Single Digit Dancing! - A Short Pre Trippie From The Other Side of The World

[Lei]

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
Well, hello there, and greetings from the tropical country of Indonesia!

Thank you for choosing this PTR as your PTR read of the day. This is my first, you know. Hope I won't do too shabby.

WHAT
The actual purpose of the trip is to attend the annual IAAPA Attractions Expo 2008 at Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, Florida. However, we will also hit California’s and Florida's theme parks before the expo, as the boss said it will be good for "research" (we work in the FEC industry, more on that later).

WHO
Four coworkers (C, D, N, and me) of a local company that's constructing a themed Family Entertainment Center, which will be mainly featured in an upcoming holiday resort in Makassar, South Sulawesi.

We are whom the company has selected to attend this year's IAAPA Attraction Expo and enjoy the fully paid airline tickets and accommodation.

Sweetness.

Me, 23, call me Lei.

Yarrrrr!

A huge Disney fan. All-time favorite Disney movies are, among others, Peter Pan (every existing version and spin-off, though, not just Disney's), The Little Mermaid, and Emperor's New Groove (if the Yzma-Kronk duo isn't the epitome of hilarious, I don't know what is).

First Disney park was Tokyo Disneyland when I was about 4 or 5, during the time Dad had business deals with the Japanese.

I remember staring at the great, white castle. I remember screaming "THAT'S NANA!" hysterically during the Darlings' bedroom scene in my very first Peter Pan ride (that nanny dog was my hero back then). And I definitely remember running up and down TDL's Main Street USA (called World Bazaar over there), absorbing the smell, the sound, and the overall magical atmosphere.

I fell in love really bad.

Over the years, I was immensely lucky to had the chance of visiting other Disney parks across the globe, including Disneyland, Walt Disney World, Disneyland Paris and of course, Tokyo Disneyland's uber-cool sister, Tokyo DisneySea. Needless to say, I developed a huge interest towards amusement parks and felt very fortunate to eventually land a job in the industry.

Naturally, I'm the planner of this trip.

Mr. C, 30

C is half English, half Indonesian, which explains his Caucasian look. Although he was born and raised in Jakarta, he speaks Bahasa Indonesia with thick English accent because he speaks English at home and goes to international school since junior high. He sometimes mixed up Bahasa and English words, which could get very funny.

I dub C as the real Peter Pan, because in spite of his age, he doesn't act nor look a day over 13. Not that he's immature (OK, maybe sometimes), but he has this great enthusiasm and energy that often only exist in young boys. He's also easily amused.

In his life, C had been many things, including a musician, film director, art director, film and TV actor, TV show producer, writer, and painter, but he's mostly known as a toy maker and collector. His main collections are Star Wars, G.I. Joe, Transformers, and various villain figures. C also has his own line of toys called Good Guys Never Win, which pretty much describes his specialty i.e. making villain characters.

C had set foot on Disney property twice and Universal once. The first time was WDW and USF while attending the 2006's IAAPA Expo, and the second time was Disneyland Paris and its neighboring WDW Studios earlier this year.

Not a Disney-head, but very easily entertained, and loved details. And Disney got loads of those, so he's fine.

Miss D, 28

A very funny lady with a big heart and even bigger creativity. She used to work as a scriptwriter for TV shows, and many of them acquired high ratings.

When she just joined the company, her knowledge on amusement parks or FEC was virtually non-existent. She's not even an enthusiast. Nevertheless, she learned so fast and developed interest so high that she's soon popping out some of the best ideas for our projects, much to our bosses' delight.

This is going to be D's very first trip outside Asia and her very first time to Disney and Universal parks. Not a fan of Disney's cuteness, but still excited to go to the theme parks. Like C, she's easily amused so I guess she'll be fine, too.

My biggest worry for her is actually her physical ability. She's "pooh sized" and avoids exercise like the plague. I've been telling her gently to start walking around a bit for her sake during the trip. She seems to be listening, but I can't be sure.

Do I got something on my hair?

Miss N, 26

N is the newest addition in the company. She just joined us a few months ago, and has a LOT of catching up to do. N doesn't have any experience or interest in the amusement park industry. However, unlike D, she hasn't shown any spirit to learn or develop enthusiasm, which doesn't come out as a surprise as she's a transfer from our sister company and is not here by choice (long story, don't ask. Don’t even ask how a newbie like her got selected to attend the IAAPA Expo).

She's a very girly girl, who talks in high voice and loves pink. She's also very spoiled and high maintanance, a.k.a. a princess and I don't mean it in a good way. Is it too obvious that I'm not too fond of her? But I try to be professional and avoid snipe wars as much as we can.

Ooh, drama.

This is going to be her second time in Disney and Universal. Her first experience was Disney's California Adventure and USH last year. But she doesn't seem to be so keen about it. In fact, she once implied that if she has the chance "sight-see" while traveling in US, she'd rather go somewhere posh like Manhattan.



Oookay.

at DCA last year.

Okay, she's not so bad if you don't sweat the small stuff, and that is exactly what I intend to do!

Except for C, this will be our first time attending an IAAPA event. Additionally, our boss will also be joining us on the second week.

WHEN
The plan is to tour Disney California, Universal Hollywood, WDW Florida, and Universal Orlando in one week before IAAPA Expo.

Roughly, this is the itinerary.

10 Nov: Arrive in Los Angeles from Jakarta and go to Anaheim. Tour Downtown Disney.
11 Nov: Universal Studios Hollywood / Citiwalk
12 Nov: Disney's California Adventure. Take the redeye to Orlando
13 Nov: Arrive at Orlando, early morning. Epcot
14 Nov: DHS
15 Nov: AK
16 Nov: Island of Adventure
17 Nov: MK
18 Nov: IAAPA
19 Nov: IAAPA
20 Nov: IAAPA
21 Nov: Back to Jakarta

I realize that the schedule is very tight, but we don't have much time and options. So, although I'm flexible, I'm preparing myself—and the group—for something similar to Amazing Race.

CHAPTER 2: THE SO-CALLED PLANNING

As this is not a real "vacation", there is no proper "vacation planning". The basics are going to be arranged by our company and thus, we won't have much options on accommodation, transportation, and dining (and that means counter service food all the way! Bye, bye ADRs!).

Getting There

Jakarta – LA round trip
China Airlines, baby, as it's one of the cheapest on the lot and our company only book low-price flight for Jakarta – LA round trip. We'll be departing at 6.30 am, endure the 30 something hours flight with stopovers in Hong Kong and Taipei, and arrive in LA at around 12.00 am local time.

My swollen feet (and butt) will definitely kill me, and they will kill me again after tasting the long miles of Disney walking.

LA – Orlando round trip
Delta Airlines

Accommodation

Anaheim: Holiday Inn Anaheim
Orlando: Quality Inn Plaza, on the International Drive.

Again, company's choice.

I've scoured for information on the hotels at tripadvisor.com, and while HIA sounds pretty good, I want to cry reading all of the bad comments on QIP (git the roach repellent bazooka and Lysol gun! An' don't forgit the earplugs!) Nevertheless, with all of the expense paid by the company, I can't complain or even dare to make requests whatsoever.

Getting Around

My boss would like us to rent a car while in Anaheim, but rely on public transport in Orlando.

Um. I'm not so sure about that.

I'd feel safer if we avoid driving altogether, because if we're driving, we will be driving on the "wrong" side of the road (we Indonesians drive on the opposite side of US's), and I've heard too many horror stories about it. Ugh.

After researching, I've decided that the cheapest and most doable modes of transportation for us are:

Anaheim
SuperShuttle or taxi van (for airport transportation)
ART shuttle (for Disney)
Metrolink / Metro (for Universal)

Orlando
Towncar. FLTours? (for airport transportation),
Cabs / LYNX bus (for Disney)
I-ride trolley (for scouring food around I-drive)
I-ride trolley / LYNX bus / hotel shuttle (for Universal)

Phewww. All that's missing is the magic carpet ride. All of those are still subject to change, though.

So I guess that covers the basics.

 

[Lei]

CHAPTER 3: TOOLS OF THE TRADE

Like most people, DIS has turned me from a naïve, Disney loving gal to a commando-at-heart. I remember my first and last visit to Disneyland when I was an exchange student in California (too long time ago). I casually strolled into the park around noon, burned precious time by taking pictures in the zany Toontown, didn't use Fastpass because didn't know how and was afraid to ask (believe me, at that time my speaking English is worse than my writing) and as a result, suffer all through the Mountains' murderous queue.

But, I swear to God, I still had the time of my life!

If you could have fun without plan, why bother making one, right?

Wrong. Well, that's what DIS made me think.

And thus, I venture into the world of trip planning.

1. The Guidebooks

I discovered Unofficial Guide last year, purely by accident. I was at the local Kinokuniya, and saw the thickest Disney guidebook I've ever seen. So the Disney-loving me bought it, read it, loved it, and decided to get the latest copy for this year's trip.

And thus, my 2009 babies.

2. The Journal

I took one peek at the Passporters website and I was jealous beyond words. I want one of those! Nevertheless, there is no way any Jakarta bookstore would have them. Moreover, international online shopping from Indonesia sucks. So I can’t order them online as well.

Should I just... m-m-make one?

The horror memories of elementary school arts & crafts class came creeping back...

You see, I was never a crafter since little. I couldn't even finish one simple project, like making collages from beans. Okay, that doesn't sound so simple, but every kid in my class got the hang of it except me!

So, back to the question. Should I make my own travel journal?

Yes, I should and I did.

It's a very simple, thin, journal that doesn't even come close to the Passporter. But it's OK 'cause I realized I don't need a journal as detailed as the Passporter anyway.

Basically, I divided the journal into five parts (marked by the Post-Its): Transportation, Lodging, Park Touring, Dining, and Shopping.

In the Transportation part, I wrote down all of our mode of transportation details such as flight numbers, phone numbers for Mears / Super Shuttle (for LA), I-Ride Trolley and LYNX bus routes, etc, etc.

In the Lodging part, I wrote down the basic details of our hotels and the nearest facilities like grocery stores, hospitals, etc.

In the Dining and Shopping part, I basically made tables to keep track what I ate/shop each day and how much I spend for it.

I also copied all the touring plans and other useful information from UG, and put them in the journal.

See the cover? Doesn't look very Disney-ish or even theme park-ish, huh? Well, I was putting the journal together, and just before I went out to bind the papers, I realized I hadn't made the cover. So I rummaged my desk and found this old printed artwork that my graphic designer friend made and gave me. It's an abstract interpretation of elephant, and it you look closely, you definitely can see elephants.

Well, I thought it was cute. And pink. Me like pink. I cut it into size, laminate it, and made it as my journal's cover. Yay.

3. The LGMH

A few weeks ago, it never, ever crossed my mind that I would be making my own DIS identification, the infamous lime green Mickey head. But I thought, hey why not. I look over the November board, and there are a lot of DISers who are going to WDW around the same time as I am, so it would be fun to be spotted.

We don't have Home Depot here, so I grabbed regular lime green paint sample cards from ACE Hardware. Then I tried to DRAW (yes, draw) the Mickey heads on the paint cards, then cut them out. It turned out to be so wonky and so un-Mickey-like, I don't even want to show it here.

Second try! I decided that paint sample cards are too rigid (a lame excuse for my clumsy skills in using scissors), so I got myself thin, lime green construction papers. I wouldn't mess things by drawing Mickey heads on my own again, so I printed the pattern that I got from DIS. It's not perfect, but it turned out better than my previous attempt.

4. Things That DIS Made Me Buy For The Trip

Microfiber cloths? Really? And Tide-To-Go? But hey, I trusted DISers more than my own mother, so I set out a shopping list based on the advices on the boards, and got all the essentials from ACE Hardware.

5. Tinkerbell

Little Miss Tinkerbell will be joining us on the trip back to her home, the Magic Kingdom.

She'll be hanging around my neck, or pinned on my shirt.

And at night, she'll glow.

Oh, and ooh, while we're on the subject of Peter Pan, I forgot to show what C got on the ceiling above his desk at work.

6. Minnie Mouse

I got her just a few weeks ago, from another coworker who visited Tokyo Disneyland.

She'll be joining us, too, to help me jot down notes and fill out travel forms.

Funnn!!!

 

[Lei]

CHAPTER 4: RANT, RANT, RANT, AND FOOD PORN!

Doesn't it drive you crazy when you try to involve someone into your Disney trip planning, but he/she just shrug his/her shoulders with an apathetic "Meh" look on the face?

And doesn't it drive you even crazier when you’re finally done with your carefully arranged plans, that very person barges in and tries to change them?

Yes, ladies and gents, the one and only Miss N had done it again yesterday.

I've said it once, and I'll say it again: she's a spoiled princess and she always have to have her way.

When the group discussed about transportation, N kind off wonders off, shrugged, and said, "I'll just go along with you guys."

She wasn't paying attention when we decided that we wouldn't rent a car, both in California and Florida.

Dum, dum, dum.

1. When she FINALLY realized that we won't be renting a car in California, and therefore need to take cabs and public transportation to get around—including riding the train and subway to reach Universal Studios in Hollywood from our hotel—she gave me the biggest 4-years-old pout.

I understand perfectly that a car would be the best mode of transportation in California. But I thought we agreed that driving would be too dangerous? I'm willing to sacrifice comfort for safety anytime.

Apparently she wanted to have a car ready WITH a driver so we won't have to worry about traffic jams, directions, and driving on the opposite lane. Her solution is to ask her "acquaintance" (a friend of her friend) in LA to pick us up and drives us around during our stay there. She said we could pay for the gas and for his/her "help", so it'd be OK.

Honestly, I hate that idea for too many reasons. I think it's kind of rude, for one thing, to ask someone (who's not even close) to drive us around, even if we'd pay him/her. I also hate to have to depend on someone else while we could just hop on a cab or train (without worrying if they guy’d be late) and be responsible for our own schedule. Gah, I just don't agree with it!

But guess what, I was being really patient and sweet and said, "OK, go ask your friend, and let me know if you can work it out."

D just rolled her eyes.

2. As mentioned, N has been to DCA and USH and found them mildly interesting. So she persistently suggested that we should skip either DCA or USH and experience other California theme park. I thought she'd suggest something like Legoland, but nooo. Guess where she wants to go?

Six Flags Magic Mountain.

I don't get it. She chose SFMM over Disney? And as for the record, she's never been to SFMM and she's NOT a rollercoaster warrior. Well, none of us have been to SFMM, but I looked for information so I know how's it going to be.

I don't even think N checked the website to see that it's not even a theme park, but an amusement park that specializes only in coasters. She just has faith that we're going to like it better than Disney or Universal. Where did she get the idea? Why am I even going with this person?? Why??

She tried every sneaky way to squeeze in SFMM in our schedule. And weak me couldn't find a spot on reason to say NO and just said, "I'm not sure if we have time for SFMM. Besides, we've agreed to make Disney and Universal our priorities. But we'll check it out if we have time and extra budget."

Of course, she pouted, and kept insisting.

I need to check if the girl's actually endorsed or somewhat affiliated with SFMM.

Hhhhh.

On to better topics!

So. I have this special mission before l go. It is to eat as much as Indonesian food as possible.

I know that I'd be living on typical American food while in US, so I would not touch any burgers or pizza before I leave. I would get plenty of that later. So while I'm still home, I’m planning to satisfy myself with Indonesian food as gluttonously as possible before missing them for almost two weeks

Therefore, this PTR is also an official Indonesian food porn thread!

This is what my family had for breakfast this morning:

Nasi Goreng

Literally means "fried rice". Nasi goreng is basically a fried rice, cooked with herbs, chilli and soy sauce. We usually add "toppings" like sausage or fish meat balls.

Nasi Kuning

Literally means "yellow rice". Tastes kind of bland, and I never liked it. Nasi kuning is usually served when there are special occasions like birthdays. No there's no birthdays today. My mom just likes it

Soy Sauce Chicken

Yes, we eat huge breakfasts! I feel like dying the whole day if I don't get my big breakfast. I'm seriously doubting myself to survive on Cheerios for every breakkie on our trip

As you may have noticed, we eat tons and tons of rice. Last year, when I was at DHS, I ran to ABC Commissary for lunch because they had the curry rice. It's just a regular curry but it felt like heaven food after days and days without rice.

 

[MorningGlory]

Great pre-trippie Lei, really enjoyed reading that! You express yourself well in English

I know that your plans are now set, but I think you would be much better served with the hire car in Orlando. I went last year with my son for the first time, and being from the UK it also meant we had to drive on the wrong (right) side of the road. I was a bit apprehensive, but you will be shocked by just how easy it is to do. All of the roads around the Orlando area are large, 2 lane roads with central reservations. It is almost impossible to stray over to the wrong side of the road, and because I was sitting on the other (left) side of the car it felt absolutely normal to be driving on that side of the road.

If it's possible to change it, I would seriously consider it. That's if you can do it for Orlando, as you mentioned that the car was only for Anaheim? I'm not sure how the roads are over near Disneyland sorry.

Good luck with the rest of your planning

Oh, and good luck on "Princess" finding a new job before the trip

 

[Lei]

Great pre-trippie Lei, really enjoyed reading that! You express yourself well in English

I know that your plans are now set, but I think you would be much better served with the hire car in Orlando. I went last year with my son for the first time, and being from the UK it also meant we had to drive on the wrong (right) side of the road. I was a bit apprehensive, but you will be shocked by just how easy it is to do. All of the roads around the Orlando area are large, 2 lane roads with central reservations. It is almost impossible to stray over to the wrong side of the road, and because I was sitting on the other (left) side of the car it felt absolutely normal to be driving on that side of the road.

If it's possible to change it, I would seriously consider it. That's if you can do it for Orlando, as you mentioned that the car was only for Anaheim? I'm not sure how the roads are over near Disneyland sorry.

Good luck with the rest of your planning

Oh, and good luck on "Princess" finding a new job before the trip

Hi, and welcome first reader!

Thank you Paul for your input Our plans are pretty much set, but still flexible. Because hotels and plane tickets aside, we haven't make any reservations. So feel free to give inputs!

Yeah, up to now, we're still apprehensive about driving in both California and Florida.

Actually, I started a thread a while ago, asking people here on DIS whether should we drive or not in Orlando, considering our different driving style and our scant self-confidence in driving abroad And most of them said, NO, DON'T DO IT. It'll be dangerous for you.

Our boss also discouraged us from driving, adding a few horror accident stories of his (Indonesian) friends driving in US. Moreover, we will be staying on International Drive, and I heard the congestion is bad.

However, I trust you. I've been to Orlando before (stayed on-site), and although I wasn't driving then, I saw that the roads were wide and seemed safe enough. If we absolutely must rent a car, we'll probably do it in Orlando only, as I heard LA's traffic can be a nightmare

Now I'm really confused!

Oh, and thanks about the comment on my English! I took English Lit as my major back in college days, and of course, I have my handy electronic dictionary so I guess that helps

 

[Cyrano]

Followed this from your great post on UK TP about TDS.
Sounds like a great trip in planning

 

[Lei]

Followed this from your great post on UK TP about TDS.
Sounds like a great trip in planning

Ooh, thank you! Tokyo Disney is very close to my heart as its my first Disney park. I'd be glad to give inputs anytime!

 

[Lei]

CHAPTER 5: CHANGE OF ITINERARY AND "NOBODY WANTS TO BE STUCK WITH N!"

It's already 31st of October here in Indonesia, so Happy Halloween, people! There's no Halloween here in Indonesia, but you guys have fun over there!

Anyhoo.

Yesterday, Mr. B (our boss, who will be joining us for IAAPA in Orlando) called us to his office. Well, N didn't come to work yesterday as she was sick, so there was only me, D, and C.

He basically affirmed us once more that we are going to United States during one of the toughest economic state of our lives. The Indonesian Rupiah is getting weaker and weaker to US Dollars by the minute, so our trip is one helluvan expensive one. The final message was obvious; make the best of our time there. No problem there.

Afterward, he ran through our general schedule once more, resulting in slight alterations. Mr. B wanted one of us to go with him to a meeting with a creative consultant on Monday, Nov 17. C volunteered himself, before realizing that Mon, Nov 17, is our Magic Kingdom day.

C absolutely do not want to miss out MK, so we hurriedly switched MK day (Mon, Nov 17) with AK day (Sat, 15 Nov), as C doesn't mind if he has to skip AK half day (the meeting is in the afternoon). We cringed at the prospect of having to deal MK on Saturday, and C felt badly about it, but I assured everyone we'd manage (I hope)

Next, we all knew that IAAPA is holding a few Behind-The-Scenes tours during the expo event, and we've already set our eyes on two of them: DHS Tour and USF's Halloween Horror Nights tour. Initially, the four of us are going to do both. However, due to the expenses, we need to split the group. Only two of us are going to do the DHS Tour, and the other two will do the HHN Tour.

Although I also want to do the HHN tour, C and D are the ones who are absolutely passionate about it. All of us know this from beginning, so the decision was very obvious. C and D are going to do HHN Tour, while N and I are doing the DHS Tour.

I groaned. And not because of the choice of the tour.

Both C and D instantly felt sorry for me.

Speaking of which, the three of us know better than letting our discreet dislike towards N shows in front of Mr. B. However, we had an "oops" moment yesterday.

So C, D, Mr. B, and me were casually talking about our lodging in Orlando.

Mr. B (to D and me): So, I hope you girls, and N, are OK with sleeping together in one room. Unless one of you don't mind sharing a room with C.
D: I don't mind
C: (joking) Yeah, but her husband might (D's married). I'd rather share a room with the single ladies (nudging me)
Me: In your dreams.
D: Or you can sleep with N!
Me: Yeah (snickers)
C: Oh, God, no way!

Mr. B: What's wrong with N?

Silence.

Mr. B: Do you guys have any problem with her?

More awkward silence.

Then we changed the topic.

Oops

For the records, D is going to share a room with C, while I am going to be N's roommate

Anyway, this is our updated schedule for Orlando:

13 Nov : Arrive at Orlando, early morning. Epcot
14 Nov : DHS
15 Nov : MK
16 Nov : Island of Adventure
17 Nov : AK
18 Nov : IAAPA – DHS Backstage Tour (me and N)
19 Nov : IAAPA
20 Nov : IAAPA – HHN Backstage Tour (C and D)
21 Nov : Back to Jakarta

And no, we are not going to do SFMM

After work, D and I went to check out C's exhibition. There's a small toy fair in Electronic City and C was participating. He made something called the Nemesis Enforcer. It's supposed to be a Star Wars ship or something (I apologize to Star Wars buff out there. I know absolutely nothing about them!), and it contained 1/1000th of C's collection of custom made Star Wars toys and figurines, especially the Storm Troopers.

It looked really cool.

Afterward, we were feeling spontaneous and weren't doing anything else that night, so we checked out the movies.

The options were Body of Lies, Eagle Eye, Max Payne, several Indonesian films, and HSM 3. Ew. Anything but HSM. I've managed to avoid the Disney tween plague ever since the dark days of Lizzie McGuire and I intend to keep it that way.

Guess what we ended up with.

And guess who insisted? C! Beneath that Star Wars worshipper appearance, C was actually into HSM, and had seen the first and second HSM! I couldn't be more surprised. You really do learn something new about your friend everyday, don't you?

 

[Lei]

Ladies and gentlemen, lurkers and readers, I have a very special announcement to make. I have arrived to this day where I can finally ...

















... do the single digit dance

"I'M GOING TO DIIIIIIISNEEEEY!!! SOOOOONNNN!!!"
My cousin: "... and I'm so very jeeeeeaaaaalllllooooouuuuus!"​

I wonder, is there anyone reading this at all? I'm I that boring? I'm not looking for famousdom, I'm just amazed to see the number of views for this pre-trippie, but almost no one give comments!

It's OK, lurkers, you can come out now, I won't bite!

 

[brookelizabeth]

Hey there!
I found you from my PTR---I am SO JEALOUS YOU GET PAID TO GO TO DISNEY!!!!!!!!!!! Incredible!! What a very cool job you have.

You are a great writer, I'm loving your PTR. Are you going to write a TR too?

I hope things with N aren't as bad as they seem right now...hopefully she doesn't damper the trip any!

 

[OhMari]

Hi,
I found you!!
Welcome to the pre-trip boards.

I was looking at your schedule to see if we could maybe bump into each other.

13 Nov: Arrive at Orlando, early morning. Epcot
14 Nov: DHS
15 Nov: AK
16 Nov: Island of Adventure
17 Nov: MK
18 Nov: IAAPA
19 Nov: IAAPA
20 Nov: IAAPA
21 Nov: Back to Jakarta

I realize that the schedule is very tight, but we don't have much time and options. So, although I'm flexible, I'm preparing myself—and the group—for something similar to Amazing Race.

I see you switched around some days, but we still won't see each other. We are doing the Keys to the Kingdom Tour on Nov. 13th. On the 14th, we are going to have a low key day, but then drive over to the Kennedy Space Center, there is going to be a Space Shuttle Launch at 7:55 p.m. So where ever you are, look over to the East at that time and you will get to see it from Orlando.

On the 15th we are heading out to the Keys of Florida.

Otherwise have a great trip, and let me know when you return, and I'll move this thread to our regular board. You can tell us all about your working-trip.

 

[tiggrbaby]

Just found your report. You have a very amusing style of writing! I hope you keep your sense of humor with N, and have a great time in all of the parks!

Looking forward to reading more!

 

[Lei]

Hey there!
I found you from my PTR---I am SO JEALOUS YOU GET PAID TO GO TO DISNEY!!!!!!!!!!! Incredible!! What a very cool job you have.

You are a great writer, I'm loving your PTR. Are you going to write a TR too?

I hope things with N aren't as bad as they seem right now...hopefully she doesn't damper the trip any!

I know! I must be a saint in my past life to deserve all this! I can't be thankful enough

The TR will be available upon request...

... Oh, who am I kidding, YES, there will be a TR!

So where ever you are, look over to the East at that time and you will get to see it from Orlando.

Awesome. I'd love to see the launch upclose myself if I have the chance. Thanks for the info! Have fun on your trip too, Marisa!

Just found your report. You have a very amusing style of writing! I hope you keep your sense of humor with N, and have a great time in all of the parks!

Thanks so much! Sense of humor is the only thing that keeps me sane around her. She's not so bad actually, if you're not sweating the small stuff, but sometimes the small stuff can be too much from her



S-s-s-seven days (Indonesian time!). This is going to be the longest week ever.

Stay tune for updates soon!

 

[brookelizabeth]

I know! I must be a saint in my past life to deserve all this! I can't be thankful enough

The TR will be available upon request...

... Oh, who am I kidding, YES, there will be a TR!

Yea!

 

[Lei]

CHAPTER 6: AN ANGEL NAMED CINDY AND BEING A MUSLIM VISITOR

Food porn today!

This evening, I had some of my favorite comfort food for dinner:

Pepes Tahu Jamur

Mashed tofu and mushrooms, wrapped and steamed in banana leaves.

Pecak Ikan Mas

Deep fried freshwater fish, served with raw vegetables and mashed chili with various herbs and spices, on top of a traditional dish made out of stone.

They don't look exactly appealing, I have to admit, but the taste is incomparable. Those meals always lift up my mood. You guys will be missed greatly while I'm abroad!

Anyhoo, back to the trip planning.

In my second installment, I mentioned how N was nagging about our decision of using public transport instead of being chauffeured in a rented car. After a bit, patient, kind me gave her a chance. I told her that if she can find someone who would drive us around, we'd rent a car. I also gave her the responsibility of arranging our transportation in California, as long as it stays in budget.

Then an unexpected offer came up to me.

Saturday, Nov 1

I was chatting online with a college friend, Cindy. We studied together in University on Indonesia and she's currently taking her Master's degree in San Francisco. We were chatting about my California-Florida trip plan, and suddenly, she came up with a solution for our California transportation dilemma that sounded too good to be true:

She's willing to fly from SF to LA, meet us at the airport, rent us a car from LAX with her California ID, and stay with us in Anaheim. That means, she'll drive us around during our stay. Moreover, Cindy doesn't mind staying with us in Holiday Inn Anaheim, sharing a room with N and me, sleeping on a rollaway bed. She'll drive us to and from USH on the 11th, therefore join our park touring.

Unfortunately, she needs to go home early on the 12th, so, she'll drop us off at DLR in the morning, return the car to LAX, and fly back to SF. We'll take a cab to get to the airport and catch our flight to Orlando later that night.

Cindy will pay for her own plane and park tickets, but not the lodging. So the "fee" for her 3-day companion is only the rollaway bed for two nights.

After some calculations, the whole plan cost less money and definitely a lot less stress than using cabs and public transport.

I was flabbergasted. I kept on refusing and refusing, but she insisted, claiming that she didn't mind at all. I finally gave up.

(Cin, I love you. Please check your back. Are you sure you don't grow a pair of wings there, and maybe gain a little halo above your head?)

Even so, I didn't confirm anything with her yet as I need to tell my group first.

Monday, Nov 3

Monday came, and I told my friends about Cindy’s offer.

C was impressed, and D couldn't believe our luck.

N's response?

"Wait, wait. I thought I'm the one who's responsible for our transportation in California? I've managed to contact my friends in LA, and we're already halfway through discussing it. NOW I have to cancel them altogether?"

I replied, "OK, so what's the plan with your friends? What do they have to offer?"

"Well, we don't have anything fix. Yet."

(insert cricket sounds here)

Apparently, she thought I hijacked her responsibility and seemed to be mildly offended by it. On the other hand, she hadn't got any fixed plan on hand either.

I said again, "I'm sorry if I seemed to take over your responsibility. I just thought I found a good deal. But I haven't confirmed anything yet, 'cause I want to ask how do you guys feel about the offer?'

N muttered something about checking with her friends first and would get back to me later. Wha--?

I was frustrated. I didn't mean to be rude and offend N at all. I just didn't want to pass up a good transportation option that could benefit us all. Wasn't that the objective; to find the best and cheapest choice?

D patted my back and told me it's a great proposal from Cindy. It's the most convenient for all of us. Nevertheless, we decided to give N another chance until the next day to deal with her friends, and see if she has a better offer for us by then.

I think the best option is to leave her in Jakarta altogether

But enough about N! This is MY pre-trippie and I shall talk about me, me, me!

Particularly, me as a Muslim.

What Does It Mean To Be A Muslim Disney Visitor?

1. It Means That I Can't Wear Shorts And Tanks. Including at The Infamously Humid AK!

Covering up yourself is a part of Islamic teachings. However, it is something that every Muslim women AND men need to decide for themselves and not because of other people. As a Muslim women, I've decided to dress modestly and cover up myself. So far, it gave me many benefits, including not having men stare at my body! It also gave me a sense of identity of my belief. However, living in a tropical country, I admit it gets hot and humid sometimes.

Okay, a lot of times

Whenever I do outdoor activities, including visiting amusement parks, I dress in my everyday wear: light jeans, cool long sleeve shirts, and headscarves. Mornings were fine, but in the afternoon, I was ready to melt and die.

Therefore, I'm thanking God day and night that this trip is in November, which means cooler weather. Yay!

Taken on one of my visits to a local amusement park in a blazing hot day​

2. It Means That I Need To Know Where To Find Halaal / Kosher Food in The Park

There are many things that make a meal halaal ("permissible in Islam"). It's a bit similar to kosher, but not entirely the same. The main restrictions are pork, alcohol, and anything that contains them, such as cakes that contains rum (bye, bye Zebra Domes with chocolate sauce!). It can be tricky because sometimes they are not too obvious, such as gelatin that are made from pig's hooves. Nevertheless, I'm a liberal and not an orthodox, so I don't fuss too much on food. Sometimes I go vegetarian when I'm traveling, but generally, as long as I don't eat pork, alcohol, or anything that contains them, I'm fine.

Though we'll never meet, I'm sure you're as tasty as everyone claimed, Zebra Domes​

N, on the other hand, is raised in a completely orthodox Muslim family. As a result, she has strict rules in what she eats. For example, she won't touch any food from a restaurant that serves pork because she doesn't eat things that are prepared by utensils that have touched pork before.

The only option for her is, of course, to go vegetarian while in Disney. However, she hates being a vegetarian and claimed that she needs her daily intake of meat.

Okay, that's tricky, and to tell you the truth, I don't have the solution for her situation. The best I could do was to gather menus from allears.net and wdwmagic.com for her prior information (aren't I nice?). The rest is entirely up to her.

Wait, why are we talking about N again?

3. It Means That I Need To Find Praying Areas In The Parks

As a Muslim, I'm required to do my daily prayers several times a day. Before you cringe, I'll tell you that Muslim's prayer is quite flexible, actually. If it's not possible to perform the whole gestures (such as while in planes or public places), I can do it just by sitting down and concentrating. It's quick and simple, therefore a quiet, clean place with somewhere to sit is sufficient.

I'm still on the quest of finding any information on quiet, private areas in Disneyland Resort, WDW, USF, and USH (gosh!). I've searched DIS, asked Disney Parks Guest Relations, Bob Sehlinger and Len Testa, and the only place I got so far is the praying area in Epcot's Morocco.

I'm thinking about the baby centers... Is it possible to do the prayer in the baby center? As I thought it'd be clean and private. I don't have children, though, so am I allowed to go inside? Will I be making people uncomfortable? Argh, confusion, confusion.

Feel free to shed some lights, people!

Tuesday, Nov 4

Happy voting, US citizens!

On Disney planning news, N finally agreed on Cindy's offer. Yay!

Furthermore, the suitcases are officially out today, and I've started my pre-packing a.k.a. throw random things in it. Double yay!

If this pre-packing, then let's imagine the actual packing!​

Also, today D, N and I decided to take flu shots before we leave. Cindy managed to scare me with the flu and pneumonia virus outbreak in US, and so we're taking shots tomorrow!

C won't be joining us, saying it's not going to be necessary, but we know what it actually means when boys say that...

Stay tune for flu shots pictures! Ouch!

 

[Megablocks]

I'm subscribing! I agree with what a previous poster said, you do express yourself VERY well in English.

Thanks for commenting on my report--I was SO excited to have a response! Your report is very interesting so far and I love your food porn pictures. Unlike my little sister, I am very willing to try any new food, and that all looks like something I'd try. I get my willingness to try new foods and my habit of taking silly pictures from my dad.

Oops, had to edit this part...I missed the part in which N agreed to Cindy's plan. That's awesome!

Looking forward to more

 

[MorningGlory]

Glad you got the transport sorted out Lei. Can't be many things better than getting chauffer-driven round Disney by a good friend

I hope you manage to find places to perform your prayers. Maybe Guest Services at each individual park would be better placed to help you on that, unless the knowledgable DISers know of some discreet hideaways that will serve the purpose.

I think you will have alot more trouble finding places to eat that will satisfy N. I would guess that almost every eatery in the area sells meat from a pig in some form (cold meat slices, for example). I don't recall seeing any eateries that served halal/kosher meat specifically, although if there is none on I-Drive where you are staying, there are probably none in the area at all. Morrocco in Epcot will of course be an option as far as parks are concerned, for the rest of them your best bet will probably be again Guest Services.

I hope somebody more knowledgable than myself can come along and put your mind at rest, but hope that helps meantime

And i'm continuing to enjoy your pre-trippie In case I don't get the chance to say so before you leave, have a great time on your busmans holiday and I look forward to hearing about it on your return

 

[Lei]

Unlike my little sister, I am very willing to try any new food, and that all looks like something I'd try. I get my willingness to try new foods and my habit of taking silly pictures from my dad.

Great Dad you have, then. I'm glad you're willing to try some Indonesian food, because even I, an Indonesian, think they don't exactly look mouth-watering But they're so rich in taste, you'll love it.

Glad you got the transport sorted out Lei. Can't be many things better than getting chauffer-driven round Disney by a good friend

I hope you manage to find places to perform your prayers. Maybe Guest Services at each individual park would be better placed to help you on that, unless the knowledgable DISers know of some discreet hideaways that will serve the purpose.

I think you will have alot more trouble finding places to eat that will satisfy N. I would guess that almost every eatery in the area sells meat from a pig in some form (cold meat slices, for example). I don't recall seeing any eateries that served halal/kosher meat specifically, although if there is none on I-Drive where you are staying, there are probably none in the area at all. Morrocco in Epcot will of course be an option as far as parks are concerned, for the rest of them your best bet will probably be again Guest Services.

I hope somebody more knowledgable than myself can come along and put your mind at rest, but hope that helps meantime

And i'm continuing to enjoy your pre-trippie In case I don't get the chance to say so before you leave, have a great time on your busmans holiday and I look forward to hearing about it on your return

Hey Paul, you're still with this PTR! Thank you so much for your concern and inputs. Actually, a few minutes ago Bob Sehlinger (the author of the Unofficial Guides) replied my e-mail and suggested some quiet spots to do my prayers . He's not sure about the baby centers, but he encouraged me to try it and let him know what happens

I've checked allears.net and found out that WDW does offer kosher food in some of their counter service restaurants, although they're most likely packaged, pre-heated foods. Good news for N and me.

I've also found zabihah.com, a website which locates halaal restaurants across US. I'm not sure how accurate they are, but they help, nonetheless

Thank you for your wishes, and I'll surely share my trip stories with all of you

 

[brookelizabeth]

Having a baby, I've done some serious research on the Baby Centers. I think you would be fine going in there without a child and sitting quietly in the main room....though, chances are there could be a screaming/melting down toddler in the room with you, which isn't exactly what I would call peaceful!

I am a Christian. A Bible-thumping one at that. And I would not be offended, weirded-out, or stare if I saw a person praying in the Baby Center room. I would hope that if I took some quiet time to pray in there, or read my Bible, no one else would care either.

at the pre-packing pictures. Oh man...are you going to be able to fit everything?!

And I have to say, I LOVE Halal food. And Kosher food. It's so darn tasty-it just tastes better for some reason! When I lived in NYC there were Halal and Kosher places everywhereeeeee. Yum, yum.

We are so close to our trips!!!!!!! YEAAAA! I've got my list of "DISers to look for" and your name is on it!

 

[Lei]

As promised, our vaccine shots pictures, taken on Nov 4, the election day.

(N couldn't come, so it was only me and D).

"Hmmm... I wonder who'll win the election?"

"Who cares?! I just want to get over with the shots!"

"Okay, here goes nothing... Nurse, you're done? Hey, it doesn't hurt! Lei, it doesn't hurt!"

"Seriously? OK, then, I'm re-- OW! $@^!&# ARE YOU FRICKIN' KIDDING ME?!"

Nurse: "Don't blame me. Your friends has more tush fat than you do."

"I'm OK, I'm OK, but never, ever again! And oh yeah, congratulations Obama!"​

(He made his speech precisely when we're getting our tush shot)

This shot better be worth it!


------------------------------------------


On Disney planning update, hmmm, don't got much to say except...

WE'RE LEAVING IN TWO DAYS!

Oh God, that's major. It's exciting and nerve wrecking at the same time, probably just like waiting for your first child birth.

The four of us are fully prepared, hopefully. We have our money, plans, tickets, hotel vouchers, health, patience (especially towards our royal princess N), and sanity. I guess that's all we need.

On the Muslim issues I mentioned on the previous post, I keep hoping that Anaheim's and Orlando's weather's getting cooler by the minute so it'll be more comfortable for me and I won't die from heatstroke (argh, I know, that's so selfish of me ). And, as I mentioned before, Bob Sehlinger replied my e-mail, suggesting some spots to do my prayers. That's pretty awesome. It was like getting an e-mail from a celebrity, as Bob Sehlinger and Len Testa are my heroes ever since I laid my hands on their holy guide books

I guess that's it. I'll try to make one more post just before I leave. But if I don't, I just want to say thank you for fellow DISers who've been reading and commenting my shorty short PTR I'll see you in my TR!

And as for November people, KEEP AN EYE FOR EACH OTHER'S LGMH! I'll post mine soon