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

[Mousemom234]

Oy, I've been neglectful... Catching up now - while cheerfully stealing ideas for my own rapidly upcoming trip

If you’re here and reading, you likely enjoy the planning part of a Disney Vacation just as much as the next reader. <umhmm>
When you get to be my age,<or mine> you really have very few flips left to give. <and most are reserved for bad drivers...>

And now.... your turn! What is your favorite thing to do or place to go at DTD?

Adventurer's Club - r.i.p. Never really done a lot of DtD - it was always sort of an afterthought for us. You know, the place you go when you've run out of park passes, and need to do something before you get on the Tragical Distress-mobile. Hoping to spend more time there this year, as I'll be solo, and DH won't be getting bored with me poking around in shops

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?

Not yet - this will be my first time doing it; hopefully it won't be washed out like our shot at the F&G was a few years ago. Looking forward to doing several items, and some tasty flights. Planning to make a progressive meal out of it Tuesday afternoon.
Not a clue. Haven't ridden since the changes.

And now, it's YOUR turn: Which trail do you prefer- Maharaja or Gorilla Falls? And why?

Maharaja. Bats and cats and (mosaic) elephants, of course & &
The last time we walked it, it was dinnertime - somebody rang a bell -- and tigers showed up from every corner. And I love the bats. I seem to have bad luck on the Gorilla Trail - they're all holding an important meeting on the other side of the bamboo

Or, if you've never been on either of them.... which would you rather do with the evening at AK: wandering in Pandora, ROL, or watching the TOL Awakening? You can only choose one... No, really you can't do all 3 due to timing of park closing now.

Hmm... TOL, I think. I've got 2 AK days scheduled, both have the option of staying late, and a FP for FoP so I might get to wander a bit before heading to the front-ish.
Only been in AK after dark once, and it was downright COLD, so I don't remember much except taking pictures of the ladybug lights and shivering. Pandora wasn't there yet.

Flame Tree & 8 Spoons. While one of us stands in line for:
2 Smoked Pulled Pork Sandwiches,<..snip..>and one of these:
Baked Macaroni & Cheese served with shrimp and sweet chili sauce $6.69

Well - that was our original plan, too - when both of us were going on this trip. Now that it's just me, I think I'll go with just the Mac & Shrimps. I like all 3 items, so together they should be extra good. And the reviews I'm reading tell me I'm correct.

Now it’s YOUR turn: What are your World Showcase traditions? First: Your favorite WS restaurant and, secondly, what non-food-related thing do you love to do? Pick-a-pearl? A certain show or attraction? A particular photo op?

Get a pressed penny from somewhere in WS, hopefully a new one... . Take a picture of the koi in Japan, and sometimes just sit in the upper garden there - it's almost never busy, and so peaceful and serene. I have a small koi pond in the backyard, love to watch them.
I also try to get a handful of pictures of butterflies hanging out in the British gardens.

Do you take afternoon breaks and if so (or not) does it depend on whether you have/had little ones along? Do you find you really do recharge if you do?

Sort of. No little ones. Downtime is scheduled in, but we've almost never gone back to our own resort for it. I find that it does recharge, especially for legs tired of hiking - finding a place to put up feet is like a magic potion. Feet up, drink in hand (alcohol optional), cool and quiet = bliss. DH usually fell asleep for a while.
Our bus luck is about like yours - obviously, they reserve the superior transportation services for Pkondz
Depending on where we are - or going - gives us a direction. MK, we sometimes take a bit of extra time and boat over to WL, hoping to grab a couple comfy chairs in the upper balcony overlooking the back, or Territory Lounge. The Poly is always too crowded, at least inside. Early mid-day, maybe not, but it becomes a holding pen later in the afternoon. At the Contemporary, head down toward the convention center area. If there isn't a convention in progress, there are some nice, quiet, cool and comfy places to just sit and relax, compile trip notes, use a clean and empty restroom...
Epcot or DHS, we usually end up in the Bellvue Room. It doesn't get really busy until after 5pm.
AK, I don't know - we've never spent a whold day there, so a break from there is one of the few times we may go back to our room. I'm planning a Nomad break, thanks to all the loyal fans who've praised it so highly.

I know many of my readers have collections, some very large and some very small or limited. Do you collect anything (in addition to a load of credit card debt) from your trips? Could be free stuff, or paid, any category. Do you display it, use it, wear it, etc...?

One or two pins, remembering something from the trip - new ride, resort, Eeyore pin (for DH), Disney dragons. A holiday ornament each trip, and miscellaneous junk I seem to acquire.
Once upon a time, I used to collect matchbooks and menus.

 

[vamassey1]

I miss the train making the opening entrance,

Me too!!

It helps that none of my “kids” are into character meets or shopping, which leaves plenty of time to hit up rides.

That's gong to save you a lot of time.

The potential of a colossal waste of time and no rest or nap to show for it or, a massive burnout at 9:00 that night because of too many days of burning the candle at both ends. I just don’t know!!!!

Very hard choice. We're planning a break on our Christmas party day.

Do you take afternoon breaks and if so (or not) does it depend on whether you have/had little ones along?

We don't usually plan breaks but on our summer trips we needed them on some days. The heat really takes a lot out of you.

 

[vamassey1]

the plan is to hit up the Harbor House

We love Columbia Harbor House.

DD is up first followed by a Frozen Sing-along. There’s been recent chatter here and there that it’s worth seeing at least once,

It's worth a visit.

then head over to SWGE for our 5:00 entry. We have a 6:00 Oga’s and the rumor is (and maybe someone can confirm this…?) you can enter up to 1 hour early if you have an experience ressie.

I curious to know if this is true too?

Frankly, I’m just there to see the theming and take photos.

Same.

we’ll head to the Droid Depot for the one thing my kids actually showed an ounce of excitement over.

Danielle has a reservation for this too. I think DH will go with her. I don't want to be chasing JP around in here.

What is your favorite night-time show and how do you feel about the several recent changes (Wishes to HEA, Illuminations to whatever it is now (sorry, too lazy to look it up), the changes at HS with a new projection show, etc….)?? Do you often stay for them, or jet so you can get on a bus without a 4-mile long line?

This is a hard one. Yes we like to stay for the night time stuff. Wishes was my favorite and I like HEA but not as much. Illuminations was just ok and I like Fantasmic too, but don't have a favorite anymore.

 

[Djjsperry]

We are going to miss you again! We go in November and will be going again in May.

 

[Captain_Oblivious]

Just catching up...

But, when you pay $50 (each person’s portion) for a droid, doesn’t it make sense to actually…. you know, use it?

I should hope so, at that price!

“What’s fun is that little R2-E2 reacted to the sights at Galaxy’s Edge along with me. He made excited little chirps when we entered the Resistance Forest, and moaned in despair when we wandered too close to the First Order. It was just enough to make him feel alive, like an active participant in the experience.”

I think for what they charge, it should fire lasers back at the enemy.

Figment (I know, I KNOW!)

I’ve been screwed at all 3 in the past with long lines.

Long lines for Figment? Gotta be honest, I've never, ever seen that.

That was worded pretty badly wasn’t it?

When we sat down for one of our initial meetings eons ago, this was the one place, along with Teppan, that my kids were most keen on, otherwise, I think I’d have just skipped a sit down.

I'm sure you'll be pretty full from visiting the kiosks.

My favorite was Wishes. I enjoy HEA, but wish they'd kept more actual fireworks. I guess they names it Wishes because you're always wishing for it to come back. I can skip ROL, and never loved Illuminations (Twice or three times was enough) so usually headed back to FW for a ride or two before hitting the buses to beat the crowds. It's been WAY too long since I've seen Fantasmic (like 10 years?) and my memory of it is blurry at best.

I did like the fact that Wishes had more fireworks. HEA is hard to see if you're not close to the castle. I didn't watch ROL due to bad reviews. I loved the first 2 minutes and last 2 minutes of Illuminations. It was the 5 minutes of spinning globe that did that show in. And I feel like Fantasmic is maybe 4 minutes of performance and 20 minutes of movie clips shown on water. So maybe the new Epcot show will be better?

Your turn: Do you have a less-visited, not-very-popular attraction that is a family favorite or must-do for you that you love to visit simply for scratching that nostalgic itch?

Peter Pan is the one dark ride that feels most like a classic to me. And I really love Tom Sawyer's Island. That's about as low-tech as it gets, but it's timeless for little boys.

I know you might be wondering why not just stay there and go to 'Ohana, but I do have reasons: 1) I just went there in May, and while I do enjoy it, it's not a favorite, 2) We are very small eaters and the price of a buffet per person (no sharing) is astronomical for us.

I really love O'hana, but it sure is expensive.

Do you collect anything (in addition to a load of credit card debt) from your trips? Could be free stuff, or paid, any category. Do you display it, use it, wear it, etc...?

Well, I have a lot of t-shirts, hoodies, and ball caps. I do collect pint glasses from various restaurants around the country that I enjoyed. Those are fun reminders at meal time.

Are you annoyed with that yet? I can keep going… FiP for FOP

FiP for FOP

FiP for FOP

FiP for FOP…

Don't make me break out the taser.

Must do’s for Day 9: 1) Not pay $20 for fudge!

Do you have any last day traditions?

Procrastinate leaving as long as possible!

 

[afwdwfan]

SDD is up first followed by a Frozen Sing-along. There’s been recent chatter here and there that it’s worth seeing at least once

Honest opinion... depends on the historians. They make or break the show with their schtick. If they're good, worth seeing... once. If not, just find a karaoke DVD of the songs from the movie. I did like it the first couple of times we saw it. Now it is a good place for a nap.

Instead of just letting a family go in together and build one, they have a rule of only 2 people per station. Which means for all 4 of us to see it at all, we have to build 2. Sometimes I really hate this company. But, like a lot of you, I’m also as willing to part with my cash as easily as Moses parted the Red Sea. So, naturally, we’ll have 2 droids that we’ll use for an hour and then put on a shelf until they end up at the Goodwill in 10 years.

So much truth here...

What is your favorite night-time show and how do you feel about the several recent changes (Wishes to HEA, Illuminations to whatever it is now (sorry, too lazy to look it up), the changes at HS with a new projection show, etc….)?? Do you often stay for them, or jet so you can get on a bus without a 4-mile long line?

Loved, loved, loved Wishes. HEA is fine... that's it. I don't hate it. I'll make a point to watch it. But it doesn't hold a candle to what Wishes meant to me and how much I enjoyed it. The HEA music is just kind of "meh" to me. I still get goosebumps when I hear that intro from Jiminy Cricket.

I like Illuminations... It's never been my #1 favorite, but I enjoy it. We always make a point to see it. I liked the holiday tag better, because they use enough fireworks at the end that they could blow some small countries completely off the map if they would so choose. The old technology globe part that just drags down the middle of the show makes it far less appealing though. I've felt for a while that an upgrade was needed to this show for that reason alone, so I'm excited to see what is new. I actually was a little perturbed that they got rid of Wishes for HEA when I felt this was the show that needed an upgrade the most.

Rivers of Light... Seen it once. We didn't really make plans to see it this past year. It was fine, but as early as we had to get there to get into the "theater" area it just wasn't the best use of our time. Especially with young kids.

Fantasmic… This was my (and DW's) second favorite after Wishes. I guess as it stands now, it's probably the current #1 in our opinion. I enjoy it, but again you have the same type of hassle that is involved with Rivers of Light. We always make sure to use the dining package to ensure a good seat and minimal wait time before the show. I have a hard time justifying arriving 1 or 2 hours early to get in line for any show, quite frankly.

Wilderness Lodge, you say...?

I honestly haven't stayed in many deluxe resorts personally, but I've stayed in AKL, WL and Grand Californian at Disneyland. I would pick WL among those 3. I've visited the others on WDW property... Contemporary, Beach Club and Poly could give WL a run for it's money possibly if I stayed and spent more time at any of them, but I do love the ambiance, the "nature" that surrounds it and the peaceful feel of that resort.

LOVE POR, but POFQ edges it out for the size

I could see this. I just haven't stayed at POFQ yet. We did book it once a few years ago, but then abandoned it to stay at AKL with a very minimal upcharge when discounts came out. POFQ might be wonderful, but that felt like a no brainer.

I wastes inordinate amounts of time and kinds stinks. The energy you exhaust with just the travel in some cases nullifies the hour of rest you might get.

Would it be childish of me to admit that I might be even more stoked about this than my kids will ever be? Or that I will demand to borrow one on my next trip?

Not at all!

And you have to walk up to a storm trooper to inform them that "these aren't the droids you're looking for."

I'm sure they will only hear that approximately 25,568,189 times per day.

I guess we’ll head to EPCOT (by boat) since our FiPs are for LwtL (I know, I know…), Soarin’ and Figment (I know, I KNOW!) but those are a few family favorites and I’ve been screwed at all 3 in the past with long lines. That was worded pretty badly wasn’t it? Ha, yeah, my fingers just can’t seem to find the backspace key right now, so… yeah.

And there ya have it: 4 short paragraphs of rushed writing! Short, sweet, and to the point.

Maybe shorter if you could find the backspace key.

Do you have a less-visited, not-very-popular attraction that is a family favorite or must-do for you that you love to visit simply for scratching that nostalgic itch?

I love the classics. I grew up with Disney World, in a sense. Some of my earliest memories in life are from a trip to Disney World when I was 3 (almost 4) years old. I was blown away by things like the Hydrolators in the Seas and Communicore with how some lady was shrunk down and holographically put into a computer (or something to that effect... not even sure if I could find video of that anymore). My favorite character back then was Figment. I got to meet Figment and Dreamfinder and connected with him in a more significant way than even the mouse. I spent my childhood collecting Figment items and I was proud of B asking for a Figment plush to bring home this year. I just have so many memories and a sense of connection with EPCOT Center from my childhood from a few trips before DHS was open. I always have loved that park, and while I admit that it does need help, I have some trepidation about the huge overhaul it is undergoing and the fact that it is going to be even less like the park I grew up with. That said, I remember Horizons and World of Motion... I miss Horizons more so, but I feel like they did a pretty good job on the attractions that replaced them.

So, Imagination is a must ride. Granted, I am not a big fan of the current iteration. I hate the skunk part. I'd fire Dr. Nigel Channing and bring back Dreamfinder, but Figment is there, so I am too.
I'm also a fan of Carousel of Progress, Tiki Room and Country Bears for the same nostalgic reasons.

Because this morning we have a long trek to make from one Island home to another- from the warm waters of the Caribbean, to our equally tropical, but perhaps bit more deluxe, home in the South Pacific. Aloha, Baby!

That sounds fun!!! I've always wanted to transit the Panama Canal!

The overriding goal here on this day is to fully max out our enjoyment of this resort. It's a hard to understand concept for me to not spend at least one full day milking this massive splurge for all its worth.

I have a hard time slowing down and not going to parks, but this makes perfect sense!

2) We are very small eaters and the price of a buffet per person (no sharing) is astronomical for us. We just don't eat enough at one sitting to justify the cost

Buffets are awesome if you're on the dining plan. But definitely something that you need to pick and choose if paying out of pocket.

know many of my readers have collections, some very large and some very small or limited. Do you collect anything (in addition to a load of credit card debt) from your trips? Could be free stuff, or paid, any category. Do you display it, use it, wear it, etc...?

I used to collect key chains. I've got an old tin popcorn can (probably about 3 gal in size) full of key chains from Disney, other places I visited, events attended and received as gifts. I did that up through probably High School, but I haven't bought a key chain since. I used to have 3 shelves that lined a wall in my bedroom growing up and they all hung along the shelves on thumb tacks.

Now, I really don't collect anything, honestly. We usually look for a refrigerator magnet with the year of our current trip to take home, but weren't able to find one this time and weren't able to find one in 2014 when we went in December... they'd already churned the inventory over the 2015.

By 3:30, we’ll be sauntering (hobbling? dragging? carried?) out of the park to either a convalescent home or back to the Poly. Because while it seems our trip is over, it’s just not. Sure, it’ll be our last time as a group leaving our last park

Well, you're going to be close to MK and it is still early enough...

Polynesian Twilight Feast Experience a complete in-room dining adventure for the entire family. You will enjoy the same delicacies featured in the 'Ohana's dining room. A selection of guests' favorites including Spiced Chicken Wings, Asian-style Pot Stickers, Yokisoba Noodles, Stir-fried Vegetables, and our special 'Ohana Sunset Punch; followed with our skewered meats and oak-grilled shrimp seasoned and cooked to perfection. Then we top it all off with our famous Bread Pudding which finishes this magnificent feast. $20.00 for guests 9 and under; for guests 10 and older $60.00

Good call! Sounds much better than going to Ohana!

1) Not pay $20 for fudge!

This really isn't a good must do. Nothing wrong with $20 worth of fudge.

it’s YOUR turn! Do you have any last day traditions? Parks you have to do last? Things you need to “say good-bye” to? Do you relax and pack slowly, or milk every minute out of park time? And what do you make sure you take home with you? A certain snack? Toiletries?

Our last couple of trips have kind of blown our last day traditions to smithereens. But I'll say we usually try to milk every last minute and finish by saying goodbye to the castle or Spaceship Earth. This trip we did both, complete with a monorail ride and I kind of like that... maybe that can be a new tradition.

"You Is Kind, You Is Smart, You Is Important!"

An luki fur u we aint gramer polees

 

[wendypooh22]

Hi!! I am a little late to the pre trip party, but I am soo looking forward to following along on your trip! I have been an AP at Disneyland for many years and I am finally going to WDW for the first time EVER in March with my sister and 2 awesome friends! Thanks to our generous DVC roomie, we have a split stay between Poly and AKL. I feel very fortunate to cross off 2 resort stays on my first ever trip. I am excited to hear about your upcoming stay at the Poly. Safe Travels!

 

[Steppesister]

I would like to get a whole set, but I have a feeling it won't happen...the early parties had lower attendance and thus less cards out there. I've heard you can buy them (small fortune) on ebay, but I don't think I want to go that route.

You'd pay a pretty penny I'd venture to guess.

 

[Steppesister]

Whoa. Ambitious. Sure you won't be MK burned out?

Nah, I'll have my camera and there are always new things to see.

I've had CHH on the radar for a long time. Never tried Pinocchio's. Not heard much good about it, so...

It's a decent place for sure. The tuna sandwich is really quite good and I love the housemade chips. Plus, the upstairs seating is super cool.

As for PVH, yeah, just not many reviews out there to begin with and the ones that exists don't paint it in a very good light.

Yes! Yum!
And the onion rings! Get some of those!

I'll ask the crew. Maybe they'd enjoy those!

Order a PB&J shake. You could split it easily.

Mmm, sounds yummy!

Wait... they still have entry times? What?

I think so? I'm honestly not sure. My TA made our ressie as I've left some of this stuff to her.

The Skyliner isn't slated to open until Sep 29 now.

Sadly, no. I had really, really hoped. But now the hurricane is probably sealing the deal for SURE on no soft openings during our stay.

 

[Steppesister]

Still the extra $$$ will help assuage your loss of sleep.

Yes, except lately, there just haven't been enough hours to schedule us much, so I"m MISSING hours there. It all evens out, but I suppose WITHOUT the other job, things would be very bleak indeed.

Queen-y?

Yes?

Smuggler's Run

I like MF better.

ohhhhhh… uhh, okay.

Can't say about Tiffins, but... the other two?

And.... maybe it's good you skipped the punchline, then

This your cue....

 

[Steppesister]

Popular, obviously.

It's, err... they are a popular attraction.

That makes it totally understandable.

I'm sure our visit there will bring ME a smile to my face just watching her.

I've been wanting to go there for the last several trips. Doubt I'll ever get there.

Aw, I think with as much as you get to go there lately, you'll get there.

Only must do for me is HM. But it's obviously not "less-visited".

But that IS a classic dark ride and original.

Well... damage away then!

I intend to!

Interesting looking place. Haven't heard too much about it though.

Me neither. In fact, I"m not sure I've ever really read a detailed review.

From Disney? No.

Anything besides poker chips from Harley stores?

that's what they're there for.

Yes.

Better than the unfortunate sequel...

$20 worth of fudge? At Disney? What is that... a teaspoon?

LOL! It was not a terrible-sized portion. But... not huge either.

Nice!
So you basically get to eat 'Ohana food twice this year. Lucky. I've never been, nor do I expect I ever will. Maybe if a group of DISdads does an Epic trip like you ladies did?

Basically, but honestly the only things I'm really sold on are the potstickers and the salad. I'd be fine with just that, but I have kids who eat more than I do.

Hey, that sounds fun! I think there was a big Meet of the Dads not that long ago? A year? ish?

Say hi to everyone that knows me!

I will!! Maybe next Spring we can do another DISMeet with the Gang.

And yet... I think I'm doing the same... or worse.

OH! When is your flight out? Or... are you driving this time? Long road trips are right up your... highway.

Such a great movie!

 

[Steppesister]

Oy, I've been neglectful... Catching up now - while cheerfully stealing ideas for my own rapidly upcoming trip

Nah, it's all good. I know I put up a TON of updates super fast in order to get it done, and I still have more, but not much time to do it. Maybe none at all in fact.

Adventurer's Club - r.i.p. Never really done a lot of DtD - it was always sort of an afterthought for us. You know, the place you go when you've run out of park passes, and need to do something before you get on the Tragical Distress-mobile. Hoping to spend more time there this year, as I'll be solo, and DH won't be getting bored with me poking around in shops

I love it all remodeled and new. So much to see and so many new places. Now it's really a destination I WANT to go to even more than once.

Not yet - this will be my first time doing it; hopefully it won't be washed out like our shot at the F&G was a few years ago. Looking forward to doing several items, and some tasty flights. Planning to make a progressive meal out of it Tuesday afternoon.
Not a clue. Haven't ridden since the changes.

Well, shoot! Sorry that it was a wet experience for you! And yes, there is LOTS to choose from to make a tasty meal with loads of variety!! I have my eye on the Mimosa Bar!! Mmm...

Maharaja. Bats and cats and (mosaic) elephants, of course & &
The last time we walked it, it was dinnertime - somebody rang a bell -- and tigers showed up from every corner. And I love the bats. I seem to have bad luck on the Gorilla Trail - they're all holding an important meeting on the other side of the bamboo

Aren't the bats cool!?! I just love the theming in the Maharaja one.

Yes, those silly gorillas are very good at hide and seek.

Hmm... TOL, I think. I've got 2 AK days scheduled, both have the option of staying late, and a FP for FoP so I might get to wander a bit before heading to the front-ish.
Only been in AK after dark once, and it was downright COLD, so I don't remember much except taking pictures of the ladybug lights and shivering. Pandora wasn't there yet.

Sigh.... AK at night is my fave! So tranquil and lovely. I hope your trek through it this time is comfortable so you can take in all of the amazing details that are EVERYWHERE!

Well - that was our original plan, too - when both of us were going on this trip. Now that it's just me, I think I'll go with just the Mac & Shrimps. I like all 3 items, so together they should be extra good. And the reviews I'm reading tell me I'm correct.

That one is my faves. Sooooooo good! And just the right size so it doesn't overload you and make you feel lethargic and bloated.

Get a pressed penny from somewhere in WS, hopefully a new one... . Take a picture of the koi in Japan, and sometimes just sit in the upper garden there - it's almost never busy, and so peaceful and serene. I have a small koi pond in the backyard, love to watch them.
I also try to get a handful of pictures of butterflies hanging out in the British gardens.

I made a faltering start on pressed pennies back in 2008, but lost them all and that petered out. Sad. I love that upper garden in Japan. I tried a bit of night photography there on my last trip. The quiet was amazing! Is keeping koi very difficult?

I love the butterflies too and often sit and watch them for a while as well. Great minds!

Sort of. No little ones. Downtime is scheduled in, but we've almost never gone back to our own resort for it. I find that it does recharge, especially for legs tired of hiking - finding a place to put up feet is like a magic potion. Feet up, drink in hand (alcohol optional), cool and quiet = bliss. DH usually fell asleep for a while.

Our bus luck is about like yours - obviously, they reserve the superior transportation services for Pkondz

His is legendary.


Mine is.... not.

Depending on where we are - or going - gives us a direction. MK, we sometimes take a bit of extra time and boat over to WL, hoping to grab a couple comfy chairs in the upper balcony overlooking the back, or Territory Lounge. The Poly is always too crowded, at least inside. Early mid-day, maybe not, but it becomes a holding pen later in the afternoon. At the Contemporary, head down toward the convention center area. If there isn't a convention in progress, there are some nice, quiet, cool and comfy places to just sit and relax, compile trip notes, use a clean and empty restroom...

Epcot or DHS, we usually end up in the Bellvue Room. It doesn't get really busy until after 5pm.
AK, I don't know - we've never spent a whold day there, so a break from there is one of the few times we may go back to our room. I'm planning a Nomad break, thanks to all the loyal fans who've praised it so highly.

You have skills! I know about most of those, but you are rest-taking champions!

Nomad...? Oh, YES PLEASE!

One or two pins, remembering something from the trip - new ride, resort, Eeyore pin (for DH), Disney dragons. A holiday ornament each trip, and miscellaneous junk I seem to acquire.
Once upon a time, I used to collect matchbooks and menus.

Sounds like nice trinkets to have around to reflect on your trips. : YES! Matchbooks were quite aa thing! My grandpa had a huge collection when I was growing up from all of his travels. That really brought back memories!

 

[Mousemom234]

Well, shoot! Sorry that it was a wet experience for you!

Wasn't that bad for us, except an ankle deep puddle, but they'd closed all the booths, and half the exhibits

Is keeping koi very difficult?

Depends. Upkeep is pretty easy, but you need a good filter for a smaller pond. They poop a lot. They will winter over, just arrange for a hole in the ice, and I don't think your winters are as hard as ours. Biggest problem seems to be predators. We've lost some the first month, and 2 lived for over 5 years. You've got to keep an eye on them, too - they jump, and sometimes don't know where the edge is. I've put some back when they were pretty dry, and they made it, though,

Matchbooks were quite a thing!

And back when "everybody" smoked, Disney World Resorts had some very nice ones


And one I forgot...

Now, it’s your turn: What is your favorite night-time show <snip>

I'm old -- Tapestry of Nations.
I don't know that much about the new ones, so I don't know what I've missed. I like the shows, for the most part, but never really saw any of them, since DH isn't that interested, and we tend to wander out while people are crowding to see the spectacle. Or use show time to ride more rides, then leave from a nearly deserted park.

 

[Steppesister]

That's gong to save you a lot of time.

Yes! I mean if one is just there with on line, sure, we'll stop, but otherwise, nope.

Very hard choice. We're planning a break on our Christmas party day.

I think with little ones it'll be easier to justify them.

We don't usually plan breaks but on our summer trips we needed them on some days. The heat really takes a lot out of you.

I know! Last May REALLY hurt and while I don't normally take an afternoon break either, I was really suffering and did.

We love Columbia Harbor House.

I curious to know if this is true too?

I think this is going to be a wait til you see kind of thing. Just not sure of so many things right now and this new place.

Danielle has a reservation for this too. I think DH will go with her. I don't want to be chasing JP around in here.

I don't blame you at all! Sounds a littl chaotic in there.

This is a hard one. Yes we like to stay for the night time stuff. Wishes was my favorite and I like HEA but not as much. Illuminations was just ok and I like Fantasmic too, but don't have a favorite anymore.

It'll be interesting to see if your "favorites" change with some of the new additions/changes.

We are going to miss you again! We go in November and will be going again in May.

Well, shoot! It was close, but sadly, I'm not even sure when my next trip will be.

 

[Steppesister]

I should hope so, at that price!

I think for what they charge, it should fire lasers back at the enemy.

Aftermarket revunue possibility. I need a business partner.

Long lines for Figment? Gotta be honest, I've never, ever seen that.

When Jenn, my mom and I were there last it was posted 30 so we hopped in. At the 20 minute mark with hardly any forward movement, we bailed because we had another FP. I'd never seen that either. The CM tried to tell me that was "normal". Uh huh... right.

I'm sure you'll be pretty full from visiting the kiosks.

I always seem to get my fill. And more.

I did like the fact that Wishes had more fireworks. HEA is hard to see if you're not close to the castle. I didn't watch ROL due to bad reviews. I loved the first 2 minutes and last 2 minutes of Illuminations. It was the 5 minutes of spinning globe that did that show in. And I feel like Fantasmic is maybe 4 minutes of performance and 20 minutes of movie clips shown on water. So maybe the new Epcot show will be better?

I am sure hoping! Reserving judgement until I can see for myself.

Peter Pan is the one dark ride that feels most like a classic to me. And I really love Tom Sawyer's Island. That's about as low-tech as it gets, but it's timeless for little boys.

It totally is! Wasn't it great when they had the fort with the guns and the bigger, more "dangerous" swaying bridge. A kid could really pretend and play!

I really love O'hana, but it sure is expensive.

A splurge meal for sure.

Well, I have a lot of t-shirts, hoodies, and ball caps. I do collect pint glasses from various restaurants around the country that I enjoyed. Those are fun reminders at meal time.

Nice! And I think it's interesting, just a generalization of observation, men seem to collect the clothes and fewer "knickknacks". Maybe because they are more practical? I know... stereotypes, but, just a feeling.

Don't make me break out the taser.

Procrastinate leaving as long as possible!

LOL! A universal tradition. Um, at Disney.

 

[Terra Nova guy]

Goodness...I'm off the boards few days and come back to find 16 updates in 8 hours from you...or something like that.
I'm joking of course. I know you want to get finished up before your trip. I would too.

Oddly, while it IS possible to do every attraction if planned and implemented right and with a hefty dose of luck; I can never seem to, nor have the energy, inclination, or time to try.

Despite the fact my family has done between 8 and 10 park days every trip, there is always something that gets missed.

or a place I’ve, believe it or not, never tried, Pinocchio’s. I have to admit, the menu sounds decent, if not theme-park food-ish and sometimes, that’s not a bad thing.

We end up doing Pinocchio's nearly every trip. Mainly because it has pizza and my girls like that. I haven't been that impressed with it. It's just OK. For me it's mainly their pizza sauce/red sauce they use. I find it gives me heartburn. I have sometimes let the girls go there and I'll get a waffle sandwich from Sleepy Hollow.

SDD is up first followed by a Frozen Sing-along. There’s been recent chatter here and there that it’s worth seeing at least once, and while I’ve been interested in the past, the less-than-amazing productions of B&tB and Little Mermaid at this park have prevented me from thinking twice.

While it's far from a Broadway quality production, the Frozen Sing-along is better than B&tB or Mermaid. It's definitely worth doing at least once.

I know it may be bordering on blasphemy, but I’m leaning on talking the kids into ordering 1 Sampler and one Chicken Pot Pie to share for the 4 of us. I’m certain that’ll be plenty! Anyone order those before? Good value? Tasty?

I've had both. I liked the sampler. For small eaters it could do two I think.
The chicken pot pie I had in 2010, so it may very well have changed. For me it was OK. I've established I'm not a vegetable eater, but I don't mind them so much in soup or in a pie when they are mushy and taste more like something else. The issue I had with the pot pie was the vegetables were cut in large pieces and still firm, so you really got the taste and texture of them. Not my thing. But maybe fine for someone who doesn't have the palate of an 8 year old.

Which means for all 4 of us to see it at all, we have to build 2. Sometimes I really hate this company. But, like a lot of you, I’m also as willing to part with my cash as easily as Moses parted the Red Sea. So, naturally, we’ll have 2 droids that we’ll use for an hour and then put on a shelf until they end up at the Goodwill in 10 years.

If/when I get to Galaxy's Edge, I would be very tempted to make a droid or lightsaber. But I realty don't think I could shell out that kind of money. Especially when tacking on the 30% exchange rate for our carpy Canadian dollar. But who knows. Disney tends to make you forget about finances and practical adult decisions. It must be something they put in the water.

Now, it’s your turn: What is your favorite night-time show and how do you feel about the several recent changes (Wishes to HEA, Illuminations to whatever it is now (sorry, too lazy to look it up), the changes at HS with a new projection show, etc….)?? Do you often stay for them, or jet so you can get on a bus without a 4-mile long line?

I think I would say Iluminations is my favourite. Yes, there is a boring bit in the middle when the globe spins around. But I love the music. and I like that the fireworks are closer to the ground, and you stand closer to them.
Wishes and HEA is like choosing between children. I miss Wishes. But I do appreciate the projections in HEA.
We have always stayed for every nighttime show. Although after seeing RoL for the first time, I don't think I would spend the time to see it again. Unless we had nothing at all left to do.

Would it be childish of me to admit that I might be even more stoked about this than my kids will ever be? Or that I will demand to borrow one on my next trip?

Having read that droid description, it does sound like fun. I still don't think I could bring myself to buy one. But really tempting.

our FiPs are for LwtL (I know, I know…), Soarin’ and Figment (I know, I KNOW!)

I ended up with the same kind of FiP (hey, that is a bit more fun!). It's the stupid tiers in Epcot. My family really wants Soarin and FEA, so that's two days of FiP burned there and not much else to choose from.

Your turn: Do you have a less-visited, not-very-popular attraction that is a family favorite or must-do for you that you love to visit simply for scratching that nostalgic itch?

it's a small world
You may or may not remember my explanation in my trip report, but it's our first ride tradition. Yes, the song drives you a bit crazy. But it just "feels" like Disney and it really means we're back.

I know many of my readers have collections, some very large and some very small or limited. Do you collect anything (in addition to a load of credit card debt) from your trips? Could be free stuff, or paid, any category. Do you display it, use it, wear it, etc...?

The only deliberate collection is the fridge magnets with the year on it. It just reminds us when each trip was.
We've picked up resort mugs nearly every trip. And the wooden Mickey picture frames of some variety. But not so deliberately.

The plan is to feast on its deliciousness with our feet up gazing out over the tropical gardens of our South Pacific Island Home and bask in all that we’ve been blessed with over the last week…

That sounds great. I had read about that ages ago but forgot you could get 'Ohana food delivered room service. If I ever stay at the Poly, I definitely have to remember that.

And now… it’s YOUR turn! Do you have any last day traditions? Parks you have to do last? Things you need to “say good-bye” to? Do you relax and pack slowly, or milk every minute out of park time? And what do you make sure you take home with you? A certain snack? Toiletries?

MK is always our last day park. And sometime on our last day we do iasw again. It's usually spent trying to eat all the treats we wanted to get but didn't have time for.
We have always taken our time packing and in fact don't go to a park our very last morning just so we can decompress a little.

 

[KathyM2]

How fun that you get to squeeze in a DLR trip right before a WDW trip!! So jealous as usual!! Your plans are sounding amazing as always!

The plan is to feast on its deliciousness with our feet up gazing out over the tropical gardens of our South Pacific Island Home and bask in all that we’ve been blessed with over the last week…

So it's like...room service but O'hana food? And you can share it? This is brilliant...I guess you have to be staying there to get this...lol. Great idea!!

For fave must do's of lesser attractions...I think Tiki birds is mine...It's just cheesy and fun and the song gets stuck in your head...

I have to also admit that I am a big fan of the mid day break. While park time is precious indeed...it depends on where you are staying and the length of trip...but I do find that the older I get...the crappier I feel after too much commando touring...even with breaks it's exhausting...so I usually do opt for a break!

 

[Steppesister]

Honest opinion... depends on the historians. They make or break the show with their schtick. If they're good, worth seeing... once. If not, just find a karaoke DVD of the songs from the movie. I did like it the first couple of times we saw it. Now it is a good place for a nap.

Oh, so it’s actually a particular character or characters to watch for. I’ve taken note.

Loved, loved, loved Wishes. HEA is fine... that's it. I don't hate it. I'll make a point to watch it. But it doesn't hold a candle to what Wishes meant to me and how much I enjoyed it. The HEA music is just kind of "meh" to me. I still get goosebumps when I hear that intro from Jiminy Cricket.

It’s been along time since I’ve listen to the wishes tracks on YouTube. Time to go back and enjoy…

I like Illuminations... It's never been my #1 favorite, but I enjoy it. We always make a point to see it. I liked the holiday tag better, because they use enough fireworks at the end that they could blow some small countries completely off the map if they would so choose. The old technology globe part that just drags down the middle of the show makes it far less appealing though. I've felt for a while that an upgrade was needed to this show for that reason alone, so I'm excited to see what is new. I actually was a little perturbed that they got rid of Wishes for HEA when I felt this was the show that needed an upgrade the most.

I’d agree with everything you wrote. That middle snoozer part was just horrible.

Rivers of Light... Seen it once. We didn't really make plans to see it this past year. It was fine, but as early as we had to get there to get into the "theater" area it just wasn't the best use of our time. Especially with young kids.

Yep, seems like for most people it’s a one and done. I do get that a lot of people like it and that’s great, just not my cuppa tea.

Fantasmic… This was my (and DW's) second favorite after Wishes. I guess as it stands now, it's probably the current #1 in our opinion. I enjoy it, but again you have the same type of hassle that is involved with Rivers of Light. We always make sure to use the dining package to ensure a good seat and minimal wait time before the show. I have a hard time justifying arriving 1 or 2 hours early to get in line for any show, quite frankly.

I would absolutely agree with that! None of them are worth waiting even one hour for.

I honestly haven't stayed in many deluxe resorts personally, but I've stayed in AKL, WL and Grand Californian at Disneyland. I would pick WL among those 3. I've visited the others on WDW property... Contemporary, Beach Club and Poly could give WL a run for it's money possibly if I stayed and spent more time at any of them, but I do love the ambiance, the "nature" that surrounds it and the peaceful feel of that resort.

I keep hearing that about wilderness Lodge more and more. And it’s definitely on my list!

I could see this. I just haven't stayed at POFQ yet. We did book it once a few years ago, but then abandoned it to stay at AKL with a very minimal upcharge when discounts came out. POFQ might be wonderful, but that felt like a no brainer.

Let’s face it, no one’s going to turn down an upgrade to a deluxe! Especially if it’s at a very minimal cost. And even more especially if it’s animal Kingdom Lodge.

Not at all!

And you have to walk up to a storm trooper to inform them that "these aren't the droids you're looking for."

I'm sure they will only hear that approximately 25,568,189 times per day.

And yet just for the fact that it is so overused I do it. Just to see how a storm trooper rolled his eyes.

Maybe shorter if you could find the backspace key.

But then you wouldn’t have nearly as many stupid jokes.

I love the classics. I grew up with Disney World, in a sense. Some of my earliest memories in life are from a trip to Disney World when I was 3 (almost 4) years old. I was blown away by things like the Hydrolators in the Seas

YES!! The Hydrolators!!! I miss those.

Communicore with how some lady was shrunk down and holographically put into a computer (or something to that effect... not even sure if I could find video of that anymore).

Reminds me of the Inner Space ride at Disneyland when I was growing up. It was always the first ride I wanted to go on there.

My favorite character back then was Figment. I got to meet Figment and Dreamfinder and connected with him in a more significant way than even the mouse.

This little walk down memory lane is giving me all the feels, Andy. And I totally know what you’re talking about.

. I spent my childhood collecting Figment items and I was proud of B asking for a Figment plush to bring home this year.

Awwww, how could you possibly say no?!?!

I miss Horizons more so, but I feel like they did a pretty good job on the attractions that replaced them.

I never experienced any of the originals but enjoy what is there now.

So, Imagination is a must ride. Granted, I am not a big fan of the current iteration. I hate the skunk part. I'd fire Dr. Nigel Channing and bring back Dreamfinder, but Figment is there, so I am too.
I'm also a fan of Carousel of Progress, Tiki Room and Country Bears for the same nostalgic reasons.

They say if they can hook you while you’re young, you’ll be a fan for life. Certainly seems like that was the case for both of us.

That sounds fun!!! I've always wanted to transit the Panama Canal!

We all better paddle fast.

Buffets are awesome if you're on the dining plan. But definitely something that you need to pick and choose if paying out of pocket.

100% this!

I used to collect key chains. I've got an old tin popcorn can (probably about 3 gal in size) full of key chains from Disney, other places I visited, events attended and received as gifts. I did that up through probably High School, but I haven't bought a key chain since. I used to have 3 shelves that lined a wall in my bedroom growing up and they all hung along the shelves on thumb tacks.

That’s the first I’ve heard of that collection. How really cool and unique! Do you still have that collection?

Now, I really don't collect anything, honestly. We usually look for a refrigerator magnet with the year of our current trip to take home, but weren't able to find one this time and weren't able to find one in 2014 when we went in December... they'd already churned the inventory over the 2015.

It’ll be interesting to see if your own kids start any collections of some sort.

Well, you're going to be close to MK and it is still early enough...

That is true, but I’d imagine will be pretty tired by then and want to enjoy the resort a little bit more.

Good call! Sounds much better than going to Ohana!

Well at the very least it’ll certainly be quieter.

Our last couple of trips have kind of blown our last day traditions to smithereens. But I'll say we usually try to milk every last minute and finish by saying goodbye to the castle or Spaceship Earth. This trip we did both, complete with a monorail ride and I kind of like that... maybe that can be a new tradition.

That’s certainly quite an ambitious last-minute tradition, especially with little ones. Good job!

An luki fur u we aint gramer polees

 

[Steppesister]

Hi!! I am a little late to the pre trip party, but I am soo looking forward to following along on your trip! I have been an AP at Disneyland for many years and I am finally going to WDW for the first time EVER in March with my sister and 2 awesome friends! Thanks to our generous DVC roomie, we have a split stay between Poly and AKL. I feel very fortunate to cross off 2 resort stays on my first ever trip. I am excited to hear about your upcoming stay at the Poly. Safe Travels!

You are right on time, wendypooh! to this party and I hope you'll come back often to join in and comment! My little book that I take notes on is ready and I really hope that the stories we make will be fun to read.

I grew up in Hemet, CA and was a CM at the Blue Bayou for a bit in college and LOVED it. I grew up going several times a year to Disneyland and left about they time they started construction on C.A.

Let me just say it now... you are going to LOVE WDW. It's fantastically ginormous and there is TONS to do there aside from the MK. Loads of resorts to explore, Disney Springs (I still affectionately call it DTD), amazing restarants. Don't let it overwhelm you, just do your research (any of us here would LOVE to help you or answer any questions you have! No. Really, we love to talk Disney.) and have fun planning!

What a blessing to have a generous friend who is willing to share. So wonderful! Those are 2 of my favorite resorts!

 

[Steppesister]

Wasn't that bad for us, except an ankle deep puddle, but they'd closed all the booths, and half the exhibits

I've been told if there is lightening around they close them because the POS (registers) stop working. I read somewhere that you should carry cash to F&W for that reason because some will stay open for cash only sales. (makes note to self to get cash)

Depends. Upkeep is pretty easy, but you need a good filter for a smaller pond. They poop a lot. They will winter over, just arrange for a hole in the ice, and I don't think your winters are as hard as ours. Biggest problem seems to be predators. We've lost some the first month, and 2 lived for over 5 years. You've got to keep an eye on them, too - they jump, and sometimes don't know where the edge is. I've put some back when they were pretty dry, and they made it, though,

I honestly had no idea! Especially about them wintering over. Fascinating! I've always heard that cats and racoons are big issues and make it tough to keep koi, but that they jump out... huh! I'd love a photo!

And back when "everybody" smoked, Disney World Resorts had some very nice ones

I can imagine! Cool thing to collect and a dying "art" now.

I'm old -- Tapestry of Nations.
I don't know that much about the new ones, so I don't know what I've missed. I like the shows, for the most part, but never really saw any of them, since DH isn't that interested, and we tend to wander out while people are crowding to see the spectacle. Or use show time to ride more rides, then leave from a nearly deserted park.

So.... guess what I just stared up on YouTube? Yep. That was the first parade I watched at EPCOT and I loved it! My kids were absolutely blown away by it and is one of their clearest memories. As for more rides during shows... Yeah... I've been known to do that myself.