mproca
Earning My Ears
- Joined
- Jul 2, 2001
- Messages
- 31
Hello, we went to WDW from Sept. 9 through Sept. 20, 2001. We are two adults in our 30's, husband and wife. I am the female, more daring, love roller coasters, love water. Husband quieter, less daring except with food - more daring. We both love to eat, love nature/the outdoors, I love exploring and asking questions. I am always cold in temperature, husband is always hot.
TIPS: If you are someone that is cold, bring a JACKET/RAIN PONCHO and a SWEATER/SWEATSHIRT AND pants with you. The inside areas are very cold and sometimes damp on some rides. Air conditioner is always blowing very cold air on you. And if you are wet - it feels colder. If you are a hot person - you'll be fine in shorts and a t-shirt.
PACK a lunch. Carry it with you. The park is very spread out with the lockers too far away to go back. Unless you plan on taking a break midday. We didn't - and toured all day until closing (not recommended BTW). They did not stop anyone with coolers/backpacks while I was there. I heard people say they had lunch and they were allowed in with it.
Rented a car from National from the Orlando airport. Great service and good price.
9-9-01 Sunday
Arrived first day in the late afternoon at the Port Orleans-Riverside. Requested King Bed for our anniversary, Riverview, non-smoking and close to the main pool. Did not get my requests except for the non-smoking room. Was the furthest building from the main pool #24 in Alligator Bayou section. As it rained so much on our trip, we did not go often to the main building/food court. Very noisy as we got a room right outside the "quiet" pool with people yelling at 3 AM.
Suggestion to all of you - unless you have children that you want to watch in the pool or like to stay up very late - do NOT get a pool view! Port Orleans Riverside did say that we could move - but we didn't as we had already unpacked and would have to request the fridge, hair dryer, iron, ironing board, and coffee maker again. Water pressure was decent in the shower. Good shower head. Plenty of soap, shampoo and towels provided. Shelf by sink was very shallow and could not fit my hair dryer on it. Towel rack broken but was held up with tape.
I was expecting more from the resort. Bring your Grab it clothes with you to dust! The bathroom was very small and very dusty. The drawer by the bed had crumbs in it. It was never swept the entire time of our stay. Shower was not cleaned out - hair fallen down was there the next day. Sheets are not automatically cleaned. Beds not always made. (We left a good tip each day in custom disney graphic envelopes). You need to call housekeeping and ask for clean sheets. Towels are not cleaned either unless put in the tub. They do this to conserve. Bed and pillows were comfortable. Airconditioner and fan. Swivel TV with remote. Clock radio and phone. Table with chairs. Small closet area - not enclosed - with shelf on top. Rack for hanging jackets. Small but reasonable size room. We had a corner room - bright with two windows. Pretty shower curtain. Plenty of room in the shower for extras. I should mention that I clean my bathroom at least daily and like things exceptionally clean. My husband did not notice the dust and uncleaniness or hear the people late at night in the pool. I'd give the resort a 6 out of 10. The price was right however. Maybe we'd go back.
Mickey and Minnie left a signed picture for us wishing us a Happy Anniversary. Nice touch. Cast members very helpful and friendly at the resort.
Summary: I'd like to say I was not overall happy with the food at WDW. The taste of the food and quantity was not worth the money with a few exceptions noted below. I suggest eating off site if possible or making your own lunch/dinner/sandwiches.
I was very happy with all of the employees of WDW. All of them were helpful and friendly. The waiter in California Grill was not overly friendly, but did a good job.
Children mostly young, non-school age and many non-Americans. Children and guests all very pleasant. Children well behaved, adorable, and fun to watch. WDW seems to be very friendly to all ages and ability levels including handicapped. Enjoyed the slower pace FL has to offer.
After 9/11/01, all our bags were thoroughly checked at all the parks including the water park. I saw many security people walking around as well. We were also asked to provide different ID's each time we entered our and other resorts. They were thoroughly checked as well.
We had PS seatings for all our meals - although we did not need them. Even on 9-9 and 10th the parks were not busy.
We ate in Pebbles the first night. Rate this a 9 out of 10 being the best. Delicious food and highly recommended! It's in the Goodings/Crossroads shopping area right outside of Downtown Disney. I had Mediterranean salmon with capers, red onions in a balsamic sauce with feta, tomatoes and artichokes. Delicious southwest potato soup. Tart, home made key lime pie. Service was good. No wait arrived at dinner time. My husband also enjoyed his meal. Around $50 for two including two entrees, coffee, dessert, tax, drinks. The second best meal on my trip! WOULD GO BACK.
Goodings Grocery store was very overpriced but convenient. Good selection and helpful employees. Is it owned by WDW? If you don't mind driving go to Publix.
9-10-01 Monday
First day touring we went to Animal Kingdom. It rained for awhile and was cool. The animals were out on the safari. Giraffes walked right up to our bus. Went on the rapids ride. MAKE SURE TO WEAR WATER SHOES - YOUR FEET and possibly you will get wet. I was in the "WET" seat - but prepared for it! Changed right afterwards and wore my water shoes. Thanks for this advise as I was ready! Enjoyed the Flights of Fantasy show with the birds quite a bit. Watched some terrific dancers. Not crazy about the Tarzan show. Did not care for the Dinosaur ride. Overall, enjoyed the Animal Kingdom. Ate at Tusker House. Don't get the salad in the bread - mine was very soggy. Would order a sandwich if I went back.
Dinner at BOMA in the Animal Kingdom Lodge. Rate this a 10. Had a priority seating but did not need to leave a credit card number. WONDERFUL. DO NOT MISS! Terrific value for the food offered. Hot, fresh, ethnic food. Also "American" food but only had the prime rib from this selection which was terrific. Wonderful selection. Server was Steve from Yonkers. I'd give him a 10. Wonderful, helpful, friendly! This is what I ate with my rating 1-10, 10 being the best.
CARROT GINER SOUP - 9, COUCOUS - 9, WHITE CORN SQUARES - 8, FUFU - 9, CINNAMON SWEET POTATOES - 9, SALMON WITH PEPPERS -4, KAFTA - 9, WATERMELON RIND SALAD - 10, PRIME RIB - 8, AFRITUDE POTATOES - 9, PASTA SALAD - 9, CARDAMON SQUARES (forgot).
Dessert - ZEBRA DOME (10) with Kenya AA Coffee in a press (10).
WOULD GO BACK AND WOULD ALSO TRY JIKO.
Animal Kingdom Lodge was beautiful. It was nighttime when we arrived but if you go in the light, check outside as you can view the animals.
9-11 Tuesday
Could not sleep that night - felt as if an evil ghost entered my room. When we woke up we had no idea what had happened. We drove to MK leaving the room around 12:30 PM. All the lights were red and we figured the park was filled. We got lost as we were redirected by the lights being red. Finally, we found our way and went to go to our lunch PS at Kona Cafe. Still had no idea what had happened! Found out when we went for lunch. Guess it was too chaotic for the resort to leave a message that the parks were closed. I understand. WHAT DID THEY TELL ALL OF YOU ALREADY IN THE PARKS? It is such a horrible tragedy and my heart goes out to the family and friends of those killed. We know of people that have died - relatives of friends.
Waitress (Angela) in the Kona Cafe in the Polynesian Resort was very kind, attentive and friendly. Mentioned we were at WDW for our Anniversary and were surprised with a plate that said Happy Anniversary with koko puffs. These were delicious and looked so beautiful we didn't want to eat them. Our Asian Noodle Soup was good but a bit too salty. Terrific coffee. MIGHT GO BACK. Definitely go back for coffee and dessert.
Dinner at the food court at the Port Orleans Riverside. Lots of characters in the check in area. I had a hamburger with fries - not bad. Husband had pepperoni pizza which was very good. I was very surprised as I've heard NYers say pizza outside of NY is not good. It was just as good as our pizza! WOULD GO BACK - GOOD FOR A FOOD COURT. Did not like the pralines. Too sweet (I don't like things too sweet). Tasted like I was eating sugar with butter. Watched the news coverage in the food court while innocent children played with their legos at the Lego table.
9-12-01 Wednesday
Magic Kingdom. Hot humid day, with some rain. Parade during the day was wonderful. Loved Country Bear Jamboree, Pooh's Adventure, Splash Mountain. Park was not crowded. Felt very sad though. Not in the mood for the "magic" of WDW. Looked at the children who did not know what was going on and were so happy.
California Grill for dinner. Terrific view. Good sushi. An unfriendly air to the place. Food just OK 6 out of 10. Husband rates higher. Would only go back for view but would probably try Arthur's 27 instead. Husband enjoyed more than me - he is more into sushi and said his steak was excellent.
9-13-01 Thurs.
Rainy, damp, and cool day. Enjoyed Epcot. Park was empty. Wonderful park. Favorites Spaceship Earth, China film, browsing in Mexico.
Akershus for lunch. Good selection of food. Good place for lunch. Jarlsburg cheese and the soup and shrimp salad stood out. Good service. Friendly chef asked us for our opinion, what he could do to make it better.
Waffle with preserves at Kringeliere bakery in Norway just OK. Later in the week got the sweet pretzel with almonds which was very stale and too sweet for me. Terrific Viking Coffee.
Tangiere Cafe in Morocco was very good for a sandwich later. Mediterranean food. Strong mint tea. Enjoyed the Illuminations fireworks. Good view from the bridge near the United Kingdom.
9-14-01 Friday
Weather - Tropical Storm and hurricane Alert. Cold, wet, windy day. In the 60's.
Ate a delicious breakfast in Boatwright's. Rate it a 9. Had banana stuffed Cinnamon Sugar coated French Toast with fresh fruit. Good orange juice.
Coffee from food court was horrible. However, I recommend getting the cup for the unlimited refills if you are near the food court. You could have good hot tea, hot chocolate, water or soda. However, you will have to drink your tea black or put half-and-half in it (or buy a milk beforehand).
Spoke with WDW employees who have gone through much worse than a Tropical Storm alert. Went to MK in afternoon. EMPTY. Splash mountain had EMPTY cars! Rode it twice - no wait. Still singing the song
Loved carousel of progress. Did not like Alien Encounter at all.
Delicious home made chocolate ice cream in the frontier land section...some kind of western show going on...diamond horseshoe I believe.
Dinner at Flying Fish. Rate it a 7. Waiter was good. Food just OK. Potato wrapped red snapper. Chocolate lava cake too sweet for me. Felt it was not worth the price. Fish was fresh. Enjoyed boardwalk area.
MOST MAGICAL MOMENT - finally getting warm and dry at our resort!
9-15-01 Sat.
Rain, sun, windy, cold mix. Epcot - favorite - Energy Adventure in Universe of energy and the Spectromagic parade. Park was not crowded.
Late lunch - Restaurant Marrakesh - 8. Belly dancer, music. Place was empty. Service good. I had this chicken in a pastry shell with cinnamon which was terrific. I think it was called chicken bastilla. The vegetable couscous was also great. Bill around $45.00 included two entrees, one wine, one soda and possibly two coffees - I don't recall.
Parade and fireworks at Magic Kingdom. Extremely busy. Think Times Square NYC on New Year's Eve. Enjoyed parade and fireworks. Don't know where is a good place to stand - we had a bad spot and I managed to move (I am used to moving in large crowds).
9-16-01 Sunday
Disney-MGM Studios. Weather sunny - hooray! Park was not very busy. Tower of Terror which I did not find scary and rate a 7. Rock and Roller Coaster twice in a row - NO WAIT - rate this a 10. Annoying preshow. Good music. Terrific take off. If this wasn't scary enough I volunteered to be an extra in the Indiana Jones Stunt show. This was alot of fun! I had to shop - my favorite activity - man standing next to me asked me how to look as if he was shopping. I explained the browse concept to him.
Muppets in 3 D was wonderful as well.
Lunch - Hollywood Brown Derby with the Fantasmic dinner package. Terrific chicken. Rate the chicken with the sweet potatoes with an 8. Service good.
Fantasmic show. Got there at 6 PM. Would have been OK to arrive at 7 PM however. Did not use the dinner package. Got terrific seats. Man next to me used a light on him camcorder which was very annoying - more so to the people sitting in front of him. Terrific show - worth seeing.
9-17-01 Monday
Starting to get tired and have a cold from being wet and cold most of last week. Woke up late and went to Downtown Disney. Not in the mood to shop. Place was EXTREMELY EMPTY. Sunny day.
Late Lunch at Wolfgang Puck Cafe. Terrific pizza. Empty. I could see how it would be noisy if full. Modern decorations. Pastries looked delicious but we were too full. Appetizer - calamari - give this a 9.5. Bread basket a 9. Pizza an 8.5. Service very good.
Lego store area is a must see.
Cirque du Soleil La Nouba at night. Husband loved. I thought it was good. He'd give it a 10, me an 8. But I was not feeling well and very cold. It is worth seeing. Amazing what they can do. Recommend this show. Worth the money.
9-18-01 Tuesday
Rainy, Epcot touring.
9-19-01 Wednesday
Sunny, 90's.
Blizzard Beach arriving at 4 PM. Crowded. Chair lift very crowded - not worth the wait. I didn't take it. LOT OF CLIMBING. Lots of places to put your towel. If you don't like hot cement, wear water shoes. You will need to remove them for some of the rides (so your feet don't get stuck). Went on all the rides except for the kiddie ones and the one that is a slow pace inner tube touring one. Summit Plummet - not scary at all. Splash Mountain at MK had a bigger drop. Bit of a wait. Did not get bruised at all. Man ahead of me said to squeeze my butt cheeks - I did. Not too lady like (but it worked). Maybe this helped. Major wedgie! Did not like the one next to it. Felt as if I was drowning going down it as water was in my face the entire time. Enjoyed the open double inner tubes with my husband. Family raft ride also fun. Something called Double... lots of fun as well as all of their slides. Wave pool calming - a bit too calming for me. Nice place to go on a hot day. Something for everyone, even those that don't like water - but like to just read a book and get sun.
Dinner at Citrico's at the Grand Floridian Resort. Beautiful resort. Rate dinner a 7-8. Grilled salmon was good but a small portion. Just good though. Dessert was an orange chocolate mousse which was very good - rate this a 9. Did not feel it was worth the price for the meal. Place was upscale such as the California Grill - but with a more relaxed feel. Waiter was more friendly than at the California Grill. Good French press coffee. I would not go back (except for the dessert).
9-20-01 Thursday
VERY HOT, hottest day, very humid. I was comfortable, husband was sweating bullets.
Last day - left very early for airport. Airport and flight was empty. Security tight. Forgot I had my toenail and other scissors in my carry on bag. They took them and scanned my body.
Airplane was on time. Flight less than 1/3 full. Flight attendants and pilot extra friendly. Smooth flight. Arrived early. Lots of police at destination airport.
TIPS: If you are someone that is cold, bring a JACKET/RAIN PONCHO and a SWEATER/SWEATSHIRT AND pants with you. The inside areas are very cold and sometimes damp on some rides. Air conditioner is always blowing very cold air on you. And if you are wet - it feels colder. If you are a hot person - you'll be fine in shorts and a t-shirt.
PACK a lunch. Carry it with you. The park is very spread out with the lockers too far away to go back. Unless you plan on taking a break midday. We didn't - and toured all day until closing (not recommended BTW). They did not stop anyone with coolers/backpacks while I was there. I heard people say they had lunch and they were allowed in with it.
Rented a car from National from the Orlando airport. Great service and good price.
9-9-01 Sunday
Arrived first day in the late afternoon at the Port Orleans-Riverside. Requested King Bed for our anniversary, Riverview, non-smoking and close to the main pool. Did not get my requests except for the non-smoking room. Was the furthest building from the main pool #24 in Alligator Bayou section. As it rained so much on our trip, we did not go often to the main building/food court. Very noisy as we got a room right outside the "quiet" pool with people yelling at 3 AM.
Suggestion to all of you - unless you have children that you want to watch in the pool or like to stay up very late - do NOT get a pool view! Port Orleans Riverside did say that we could move - but we didn't as we had already unpacked and would have to request the fridge, hair dryer, iron, ironing board, and coffee maker again. Water pressure was decent in the shower. Good shower head. Plenty of soap, shampoo and towels provided. Shelf by sink was very shallow and could not fit my hair dryer on it. Towel rack broken but was held up with tape.
I was expecting more from the resort. Bring your Grab it clothes with you to dust! The bathroom was very small and very dusty. The drawer by the bed had crumbs in it. It was never swept the entire time of our stay. Shower was not cleaned out - hair fallen down was there the next day. Sheets are not automatically cleaned. Beds not always made. (We left a good tip each day in custom disney graphic envelopes). You need to call housekeeping and ask for clean sheets. Towels are not cleaned either unless put in the tub. They do this to conserve. Bed and pillows were comfortable. Airconditioner and fan. Swivel TV with remote. Clock radio and phone. Table with chairs. Small closet area - not enclosed - with shelf on top. Rack for hanging jackets. Small but reasonable size room. We had a corner room - bright with two windows. Pretty shower curtain. Plenty of room in the shower for extras. I should mention that I clean my bathroom at least daily and like things exceptionally clean. My husband did not notice the dust and uncleaniness or hear the people late at night in the pool. I'd give the resort a 6 out of 10. The price was right however. Maybe we'd go back.
Mickey and Minnie left a signed picture for us wishing us a Happy Anniversary. Nice touch. Cast members very helpful and friendly at the resort.
Summary: I'd like to say I was not overall happy with the food at WDW. The taste of the food and quantity was not worth the money with a few exceptions noted below. I suggest eating off site if possible or making your own lunch/dinner/sandwiches.
I was very happy with all of the employees of WDW. All of them were helpful and friendly. The waiter in California Grill was not overly friendly, but did a good job.
Children mostly young, non-school age and many non-Americans. Children and guests all very pleasant. Children well behaved, adorable, and fun to watch. WDW seems to be very friendly to all ages and ability levels including handicapped. Enjoyed the slower pace FL has to offer.
After 9/11/01, all our bags were thoroughly checked at all the parks including the water park. I saw many security people walking around as well. We were also asked to provide different ID's each time we entered our and other resorts. They were thoroughly checked as well.
We had PS seatings for all our meals - although we did not need them. Even on 9-9 and 10th the parks were not busy.
We ate in Pebbles the first night. Rate this a 9 out of 10 being the best. Delicious food and highly recommended! It's in the Goodings/Crossroads shopping area right outside of Downtown Disney. I had Mediterranean salmon with capers, red onions in a balsamic sauce with feta, tomatoes and artichokes. Delicious southwest potato soup. Tart, home made key lime pie. Service was good. No wait arrived at dinner time. My husband also enjoyed his meal. Around $50 for two including two entrees, coffee, dessert, tax, drinks. The second best meal on my trip! WOULD GO BACK.
Goodings Grocery store was very overpriced but convenient. Good selection and helpful employees. Is it owned by WDW? If you don't mind driving go to Publix.
9-10-01 Monday
First day touring we went to Animal Kingdom. It rained for awhile and was cool. The animals were out on the safari. Giraffes walked right up to our bus. Went on the rapids ride. MAKE SURE TO WEAR WATER SHOES - YOUR FEET and possibly you will get wet. I was in the "WET" seat - but prepared for it! Changed right afterwards and wore my water shoes. Thanks for this advise as I was ready! Enjoyed the Flights of Fantasy show with the birds quite a bit. Watched some terrific dancers. Not crazy about the Tarzan show. Did not care for the Dinosaur ride. Overall, enjoyed the Animal Kingdom. Ate at Tusker House. Don't get the salad in the bread - mine was very soggy. Would order a sandwich if I went back.
Dinner at BOMA in the Animal Kingdom Lodge. Rate this a 10. Had a priority seating but did not need to leave a credit card number. WONDERFUL. DO NOT MISS! Terrific value for the food offered. Hot, fresh, ethnic food. Also "American" food but only had the prime rib from this selection which was terrific. Wonderful selection. Server was Steve from Yonkers. I'd give him a 10. Wonderful, helpful, friendly! This is what I ate with my rating 1-10, 10 being the best.
CARROT GINER SOUP - 9, COUCOUS - 9, WHITE CORN SQUARES - 8, FUFU - 9, CINNAMON SWEET POTATOES - 9, SALMON WITH PEPPERS -4, KAFTA - 9, WATERMELON RIND SALAD - 10, PRIME RIB - 8, AFRITUDE POTATOES - 9, PASTA SALAD - 9, CARDAMON SQUARES (forgot).
Dessert - ZEBRA DOME (10) with Kenya AA Coffee in a press (10).
WOULD GO BACK AND WOULD ALSO TRY JIKO.
Animal Kingdom Lodge was beautiful. It was nighttime when we arrived but if you go in the light, check outside as you can view the animals.
9-11 Tuesday
Could not sleep that night - felt as if an evil ghost entered my room. When we woke up we had no idea what had happened. We drove to MK leaving the room around 12:30 PM. All the lights were red and we figured the park was filled. We got lost as we were redirected by the lights being red. Finally, we found our way and went to go to our lunch PS at Kona Cafe. Still had no idea what had happened! Found out when we went for lunch. Guess it was too chaotic for the resort to leave a message that the parks were closed. I understand. WHAT DID THEY TELL ALL OF YOU ALREADY IN THE PARKS? It is such a horrible tragedy and my heart goes out to the family and friends of those killed. We know of people that have died - relatives of friends.
Waitress (Angela) in the Kona Cafe in the Polynesian Resort was very kind, attentive and friendly. Mentioned we were at WDW for our Anniversary and were surprised with a plate that said Happy Anniversary with koko puffs. These were delicious and looked so beautiful we didn't want to eat them. Our Asian Noodle Soup was good but a bit too salty. Terrific coffee. MIGHT GO BACK. Definitely go back for coffee and dessert.
Dinner at the food court at the Port Orleans Riverside. Lots of characters in the check in area. I had a hamburger with fries - not bad. Husband had pepperoni pizza which was very good. I was very surprised as I've heard NYers say pizza outside of NY is not good. It was just as good as our pizza! WOULD GO BACK - GOOD FOR A FOOD COURT. Did not like the pralines. Too sweet (I don't like things too sweet). Tasted like I was eating sugar with butter. Watched the news coverage in the food court while innocent children played with their legos at the Lego table.
9-12-01 Wednesday
Magic Kingdom. Hot humid day, with some rain. Parade during the day was wonderful. Loved Country Bear Jamboree, Pooh's Adventure, Splash Mountain. Park was not crowded. Felt very sad though. Not in the mood for the "magic" of WDW. Looked at the children who did not know what was going on and were so happy.
California Grill for dinner. Terrific view. Good sushi. An unfriendly air to the place. Food just OK 6 out of 10. Husband rates higher. Would only go back for view but would probably try Arthur's 27 instead. Husband enjoyed more than me - he is more into sushi and said his steak was excellent.
9-13-01 Thurs.
Rainy, damp, and cool day. Enjoyed Epcot. Park was empty. Wonderful park. Favorites Spaceship Earth, China film, browsing in Mexico.
Akershus for lunch. Good selection of food. Good place for lunch. Jarlsburg cheese and the soup and shrimp salad stood out. Good service. Friendly chef asked us for our opinion, what he could do to make it better.
Waffle with preserves at Kringeliere bakery in Norway just OK. Later in the week got the sweet pretzel with almonds which was very stale and too sweet for me. Terrific Viking Coffee.
Tangiere Cafe in Morocco was very good for a sandwich later. Mediterranean food. Strong mint tea. Enjoyed the Illuminations fireworks. Good view from the bridge near the United Kingdom.
9-14-01 Friday
Weather - Tropical Storm and hurricane Alert. Cold, wet, windy day. In the 60's.
Ate a delicious breakfast in Boatwright's. Rate it a 9. Had banana stuffed Cinnamon Sugar coated French Toast with fresh fruit. Good orange juice.
Coffee from food court was horrible. However, I recommend getting the cup for the unlimited refills if you are near the food court. You could have good hot tea, hot chocolate, water or soda. However, you will have to drink your tea black or put half-and-half in it (or buy a milk beforehand).
Spoke with WDW employees who have gone through much worse than a Tropical Storm alert. Went to MK in afternoon. EMPTY. Splash mountain had EMPTY cars! Rode it twice - no wait. Still singing the song
Loved carousel of progress. Did not like Alien Encounter at all. Delicious home made chocolate ice cream in the frontier land section...some kind of western show going on...diamond horseshoe I believe.
Dinner at Flying Fish. Rate it a 7. Waiter was good. Food just OK. Potato wrapped red snapper. Chocolate lava cake too sweet for me. Felt it was not worth the price. Fish was fresh. Enjoyed boardwalk area.
MOST MAGICAL MOMENT - finally getting warm and dry at our resort!
9-15-01 Sat.
Rain, sun, windy, cold mix. Epcot - favorite - Energy Adventure in Universe of energy and the Spectromagic parade. Park was not crowded.
Late lunch - Restaurant Marrakesh - 8. Belly dancer, music. Place was empty. Service good. I had this chicken in a pastry shell with cinnamon which was terrific. I think it was called chicken bastilla. The vegetable couscous was also great. Bill around $45.00 included two entrees, one wine, one soda and possibly two coffees - I don't recall.
Parade and fireworks at Magic Kingdom. Extremely busy. Think Times Square NYC on New Year's Eve. Enjoyed parade and fireworks. Don't know where is a good place to stand - we had a bad spot and I managed to move (I am used to moving in large crowds).
9-16-01 Sunday
Disney-MGM Studios. Weather sunny - hooray! Park was not very busy. Tower of Terror which I did not find scary and rate a 7. Rock and Roller Coaster twice in a row - NO WAIT - rate this a 10. Annoying preshow. Good music. Terrific take off. If this wasn't scary enough I volunteered to be an extra in the Indiana Jones Stunt show. This was alot of fun! I had to shop - my favorite activity - man standing next to me asked me how to look as if he was shopping. I explained the browse concept to him.
Muppets in 3 D was wonderful as well.
Lunch - Hollywood Brown Derby with the Fantasmic dinner package. Terrific chicken. Rate the chicken with the sweet potatoes with an 8. Service good.
Fantasmic show. Got there at 6 PM. Would have been OK to arrive at 7 PM however. Did not use the dinner package. Got terrific seats. Man next to me used a light on him camcorder which was very annoying - more so to the people sitting in front of him. Terrific show - worth seeing.
9-17-01 Monday
Starting to get tired and have a cold from being wet and cold most of last week. Woke up late and went to Downtown Disney. Not in the mood to shop. Place was EXTREMELY EMPTY. Sunny day.
Late Lunch at Wolfgang Puck Cafe. Terrific pizza. Empty. I could see how it would be noisy if full. Modern decorations. Pastries looked delicious but we were too full. Appetizer - calamari - give this a 9.5. Bread basket a 9. Pizza an 8.5. Service very good.
Lego store area is a must see.
Cirque du Soleil La Nouba at night. Husband loved. I thought it was good. He'd give it a 10, me an 8. But I was not feeling well and very cold. It is worth seeing. Amazing what they can do. Recommend this show. Worth the money.
9-18-01 Tuesday
Rainy, Epcot touring.
9-19-01 Wednesday
Sunny, 90's.
Blizzard Beach arriving at 4 PM. Crowded. Chair lift very crowded - not worth the wait. I didn't take it. LOT OF CLIMBING. Lots of places to put your towel. If you don't like hot cement, wear water shoes. You will need to remove them for some of the rides (so your feet don't get stuck). Went on all the rides except for the kiddie ones and the one that is a slow pace inner tube touring one. Summit Plummet - not scary at all. Splash Mountain at MK had a bigger drop. Bit of a wait. Did not get bruised at all. Man ahead of me said to squeeze my butt cheeks - I did. Not too lady like (but it worked). Maybe this helped. Major wedgie! Did not like the one next to it. Felt as if I was drowning going down it as water was in my face the entire time. Enjoyed the open double inner tubes with my husband. Family raft ride also fun. Something called Double... lots of fun as well as all of their slides. Wave pool calming - a bit too calming for me. Nice place to go on a hot day. Something for everyone, even those that don't like water - but like to just read a book and get sun.
Dinner at Citrico's at the Grand Floridian Resort. Beautiful resort. Rate dinner a 7-8. Grilled salmon was good but a small portion. Just good though. Dessert was an orange chocolate mousse which was very good - rate this a 9. Did not feel it was worth the price for the meal. Place was upscale such as the California Grill - but with a more relaxed feel. Waiter was more friendly than at the California Grill. Good French press coffee. I would not go back (except for the dessert).
9-20-01 Thursday
VERY HOT, hottest day, very humid. I was comfortable, husband was sweating bullets.
Last day - left very early for airport. Airport and flight was empty. Security tight. Forgot I had my toenail and other scissors in my carry on bag. They took them and scanned my body.
Airplane was on time. Flight less than 1/3 full. Flight attendants and pilot extra friendly. Smooth flight. Arrived early. Lots of police at destination airport.
