enjoying the booze & food pics! Did that crab cake sammie taste as good as it looks? nom nom

The crab cakes were all amazing.........something we don`t do so good over here.......we mostly get "fish" cakes ........unless you eat somewhere real nice. And when it is crab cakes they don`t taste like they do over there

Great food porn!!!!

Crab looks amazing....

I could probably drink three of those daiquiris... but with alcohol..

Marquibiri

Yes we had to be sure not to mix up when I ordered an alcoholic one...lol.....but they tended to serve them in different glasses thank goodness!!

 

[schumigirl]

SATURDAY 20TH AUGUST

Got up bright and early......well not too early as we did think about doing early entry to HP........but we didn`t bother again. I got up and switched the tv and ignored the grumblings coming from the two of them. It was murder She Wrote so I turned it up and narrowly avoided a sock that came flying towards the tv.........well I hope it was aimed at the tv!!!!! I got showered and went downstairs to get breakfast stuff and came back up. We had got a fridge so I had bought some Strawberry Philadelphia in Wal-Mart and had that on some butter madeira cake......strange but gorgeous......those flavours we just cannot get in the UK of Philadelphia. I wanted to make the most of it when I could. So we all ate and got suncreamed up and we were off.....ready to get into IOA.

We got the boat again, and headed for Port Of Entry, it is so beautiful and colorful here, the designs and the themeing is just wonderful, but no time to saunter as we were marching to The Hulk. So the queue was not too bad but we were worried about the whole express pass meets regular queue, we needn`t have worried. The TM had it under control and we all moved smoothly. We ended up on the back row the first time, we had never been on this row and we really enjoyed it.......I love that take off. We did this about 4 times in a row and loved it, I had decide 4 goes was enough for me at the moment but they wanted to go again, so I sought out some shade and waited for them to come back. I managed to snap a picture of them on the 6th row

After they came off we went around to one of my favourites.....Dr Doom. Yes it`s a short ride but we love it. Well, Kyle and I love it. Tom for some reason hates this ride as he thinks he is going to fall out everytime. I love when you are buckled in......you are waiting to go.......but you don`t know when exactly......and then wow......you are up in the air. That nervous waiting feel is exchanged for the exhileration of flying as you put your arms and legs out in front of you and can see for miles. Fantastic.

We must have gone on this about 8 times, we were nearly on first name terms with the girl telling us where to go. As we wandered around time after time we saw a group of people point to us and then wander over to the TM scanning, we heard him explain how the hotel express parks so they must have wondered how on earth we could keep going on again so quickly as the queue was around 35 minutes. We then went on spiderman which I can take or leave but do enjoy it, it`s a very clever ride but I don`t like the spinning although it`s not too bad. Again the queue was 35 minutes but with express we were on in no time.

We went across to get some water and I went around to look at Mythos as I had read on here you can see Atlas holding the building up. I had never noticed it before.......neither had Tom nor Kyle. when we did see it, well it was one of those how did we miss it moments

We then went round to Jurassic Park but not before stopping to soak some very annoyed people on Bilge Barges......we must have spent $5 on the side jets when we spotted the shower type ones on the bridge.......well we had to get some more quarters and start again......we were bad laughing.....as peeps just were not expecting it.......Tom was sat behind us pretending not to know us as were were howling out loud at peoples reactions.....are we bad???? There is something distinctly funny soaking people who have no idea they are about to be wet Kyle and I could have spent $100 on that alone......Tom said no. Spoilsport!!!

There was no-one on JP when we got there

This isn`t Kyles favourite as he always seems to get soaked no matter where he sits (isn`t that the point) but he came on once before ditching us and going around to Duelling...or not so Duelling Dragons. We went on a few times and managed to keep relatively dry until the 4th time when we were well and truly drenched. The drop seemed so much faster this time around and I liked we could see more of the dinosaur at the end. The sun would dry us off as we headed round to meet Kyle at wwohp.

This area just wasn`t busy.....it was manic. There wasn`t a piece of ground you could see and we were moving very slowly. But......why do people just suddenly stop in front of you!!!!!!! If you want to look at a map or have a drink......move to the side......don`t just stop and then glare at me for bumping into you!!!!!! Angry rant over

I went to the ladies and listened for Myrtle who was moaning as always nice touch. Saw Kyle about to go back into Dragons again so we joined him. The queue is much more slow loading and very strange not setting off together, but it is still a smooth ride and so much fun......we like the Fire side best. Only did this twice as it was too long to wait. Last year Kyle did this anout 26 times in a row one afternoon.....he would not be doing it anywhere near that amount this year. Thought about the Three Broomsticks for lunch, but to be honest it just doesn`t appeal to us. Pasty`s and shepherds pie are very much winter warmer dishes and never....ever eaten with salad, and chicken and ribs with corn is not British and we can get them anywhere over here....so we headed to confisco grille, a place we really enjoyed last year and doesn`t get recommended as often as it should be.

Lovely welcome and it`s so cool inside. We are led to a booth and are not rushed to order while we sip our cool drinks.

Kyle had Chicken Sliders.....good portion

I had the nachos appetiser with no chilli beef

Tom had the French Dip sandwich, which he has been looking forward to since last year also

Kyle wanted dessert so he had the Chocolate Explosion

He said it was delicious and cleared his plate. We wanted to go back and do Doom a couple of times......maybe avoid the hulk after having lunch. Kyle wanted to go back to Dragons, so we split and agreed to meet at hotel later. We did a few rides and then wandered around Citywalk for a bit and then walked.....yes we walked back to hotel, got showered changed and sat in the lounge with laptop for a bit. It is so lovely just sitting in the lounge watching the world go by. No-one bothers you and it`s nice to recharge the batteries a bit. Tom mooched on the internet, but I have a rule on holiday....I have no interest in the real world, don`t want to know what`s going on and certainly not in the UK. However we did get addicted to The Weather Channel.....especially with Irene heading towards land. Tom got really fed up with us constantly wanting that channel on whenever we were in the room But apart from that........I`m a bit selfish that way on hols......if I don`t know about it......I can`t worry.

Kyle came back and got showered and soon we were downstairs to meet Todd, who had very kindly offered to pick us up form the hotel as we were going to Bubbalous Bodacious BBQ for dinner. Met him outside and we were there in 5 minutes or so.......Todd took us a way we didn`t know, but will use again and pulled in. It was very busy when we went in, but a table cleared and Kyle grabbed it while we ordered. Now, Bubbalous looks as if it should be on Diners and Dive`s......it`s quite basic, but the food is amazing. I forgot the camera tonight.....sorry. Todd ordered the Pulled Pork Meal, Tom had the 4 meat meal which had beef, pork and can`t remember what, I had ribs and shrimp and Kyle had chicken. It was all delicious and we had a really lovely evening with Todd. It`s always a highlight of our trip meeting up with Todd, and we look forward to it so much as he is a lovely guy and a lot of fun too

Strange event now. When we got to bed we fell asleep quickly, but I was awakened at 1ish by a very loud womans voice saying our room number, it was so clear and she kept repeating it. I got up and looked to the left and there was a very dressed up woman and a guy at the lifts....sorry elevators and when they saw me looking they went. I thought it was odd but left it. Half an hour later they were back, well he was back and was trying to put something into the door a few down on the other side. I asked if he needed any help, someone else looked out and asked him what he wanted, he never answered and wandered off. I said the other guy who was in his doorway maybe we should call security, he said he would and we closed our door. Never heard another thing the rest of the night though, so I assumed it was nothing sinister. Tom and Kyle slept through the whole thing.

Planning another day at Studios tomorrow.

 

[keishashadow]

A Todd sighting!we've missed him last few trips, hoping to catch him this time. He was a real life-saver for us our 1st HHN.

hmm, strange people skulking about the corridors? sounds like story line from murder she wrotejk, i'd have been creeped out.

 

[schumigirl]

SUNDAY 21ST AUGUST

Usual order of the morning, breakfast suncream and out. We also stop off every morning to change some travellers cheques at front desk. I know you can use them as cash, but it`s easier to do this at the hotel. Decided to get the boat this morning as we were doing the Studios. We love waking up every day to this beautiful sunshine and gorgeous blue skies and the heat is just fantastic, we could get used to it

Went in to Studios and wandered over to see if Bev was working as Todd had introduced us last year and wanted to say hi. She was there and we had a brief chat, nice lady but she was working so we headed off as I think I caused a queue.

Didn`t know if I dared go back on RRR after my last experience, so I decided not to risk it as I didn`t want to waste another morning, so the boys went on and I sat......yes in the shade......They only went on once as it was rough......I was glad I had given it a miss. We went over to do Shrek.....I love Shrek, so the queue was big as usual but you get so many people in the theatre it`s not long before you are in. It was fun as usual, we had people in who had obviously never been before so everything was new to them....I enjoyed hearing their reactions to the surprises.

Went across to Twister......I always do this once......but once is enough now. Time for a change here. Walked over to The mummy did that 3 or 4 times, but the TM`s who work this are really good. I was scared witless twice, once when one appeared walking through the express line.....didn`t know I could jump that high......and another when I was sat in the seat......I turned and one of them had gone into Scary Mode right beside me.......I let out such a scream!!!! They are good though. Kyle by this time had finally turned into a proper teenager and was hungry and wanted to go to Lombards for lunch, but it was a bit early so we got some Funnel cake in Amity then did Jaws

Jaws was great fun as always, the TM`s really do get into character on this ride so well. Again I think we had a few people who had never done it before, their reactions were hilarious. I think Cody is our favourite captain on this ride.

Ok Kyle had to get fed now, so we went back to Lombards, which was very quiet when we went in

I had crab cake sandwich with sweet potato fries, Tom had the burger and Kyle had a very plain chicken sandwich and his usual virgin daquiri

It was all lovely and the service was as always very good, it`s such a nice restaurant to eat in. One that would be lovely if it was open at night. Left and went round to MIB, which I don`t really like.....I`m afraid I find it boring.......and our ride photo does show that!!!! Then did Terminator which is a bit of a joke in our family, the first time we went in to it......I fell asleep!!!! Out for the count and never saw a minute of it........Yes I know it`s loud.....but in my defence it was boiling hot and I was tired!! So of course they ask If I`m planning to watch or snooze......I think I may watch this time. It`s actually really good and over as quick as it starts. We`re back out in the boiling hot day now and we all feel a bit hot and bothered so get the boat back to hote and go to the pool for an hour or so. Does the trick we cool down nicely. But I do wish they had a shadey bit for a non swimmer like me to hang around in the pool....but that`s just me being picky.

Went up to our room and got ready to go out later, we were planning on going to Longhorn Steakhouse tonight. I don`t know why we had never gone here in all our visits but we were going to try it. After a couple of hours we headed out, popped into Walgreens for batteries as we had forgotten the charger for the little camera and then went on to Vineland for Longhorn. Some restaurants you walk into and know whether you like or don`t like straight away.......this one had a really good feeling. A couple of years ago we walked out of a Lonestar Steakhouse in LBV, as it did not feel welcoming but this Longhorn was lovely.

Had a lovely welcome and was immediately taken to a booth, where the girl asked if we had been before and generally made nice conversation then we studied the lovely menu. We decided fairly quickly what we were having

Kyle had chicken tenders fries and veg with his usual daquiris

Tom had the Porterhouse, medium with mash and veg, which was lovely

I had the 7oz Filet...medium rare with lobster tail, fries and veg

It was perfectly cooked, one of the most perfectly cooked steaks ever, we would definately be coming back here

Kyle as usual fancied a dessert and there was one on the menu him and Tom would end up sharing. It was called chocolate stampede and it was huge and I had gone to the ladies and it was nearly gone when I got back so no picture tonight. We left there feeling very content, so went back to hotel and sat around the pool area for a cocktail

They had a couple of games of pool while I read my Grisham book. We never tire of sitting outside at night in the type of heat Florida has to offer. We just don`t get this type of heat in the UK, so we really do make the most of it. I find myself just sitting watching everyone have fun and just smile as it`s so perfect. Cocktails are nice too

I had the Pacific Paradise and I think Tom had the mango rita...both are as always gorgeous.

In bed for 11ish..........again, planning to get up and do HP early. Well we might.

 

[schumigirl]

A Todd sighting!we've missed him last few trips, hoping to catch him this time. He was a real life-saver for us our 1st HHN.

hmm, strange people skulking about the corridors? sounds like story line from murder she wrotejk, i'd have been creeped out.

Aww...hope you get to see Todd this time, I`m so jealous we`re missing HHN this year.

Yes it was quite weird in the corridor but they looked normal if you know what I mean.......but then so do most serial killers......but if they disturb my sleep.....I can be mean too.......well I can try

 

[schumigirl]

MONDAY 22ND AUGUST

Had a fantastic night`s sleep last night, we had set the alarm for 6.30, with all good intentions......but there was a unanimous no......so back to sleep for us again. We get up early all round the rest of the year. Get up around 8 though and soon we`re heading to IOA. We get the boat as it`s just arrived and got talking to a Canadian family who ask us about Scotland as their grandaughter does Scottish Country dancing, they were nice and it`s lovely chatting to people who come from all over. One of the things we love about our vacations are the amount of people who will pass a few moments and share a bit of their story with you. I`m a people person and find people`s life stories fascinating, not in a nosey way but I`m always intruiged by where people come from and what brought them there. And our Scottish accent always draws peoples attention wherever we go.

Anyway I`m babbling again, get in to IOA and head for the Hulk as usual, but it`s not working for some technical reason......oh well we`ll go round to Doom and check back. Wander round and was perfectly in time for these guys to appear.......

This was one Tom had wanted for a while

We were very happy with these pictures as we had never managed to catch Dr Doom before, and the queue for the girls were long in the past too. So we went on Doom about 10 times......love it, then Kyle wanted to go back to DD so we said we would walk round to Bilge Barge ride and soak some people again.......his face lit up like a christmas tree. On the way there we met these pair, we had never managed a picture with them either.

We noticed a lot more characters out this year than before, maybe we have just missed them but they were very noticeable, or maybe our timing was just right this year. Now today was the first day I had really felt the heat was maybe a little bit too much for me, but I was quite uncomfortable as we wandered round to JP. Only soaked a few people on the barges as Tom limited us to $3 each....lol. Did not do the barges but went on Dudley do rights. I always worry about getting stuck on here, but as long as you get in and out the right way.......which is not so easy....then you`re fine. There is not much of a queue so we`re on in no time.......what a drop!!!!! And fast......I`d forgotten how fast it is......and how wet you get........I saw some people put money in the water jets as you come round near the end........They missed us......how on earth they did.... but they did, well we couldn`t get much wetter. Struggled out and stood in the sunshine to dry off a bit which didn`t take long, but went ot JP where it was a bit busier than before. In fact the whole park was quite busy today, we thought it may not have been so busy. Went on to DD but that whole area was heaving....even worse than before and definately not fun, so we left as quickly as the crowds would allow and headed to Margaritaville for lunch. We have always said we would have the Nachos to share......we had seen it.....so knew it was big but we would give it a go.

We mad a good dent in it, with me avoiding the chilli beef as I don`t like it.......forgot to ask for it without. But it was nice, and it was nice to sit and relax as the atmosphere is always really good in here even at lunchtimes. We went back to hotel as we planned to go back to IOA tonight when it had quietened down a bit, so we did some laundry after having to ask where the laundry room was in Tower 3. In tower 1 it`s on the ground floor, but we looked and couldn`t find it. Asked at front desk who told us it was on Floor 2......we would never have found it. It was empty so got everything done, dried and ironed in a couple of hours.......while Tom snoozed and Kyle was playing a game

We didn`t get to the parks as Thunder and lightning was forecast so we decided to get changed and go to Outback Steakhouse, again on Vineland Avenue. Stopped off at goodings supermarket and found our NO-AD suncream that we couldn`t find this year in Wal-Mart and had a look at the cakes

Kyle spotted this cake

Very sad, but we took lots of pictures of our car, we just love driving it

Got to Outback and only had a 10 minute wait, it`s always so busy in here. But we got our drinks to begin with

Kyle has the daquiri, Tom has the cherry limeade and I appear to have 2???? One is a red wine sangria and I have no idea what the other one was......but it was delicious.

Kyle has the most unappetising Macaroni cheese I have ever seen

Tom has the 13oz Ribeye medium and mash with veg

And I have the 8oz Filet medium rare with sweet potato and veg

It was nice, but not as good as Longhorn I think we had been spoiled the other night with the best cooked steak ever. Decided to go back to hotel, but not before stopping in to Wal-Mart where Tom had eyed up a Laptop, but they didn`t have it in store and it was too compicated having a British credit card getting it shipped to hotel......long boring story. So he had seen another one with same spec, but he likes to think about things before buying......I`m the impulse buyer of us all.

So back to lounge and Kyle gets his laptop from room and we just chill out for a bit, where Tom discovers Plum Sake......yum!!!

In bed again for.......you guessed it 11ish

Studios again tomorrow

 

[RAPstar]

Great updates! Your trip sounds awesome, and it helps having something to tide me over till mine! lol Can't wait for the next one!

 

[tink1957]

Great updates Carole, but you're making me hungry again and you know I'm on a diet. I'm glad you discovered Longhorn, the next time you go try the Watermelon Margarita....it's wonderful.

I had to laugh at your delight in soaking people...it sounds like something my son Trey and I would enjoy. We'll have to try it on our next trip.

Looking forward to hearing more, I just love long trips.

 

[schumigirl]

Tuesday 23rd august

Usual routine to get ready apart from me, for some reason I was so tired this morning, it was them hassling me to get up. Tom turned the tv to the scyfy channel..........something like sharkodile meets pythonmaneater or something equally ridiculous......That got me up.....I hate scifi. Decided we would do the Studios again today. Now I often see people on forums talking about how much time to spend in Universal parks and most people say they can get everything done in 3 days. So it may seem a bit boring and repetitive to some that we spend so much time here, but we don`t spend 12 hours in the parks, kind of come and go when we feel like, and we really enjoy the rides and atmosphere. not for everyone, but suits us.

Anyhoo saw a nice quite front desk area when we went down to swap some Travellers Cheques

Got on the boat, bit of a queue but we all got on and soon we passed one of our favourite places. Think it was captain Eric this morning, who is one of the chattier pilots and always has something interesting to say. Nice man.

Another gloriously hot day today, walking off the boat I stopped and said we`ll have to go back I`ve left my sunglasses on the bed........They both burst out laughing.........they were on my head Oh dear......good start, I said I had been tired!! Got in to the Studios and Kyle decided he didn`t want to do RRR today, it had just been so rough the last times so we as we went to go to Mummy we saw this couple just appear.......we were delighted

We had never managed a pic with them either, so we were doing well with characters this year I think this was the most we ever had. We decide to do Twister again as there was no-one there, again we shouldn`t have bothered. Did the Mummy.......now last time I had gotten 2 scares so I was watching this time, as we walked through the Express Pass lane we turned a corner and a female TM walked out suddenly from a door for staff only......I screamed in fright and the poor girl screamed right back at me in shock.......don`t know who got the bigger fright.....we both apologised to each other......Kyle was bad laughing So much for being prepared!! Did this a few times as it wasn`t really busy at all, my head lets me know when I`ve had enough. As we came out the Blues Brothers were just arriving

This is always fun to see and one of the reasons we really like the atmosphere in this park. I`ve lost count of the number of times someone has said they think The studios is dull and not worth going to but we love it. They also have a great bunch of street dancers oppsite Monster Cafe, I think they`re called SreetBeatz or similar, they dance every hour or so and they are brilliant, passes a bit of time watching them. So it all adds to us the making of a great atmosphere in this park.

We were all pretty hungry by now, so headed for Louie`s pizza where we had a slice each of pepperoni and Kyle had cheese.

We had been in a quite a long queue this time as there was a poor lad who was training and the 2 families in front of us seemed to be just confusing him, something to do with who had meal deals and who didn`t, the poor guy was totally befuddled. There was a manager with him though. But we stood so long a fly had landed on our pizza and it was now cold. So when we got to the front we asked the manager if we could get fresh slices and explained the fly and they were cold.......he replaced them but was not too happy about it......but we were not going to eat pizza that was cold and had a fly land on it. It was delicious anyway as always.

Now another place we had always missed was Ben and Jerry`s so we had to get ice cream from here. Kyle had chocolate brownie.....of course, I had cherry garcia as we can only get the Frozen Yoghurt in that flavour in the UK........yoghurt......no thanks......far too healthy......and Tom had the caramel one.......his was nicer so we had to swap.........isn`t that what`s supposed to happen!!!!! Did give him a bit though Wandered back over to do The Mummy again and we were going round to do Horror Make up show, but we were all feeling the heat so headed back to hotel, got to our car and headed to Wal-Mart on Turkey Lake Road where I got some 600 Thread sheets and some other things, generally just wandered around.

This boy does not shop at home, so physical evidence he can push a shopping cart

There`s a lady works in there we remembered her helping us last year, and she was still there. We always chatted to her when we went in and she is the lovliest gentle person I have ever met, her name is Rosalyn if you ever need some help she is the lady to look for in the Electronics department.

Got back to hotel and had a cold Bud Lime and began to get ready to go out later. I made the mistake of spraying deoderant right under the smoke alarm Oh dear.........it went off..........LOUD!!!!!! Didn`t know how long it would go for so I called star services and explained what happened......they sent someone up in a few minutes and it was off!!! I was so embarrassed to have caused that to happen, but the maintenece man said no problem. Thanked him very much, for some reason I still had the deoderant can in my hand and just kept waving it around. Well that passes some time.........and Tom warns me not to spray around that area any more!!

So some time later after we had wandered around Bed Bath and Beyond for an hour we head again to Red Lobster. Had crab cakes between Tom and I to start, we ate them before I remembered the camera. Tom had his special that he had before

I had Snow Crab with lobster Shrimp I didn`t want any fries so ordered an extra portion of snow crab

Kyle had chicken again

Kyle`s second favourite dessert is the chocolate wave and we shared the caramel apple dessert between us

Another really lovely meal and tonight we just decide to go back up to our room and chill out with the Internet, tv and me with a book. Another really lovely day.

 

[mercydisney]

You are great storyteller!!!! Subscribing~!

 

[schumigirl]

WEDNESDAY 24TH AUGUST

That`s us been here a week already........the time is going past so so quickly.......far too quickyl. We had planned to go to Clearwater for a day or maybe St Pete`s or Sarasota and have an overnight stay somewhere but we were just enjoying what we were doing, busy but relaxing at the same time if that makes sense. We thought we would maybe do something in the next few days, but at the moment we weren`t 100% where Irene was going to hit, we all thought it would miss us but we didn`t want to plan anything further than the same day. We are not planners........ever!!!

So another day in IOA today, we were all in the mood for some thrills, but I said I wanted some more snaps in the way in

Headed round to Hulk and got on the front row finally......it was really really good as we had never managed to do this row yet, we enjoyed it and went on a few more times, Dr Doom and Spiderman followed by our usual rides on JP while Kyle dumps us to go to DD. We meet up and he says he is hungry, so we try fire eaters grill. Just a counter service but I fancy something spicy and their fiery stingers sound just right. So I have them, Kyle has normal fingers and Tom has the lamb Gyros.

We don`t take any pictures as eating outside here was a bad idea, the place was littered with flies so we ate as quick as possible and left. Shame as it was nice, would have been nicer inside. They were going to do DD but I had wanted to sit and watch the Talking fountain so I grabbed some water and sat in the shade and was entertained for over an hour. I never knew about this until I think, earlier this year when either Macraven or Metro spoke about it.....and I thought.....something else I`ve missed????

I loved this fountain, he was so funny picking on everyone that went in front of him, the kids were just loving it and some of them were totally awestruck when he described what they were wearing.....they kind of looked around them........it was so funny....I could have sat there all day. But I wandered around to join them on Dragons and had a few goes on here.....and result again......we managed the front row again.......loved it, but think this is where you miss the Duelling part of the ride the most. But still good.

We had a look in the Hogshead as we had never gone in here either

Worked our way back around the park, did all the rides except the big water rides, didn`t want to get soaked.......soaked a load more people on Bilge Barge and ended up in the shops and picked up a few things......one of them being the Scooby Doo I had wanted for a couple of visits........Tom always said he was not paying for another seat..........I would make room in our luggage
even if I had to dump something!!!! Got a couple of Popeye mugs with the American flag on for Tom and I. Just hope we could wrap them up well enough to survive the baggage handlers. Lat year most things survived, I think just one thing from Yankee Candle broke so we were lucky.

It was around 4ish by now so walked back to hotel and went in the pool for a bit and had a soft drink, hotel didn`t seem anywhere as busy as it was over the weekend and even Monday it appeared busy, but there are always plenty of sunbeds for everyone......we do like an umbrella though for the shade As usual with everyone at this hotel the staff are so friendly and make time to chat and pass the time of day, we feel so relaxed here and very comfortable. But Tom wanted to go and get a laptop he had seen so rather reluctantly we went up and got ready to go out.

Turkey Lake Road didn`t have the one he wanted so we said we would have dinner and then go get it. Kyle`s choice was Black Angus, I wanted to go to Kobe but was outvoted. Kyle had a fabulous dessert here a few years ago and hoped it was still on the menu......it wasn`t. Now I`m never fussed on Black Angus, I don`t know what it is I don`t like.....but it`s something. Anyway the meal was nice, but I wouldn`t go back. Tom and I shared a shrimp starter but you could feel the heat still in the shrimp from where they mave microwaved it to defrost it, so did not really enjoy it

Kyle had his usual chicken and fries, which were wedges and lovely

Tom had the 16oz Prime Rib with mash, the little green bit at the side was real.........despite us thinking it was plastic!!!

I had the Filet with mash, which was nice but there`s just something about this place I don`t like. Tom and Kyle both said the same thing!!!!

Should have gone to Kobe........told them so Did not feel like we had value for money for this meal. We really don`t mind what we pay for a meal as long as the whole experience is good....this just wasn`t, even though the food was ok. Strange.

Off to Wal-Mart where we indeed got the Laptop, so Tom was happy as he needed a new one....despite kyle reminding us his 5 year old Dell was giving up the ghost. We`ll see. Back to hotel where we had a cocktail in the lounge

Then upstairs where Tom got his new puter sorted out and I went to sleep listening to them arguing over the instructions......Men!!!!