The ABCs of a New 'Ohana Adventure-G is for: Greetings From Teppan, Good-Byes, and Good News!!! - COMPLETED 1/7

[Steppesister]

So different from normal how?

har har.

Is overwhelmed the same as underwhelmed?

You what's funny? I literally almost wrote that myself. Overwhelmed with the volume; completely underwhelmed with the quality.

all teasing aside, love your TRs and writing, so while I enjoy planning, enjoy reading as well.

Thanks, Doc!!

People call me nuts all the time...has nothing to do with Disney.

Oooh...that was something I wasn't expecting to see in a TR.

LOL!! You never know what to expect around these parts, Partner!

Castle or "wienie"????
Getting into vacation groove...yipee!

Although I misspelled it, it really is a thing that I"ve known about for years (they taught us about it in Disney University when I went in college).

http://theoryofthemeparks.blogspot.com/2015/08/wayfinding-in-themed-design-weenie.html

Yay! Love me some Raglan Road.

I'm not a big fan of shopping, so DTD is not my favorite place. With that said, my favorite thing of DTD is gone now. It was Disney Quest. I grew up on all the (now vintage) video games and it was great being able to spend a day there with my kids.

I know a LOT of folks were super disappointed when they took out Quest. I"d never once even set foot in there, so have no idea what it even looked like.

I like the Lego store, but almost never buy there...my niece works for Lego and can get a discount and since the prices are so high, I'll take the discount every time.

OH nice!! Discounts are awesome!

When I'm not doing keto, my favorite place is Vivoli il Gelato. They only have two stores...the other is in Florence Italy and we've been to both. When i'm doing keto, blaze pizza is one of my favorites because I just don't eat the crust. For sit down meal, I'm like your son...agree on his choice.

I've heard of the Vivoli but I'm not a huge ice cream fan. Usually by the time I have eaten a meal I'm pretty full, although, I do believe last time I was in DTD, I DID get one as I walked back to the boat. Gelato even, but possibly not Vivoli? This was from a cart, and it was pretty good too. Raglan's always a winner because of the show.

 

[Steppesister]

I could not agree more!!!!

I hope they have a souvie mug to pick up this time.

 

[Steppesister]

docsoliday1 said:
For sit down meal, I'd like your son...

Whoops...
I'm like your son not I'd.
One letter makes a HUGE difference.

That was funny! I've done stuff like that fairly often and that right there is what brings life and fun to any TR!!

 

[Steppesister]

When my parents, kids, and I went together DTD was our first thing to so also . We drive so I told them the more we stopped the less time there so don’t drink too much and there is a snack bag in the car ! We usually went to Wolfgang Puck Express with an occasional switch to Earl of Sandwich. Now that I have been going solo , I try to eat somewhere new. Last time I went to Chicken Guy one night and Pepe ( quick service by Jaleo ) another . I still haven’t tried Blaze pizza or Dluxe burger so they are still on the list. Oh and I had the bubble waffle cone - delish - and a Frozcato at basket at wine bar George ! Before , we would only be there for 4 park days so first night was only time we hit DTD. Now , I stay a little longer and try a slower pace that includes more time at DTD .

Another tradition of DTD first! YAY!! I like your strategies of telling them to hold it! LOLOLOL! We'd do EoS as well since it was cheap and we (since we we're light eaters) could split. And yes, I go alone now too and love trying out all the new places but haven't tried either of the ones you mention. The Frozcato is DEFINITELY on my list for this trip coming up! Can't wait!! And yes, same with us. Back then it was shorter trips so had to maximize our time at those. And like you, with longer trips, I end up at DTD a bit more.

 

[Steppesister]

I really love heading to Disney Springs on arrival night! Especially now with all of the awesome options. My fave is definitely the Edison for a drink!

Another vote for DTD on arrival night! There are SO many great places now! And yes, as you know, the Edison is my jam! Love it there!

 

[docsoliday1]

That was funny! I've done stuff like that fairly often and that right there is what brings life and fun to any TR!!

Another thing I was thinking I think I'd like your son since he has good taste, but then again that could have been misconstrued also.

So, just suffice it to say I like Raglan Road also and I think I might get along with your son since we agree on that place.
Clear as mud?

 

[vamassey1]

Yes, I am sure you are right! Seems like a lifetime ago, doesn't it?!

Yes it does. I still miss Jordy.

Interesting about Tusker. I guess the food options just didn't work for you? ?

It was a combination of things. The food choices, where we sat and the character interaction or lack there of. I did enjoy my fruity cocktail and was in a more relaxed mood when we walked out. I enjoyed breakfast much more.

Ft. Wilderness for me although I don't know if I'd ever stay there again unless I was in a camper with a bed.

You could try the cabins.

Now that is certainly a first! I guess I didn't notice a particular signature scent of Disney bathrooms! LOL!! I definitely know it's possible because our bathroom at work has a smell too, and I'm pretty sure it's the hand soap used. I like it!

Check out that bathroom smell especially in DTD and let me know what you think. I first realized in on our 2012 trip. We stayed out first night at on of the DTD hotels and walked to DTD. I had to stop at the restroom as soon as we got there. When I walked in and smelled it I knew I was home.

I used to love Earl of Sandwich and it was our go-to first meal for several trips, but now I just want to try other places and haven't made it back there.

After Earl opened I did alternate between WGE and EOS. We would split up and meet back up to eat.

I'm not a huge shopper and would rather spend my time watching the excellent music acts, but do enjoy at least a little browsing.

I forgot we always try to catch some of the entertainment on the big stage.

 

[Steppesister]

Another thing I was thinking I think I'd like your son since he has good taste, but then again that could have been misconstrued also.

So, just suffice it to say I like Raglan Road also and I think I might get along with your son since we agree on that place.
Clear as mud?

Yes it does. I still miss Jordy.

Me too. I get to Kentucky often enough and if I were to try, I do think I could find out where he's at. It'd be fun to say hi someday.

It was a combination of things. The food choices, where we sat and the character interaction or lack there of. I did enjoy my fruity cocktail and was in a more relaxed mood when we walked out. I enjoyed breakfast much more.

Yeah, just sounds like a whole package let down. I get that.

You could try the cabins.

True, but for one person, I"m not sure how that'd work.

Check out that bathroom smell especially in DTD and let me know what you think. I first realized in on our 2012 trip. We stayed out first night at on of the DTD hotels and walked to DTD. I had to stop at the restroom as soon as we got there. When I walked in and smelled it I knew I was home.

I will definitely do that! I'm totally intrigued now!

After Earl opened I did alternate between WGE and EOS. We would split up and meet back up to eat.

MMM! Good plan!

I forgot we always try to catch some of the entertainment on the big stage.

One of my favorite memories of all was when we joined in a dance party in that area. My kids were so full of joy and just loved it!

 

[Steppesister]

E is for: Exploring AK and EPCOT - Day 2
​

Mornings suck.


Except when you’re at Disney and headed to your favorite park. We'll be up at 5:30 to make sure RD happens and, after much warning, with a sprinkling of threatening, to the younger set, they agreed that it is indeed important to get up and out early to AK. As with most Disney planners who don’t want to, you know, wait in horrendous lines (and by that I mean anything over 20 minutes) plan. A lot of planning went into the 9-day itinerary. A. Lot. EMH’s, park hours, a balance of time in each park, who wanted to do what, extra stuff we’re doing, where we wanted to eat… all of that, went into the mix and in the end, I simply couldn’t wait for the kids to see and experience Pandora and FOP first thing of the trip. They are going to be as blown away as I was… and continue to be. Having done RD three times in all of my last trips, I can affirm that the time they let you in and line you up at Pandora is WELL before the advertised time. Word to the wise: line up at 6:15 at security for a 6:30 tapstile entry to the Pandora holding area, and a 7:00, or just before, entry to the actual FOP queue.

It is NOT for the weak or faint-hearted. If you cannot jog, risk being jostled, have a short temper, or are claustrophobic, sit this out. No really. It was terrifying. I won’t do it again alone but will once with my kids.



That's where I ended up after jogging the 35 miles in. But, after all the families who "had to catch up" and then cut, I was a bit further back. Karma's a B though, and there's more to the story that I'll tell on my other TR later today if you're interested.

We’ve got FiPs on 2 other days and we’ll all be happy with that. But on our first day, and being our first ride of the trip, we’ll do the AK Early Morning Marathon and hopefully pound that out quickly and move on to get Navi, a Safari, EE (probably single rider), and Dinosaur- in that order- done before breakfast. I imagine I’ll be able to talk the kids into a cinnamon roll and a breakfast sandwich at Kusafiri’s before hopping to EPCOT for the rest of the day. The goal is to be on a bus by 11:00.

Sadly, EPCOT’s FW has lost its once former luster for me and only one of the rides is a must-do every trip. I do enjoy TT but am sad that the better theming was replaced. I stink at building cars. Soarin’ is a joke now (quite literally), and Nemo is, at best, a good nap location. Which leaves SE which I still like a lot. Loads of still-to-be-discovered details in there. That said, I made FiPs for SE, Soarin’, and Figment but may or may not use them all. The kids, believe it or not, want to do LwtL (they loved the Behind the Seeds Tour we did last trip!) so we’ll maybe squeeze that in. There are quite a few F&W kiosks near the Imagination Pavilion, so we’ll probably just start our pig out there before that 1:40 FiP. After that’s done, we’ll start making our way around WS going counter-clockwise winding up in Mexico for an ADR at San Angel.

This is a new place for me and, while I’m quite aware of its spectacularly mixed reviews, I am mostly going there for the theming and the simple fact that I’ve not done it before. I have heard that the service is beyond sucky, and the food is at best mediocre, but how often does one get to eat anything by a Disney-real volcano with boats floating by, or under a faux twilight sky? Who knows… maybe we’ll have a completely wonderful surprise in it? At the very least, I can come back with a thorough review of it and let you all know.

We will definitely be heading back right after our meal since we have a 4:15 AM wakeup call the next morning. SW:GE awaits!! Please, oh please, oh PLEASE, Skyliner be running!!!!!! Because, I'm not going to lie, that walk from WS to the buses is excruciating.

Day 2 Must-Do’s: 1) Start my Shop-Around-the-World (more on this later for my new readers) 2) Grab a pin from the F&W Festival 3) See VOL 4) Start the Remy Hide and Squeak Hunt. 5) Not die getting on FOP

Your turn! Have you been to the Food and Wine Festival? If so, what has been your most memorable (good or bad) dish? And more importantly, how can I design my car to beat my son?

 

[glennbo123]

Back on your earlier question, DTD must do's...we always have to go to Erin McKenna's Bakery so that Judy can get some gluten-free goodies to have in the suite. I'm usually heading to Guest Services to get a TiW card or some other ticket-related must-do.

Having done RD three times in all of my last trips, I can affirm that the time they let you in and line you up at Pandora is WELL before the advertised time. Word to the wise: line up at 6:15 at security for a 6:30 tapstile entry to the Pandora holding area, and a 7:00, or just before, entry to the actual FOP queue.

This is good info. I just booked my fastpasses a few days ago and of course I couldn't get anything for FoP until toward the end of the trip. Oh, how the old fastpass system was so much better than Fastpass+!

Your turn! Have you been to the Food and Wine Festival?

No. At least, not yet...but come October!

 

[Steppesister]

Back on your earlier question, DTD must do's...we always have to go to Erin McKenna's Bakery so that Judy can get some gluten-free goodies to have in the suite. I'm usually heading to Guest Services to get a TiW card or some other ticket-related must-do.

YES! I do absolutely remember that about Judy's need for goodies there. I believe that @MeghanEmily makes a stop or two there on her trips?

As for Guest Services at DTD... I"ve spend more time there than the average Bear. Grr....! When you get escorted into a private room, you KNOW you're gonna be camped there a long, LONG time..

This is good info. I just booked my fastpasses a few days ago and of course I couldn't get anything for FoP until toward the end of the trip. Oh, how the old fastpass system was so much better than Fastpass+!

I have no idea why Brook was lucky enough to score us one on our Day 2 of our trip, but I'll take it! WOOT! Nevertheless, The Running of the Bulls takes place WAY early. Be near the front, and you MIGHT end up 50 back (if you're as slow as I am).

No. At least, not yet...but come October!

NICE!!! So many yummy things to choose from!

 

[glennbo123]

NICE!!! So many yummy things to choose from!

I got a nifty app for my phone "WDW Food&Wine", that looks like it'll be of great use at F&W. But Judy is not happy about the low number of gluten-free options. And even some of those she won't get because she needs to shy away from sugar and carbs. I've got 30+ items on my wish list; she's got about 8. Yikes.

 

[Steppesister]

I got a nifty app for my phone "WDW Food&Wine", that looks like it'll be of great use at F&W. But Judy is not happy about the low number of gluten-free options. And even some of those she won't get because she needs to shy away from sugar and carbs. I've got 30+ items on my wish list; she's got about 8. Yikes.

Oh dear! Not many at all.

I’ve heard about the app... might check it out.

 

[Steppesister]

Another thing I was thinking I think I'd like your son since he has good taste, but then again that could have been misconstrued also.

So, just suffice it to say I like Raglan Road also and I think I might get along with your son since we agree on that place.
Clear as mud?

It think I missed this earlier.

LOL!! That's even funnier! And yes, definitely could be misconstrued.

I think you would... I'm sure you'll meet him on the 16th and he'll be good dinner conversation should you care to join us at Teppan.

 

[docsoliday1]

Just came across this and thought you'd like to know since several of your favorites are on there...
https://www.wdwinfo.com/news-storie...s-for-magical-dining-month-at-disney-springs/

 

[Steppesister]

Just came across this and thought you'd like to know since several of your favorites are on there...
https://www.wdwinfo.com/news-storie...s-for-magical-dining-month-at-disney-springs/

Oh thanks!! I had no idea!!! I will look into this tonight!! (During my unexpected night shift.)

 

[Terra Nova guy]

I remember you said the chicken was SUPER salty, correct.

Yes I thought my chicken was very salty. But the girls all enjoyed their meals so maybe it was just me. I don’t think any of us is dying to go back.

 

[Captain_Oblivious]

If you’re here and reading, you likely enjoy the planning part of a Disney Vacation just as much as the next reader. Some might call it a hobby and fun, others will call you nuts, addicted, silly, <insert your own mocking voice here>.

That's fine. They can enjoy missing out on the good rides and being forced to go to the Country Bear Jamboree on their trip.

I get checked in and make my way to DTD. (For my new readers, I am aware it’s Disney Springs now, but DTD is easier to type, and I like to give its former iteration a hat tip when I can.)

Story checks out.

Raglan Road. My son fell in love with it last time we went in 2016 and wants to go back to his favorite meal to start the trip. Frankly, I love it too. What’s not to love about Irish Dancing and amazing live music??

Have never eaten there. Someday I need to fix that.

Before dinner, depending on how long ME and check-in takes, we’ll probably have time to squeeze in a drink and appie at Jock’s. Love that place and it’s right across the way.

And I'm dying to get over there. It's just never worked out.

What is your favorite thing to do or place to go at DTD?

I'm kinda boring. Most of the shops don't interest me, so I usually just end up at World of Disney if there's something I wanted in the parks earlier but didn't pick up. I wish the art store had more affordable offerings.

I'd like to spend more time there and try more of the restaurants. Really liked Homecomin' there and I want to get to Jock's. Someday.

 

[vamassey1]

Mornings suck.


Except when you’re at Disney and headed to your favorite park.

Yes!!!!

It is NOT for the weak or faint-hearted. If you cannot jog, risk being jostled, have a short temper, or are claustrophobic, sit this out. No really. It was terrifying. I won’t do it again alone but will once with my kids.

This brings back memories of the opening day of Pandora. I did post FB life video while we were headed to FOP with the masses.

I imagine I’ll be able to talk the kids into a cinnamon roll and a breakfast sandwich at Kusafiri’s before hopping to EPCOT for the rest of the day. The goal is to be on a bus by 11:00.

You have a great plan for hitting the thrill rides and grabbing some grub.

The kids, believe it or not, want to do LwtL (they loved the Behind the Seeds Tour we did last trip!) so we’ll maybe squeeze that in.

Family favorite for us.

This is a new place for me and, while I’m quite aware of its spectacularly mixed reviews, I am mostly going there for the theming and the simple fact that I’ve not done it before. I have heard that the service is beyond sucky, and the food is at best mediocre, but how often does one get to eat anything by a Disney-real volcano with boats floating by, or under a faux twilight sky? Who knows… maybe we’ll have a completely wonderful surprise in it? At the very least, I can come back with a thorough review of it and let you all know.

We ate here in 2004 and really enjoyed it. DH keeps asking to go back, he really liked the atmosphere and his margarita. There are just so many other places to try. I'm interested to see what you think afterwards.

Please, oh please, oh PLEASE, Skyliner be running!!!!!! Because, I'm not going to lie, that walk from WS to the buses is excruciating.

I'll have my fingers crossed for you.

Your turn! Have you been to the Food and Wine Festival? If so, what has been your most memorable (good or bad) dish? And more importantly, how can I design my car to beat my son?

Can't help you on either of these. I haven't been to F& W yet and I never get to design the car.

 

[pkondz]

Can I get that number from you?

Sorry, it's unlisted.

It was as family friendly as I could muster this time around.

Creative, though.

Mine expires the day after I leave Disney. And I won't be renewing.

Sure...
Because you'll renew after you start your next trip.

I think you'll love it, especially if you are an Indiana Jones fan!

I'm sure I will. Maybe I'll get a chance this upcoming trip, but... not sure.

OH man, that sucks! I had no idea there was even one there, but I DO know that there was one under the castle at Disneyland that I grew up going to. I think it's still there, but moved to Main Street. As kids we'd always talk our parents into buying us a set of Magic Rocks and we'd come home and grow them. LOVED that!

What the heck are Magic Rocks???