Spring Break 2017 TR with Teens: DS baseball at ESPN, Disney Food, Universal, SW and DC *Completed

[michelepa]

I wasn't sure where to post this TR because it cannot be pigeonholed so I followed Gina's lead and just put it here hopefully, no one gets upset!


T.R. Pre Trip
A bit of history before jumping into my report. The entire family was headed down to Orlando for our kids’ spring break. Main reason was to watch DS(15) play for his high school baseball team. However, me and DD (13) also wanted to partake in other Orlando sites. DH knew he would have to come to Universal with me and DD in case I could not contain my motion sickness. Neither DH nor DS are interested in Disney and I took DD the last two summers so I was done there for awhile and we really had other places we wanted to visit on this trip since we had DH with us! DS flew down on Friday with his team and stayed at CB for the first part of the week. Thankfully, the trip was before all the construction started at CB. DS then came to stay with us on 3/30 so we could do some things together as a family. We all flew home on 4/2. DD and I flew out of MCO while DD and DH flew out of Tampa after watching the Rays season opener at Tropicana Filed.

This trip was a logistical pain to plan not only regarding transportation but with four very different personalities ~two of them teenagers and a short-tempered husband who does not like lines or amusement park vacations.

Surprisingly, it all worked out because I was a planning machine! DH did not want to know any of the details and I made him promise for once just go along to get along and it would be a great trip. He did and it was. See it’s so easy

Hotels:
First problem ~ where to stay. Since we weren’t planning on doing Disney I was against staying onsite and paying the exorbitant prices that really just don’t fit our needs. After extensive research, I decided on a Wyndham Bonnet Creek condo. I was late to that party and our dates were only available through a reputable travel agent ebay seller. I was able to get a three bedroom deluxe from this seller at the same rate someone else was selling a two bedroom. Seller had good reviews and many on the WBC site said they had no problems renting from ebay top sellers with good reviews so I bit the bullet and everything thankfully went perfect with the room. I was able to pay using paypal and she sent me all the details immediately in an email. I did follow-up with her on a couple things a she would always get right back to me. When I got my confirmation, I called the WBC to confirm and they had all my info.

I chose WBC because there were a lot of activities and seven different pools around the complex. Also, the condo was gated so I felt it would be safe for my kids to walk from tower to tower to visit different pools and activities without us if they wanted. Having a washer and dryer in the room and being able to pick up DS and wash his uniforms well while we slept was very nice. Also two bathrooms, three bedrooms, living room, dining room, kitchen and balcony would allow us to spread out and not be on top of each other. So that was set.

Second problem~ where to stay the first night I flew down with DD since condo rental was Sun-Sun. Well I’d always wanted to stay at POR and being able to take DME would mean we didn’t have to spend $70 for a taxi/uber from airport and we were planning on being in Disney that first day so why not. Why not indeed… (play foreboding music here!) So that was set.

Third problem- Universal unlimited express passes were outrageous but we needed them to get through Universal on Spring Break without DH having a meltdown. Through research on the DIS I found out that we could stay at Hard Rock Hotel for less than the cost of the unlimited express passes for the three of us for two days. The cost of the room was even less using the Seasonal Pass member rate and it appeared I could upgrade the park tickets I bought for free. Also, we would get two days early entry. I chose HRH of the three hotels because my DD and DH love old rock music DD plays bass, guitar and vocals at School of Rock and is in the Eagles show in a couple weeks. Hello Hotel California! So that was set.

Fourth problem ~ getting around. Most people would have just rented a car but a rental was not cheap and we hate the driving hassle so we opted to Uber which we usually do on vacations and as usual it worked out fine. I didn’t crunch the numbers but my sanity is priceless. May not be recommended for most families and I am not going to go through how directionally impaired we are and how problematic that becomes when on holiday for us so let’s leave it at that!

Rest of the planning~
Food:
180 days made some ARD’s but after getting DS full baseball schedule I had to do some rearranging. I also had the idea that we should eat dinner together at O’Hana since it gets rave reviews and DS likes the skewered food brought to the table and we would all also enjoy the apps. Of course, this is a very difficult ADR to get unless you are at 180 days which we were not but using the free Touring Plans reservation search site I was indeed able to get a table for 4 at 5:20pm and later that same month a table for 7pm but decided 5:20pm would work better with our schedule.

DH doesn’t like everything planned out so I tried to be a bit loose which was ok because this wasn’t a Disney Parks vacation. However, I made a lunch ressie at Mythos so we could eat some decent food with no wait while at Universal and knew where every restaurant was and if we could make ressies in a pinch both at Disney, WBC and Universal.

Also, went back and forth with getting food delivered to condo or having Uber stop at grocery store since condo had a full kitchen but ultimately we did not cook or really eat in condo. Again people are shaking their heads that I am crazy but that’s the story and it worked out for well on this trip.

Itinerary: So my loose itinerary looked something like this:
3/25 POR, ESPN, HDD
3/26 WBC, Universal (me and DD), ESPN, Dinner with DH after he flies in
3/27 HRH, Universal, Mythos lunch
3/28 Universal, DD leaves for ESPN to watch game, Universal
3/29 ESPN, lunch Sana, ESPN
3/30 noon collect DS from CB, Dinner O’Hana
3/31 SeaWorld
4/1 Discovery Cove
4/2 Rays game (boys), Free day (girls)

Tickets:
Universal tickets purchased through Undercover Tourist print at home 3 two-day + one day free park-to-park tickets.

Discovery Cove (plus swim with dolphins experience for me, DS and DD)/SeaWorld tickets purchased during Blue Friday sale print at home. Reserving our DC day was a bit of a pain in the neck and took forever since each ticket had to be entered separately it took equally as long for the customer service representative to help me change the day I chose based on a change in DS baseball schedule but it did save me some money getting to during that sale.

Ok, so that's my set up. Please feel free to ask questions. I love reading TR and I got so much info from the DIS. I am happy to share my trip although there will be no pics because my family drew the line there.

 

[michelepa]

T.R. Day 1 (3/25) Arrival, POR, ESPN, HDD

Flight:

I flew South West with DD. (DH was flying down Sunday after teaching Sunday school). I had recently received my TSA precheck number but was unable to get number for DD in time for this trip. However, both our boarding passes had my TSA precheck number listed so that was good. There was no line at precheck and we quickly got through. The regular security line would have taken at least 30 minutes so that was nice. As always, there were problems flying out of Philly but not too bad considering it was spring break for many schools in our area and the Philly airport is generally horrendous.


Flight was a bit delayed but of course we left the gate on time even though we didn’t take off until half hour after we were supposed to. It was a girl’s 5th birthday so the flight attendant had us all close the windows and turn on our attendant call lights to represent candles. After we sang Happy Birthday, the birthday girl pretended to blow out her “candles” and we simultaneously turned off our call lights. It was really cute. Landed a bit late due to delay in Philly but no real problem. Put on our new magic bands. I like wearing a watch and keep it on the same arm as my magic bands. The faces on the new magic bands are too big and it was not comfortable wearing them togetrher but didn’t really matter this trip since we just needed them for DME. In fact DD wouldn’t even wear the new one and wore her Stitch one even just for the bus ride. I paid attention this time so we went toward B for DME. There was a bit of a wait for the bus. I guess it always feels like a wait when you’re anxious to get your vacation started. We were staying only one night at POR, this would be our first time and last time there. We were so excited, having heard so many glowing reports about the place. Spoiler alert~ don’t believe everything you read! I already posted my awful review of this place on the POR page so I am just going to copy and paste it here because I don’t want to think about POR ever again. POR was the first of three stops our DME bus made. Driver said it would take a half hour to get from airport to POR. That was accurate.


DME/POR:
I did online check-in and magical express and had luggage sent to room. While on bus I got text that room was not ready yet. By the time we got to hotel it was a bit after three and there was a 20 family line deep at registration. Not a big deal, and expected since it spring break and check-in time. So, we changed into shorts in the bathroom lobby and checked our carryons with bell services and took Mears cab, because no ubers were available, to watch my son's high school baseball team play at ESPN. Game ran late so we then ubered straight to Hoop Dee Doo.

I never got a text that room was ready but didn't think anything of it because that has happened before.

A bit before 11pm we returned to hotel and were told we had been assigned a room but it needed to be changed because of an IT glitch. From what she said it sounded like they knew about the glitch days before my check-in date but never bothered to alert IT to the problem. The clerk said they were having difficulty removing a guest who had checked out days ago from the data base that operated the room key pad/magic bands. She said our luggage would take a couple minutes to get from our originally assigned room to new room. No apologies for the problem didn't seem to care we'd been out all day and had a reasonable expectation that after officially checking in at 2:30 by 11 we would have a useable room that contained our luggage. So we looked in gift shop, stopped to hear yee ha Bob but DD was tired so we went to room.

At 11:45 luggage had still not arrived. I was trying to be calm and patient. I called the guest services line on the phone and was told the luggage should be there soon. Manager, Kate, then said at least I wasn't standing at room I couldn't get into?! What?! I knew the guest services manager Kate was not actually at the hotel, and may not even been in Florida, so I marched up to front desk and asked to speak with a manager. The hotel manager basically had the same attitude. Like all this was normal and there was no need to address the problem immediately. He had the audacity to tell me that I was not the only one waiting for my luggage.

Are you serious-this was absolutely insane!! I have stayed in many levels of hotels in many places and never ever treated like this. At this point I was done being nice and polite. Thankfully I left my 13 daughter in the room so she did not have to be involved in this craziness any longer. I went ballistic. I asked him who else checked in 9 hours ago and due to the fault of the hotel I was given a room the hotel knew I could not enter with my luggage locked inside and I could still not get my luggage over an hour later. The place is big but not that big!

I honestly thought at this point that they had lost my luggage. Not one time did he apologize for the problem and only after I freaked out did I get results. Manager contacted bell services and told him to bring my luggage to my room immediately which he did. So at 12:30 we got our luggage.

I couldn't wait to get out of that place the next morning. So we left the ugly colored dingy room in the mansion section (with no real closet and weird curtain separating the bathroom/hanging clothes rod area) and took the long walk with our luggage through the smokers to the lobby and high tailed it out of there.

I know many of you love this place and will have a lot to say but this was my experience and view of the place. I am posting this review on all the sites I use so people can see all views of this hotel. I have also written to Disney's executive office about this incident since I did not have time to deal with the incompetent staff during my short stay at this hotel.

I'm sorry, but if this is the best moderate hotel Disney offers that is sad-especially given the price we paid. Shabby place and shabby service. Never again. So disappointing

ESPN/MEARS:

So, like I said we took a Mears cab to ESPN because no Ubers were available at POR. I asked the driver if he knew where ESPN was and he said yes. I have not taken a cab in Disney in years only Ubers. I will not be taking a cab again anytime soon. Driver either didn’t know where to drop guests off at ESPN or he was trying to run up the meter. I think the latter because when he was driving around the CM parking lot next to the ESPN venue I told him he needed to turn the meter off because I was not paying anymore for the trip and if he refused I would not tip him. He turned off the meter and quickly found his way out of the lot and to the front entrance of ESPN. (In our four days following this adventure, Uber never had difficulty finding the entrance to ESPN.)


We had to pay to watch my son play on the ESPN fields after already paying a pretty penny for DS’s Disney ESPN package. Oh well, what can you do. Nickle and diming is a Disney specialty! We got a three game pack but it was still expensive. Later in the week coach gave us some entry tickets that came with the teams package deal. It was nice that the stands were covered so we weren’t sitting in the direct sun. The set up however for these games is not great. The fields are far from the main entrance where there is food/drink. Luckily, on this day later on ESPN set up a little cart for drinks and some snacks near where the teams were playing, but it wasn’t there every day which was a pain in the neck. Also, I was alarmed that ESPN did not have a proper hydration system set up for the players. There were water fountains in the dug outs but that was it. Obviously, the players did not pack water bottles nor did water bottles come with the Disney team package. I asked the trainer in charge of our fields why she was carrying around a water bottle if the fountains were good enough for the players. I will be complaining to the executive offices about this set up as well. At the very least, the teams should have been supplied ESPN water bottles that can be filled from cold large coolers rather than out of a trickling water fountain. Nevertheless, it was great being able to go and watch DS play. They had a double header but we could not stay for the second game I was worried that the boys hadn’t eaten in awhile, the little cart had closed down and the food area was too far for the boys to run and get themselves something. Thankfully, another parent convinced the restaurant to make some large pizzas that she purchased and the boys ate in the dugout. Again problematic setup by ESPN. It was good some parents were there to take care of the boys because everything was too far for players and coaches with back to back games. But after having to purchase the team waters, sports drinks and food it was disconcerting to discover that when the boys were ready to leave EACH boy had about 27 snack credits (not sure what that works out to with QS meals) left on their magic bands. I was really surprised with all the years and the amount of teams that have played at ESPN the setup is not better.


Although I felt badly not watching the second game this trip was for DD too so we were off to DD’s favorite first night dining spot ~Hoop Dee Doo.


Hoop Dee Doo:


I love this place as much as DD, it's iconic Disney, and have eaten here almost every Disney trip. This time we Ubered from ESPN to front of FW. From there we caught the internal bus to HDD. It was no problem at all and really didn’t take too long. The bus ends at the HDD so no getting lost ~just follow the crowd. We got, what I’ll now call our usual seat, next to the piano player. Enjoyed the food and entertainment. Afterwards, we took the internal bus to front entrance of FW and Ubered back to the dreadful POR.

The good news is that except for shabby POR our trip was just wonderful! I wish we would have been able to get to sleep at a reasonable time because we had a busy day ahead of us...

 

[BigredNole]

I know people LOVE POR and will try to vilify you for speaking against the resort. The resort itself was nice, but we ran into a similar situation. Because of their "glitch" we were downgraded a room level. When we get to our room, all is OK until DD open the little door to the fridge. Out scurried about 20 cockroaches running up the walls and all around the room. Called Guest Services and they were "very helpful". They said they will have someone out at 3AM (it is 11:30PM now). I told them I am not sleeping in a roach infested room, then waiting 3.5 hours for pest control to come, and then sit in a room filled with chemicals everywhere. They couldn't do anything, but I sure could. We went back to the lobby, got the manager I just spoke to, and then got the supervisor on the phone. At first they said there is nothing they could do. I asked if the resort was completely booked. The answer was no and I could "pay" to upgrade to a Princess Tiana room. I said perfect and I had already paid for that room. Supervisor sounded dumbfounded. We were moved and then the busing nightmare started the next morning.

Glad you had a great trip regardless of the POR nightmare.

 

[michelepa]

I know people LOVE POR and will try to vilify you for speaking against the resort. The resort itself was nice, but we ran into a similar situation. Because of their "glitch" we were downgraded a room level. When we get to our room, all is OK until DD open the little door to the fridge. Out scurried about 20 cockroaches running up the walls and all around the room. Called Guest Services and they were "very helpful". They said they will have someone out at 3AM (it is 11:30PM now). I told them I am not sleeping in a roach infested room, then waiting 3.5 hours for pest control to come, and then sit in a room filled with chemicals everywhere. They couldn't do anything, but I sure could. We went back to the lobby, got the manager I just spoke to, and then got the supervisor on the phone. At first they said there is nothing they could do. I asked if the resort was completely booked. The answer was no and I could "pay" to upgrade to a Princess Tiana room. I said perfect and I had already paid for that room. Supervisor sounded dumbfounded. We were moved and then the busing nightmare started the next morning.

Glad you had a great trip regardless of the POR nightmare.

OMG after reading your experience I am grateful I only had to deal with luggage issues.

 

[TwoMisfits]

I know people LOVE POR and will try to vilify you for speaking against the resort. The resort itself was nice, but we ran into a similar situation. Because of their "glitch" we were downgraded a room level. When we get to our room, all is OK until DD open the little door to the fridge. Out scurried about 20 cockroaches running up the walls and all around the room. Called Guest Services and they were "very helpful". They said they will have someone out at 3AM (it is 11:30PM now). I told them I am not sleeping in a roach infested room, then waiting 3.5 hours for pest control to come, and then sit in a room filled with chemicals everywhere. They couldn't do anything, but I sure could. We went back to the lobby, got the manager I just spoke to, and then got the supervisor on the phone. At first they said there is nothing they could do. I asked if the resort was completely booked. The answer was no and I could "pay" to upgrade to a Princess Tiana room. I said perfect and I had already paid for that room. Supervisor sounded dumbfounded. We were moved and then the busing nightmare started the next morning.

Glad you had a great trip regardless of the POR nightmare.

OMG...if I had a roach problem in the room, I would be out of the whole resort. They move through pipes and walls, so they were probably all over the building you were in!

 

[michelepa]

Day 2 3/26 WBC and Universal
Like I said earlier, we were up and out of POR early ~never ever to be seen again! Our luggage was ready to go having never been unpacked since our carryon luggage had everything we needed for an overnight stay in case our luggage got lost ~never has and that’s probably the reason! Ugh, probably just jinxed myself. Uber to WBC around 8am and went to front desk to check-in. Of course, our room was not ready this early so as everyone has warned on the WBC thread I did not go to the other desk as the check in clerk suggested to get my information packet. Instead, we left our luggage and carryons with the nice boys at bell services and ubered to Universal.


Universal:
We have never been to Universal and DD was dying to go. I was only dying to see the Harry Potter lands. For a couple hours I thought we would use our extra day at Universal and go see Diagon Ally for a couple hours without express passes and just check out Universal in general. (Actually, I was at Universal in 1994 on my honeymoon, but I don’t count that because the first couple rides made me feel so motion sick I could not enjoy myself and we left.) Thus, in preparation for this trip, and knowing the first day at Universal DH would not be with us, I had my Dr. order me the patch. I’ve never used one before but I was desperate to ride Gringott’s and Forbidden Journey. I also brought seabands, modizine and ginger candy to back the patch up if need be but the patch alone worked so well. The patch was a true blessing since I have pretty bad motion sickness ~ can’t even turn my head around in front seat of car without feeling very ill.


So, the Uber let off in the drop off area and we made our way through security which moved pretty quickly, then over the bridge into City Walk. There was no problem using our print at home tickets from Under Cover Tourist to get into Universal. We headed straight to Diagon Ally. The place was just amazing. I teared up when we entered. It was absolutely perfect!! Our entire family loves the movies and I finished the last of the Potter books just before the vacation. This place is just wonderful. Kudos to JK Rowling for standing her ground and making this such a magically authentic place! DD just kept repeating “oh my gosh, this is amazing!” Diagon Ally and Hogmeade are truly sites to behold.


First stop was Olivander’s so DD could purchase a Hermione wand. We watched the little show and then made our way to the wand shop area. Place was packed but wand in hand we were out of there to try out our magical abilities. I have to say the wand is not easy to work. Many kids and parents were stumped no matter the location. Even some of the CM had trouble getting the spells to cast. In the end, the interactive wand wasn’t what it was cracked up to be. Gringott’s had a short 20 minute wait. We went and put our stuff in the nearby locker. Not sure what the fuss is all about with these lockers. Although busy, we were always able to find a locker and everything including the wand and box fit without issue not just in these lockers but everywhere in both parks. Only once did I experience a bottleneck but otherwise no locker problem issue. So Gringott’s is just beautiful to walk through and the ride portion was amazing and I kept my eyes opened the entire time. Thank you patch!!!! Afterwards, we gathered our stuff from the locker and got a cold butter beer which we did not find too sweet, although one did the trick. We then began our purchases. Honeydukes for all sorts of chocolates, love potion candies, a cute purple Pygmy Puff and some sort of Gryffindor shirt for DD.

I wanted to have an early lunch but by the time we were ready to eat it was 12:30 and the Leaky Caldron was packed with lines out the door, so we left the area and headed to Simpsons land (not my choice but oh well~ it was DD trip afterall). Chicken and waffle sandwich was fine and DD got some chicken fingers. The Simpsons eatery is well organized and kept very clean. I tried to bus my tray but Mable ran over to take the tray from my hand. After lunch, DD purchased her Gryffindor lanyard and we made our way out of park.


When the Uber driver dropped us off he had told us that where we got dropped off was where we needed to be to get picked up. He told us that security doesn’t let the Uber drivers wait for their passengers like the taxis do. He said we should only call for an Uber once we were in the pick-up location ~which is what we did. Uber was there within minutes and we were off to ESPN to watch DS’s game then Ubered to WBC to check-in. Ah, this is the life. I will say this throughout this TR. I appreciate having the means to enjoy a trip such as this.


WBC:
Room, I ‘ve got to stop using that word, condo was ready! We got our keys and clerk asked if we’d gotten our parking pass yet- told her we do not have a car. Then she asked if we’d gotten our welcome packet from the other desk. Remembering every person’s advice on these boards to stay away from the other desk at all cost~ I said yes we got the packet earlier and off we went with keys in hand to bell services. One of the guys drove us and our luggage to tower 3. The condo was just fantastic. DD wanted the king en suite room. I said fine knowing that I would end up sleeping with her anyway as she loves that on vacation. I unpacked our bags and we waited for DH to arrive from the airport. I booked DH a ride with Tony Hinds rather than have him order an Uber. This way I could talk with Tony myself and make sure DH got to the right tower and didn’t go anywhere near the check-in area. Tony charges $70 which would have been the same as a taxi/Uber. True to form DH did not need to unpack. Indeed, he kept everything in his suitcase the entire week. That drives me crazy! Luckily, I was sleeping with DD in the master bedroom so I did not have to see his suitcase in the other King bedroom. Which was very nice withplenty of drawer and closet space.


Neither DD nor DH wanted to go to Universal’s City walk where I thought we could eat at Toothsome. They wanted something close by and a nice sit down so we went next door to the WBC Grand Hotel to see about the Deep Blu restaurant, no pun intended. Our tower was located right next to the hotel which was very convenient. At first I was put off by the hostess who had us wait 15 minutes for a table when the place was virtually empty. No matter, I got a glass of wine at the bar and we sat outside on the porch. When our table was ready I got a text and we made her wait as I finished my drink. Other than the hostess, the meal and staff were delightful. Our waiter was great as was our meal. I ordered the seafood cioppino. It had just the right spice and plenty of perfectly cooked seafood. DD’s steak was also perfectly cooked. She must have been hungry because she ate it all. We ended with the yummy dessert trio. I'm not sure what DH ordered but he enjoyed his meal and wanted to eat here again he liked it so much but we never got the chance on this trip -maybe next year. When we got back to the room I packed a duffle bag for the three of us and we relaxed for a bit.





WBC Review
I know why this is a favorite of everyone who stays here. The price I paid worked out to $229 a night and since I usually deal with Disney hotel prices I thought this was a great price for spring break and less than I’d paid for that shabby POR. Plus, I really did feel like we were in the Disney bubble. In fact, we were closer to EPCOT and HS than many Disney owned hotels. Indeed, we were in Disney property and could see the EPCOT and HS fireworks at night. I did not request a particular tower when we dropped off our bags and I could imagine each tower has something that is great to offer so I don’t think you can go wrong wherever you stay. Like I said we liked being close to the hotel because that’s the pool the kids liked the best. Our room was perfect. It was extremely clean and well maintained. I unplugged the phone right away to avoid time share solicitation calls, as recommended. In the kitchen was a basket with some bags of popcorn, regular coffee and filters, small salt and pepper shakers, and hot chocolate packets, although it wasn’t in our basket when I called down for more coffee packets and filters they asked if I wanted regular or decaf or both. Underneath the sink were plenty of trash bags and dishwasher soap. But remember, if you are cooking many of your meals in the condo you will need to request more supplies. There were two packets of laundry detergent and I’d brought some dryer sheets from home. Again, no problem when I needed more supplies they brought them directly. The bathrooms were also nice with plenty of towels in each of the two bathrooms. I do have to say I do not understand why there were no hooks in the hall bathroom and no hooks on bedroom doors ~ really nowhere to hang wet towels. There was only one hook and it was on the en suite bathroom door. There was plenty of soap, shower, gel and conditioner for the first three days and then we called down and they brought four more of each as requested. I called downstairs when we first got there because the kitchen sink was stopped up and the engineer was there within 5 minutes to fix it. Every time I called the front desk they were very pleasant and did not ask me anything about timeshares but just helped me and we hung up. I did make sure to unplugged phone after each conversation. The living room and dining area were well appointed but i will say that the pull out couch was extremely hard and unconfortable to sit on for long. We only had one chair in the luving room area but in looking online most condo had two chairs - again not very comfortable. With regards to the hard sell timeshare spiel, I was very proud how I did not fall into any traps znd did my best to keep DH away -even warning him but he doesnt listen and on one occasion DH went looking for me in the little store next to check-in because I was getting a Starbucks coffee drink and when he didn’t find me there he went to one of the "no-no" desks to ask if there was another coffee shop in the complex and after answering him they started asking him questions like if he’d gone to the presentation yet and which one did he attend and he stopped them saying “I am looking for my wife and do not have time for this” and ran away. (I told him not to even go near that room for just this reason, knowing he’d get swept into it!). Although the complex looks daunting when you first arrive it really is very manageable especially with two teens. It was nice to walk along the small lake, which connected each tower and the hotel in a big circle. We were able to get a look at the different activities offered and pool areas. Everyone, staff and other guests, were all very friendly and helpful. There were plenty of places to grab a cocktail or a bite to eat in each of the towers and always some activity going on in one of the towers- We played shuffle board one night and then went for a swim, dance parties, karaoke, ice cream sundae making to name a few. It was a pain having to go to tower 6 to get the pool towels luckily tower 6 was on the other side of the hotel tower so right near us but I ended up taking the long way around in order to check out the entire complex. When I asked where I sign out the towels the staff member said not to worry about it. One night when we went to the hotel pool with our towels the staff there asked if we wanted fresh towels. DH told them we were staying in the condos, no worries and staff said no need to sign them out. At the end of the trip, I called front desk because I wasn’t sure what all needed to be done before we left the condo and I told I needed to return the towels to the activities desk at the main building even though I had never signed them out~ lucky we had nothing planned that day so I could get everything sorted including the towels. The only real compliant I have is that there is no secured wifi at the complex so to me it’s like not really having wifi since you should not use an unsecured network to check your email etc. When we checked in we had been given an internet code with our keys but I wasn’t able to get on a WBC wifi requiring a code so I called the front desk who put me in touch with another office only to be told there is no secure wifi available. But everything else about this place was just lovely and we will be staying here again next year. I have already started the process but cannot book until May.

 

[michelepa]

Day 3 3/27 Hard Rock Hotel, Universal

Woke up early and ubered to the Hard Rock Hotel where I had booked a room for the night in order to get two days early entry and unlimited express passes using a seasonal pass holder rate for the hotel. (I still needed to upgrade my ticket for the seasonal pass.) At check in they did not ask me for my Seasonal Pass. Even though it was early our room was ready. DH dropped off the bag since it was on the first floor not very far from the registration desk. There was no line to get our express pass at the kiosk and we were off to Island of Adventure.

We walked the short distance to the park. I liked that we had security check on the way from hotel to Universal but wish we could have done our ticket there as well because the ticket line and finger print scanner was long and that scanner does not work the first thirty times. But, in we went finally and followed the mambo line of people to Hogsmeade where we lined up for Forbidden Journey. There really was only a 20-minute wait and the Castle was amazing as was the ride. Afterwards, we headed to Kings Cross and took the Hogwarts Express over to Universal Studios. The train is fun but I don’t know that Universal should be charging extra for it. We looked around Diagon Alley a bit to show DH around since he wasn’t with us the first day. The wait for Gringotts, at park opening, was already at 60 minutes and no one wanted to do single rider so we headed back the other way on the Hogwarts Express for a different but still enjoyable ride. (I would not buy a park-to-park ticket to do the HE again as once was fine.) Although knowing how these big parks work, they will change the scenery in the windows in a couple years to keep people buying the extra ticket. (Um, hope I didn’t give Universal any ideas!) Actually, I don’t think I’d feel the need to return to Universal anytime soon even though we did enjoy ourselves. DH and DD rode both sides of Dragon Challenge while I held the bags. We all went on the cute Hippogriff ride together. I liked Hagrid’s hut!

DH left to go watch DS’s game while I continued the park with DD.
I don't think I'm breaking their photo rules. Here he is with some of his teammates headed to the bus back to CBR.



Gosh how many simulator rides can this park have! Thank God that patch was still going strong so I could ride them with her. I was so happy when we were finally heading for Men In Black to ride something different only to find out it was down. No worries Fear Factor was getting ready to start so we went to watch that show which we both enjoyed. I checked the Universal app and happily Men In Black was up and running with a short wait so we headed over, stowed our stuff and headed on~ twice. We love those shooting games. Despicable Me was fun except somehow I managed to throw my expensive sunglasses into the bin after the ride rather than the 3d glasses. Luckily, I noticed when I went to the leave the gift shop and raced back to the ride area. They must get it all the time because they’d already fished them out of the bin and had them sitting out ready to give back to me. When we went passed by Race Through New York I asked if the ride was running since there a lot of people hanging around on the side walk outside the ride but no one looked like they were entering the building. Guy asked if we had express passes. Why, yes we do!!! Head on in then. Nice!!!! The ride was fun but again another simulator. So, we then headed for Hollywood Rip Ride that was one unpleasant coaster, even DD didn’t want to ride it again. I was so happy to see E.T. still there. That was the only ride I remembered fondly riding when I was with DH for our Honeymoon. We basically rode everything in the place ~those unlimited express passes are the best!

DD headed back to Universal to ride a couple more rides. Namely the Hulk. DD had worked up the courage to go on as did I!! That is one crazy coaster~ holy cow! Afterward DD said wasn’t it cool going through the mist?! I laughed and told her I had my eyes shut the entire time! They made fun of me for that but oh well I felt very brave! I bought DH a Hulk lanyard as a prize for his bravery/stupidity after riding it about 7 times. They also both loved Spiderman but I was done so I waited outside while they rode that twice.

We were tired so headed back to HRH when we got to the hotel exit area there were pedicabs and DD asked if we could take one back. Of course DH said yes and off we went. We finally got to see the room it was very groovy. We looked around the hotel for a bit as well as the gift shop. I was bummed they were sold out of the Hard Rock lanyards I really wanted one of those. Up still now I just put my express facing one way and DD facing the other and wore her lanyard. We were getting hungry and sat on the patio at Kitchen for dinner. The bread was yummy and of course we noticed the serving board was in the shape of a guitar pick. We had the Florida Gator Tail for an app, which of course tasted like chicken. I got the shrimp tacos which were delicious as were DD braised short ribs. I do not remember DD’s dinner as is always the case. We really enjoyed eating here. It was very relaxing and not tons of people. We always get dessert but I cannot remember what it was. We looked through the gift store one last time and got DD some rock ‘n roll t-shirts then showers and bed! I have to say although this time of year is crowded the weather was absolutely perfect. We brought lightweight hoodies for the morning and evenings and shorts and t-shirts for the day. About 80 and sunny every day of our trip. Beautiful!! Here are some HRH room photos. Those people could be anyone laying on the beds!


There now my report looks less boring!

 

[michelepa]

Day 4 3/28 Universal
Up early but didn’t do early entry as it was the same park as yesterday and none of us felt the need to.
We checked out of the Hard Rock and left our bag at bell services. I completely forgot about the Seasonal Pass and the clerk did not ask for it.
I still wanted to see about the seasonal pass exchange and was able to get all three of us the pass for zero money.


We walked over to Islands of Adventure and rode the rides there and had lunch at Mythos where I had made a reservation. Many advise not to worry about reservations just walk up ~there’s hardly a wait, it’s not Disney. I advise the opposite. If you want to eat at lunch time at a sit down restaurant make a reservation, if the restaurant takes reservations, especially during busy times of year. I made 12:30 reservations online a couple weeks before we left for our trip through the Universal site that then took me to the booking site. You can make these reservations about a month out. They send you a reminder text of date and time. When we checked in people were lined up inside already and there was a 45 minute wait. Who wants to wait 45 minutes and then take an hour to eat at Universal? Not me! We had a nice booth and the food was good. We started with the mezze platter, DD got the pad thai which was a large portion and delicious, I got the crab cake sandwich which was very good I couldn’t finish it it was so big so DH finished it since his mediterranean chicken salad wrap was good, but skimpy. I would definitely eat here again. It would be nice if it was open a bit later so I’ll stick with lunch here. Hours definitely vary but the latest it is open appears to be 6 but that’s just on Friday and Saturday, otherwise it closes at 4 or 5. We then took Hogwarts train over to Studios to complete the must do rides over there and then headed back to Hard Rock Hotel for dinner at Kitchen. Another nice meal on the patio we got our duffle from bell services and Ubered back to WBC unpacked and took a swim in the pool.


We had a nice time at Universal but I feel no need to return although we do have out seasonal pass. I know DD and DH would love to ride that Hulk ride 110 more times and then go over to Spiderman. The Universal portion of this trip was for them and there were things we didn’t see like some of the shows and some of the rides. You could definitely take four days just for the two parks to see everything and remember we had express passes. Although Universal was nice to visit to me it was more of visiting an amusement park


I wish we had more time at the Hard Rock~ I realized after we left that I had never even seen the pool! I really liked everything about that hotel and would stay there again although the Portofino and Royal Pacific also look nice. I wish we could have toured those and eaten at some places in City walk. Well, we will be in the Orlando area for the next 5 years if the kids continue to play their spring sports in Orlando so there may be a chance or two or three…

 

[michelepa]

Day 5 (3/29) ESPN, Sana, WBC
So nice to be able to wake up and make myself a cup of coffee without worries of waking everyone up. I love this condo! Relaxed a bit before walking up to the main lobby to get breakfast for everyone at La Cantina Grille. Breakfast burritos for me and DH and French toast sticks for DD. The burritos were very good and came with tater tots. French toast sticks were nothing special looked like the frozen ones in our grocery store.

I did have plans to order groceries and have them delivered but the more I looked at our schedule for the week the less it appeared that we would really didn’t need much delivered to the condo, so I opted out of delivery and I was glad I did because no food was wasted! Although I like the condo I still plan like we are in a hotel room. There is a store in the main lobby next to check-in El Mercado Market Place, although small it was impressive and really has everything you could need: groceries, every possible toiletry item, tchotchkes, wine, beer and bottles of hard liquor even a Starbucks coffee drink counter. So, if I really wanted to make breakfast one or two mornings I knew I could just grab some grocery items in the Market. I didn’t check prices but in a pinch it’s good to know I wouldn’t need to leave the complex if I needed something. I really enjoyed taking the walk from our tower to the lobby. It was so pleasant, the view of the lake is so nice and the smell of the lovely flowers set the right mood for the day~ which is in deep contrast to the wafting smell of cigarette smoke I experienced at POR.

By the time I got back, DH and DD were up. We had breakfast and ubered over to ESPN to watch DS’s game. There weren’t too many families from our school watching their sons but there were some other spectators.


I did have to spend some time on MDE switching around our lunch ressie because the game was going long. I purposely chose a restaurant for today that I knew would have availability if this happened. The boys won and we ubered to Animal Kingdom Villas Kidani Village for a lunch at Sanaa. I have never eaten here and was so excited to have a meal here~having heard wonderful things about the food and scenery. We ended up with a late lunch which was good. When we checked in I asked for a window seat letting them know we don’t mind waiting. Really no wait, the buzzer went off right away and we were seated. It was wonderful seeing the animals just outside the windows giraffes, zebras, ostrich, and others.


The waitress was very nice but didn’t even need to recommend the bread service. We paid the extra to have all the accompaniments included. As everyone says this should not be missed. The breads were all delicious so flavorful and there was enough bread to finish all the accompaniments.


The three of us enjoyed it very much and will definitely order it again. Our entrees were also fabulous. DH order the boerewores sausage sandwich and DD and I ordered the potjie inspired. DD the buttered chicken and seasonal veggies. I guess she liked it because I went to take a bite of the chicken and it was gone! I ordered the spicy durban shrimp and lentil dhal. Just wonderful. DD got a mango lassi smoothie which she did let me try~yummy. I ordered a mojito with the bread service and then a white wine flight with lunch. Our lunch was leisurely we were in no rush to get to the next activity and the timing of the food allowed us to enjoy looking out the window and enjoy the animals. For dessert, I ordered the dessert trio and DD ordered the cheesecake. They were so beautiful we hated to eat them. This was my favorite meal of the trip. Everything about the experience was wonderful food, ambiance, staff.


After lunch, we walked outside to the viewing deck to see the animals. I wanted to take DD and DH to see the hotel but they were tired so we ubered back to WBC. We relaxed and took a walk around the lake. They have swings facing the lake hanging from an arbor of the sweetest smelling flowering vine. We were so lucky that the weather was just perfect to enjoy every day in the Florida sun. (Usually we are here in August and are over heated, sweaty and looking for rain storms and sometimes March is not great weather so we really appreciated the sunny 80 degree week.)

So, back to ESPN for DS night game. Although they didn’t win it was nice watching the game and special

when the Disney fireworks were going off in the background.



We went for a swim when we returned back to the condo. What a relaxing day! I am not use to such day in Orlando! We were having such a great time. Everyone was happy and enjoying the trip. I was so relieved.

 

[michelepa]

Day 6 (3/30) GF Café and O’Hana
So, today was a down day planned for my family. I was have difficulty being in Orlando with nothing planned for the day but I kept reminding myself this wasn't my trip. By the time the three of us were ready to leave the condo it was around 10am and I was in the mood for breakfast which was supposed to be served until 11pm at the Wyndham Grande Hotel’s Tesoro Cove (according to their website); but alas, they were cleaning up and there was no food out a bit before 10am.

GF Café
No worries, it gave us a chance to Uber over to the Grand Floridian and eat at the Café. I love the Grand Floridian! The last time I was there with DH was in 1997, and before that in 1994 for our Honeymoon. DD and I stayed at the GF, August 2016~ her posh girls trip and she loved it. So no complaints about heading over to GF. It continues to be my favorite Disney hotel, especially since the sad changes to the Poly. We were hungry so we bee lined it to the Café. DH was quite impressed with how well DD knew her way around GF. As always, every CM stopped to say hello. We were seated quickly and had a very nice waitress. The menu had the perfect brunch selections. DH ordered the French onion soup and omelet. DD ordered French toast and bacon and I ordered the lobster benedict. Everyone was happy with their meal. We then looked around the stores and of course had to make a purchase at Basin. Bath bomb with confetti Mickey’s for DD.


We then Ubered back to condo where DD and I hit the pool while DH did some wash and went to pick up DS at CBR.

Yay, the family portion of the vacation was to begin! We didn't speak much to DS while he'd been with his team since he was busy before and after the games and he was very short on the phone when we called him. (I felt better when his girlfriend told me he was short on the phone with her as well when they spoke.) He looked well when we saw him on the field so that would have to suffice as far as contact. DH immediately removed all of sons dirty clothing from the sealed part of his suitcase and threw it in the washer. Thank God for that washer dryer because they hadn't washed the uniforms after the game the day before so things were quite stinky! We all showered and were ready to leave when DH remembered we needed to bring DS magic band because he heard that the boys all have some ridiculous amount of quick service meals on their magic bands which could be converted into snacks at the Poly after dinner at O’Hana. I chose O’Hana because my son loves to eat at Fogo De Chao at home and I had heard O’Hana was somewhat similar and everyone always raves about it on the boards, as do my co-workers. Plus, I wanted to reminisce with DS about our Mother/Son trips to the Poly when he was 4 and 5 (11-12 years ago).


O’Hana
We were 5 minutes late for our reservation (because DH insisted on waiting for wash to be done so he could throw it in the dryer) but thankfully it wasn't a problem. The area outside the restaurant was packed with people. They were everywhere. I would not be happy if I was staying at the resort and was trying to navigate through to the monorail. Last we stayed here there was not such congestion. My fam. was doubting my sanity as well as all these other people. We got our beeper and thankfully only waited five minutes. Some people looked like they’d been camped out there for a while as the waitress came around bringing them a second drink and their kids had their toys sprawled out on the floor and tables like they were at home.

We were completely unimpressed with the food at O'Hana. The salad was fine but the appetizers are all dumped in one bowl on the table. The presentation is awful it looked like table scraps. For the money this place charges i want separate bowls each containing one type of appetizer. The pot stickers were hard on the edges, the wings were very sweet and fatty, the lo mein was ok as were the veggies so I dug them out of the bowl. The entrees were not much better dried skewered chicken, the shrimp was ok but its true everything is covered in what tasted like the same sweet sauce. I don’t remember them coming around with any type of pork or beef as some have described on the DIS. The highlight was the bread pudding. My kids don’t like bread pudding so they ate the chocolate cupcakes Yes, it’s all you can eat but how much mediocre food do you want to eat? And the only entertainment for the hour and half we were there was the man with the ukulele but it’s so loud you really can’t hear him I just don’t understand why this place is so popular. I can find somewhere alot better to spend $230.00 for the four if us to eat- even at Disney! I will not eat here again and would never recommend. When I got back to work I told my coworker my experience at O’Hana and she admitted that the food had gone down in the last couple years. I asked why does she keep going then and she responded it’s expensive and they go because they have free dining?! Not sure why she recommended it for us~ even if I had free dining I’d pass on this place.

Not only big thumbs down on the restaurant but my son couldn’t believe the changes to the lobby. (Didn’t have the heart to show him the new bungalows.) But he did remember, and enjoyed seeing, his favorite guy in the gift store.

Poly has lost alot of its luster for us. I cropped the kids out of this photo. DS was on the one side and he printed this photo and put it next to his 5 year old self with the tiki man.


On our way out we stopped at the upstairs gift shop to see about DS magic band dining credits. I don’t remember how many quick serve credits he had left but it worked out to be 27 snack credits. Geez I just kept thinking about the $100’s of dollars DH had spent buying the team waters and power drinks for 7 games at ESPN. There’s got to be a better way. So the kids picked out tons of junk food that we didn’t need and some PowerAde drinks that I don’t like them having unless they are sweating while playing a sport. I’ve got to come up with a better plan for next year with his magic band. He insisted that he used it to pay for every meal but no one really explained to them how to use it and how to check and see what was on it. Honors math does not equate to higher level Disney dining plan physics.



Back to WBC for some shuffle board until it got dark and then we all headed over to the pool at the hotel again for a swim. From the pool we watched the Disney fireworks. How can anyone say this place isn’t in the Disney bubble!

 

[michelepa]

Day 7 (3/31) Sea World
After making myself a cup of coffee I took a walk up to the grill and got us breakfast burritos and tots. It was a bit misty, looked like the rain clouds were just breaking up but I didn’t need to open any of my $1 ponchos this trip!


I know you are all tired of hearing this but it is just so nice in this condo. Everyone could get ready and eat at their own pace, but not too leisurely we had a full day after all. I don’t know how there was more laundry to fill the washer but DH threw in a load.


Ubered over to Sea World around 9:30. I knew I could use the Discovery Cove tickets purchased online; but I went to guest services just to make sure I didn’t somehow mess up our Discovery Cove entry for tomorrow. Not much of a wait to get tickets sorted and we were on our way.


I really wanted the family to see the shows so we got a map with the show times.

We did get thrown off a bit missing some things because we had to by pass them to get to the shows and then we never back tracked. But, I promised this trip was to be loose so I went with the flow. We stopped to see the flamingos

and pelicans




and then rays. We didn’t bother feeding the rays because we have done it numerous times at our local aquarium. DH then went to ride Manta with DD. They said it was meh and could not compete with their now all-time favorite Hulk coaster. I waited with DS, who does not like coasters. We then went to see the manatees. I find them fascinating and could sit and watch them for longer than my family wanted. On a time schedule, we headed over to the Blue Horizons dolphin show. I think it was the last day for this show. It was really great. We all enjoyed it. I hope the new show Dolphin Days is as good. Afterward, we headed over to the Shamu show. I know it’s across the park and normally I would wait for a later show but I wasn’t certain how long we would be at the park and I really wanted my kids to see this show before it’s gone. I remember the San Diego show vividly from over 20 years ago and wanted them to experience it. The show was terrific. The Orcas are beautiful. We didn’t sit as close as I wanted but we would see them closer later in the day so I just did what the family wanted. We did back track a bit but by this time things were a bit busier in the park and no one wanted to wait 45 minutes for the Atlantis log flume or 30 minutes for Antarctica. There was only a short wait for Kraken so DD and DH went on. We then went to the way too hokey sea lion and otter show. We loved the animals but the show absolutely needs a redo. We went back to see and feed the crazy sea lions.



I loved this area and love feeding the animals. Then we went over and fed the sharks while DD and DH went on Mako.




Afterwards, we headed over to Shamu stadium this time to dine with Shamu. We arrived around 3:15 and were let in soon after. It didn’t matter what time you lined up, your seat had already been assigned. We did not have a table next to the tank, which disappointed me since I’d made reservations pretty well in advance. As soon as we sat down we were told to help ourselves to the buffet. There was a nice selection of food. There actually was a great kids buffet and many adults were enjoying the selections. On the adult buffet there were rolls, salads, fresh fruit, chicken, fish (too fishy), meat and pasta.- there was more but I can’t remember. Unfortunately this trip I didn’t go crazy with pics because my family is so anti-picture but it would have spiced up this TR and helped my memory! (Next year I will take more photos!) The server brought us drinks, even wine and beer was included in the price, so I had a glass of wine. The dessert buffet was plentiful and delicious also!
I have better photos but I wanted you to see how close we were. I am going to attempt to upload a video of some of the Orca's tomorrow we'll see if it works.



After we ate, only then did the presentation with the orcas start. In fact, the Orcas were not in the tank next to us while we ate~ which was disappointing. Indeed, only when the presentation was about to start did they move them into the tank. At that point, two tables were still empty near the glass near our table so I asked if we could move up for the show and the server let us. So back to the Orca’s, it was a nice presentation. I really thought $29.00 for the buffet, wine and beer and the Orca presentation was a great price and I would recommend it.






If you’d like to go I’d go sooner than later because the server told a group next to us that it’s sad how the attendance has dropped dramatically at SeaWorld. She said they used to sell out 4 or 5 Dine with Shamu seatings and now they couldn’t sell out one (and the dining is no longer every day). She told them that she used to be in the luau show but that closed due to low attendance and she moved over to Shamu.






DS had seen people eating this soft serve ice cream in a pineapple outside the Shamu dining and asked if he could get one. He’d eaten a lot at the buffet and had a bit of the dessert buffet but it’s vacation and the concoction had looked yummy, plus DH wanted a Starbucks which is also sold in the shop. Well, they only sell Starbucks coffee no green tea so I just got DS the pineapple. It really was good.
I know they are in the picture but I really didn't take many photos that don't include them (plus DD has on sunglasses and DS is in profile so that doesn't count as a real pic of them anyway). Just zoom in on the delicious looking dessert which included vanilla and pineapple ice creams and slices of pineapple. Wish we weren't so stuffed but DS isn't a sharer that's probably why he waited until after we'd eaten! I did get DD a sample of pineapple ice cream - hence the empty spoon she's holding



Afterwards, we went to the Wild Artic Trek, which was a bit depressing- that big area and it looked like the belugas were in the tiniest of tanks.

The family was ready to head out. Although I am glad we went to Sea World I don’t think we’ll need to return any time in the future. I wonder how low the attendance would be if admission didn’t come free with Discovery Cove tickets?




We ubered back to condo relaxed, swam and got pizza, salads and garlic knots downstairs next to our pool for dinner where they were having karaoke. For dessert, the kids had some of their 27 snack credits!

 

[michelepa]

 

[michelepa]

 

[michelepa]

Above are some more Sea World photos

First photo is from dining with Shamu and other two are the seals we were feeding.

 

[michelepa]

Day 8 4/1 Discovery Cove

Sorry I got tied up with things and forgot I never finished this trip report. Thanks to so many for checking in...


We were all looking forward to this day and swimming with the dolphins. I was worried about scheduling DC on the last full day of our vacation but I had no choice since my son was joining us afternoon Thursday it left us only Friday and Saturday for Seaworld and DC~ and Friday was the only dine with Shamu day. Originally, I had booked the DC day for Friday and that took forever to reserve online. Unfortunately, it was an excruciatingly long call with guest services to get it switched to Saturday. Notably, after you make your reservation you can only switch the date of your reservation once free of charge so I was hoping everything would work out with my date switch and it did!


The day was beautiful, no one was sick (always seems to occur at the most inopportune time) and we were all up early so we could be at DC no later than 7:30am. Good thing is we didn’t need to eat breakfast before leaving!


Ubered over to DC and we were checked in by 7:30. The check-in area is like a beautiful lobby in the islands and really set the tone for the day. They have plenty of staff to check you in. We were given the second swim in the morning which meant 9:45 check-in. We were then directed to the buffet restaurant where we had a wonderful and very relaxing breakfast on the patio. Anything you could want was on the menu and you could have as much of it as you wanted. Looking at my photos, I see that we had scrambled eggs, home fries, bacon and fruit cup and DH had two hard boiled eggs and yogurt.


Regrettably, I did not take many pictures at Discovery Cove and although we purchased the beautiful, albeit expensive, photo/dvd package for over $200 I cannot share those photos with you under penalty of death. But if you get a holiday card for me those photos will be front and center!


So back to the day at DC, after breakfast, we went to pick out some beach chairs by the dolphin swim area. This was a good choice because after the morning swims you could watch the dolphins in their areas playing with their trainers. It took us a bit of time to get our bearings. We got the towels from the bathrooms, found the lockers and put all our things in and then used the suntan lotion provided by DC because it was animal safe.


All sorted, we headed over to the snorkel area. I wasn’t really sure how my kids would be there first time snorkeling but they put on their masks and breathing tubes and were off! Wow was that area so awesome. It was best early in the day before the crowds came. Throughout the day we spent about 2½ hours in there total and every time through we saw some new type of fish. Luckily I wore my waterproof watch so I didn’t have to keep leaving the snorkeling to check the time.


Almost 9:45 so DD DS and I headed over to the pavilion where they had us sign papers and went over some of the rules.(DH wasn’t interested so he sat and watched.) One main thing they spoke about was that jewelry and piercings needed to be removed. Everyone seemed to have planned ahead because I didn’t see anyone who needed to remove earrings/piercings. We were then assigned an instructor and broke off into 15 groups of about 9 or 10. Our instructor took us to our designated area and talked alittle more about the dolphins and how our dolphin swim would work. The experience was nicely organized and we did not feel rushed. They took a lot of photos which of course were awesome and of course we bought them for over $200! I did have the presence of mind when they were taking the photos of the three of us to have them take some with just the kids because I’d told them both this would be the Christmas card picture. Having a beautiful Christmas card photo of the both of them with the dolphin from this vacation alone is worth the money! Actually, the photos all came out awesome although I could have done without a poster size photo of the three of us and the dolphin~ my kids with the dolphin would have been perfect! We also loved the kissing the dolphin photos and the swimming with the dolphin while holding its fin. With the photos also comes a video of the dolphin swim. After the swim the kids wanted to go back and snorkel which we did. I wanted to go with them rather than order the photos right away. When I went back later to order them they said I would have to go to the front desk but they suggested not waiting until the end of the day because the lines would be long. DH said he would go and handle the photos so I could go back and snorkel with the kids.


After another hour of snorkeling, we were all getting hungry so decided to go back to the restaurant and have lunch. The array of choices at lunch was also extensive. I’m not a big burger lover but for some reason I was craving one so I had the burger, green salad and potato salad for lunch with a glass of beer. They had all sorts of hot platters, sandwiches, salads. We all enjoyed our lunch. Afterwards, I convinced the kids to go on the lazy river. As many people have posted the bottom of this is rough in places and DD did scrape her toe. I loved going through the aviary and wanted to get of the river and walk around a bit but the kids just wanted to float around and we were having such a nice time together I just stayed with them. It was really difficult to find the monkeys and we had to wait a long while for the otters to pop out.


We made our way out after the second time around and went to get some snacks. At the snack stands they had vanilla/chocolate ice cream cups, soft pretzels, warm chocolate chip cookies, gold fish crackers, different types of potato chips and plantain chips. They had alcoholic and regular slushies as well as beer, sports drinks, sodas, lemonade, ice tea and bottled water. My kids were in their glory! After a snack the kids wanted to head back over to the lazy river but it was getting close to my southwest check in time so DH went over with the kids while I finished my adult slushy and got my phone from the locker. By this point the dolphin swims were all finished and the trainers were out there in the pools with the dolphins bringing out toys for each area. Oh my gosh how they loved those toys. They were just like little kids.


Thankfully, I set my alarm because I was not paying attention to the time. I got us in section B 15 and 16 so that was good. I’ve never had problem finding a seat with DD on a Southwest plane but I am always worried. Now it seems so many people pay for the advanced seating section A seats are already gone before the 24 hour window opens up. I just hate paying that nickel and diming stuff.


So those guys came back and got another snack and then we headed one last time to snorkel. I could not get my kids out of there~ they loved snorkeling so much. It was 5:30 so we really did need to get moving. We cleaned up are beach chair table area~ many people just left there trash sitting around which was ridiculous to me. You'd think people who cared enough to spend than kind of money to snorkel and play with dolphins would be a bit more concerned about the animals then to have their trash laying around.


The bathrooms have showers with shower gel, shampoo and conditioner and the changing areas in front part of the shower area. Also provided are nice hairdryers. We got ourselves cleaned up and I picked up the photos package while DH and kids looked around gift shop.

I have to say we did many fun things on this trip but my kids most memorable activity, and mine, was swimming with the dolphins. Although expensive, if you can skimp in other ways to save and go to DC and swim with the dolphins you will not regret your decision and the money you spent.


No problem getting an uber to pick us up in the parking lot back to WBC.


We packed our bags when we got back to the condo. Always a sad night the last night.


I ordered pizza and salads and we ate in the room and then went for a swim at the hotel pool before early bed.

 

[michelepa]

I thought I would include some pictures of the WBC kitchen supplies since there are many questions about what is provided.

 

[michelepa]

Day 9 Boys to Tampa Rays Game/Girls to Boardwalk Area
Boys were happily up early to meet Tony Hinds’ driver downstairs at 9am to take them to Tropicana Stadium. What luck that there were two opening games that day and one was in St. Pete’s (an hourish away from us). Plus, the Rays happened to be playing DH and DS favorite team~ the Yankees. (DS and DH are on a quest to visit all the baseball stadiums together so Tampa is now checked off the list!).


So, many of you think I am crazy in not renting a car for the boys to take to the game. Indeed, it was expensive to take a car but for us it was the best decision. DH, although he thinks he is excellent at directions, is absolutely not and our invariably our nav system works until we need it to. Plus, I didn’t want my DS having to deal any of DH’s driving issues and there was so little time to get to airport after game. I didn’t want DH trying to also drop off a rental car. It was money well spent!


There was traffic as those of you know who have driven from Orlando to St. Pete so they were relieved to leave when they did. Although Tropicana stadium is nothing spectacular, they like getting to games when gates open so they can watch batting practice, check out the food selections getting their lunch and soak in the stadium. One thing for sure, we knew the game would start on time regardless of the weather (no rain delays with a roof)!

They left a bit before the end of the game. First time ever DS must stay until the end but they were cutting it close as it was. They took an Uber from stadium to Tampa airport. Thankfully they left the game when they did because the police were just getting ready to close down the roads near the stadium.

Although the boys were salty about the Yankees loss they were even saltier that their plane was delayed more than an hour flying out of Tampa!


For me and DD we finished packing the last minute items and I weighed all the luggage to ensure we were under the 50 pound weight limit for each bag –which we were! We each had a backpack and I had a small duffle carryon with all our purchases.


Luckily, we were flying Southwest so DD and I each could have two pieces of luggage so DH and DD could leave their bags with us to bring on and DS coach took the baseball gear back with them.

I called the front desk, unsure of what needed to be done in the condo besides the trash/recyclables before checking out. Nothing really just leave everything from the morning in the dishwasher the clearing people would run it. Even though I didn’t sign out the towels they asked that I bring them to the activities desk which was a bit of a pain. She had bell services come up with a cart and help us with the luggage. They offered to reweigh the luggage with their calibrated scale and it all passed!

We left the luggage with bell services and ubered over to the Boardwalk. DD had never been here before. I left the morning up to her as to what she wanted to do so I had no reservations or really thoughts about the day. In hindsight, I wished we’d gone to Beaches and Cream for early lunch ~ I’ve been dying to try that place! The uber dropped us off at the Boardwalk Inn we then walked the boardwalk over to the Beach and Yacht Clubs and made some purchases at the Beach Club gift shop. It was early so the area was disappointingly quiet. We ended up at the Big River Grille and Brewing Works. The food was fine but not memorable. I know we split an appetizers and I got some sort of salad~ DD’s chicken alfredo was very good, I tried some of that!

Here is DD with her green backpack on the Boardwalk.
We ubered back to WBC and we were just lucky that our driver had an SUV and agreed to take us to the airport. As soon as we pulled up the bell services guys recognized us and ran to get the luggage. Our uber driver told me there was no need to get out that the boys would pull down the seat and put our luggage in the back. I’d given them a nice tip when we left but still wanted to give another tip. Glad I did get out because we almost stole someone’s pillow that must have fallen onto our cart!


No problem getting to the airport and curbside check in was a breeze even with all that darn luggage! TSA pre-check was not really that great departing Orlando. In fact, the TSA line seemed a bit longer than the regular line. Oh well you just can’t win with the airline. We were there in plenty of time to get a Starbucks but the machines weren’t working for lattes. We then purchased some snacks and trash magazines and gave out some of our gum because newbies don’t know that you cannot purchase gum at the Orlando airport. Take heed people! Our good deeds brought us good carma. Our flight left on time and flight home was pleasant.

I was not sad to leave this time because I know, God willing, for the next five years I will be visiting Disney to watch DS and then DD play ball at ESPN. There is something very satisfying about that!