Hi. I know, finally we made it to Florida. Lots of changes along the way, but glad we made it and are settled in. I agree, it’s so much easier having a villa than just a hotel room. Now I feel vacation is really starting. Hilton Head was fun, but the point of going was to look and see if it’s somewhere we may want to live down the road so it wasn’t just vacation.
Trip Report - September / October 2024
- Thread starter Noreen411
- Start date
Sunday 9/29/24
Scott unloaded the dishwasher and noticed the cleaning tablet was still in its little area rather than dissolved having cleaned the dishes. I guess we’ll call maintenance a little later when we’re getting ready to head out for them to fix it. He also folded the laundry that was in the dryer overnight; I’m glad the washer/dryer are working without issue.
We went to the gym a little before 5. I was glad to see they replaced some of the treadmills since our last trip when several weren’t working. This big 24 hour gym is the main reason we ask to be in this section of the resort. There was a new problem the gym was super hot with weird air vent things in the corner. There was a maintenance worker who said they are fixing the air conditioner in the gym.
This isn’t going to work, it’s way too hot in here for us to work out. We’re going to walk to one of the other sections and use the gym there.
We noticed there were locks on the gates to the pool so you couldn’t go in before the pool officially opens, that’s new since our last visit in March. The maintenance guy let me in to take a few pictures since he was there.
Scott unloaded the dishwasher and noticed the cleaning tablet was still in its little area rather than dissolved having cleaned the dishes. I guess we’ll call maintenance a little later when we’re getting ready to head out for them to fix it. He also folded the laundry that was in the dryer overnight; I’m glad the washer/dryer are working without issue.
We went to the gym a little before 5. I was glad to see they replaced some of the treadmills since our last trip when several weren’t working. This big 24 hour gym is the main reason we ask to be in this section of the resort. There was a new problem the gym was super hot with weird air vent things in the corner. There was a maintenance worker who said they are fixing the air conditioner in the gym.
This isn’t going to work, it’s way too hot in here for us to work out. We’re going to walk to one of the other sections and use the gym there.
We noticed there were locks on the gates to the pool so you couldn’t go in before the pool officially opens, that’s new since our last visit in March. The maintenance guy let me in to take a few pictures since he was there.
Sunday 9/29/24 Continued
Scott and I walked over to the smaller gym in the Bella section of the resort. While there are different sections you can use the amenities at any of the sections. This gym had most of the equipment we wanted, was cool, but it’s much smaller than the gym in the St Augustine section. We were the only ones in the gym.
Scott finished his workout first and headed back to the villa. When I got back to the villa, there was another issue. He filled the jacuzzi, put bleach in it to clean it, turned it on…so far so good. But it wouldn’t turn off, it was stuck on.
We called the front desk who said maintenance would come right away so we waited. Someone showed up about 15 minutes later and he was able to fix the jacuzzi. We showed him the water closet door and he took some pictures of it and said they need to get the contractor to come look at that. We also showed him the dishwasher issue, he said he needs to get some parts to fix that. They will come back a little later once we’re out to fix the broken items. While it’s a little annoying to have these things not working properly we know things happen; we’re impressed with how responsive everyone has been.
We started a load of laundry. Now that the jacuzzi was fixed, Scott drained it, filled it with bleach and water again to run it, drained it comfortable that it was now clean, we used it, showered, got dressed and had breakfast.
We drove to the Magic Kingdom. We like to start our park visits at Magic Kingdom to get right into that Magical Disney feeling.
Driving under the Disney World sign for the first time of a trip is always such a great feeling knowing all the fun that awaits you.
We parked at the TTC then took the ferry, rather than the monorail, to Magic Kingdom
Scott and I walked over to the smaller gym in the Bella section of the resort. While there are different sections you can use the amenities at any of the sections. This gym had most of the equipment we wanted, was cool, but it’s much smaller than the gym in the St Augustine section. We were the only ones in the gym.
Scott finished his workout first and headed back to the villa. When I got back to the villa, there was another issue. He filled the jacuzzi, put bleach in it to clean it, turned it on…so far so good. But it wouldn’t turn off, it was stuck on.
We called the front desk who said maintenance would come right away so we waited. Someone showed up about 15 minutes later and he was able to fix the jacuzzi. We showed him the water closet door and he took some pictures of it and said they need to get the contractor to come look at that. We also showed him the dishwasher issue, he said he needs to get some parts to fix that. They will come back a little later once we’re out to fix the broken items. While it’s a little annoying to have these things not working properly we know things happen; we’re impressed with how responsive everyone has been.
We started a load of laundry. Now that the jacuzzi was fixed, Scott drained it, filled it with bleach and water again to run it, drained it comfortable that it was now clean, we used it, showered, got dressed and had breakfast.
We drove to the Magic Kingdom. We like to start our park visits at Magic Kingdom to get right into that Magical Disney feeling.
Driving under the Disney World sign for the first time of a trip is always such a great feeling knowing all the fun that awaits you.
We parked at the TTC then took the ferry, rather than the monorail, to Magic Kingdom
Sunday 9/29/24 Continued
I love stopping for pictures especially when they have magic shots. It’s great having Memory Maker since we’re both in the pictures together.
Once inside the park, that first view of the castle is so exciting. I know I sound really corny but it’s our happy place.
Seven Dwarves Mine Train was currently down so we’ll use our LL later for it.
We went to Ariel’s Under the Sea Journey, it’s not a big fancy ride but it’s sweet
We went into Philharmagic but must have missed a show since we were the first people let into the waiting area. This is always an enjoyable show.
Small World was next, a classic. Neither of us are tall; I’m 5’ 3 1/2” and Scott’s 5’ 9” and our knees were touching the seat in front of us. I assume this would be uncomfortable for someone taller, or maybe they just sit a bit sideways.
We continued taking pictures if we saw photographers.
We saw the new Country Bears show. It’s cute that now the songs are more recognizable, but I don’t think it’s necessarily an improvement from the old show, just some different songs. We liked it either way - the old and the new version.
We went to Big Thunder Mountain next. We both enjoy this and how you slide across the seat into each other going around the turns, especially if you put your hands up. Too bad there isn’t a ride photo on Big Thunder.
I love stopping for pictures especially when they have magic shots. It’s great having Memory Maker since we’re both in the pictures together.
Once inside the park, that first view of the castle is so exciting. I know I sound really corny but it’s our happy place.
Seven Dwarves Mine Train was currently down so we’ll use our LL later for it.
We went to Ariel’s Under the Sea Journey, it’s not a big fancy ride but it’s sweet
We went into Philharmagic but must have missed a show since we were the first people let into the waiting area. This is always an enjoyable show.
Small World was next, a classic. Neither of us are tall; I’m 5’ 3 1/2” and Scott’s 5’ 9” and our knees were touching the seat in front of us. I assume this would be uncomfortable for someone taller, or maybe they just sit a bit sideways.
We continued taking pictures if we saw photographers.
We saw the new Country Bears show. It’s cute that now the songs are more recognizable, but I don’t think it’s necessarily an improvement from the old show, just some different songs. We liked it either way - the old and the new version.
We went to Big Thunder Mountain next. We both enjoy this and how you slide across the seat into each other going around the turns, especially if you put your hands up. Too bad there isn’t a ride photo on Big Thunder.
Sunday 9/29/24 Continued
We went on Haunted Mansion, this is always a favorite attraction too. I say this each trip but one of these days we won’t look so goofy in the picture, we always look so silly in the ride photo but I love them anyway.
I tried to take a picture of the HatBox ghost but it didn’t come out that great in the dark.
Of course we need to take pictures with HitchHiking Ghosts
We rode Peter Pan next, which we enjoy. I’m amused by silly things easily and I always comment on how things like white socks glow on this ride.
Seven Dwarves Mine Train was up and running again so we headed over there to ride. So cute and Scott laughs at me when I sing “Hi Ho Hi Ho It’s off to Work we Go” in the mine scene.
We received a text that things are fixed in the villa so that was nice to receive.
We stopped at the Confectionary (Candy Store) on Main Street to get Scott his Chocolate Dipped Mickey Shaped chocolate chip cookie. He loved this cookie last trip. It was just as good this time.
We headed out of the park. It’s hot and humid out, I know late September can go either way. We’ve had cool days and hot days in the past traveling this time of year. Surprisingly, even WDW workers and the maintenance guy at Vistana Villages commented on the heat. You know it’s hot if even people that live in Florida are saying so.
We went on Haunted Mansion, this is always a favorite attraction too. I say this each trip but one of these days we won’t look so goofy in the picture, we always look so silly in the ride photo but I love them anyway.
I tried to take a picture of the HatBox ghost but it didn’t come out that great in the dark.
Of course we need to take pictures with HitchHiking Ghosts
We rode Peter Pan next, which we enjoy. I’m amused by silly things easily and I always comment on how things like white socks glow on this ride.
Seven Dwarves Mine Train was up and running again so we headed over there to ride. So cute and Scott laughs at me when I sing “Hi Ho Hi Ho It’s off to Work we Go” in the mine scene.
We received a text that things are fixed in the villa so that was nice to receive.
We stopped at the Confectionary (Candy Store) on Main Street to get Scott his Chocolate Dipped Mickey Shaped chocolate chip cookie. He loved this cookie last trip. It was just as good this time.
We headed out of the park. It’s hot and humid out, I know late September can go either way. We’ve had cool days and hot days in the past traveling this time of year. Surprisingly, even WDW workers and the maintenance guy at Vistana Villages commented on the heat. You know it’s hot if even people that live in Florida are saying so.
Sunday 9/29/24 Continued
We drove to Disney Springs. At World of Disney we bought a few shirts.
We went to the Boathouse where we had an early dinner reservation. We saw seats available at the bar so sat there and let the host know freeing up our regular table for others.
Scott had a Martini. I had a Duck Duck Razz. This is such a cute and tasty drink but it’s stronger than it looks.
We started with 6 Sea of Cortez Shrimp. These are always so fresh, probably the best shrimp cocktail at Disney
We had the filet Mignon sliders, these are really good. I’m also showing what the inside looks like
Of course we had to have fries, the Boathouse has the best fries at Disney.
Scott also ordered the Andouille shrimp/sausage Mac & cheese. This is too spicy for me but he liked it. He had some of this wrapped to go.
We were planning to get the Caramel apple bread pudding but they were out of it so we skipped dessert. We were looking at the Macadamia pie but the bartender talked us out of it; he said it’s too big and it’s ice cream so you can’t really take it as leftovers since it will melt.
We walked around Disney Springs some more popping into and out of a few shops and buying a few things.
We headed back to the resort and showered again. We watched Hotel Transylvania. It’s nice to be able to sit on the couch to watch a show kind of like we would do at home. We’ve seen it before and enjoy watching it when we’re at Disney. We like to put something on to wind down at the end of the day and this is such a cute and funny movie. There are several movies in the franchise so we’ll watch them throughout the trip.
Scott was hungry later so we ordered pizza that we had delivered from Flippers.
We drove to Disney Springs. At World of Disney we bought a few shirts.
We went to the Boathouse where we had an early dinner reservation. We saw seats available at the bar so sat there and let the host know freeing up our regular table for others.
Scott had a Martini. I had a Duck Duck Razz. This is such a cute and tasty drink but it’s stronger than it looks.
We started with 6 Sea of Cortez Shrimp. These are always so fresh, probably the best shrimp cocktail at Disney
We had the filet Mignon sliders, these are really good. I’m also showing what the inside looks like
Of course we had to have fries, the Boathouse has the best fries at Disney.
Scott also ordered the Andouille shrimp/sausage Mac & cheese. This is too spicy for me but he liked it. He had some of this wrapped to go.
We were planning to get the Caramel apple bread pudding but they were out of it so we skipped dessert. We were looking at the Macadamia pie but the bartender talked us out of it; he said it’s too big and it’s ice cream so you can’t really take it as leftovers since it will melt.
We walked around Disney Springs some more popping into and out of a few shops and buying a few things.
We headed back to the resort and showered again. We watched Hotel Transylvania. It’s nice to be able to sit on the couch to watch a show kind of like we would do at home. We’ve seen it before and enjoy watching it when we’re at Disney. We like to put something on to wind down at the end of the day and this is such a cute and funny movie. There are several movies in the franchise so we’ll watch them throughout the trip.
Scott was hungry later so we ordered pizza that we had delivered from Flippers.
BellaBaby
(Im)patiently waiting for next trip to Disney!!
- Joined
- Jan 22, 2007
- Messages
- 1,723
Your photo on HM was not silly at all, you both look great! As is the Hatbox Ghost photo, very good.
Your meal at the Boathouse is making me hungry! We ate there last summer and I also had the sliders and the Duck Duck Razz.
Yum!
Your meal at the Boathouse is making me hungry! We ate there last summer and I also had the sliders and the Duck Duck Razz.
Yum!
Thank you for the kind words. The Boathouse is great, it was our favorite restaurant of this trip.Your photo on HM was not silly at all, you both look great! As is the Hatbox Ghost photo, very good.
Your meal at the Boathouse is making me hungry! We ate there last summer and I also had the sliders and the Duck Duck Razz.
Yum!
Monday 9/30/24
We went to the gym in the Bella section around 5:30. It’s about a 10 minute walk from where our villa is to the Bella section gym, while the St Augustine gym is pretty much right down the elevators and around a little bend. But it’s still too hot in the St Augustine gym without the AC working.
I took a few pictures of the pool by the Bella section. When we first walked by it on the way to the gym it wasn’t open yet so the waterfall was off.
By the time we finished our workout the pool was open and the waterfall was on. You can use facilities at any section of the resort.
We picked up Starbucks at the Marketplace in the resort which is in the St Augustine section; the Marketplace opens at 7.
We were speaking with a maintenance guy in the elevator who said the St Augustine gym AC should be fixed in another day or 2; he also said the Key West section gym is bigger than the Bella section gym. Maybe we’ll go check out that gym too.
Back in the villa, we started a load of laundry, used the jacuzzi, took showers, and had breakfast.
We went to the gym in the Bella section around 5:30. It’s about a 10 minute walk from where our villa is to the Bella section gym, while the St Augustine gym is pretty much right down the elevators and around a little bend. But it’s still too hot in the St Augustine gym without the AC working.
I took a few pictures of the pool by the Bella section. When we first walked by it on the way to the gym it wasn’t open yet so the waterfall was off.
By the time we finished our workout the pool was open and the waterfall was on. You can use facilities at any section of the resort.
We picked up Starbucks at the Marketplace in the resort which is in the St Augustine section; the Marketplace opens at 7.
We were speaking with a maintenance guy in the elevator who said the St Augustine gym AC should be fixed in another day or 2; he also said the Key West section gym is bigger than the Bella section gym. Maybe we’ll go check out that gym too.
Back in the villa, we started a load of laundry, used the jacuzzi, took showers, and had breakfast.
Monday 9/30/24 Continued
We headed to Hollywood Studios.
We always stop when we see photographers without a long line since it’s nice to have pictures of both of us.
Toy Story Mania was our first attraction. Last trip we googled some of the guidance on what to aim for and working as a team; of course we forgot most of what we learned last trip, but we still enjoyed the ride.
Star Tours is always fun, it’s not as popular as it used to be with so many newer Star Wars themed rides but we still enjoy it. When we exited Scott put my sunglasses in the bin for ride glasses by accident; luckily it was easy enough to reach in and get them back quickly.
We walked right into Muppets which was perfect timing since they were just opening the doors to the theater. This is such a nice and sweet attraction with comfortable seats in air conditioning. Always a nice little break.
Our next attraction was Slinky Dog Dash, this is always lots of fun.
We stopped in a few shops and bought some more shirts. What we started doing recently is when we see shirts or things we like we’ll buy them often in more than one size if we’re not sure how they’ll fit. Then we try things on back in the villa and put the things to return in a bag and we’ll do all the returns later in the trip.
Our next attraction was Tower of Terror. This is still my favorite ride in Hollywood Studios. Scott mentioned that during one of the drops the temple tip of his sunglasses went in his nose, just a perfect shot. I had to look that up - the temple tip is the edge of the arm on the sunglasses (the part that goes behind your ear). It would have been even funnier if that showed up in the picture but it didn’t. Scott likes to keep his sunglasses on a strap around his neck so if he takes them off they are right there.
Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railroad was next. Just as we were about to walk into the pre-show room the ride went down. Everyone’s magic band was scanned for a lightening lane select experience.
We browsed a few more shops then headed out of the park.
We headed to Hollywood Studios.
We always stop when we see photographers without a long line since it’s nice to have pictures of both of us.
Toy Story Mania was our first attraction. Last trip we googled some of the guidance on what to aim for and working as a team; of course we forgot most of what we learned last trip, but we still enjoyed the ride.
Star Tours is always fun, it’s not as popular as it used to be with so many newer Star Wars themed rides but we still enjoy it. When we exited Scott put my sunglasses in the bin for ride glasses by accident; luckily it was easy enough to reach in and get them back quickly.
We walked right into Muppets which was perfect timing since they were just opening the doors to the theater. This is such a nice and sweet attraction with comfortable seats in air conditioning. Always a nice little break.
Our next attraction was Slinky Dog Dash, this is always lots of fun.
We stopped in a few shops and bought some more shirts. What we started doing recently is when we see shirts or things we like we’ll buy them often in more than one size if we’re not sure how they’ll fit. Then we try things on back in the villa and put the things to return in a bag and we’ll do all the returns later in the trip.
Our next attraction was Tower of Terror. This is still my favorite ride in Hollywood Studios. Scott mentioned that during one of the drops the temple tip of his sunglasses went in his nose, just a perfect shot. I had to look that up - the temple tip is the edge of the arm on the sunglasses (the part that goes behind your ear). It would have been even funnier if that showed up in the picture but it didn’t. Scott likes to keep his sunglasses on a strap around his neck so if he takes them off they are right there.
Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railroad was next. Just as we were about to walk into the pre-show room the ride went down. Everyone’s magic band was scanned for a lightening lane select experience.
We browsed a few more shops then headed out of the park.
hardcorestitch
Mouseketeer
- Joined
- Dec 14, 2024
- Messages
- 344
"Enjoy your ride? Ha ha ha ha haaaaah!" -Evil Queen
LOL - we totally enjoy it. Disney is our happy place
Monday 9/30/24 Continued
We stopped at Publix to pick up cupcakes for Dana for tomorrow (it’s her birthday) and a few other items.
We headed back to the resort and went to the pool, the one right in the St Augustine section near our villa.
Later we showered and changed then drove to the Grand Floridian for our dinner reservation at Narcoossee’s.
We went a little early with plans to have cocktails at the bar first, but the bar was full. They seated us early instead.
I had an Old Fashioned. How cute is the ice cube block with GF on it?
Scott had Yuzu Black Peppercorn Gin & Tonic. Scott normally sticks with either a Martini, Gin & Tonic, or Bourbon so I was happy Scott branched out trying a speciality cocktail still in his wheelhouse of drinks he likes. He said it was good but overly citrusy and needed more gin or something. He asked the waitress if he could have some more gin added to his drink.
For an appetizer we shared the shrimp and grits. This was surprisingly good.
The bread is very good but very crumb-y
For an entree I ordered the Blackened Redfish. I had this on a prior trip and loved it. This time it was good but a bit too spicy for me. Scott ate some of it since I couldn’t eat it all being so spicy.
Scott had an off menu special of two butter poached lobster tails. This normally comes with mashed potatoes and vegetable medley. He substituted fries for the mashed potatoes and green beans for the vegetable medley. He loved his dish.
For dessert we shared the Almond Crusted cheesecake. This is so good. We knew were were getting this for dessert.
We enjoyed our meal at Narcoossee’s. When the waitress brought the check she was apologizing that we were charged for a whole extra drink when Scott asked for a bit more gin; she explained it’s very strict how they can ring things up. We didn’t complain or anything, she just brought that to our attention.
We stopped at Publix to pick up cupcakes for Dana for tomorrow (it’s her birthday) and a few other items.
We headed back to the resort and went to the pool, the one right in the St Augustine section near our villa.
Later we showered and changed then drove to the Grand Floridian for our dinner reservation at Narcoossee’s.
We went a little early with plans to have cocktails at the bar first, but the bar was full. They seated us early instead.
I had an Old Fashioned. How cute is the ice cube block with GF on it?
Scott had Yuzu Black Peppercorn Gin & Tonic. Scott normally sticks with either a Martini, Gin & Tonic, or Bourbon so I was happy Scott branched out trying a speciality cocktail still in his wheelhouse of drinks he likes. He said it was good but overly citrusy and needed more gin or something. He asked the waitress if he could have some more gin added to his drink.
For an appetizer we shared the shrimp and grits. This was surprisingly good.
The bread is very good but very crumb-y
For an entree I ordered the Blackened Redfish. I had this on a prior trip and loved it. This time it was good but a bit too spicy for me. Scott ate some of it since I couldn’t eat it all being so spicy.
Scott had an off menu special of two butter poached lobster tails. This normally comes with mashed potatoes and vegetable medley. He substituted fries for the mashed potatoes and green beans for the vegetable medley. He loved his dish.
For dessert we shared the Almond Crusted cheesecake. This is so good. We knew were were getting this for dessert.
We enjoyed our meal at Narcoossee’s. When the waitress brought the check she was apologizing that we were charged for a whole extra drink when Scott asked for a bit more gin; she explained it’s very strict how they can ring things up. We didn’t complain or anything, she just brought that to our attention.
Monday 9/30/24 Continued
After dinner we went to Magic Kingdom
We watched the fireworks. I know some people look for the perfect spot to watch parades and fireworks but we’re happy to watch the fireworks from anywhere in the park. Sometimes we’ll watch from Main Street and have the castle in front of us for a better view, but other times we’ll go elsewhere for less crowds to watch.
It’s still very hot and humid out.
We went on Haunted Mansion next, still not looking in the right place for the picture in our doom buggy. Of course we stop to pose with the hitchhiking ghost.
We walked in and out of some shops and wandered around the park. I think we rode the Carousel and went into the Tiki Birds.
We were both pretty tired and wiped out from the heat and humidity.
The park has such a different vibe at night all lit up.
After dinner we went to Magic Kingdom
We watched the fireworks. I know some people look for the perfect spot to watch parades and fireworks but we’re happy to watch the fireworks from anywhere in the park. Sometimes we’ll watch from Main Street and have the castle in front of us for a better view, but other times we’ll go elsewhere for less crowds to watch.
It’s still very hot and humid out.
We went on Haunted Mansion next, still not looking in the right place for the picture in our doom buggy. Of course we stop to pose with the hitchhiking ghost.
We walked in and out of some shops and wandered around the park. I think we rode the Carousel and went into the Tiki Birds.
We were both pretty tired and wiped out from the heat and humidity.
The park has such a different vibe at night all lit up.
carejo
Mouseketeer
- Joined
- Jan 9, 2010
- Messages
- 123
Love your reports! We were in Hilton Head a couple of weeks after you! Loved it. And yes they do charge $9/ car to enter the Sea Pines area. We have friends from New Jersey that own a vacation home in Bluffton. .I laughed when the neighbor told you they don’t like people from NJ. Sounds just like him. Looking forward to the rest of your report
Hi. Thank you. This was our first visit to Hilton Head, we liked it a lot. Glad to hear that wasn’t a scam at Sea Pines. We got a kick out of that neighbor; we could be friends with him.
Tuesday 10/1/24
We were tired and slept later than usual, not getting to the gym until about 7:30. We walked to the gym in the Bella section since the St Augustine gym still doesn’t have working AC.
Our original plans were to meet my sister and brother in law at Cocoa Beach today where the cruise they were on, Symphony of the Seas, was docking for the day. Dana and her family were also going to meet us there. I received a text from my sister that Kevin (her husband, our brother in law) was feeling well and had a fever so they were staying on the ship. I’m disappointed we won’t get to see them. With this super hot/humid weather, I’m OK not going to the beach. There were also predictions for rain later so the beach wasn’t a great idea anyway. I texted with Dana to see if we could plan to get together another day.
Back in the villa we did our normal routine of laundry, jacuzzi, and showers. We were trying to figure out what to do today now that our plans changed.
We decided to go to the pool while the sun was out.
After some time playing in the pool, on the water slide, hanging out, we showered and changed to head out.
We drove to the TTC originally thinking we would go to Magic Kingdom. Little rant here…People sometimes are so clueless. When we were getting on the parking lot tram which was crowded, I had to tell a lady to move her bag which was taking up a seat so we could get on too. She moved the bag to her lap once asked. I’d like to think she wasn’t intentionally being an idiot, but just was clueless not realizing it was more crowded getting on the tram than she originally thought. Or maybe she was just super excited to be going to Magic Kingdom that she didn’t think.
We changed our plans and decided to try to go to Trader Sam’s at the Polynesian since it was close to the time they open maybe we would be able to get in. We got on the resort monorail and went to the Polynesian and put our name on the list at Trader Sam’s. We browsed the shops at the Polynesian.
Since we had some time we took the monorail to the Contemporary to browse the shops there.
We received a text sooner than expected to come back to Trader Sam’s so we got back on the monorail making our way back to the Polynesian. It was pouring out while we were moving among the monorail resorts.
We checked in at Trader Sam’s. I know it’s possible you will share a table or maybe have to stand. The lady that tried to “seat” us wanted me to sit on the 1 stool in the middle of a table for 10 (the other stools were taken) and Scott would have to stand behind me. That makes absolutely no sense. We explained why this won’t work, how do we talk to each other if he’s standing behind me. It’s not like the stools are spaced apart. We would be happy to wait for either 2 stools, a standing location for both of us, etc. She was not understanding why where she wanted us to go wasn’t logical. I should have taken a picture of this table. Scott asked to speak to the manager. When the manager came over and we explained/showed her where the woman wanted us to go even the manager agreed that made no sense. She brought us to the bar where 2 people were getting up and we were able to sit on the two stools at the bar next to each other. We saw the other woman walk by and she looked like she was crying; I’m guessing the manager may have said something to her. We were very polite with our concerns both to the original woman and the manager.
Once we were seated at the bar, the bartender was very friendly.
I ordered the Tiki Tiki Tiki Rum. Scott ordered the Spiced Island.
I asked for a glass of water; how funny is this
We also ordered the dumplings.
The drinks were good; the dumplings were just OK. I’m not sure what the big deal is with this place. I’m glad we tried it, but it’s a one and done for us.
We were tired and slept later than usual, not getting to the gym until about 7:30. We walked to the gym in the Bella section since the St Augustine gym still doesn’t have working AC.
Our original plans were to meet my sister and brother in law at Cocoa Beach today where the cruise they were on, Symphony of the Seas, was docking for the day. Dana and her family were also going to meet us there. I received a text from my sister that Kevin (her husband, our brother in law) was feeling well and had a fever so they were staying on the ship. I’m disappointed we won’t get to see them. With this super hot/humid weather, I’m OK not going to the beach. There were also predictions for rain later so the beach wasn’t a great idea anyway. I texted with Dana to see if we could plan to get together another day.
Back in the villa we did our normal routine of laundry, jacuzzi, and showers. We were trying to figure out what to do today now that our plans changed.
We decided to go to the pool while the sun was out.
After some time playing in the pool, on the water slide, hanging out, we showered and changed to head out.
We drove to the TTC originally thinking we would go to Magic Kingdom. Little rant here…People sometimes are so clueless. When we were getting on the parking lot tram which was crowded, I had to tell a lady to move her bag which was taking up a seat so we could get on too. She moved the bag to her lap once asked. I’d like to think she wasn’t intentionally being an idiot, but just was clueless not realizing it was more crowded getting on the tram than she originally thought. Or maybe she was just super excited to be going to Magic Kingdom that she didn’t think.
We changed our plans and decided to try to go to Trader Sam’s at the Polynesian since it was close to the time they open maybe we would be able to get in. We got on the resort monorail and went to the Polynesian and put our name on the list at Trader Sam’s. We browsed the shops at the Polynesian.
Since we had some time we took the monorail to the Contemporary to browse the shops there.
We received a text sooner than expected to come back to Trader Sam’s so we got back on the monorail making our way back to the Polynesian. It was pouring out while we were moving among the monorail resorts.
We checked in at Trader Sam’s. I know it’s possible you will share a table or maybe have to stand. The lady that tried to “seat” us wanted me to sit on the 1 stool in the middle of a table for 10 (the other stools were taken) and Scott would have to stand behind me. That makes absolutely no sense. We explained why this won’t work, how do we talk to each other if he’s standing behind me. It’s not like the stools are spaced apart. We would be happy to wait for either 2 stools, a standing location for both of us, etc. She was not understanding why where she wanted us to go wasn’t logical. I should have taken a picture of this table. Scott asked to speak to the manager. When the manager came over and we explained/showed her where the woman wanted us to go even the manager agreed that made no sense. She brought us to the bar where 2 people were getting up and we were able to sit on the two stools at the bar next to each other. We saw the other woman walk by and she looked like she was crying; I’m guessing the manager may have said something to her. We were very polite with our concerns both to the original woman and the manager.
Once we were seated at the bar, the bartender was very friendly.
I ordered the Tiki Tiki Tiki Rum. Scott ordered the Spiced Island.
I asked for a glass of water; how funny is this
We also ordered the dumplings.
The drinks were good; the dumplings were just OK. I’m not sure what the big deal is with this place. I’m glad we tried it, but it’s a one and done for us.
Tuesday 10/1/24 Continued
We continued our loop on the monorail, probably getting off to browse the different resorts a bit. It was still pouring out. I don’t remember what else we did that afternoon.
Later that evening we drove to the Yacht Club for our dinner reservation at Yachtsman’s Steakhouse. At the guard gate they said there isn’t any regular parking due to a convention and we need to valet park but they would comp it since there isn’t any other parking available. The guard said we should stop at the front desk in the hotel for them to validate our parking ticket. That was easy enough and we don’t mind valet parking choosing to do so sometimes anyway whether there is regular parking available or not.
We checked in at Yachtsman’s and were seated right on time.
I had a Sprite and Scott had a Martini
We skipped ordering appetizers tonight.
Their onion rolls are great
I ordered the Short Rib and Scott ordered the Prime Rib. We ended up switching, but didn’t finish our food and had a decent amount of leftovers. I love the popover that comes with the Prime Rib.
For dessert we shared the Chocolate cake which was the waitress’ suggestion and very good; it wasn’t too sweet.
We enjoyed our meal at Yachtsman’s Steakhouse.
We continued our loop on the monorail, probably getting off to browse the different resorts a bit. It was still pouring out. I don’t remember what else we did that afternoon.
Later that evening we drove to the Yacht Club for our dinner reservation at Yachtsman’s Steakhouse. At the guard gate they said there isn’t any regular parking due to a convention and we need to valet park but they would comp it since there isn’t any other parking available. The guard said we should stop at the front desk in the hotel for them to validate our parking ticket. That was easy enough and we don’t mind valet parking choosing to do so sometimes anyway whether there is regular parking available or not.
We checked in at Yachtsman’s and were seated right on time.
I had a Sprite and Scott had a Martini
We skipped ordering appetizers tonight.
Their onion rolls are great
I ordered the Short Rib and Scott ordered the Prime Rib. We ended up switching, but didn’t finish our food and had a decent amount of leftovers. I love the popover that comes with the Prime Rib.
For dessert we shared the Chocolate cake which was the waitress’ suggestion and very good; it wasn’t too sweet.
We enjoyed our meal at Yachtsman’s Steakhouse.
Counting Stars
Mouseketeer
- Joined
- Nov 1, 2022
- Messages
- 403
Another really great Noreen411! Love you trip reports- DH and I do most of our trips now just the two of us, so your reports have lots of good ideas and good restaurants we can try. I applaud your dedication to continuing your workouts while on vacation
We were at WDW is September also and it was so freakin hot and humid that the extra effort to go to the gym seemed way too extra on that trip. We are trying the last week of Sept with family this year and hoping it won't be as miserable or we need to pay up to go in October. Thanks for taking the time to share!
We were at WDW is September also and it was so freakin hot and humid that the extra effort to go to the gym seemed way too extra on that trip. We are trying the last week of Sept with family this year and hoping it won't be as miserable or we need to pay up to go in October. Thanks for taking the time to share!Hi. Thank you. We prefer when it’s just the 2 of us on vacation; we can do what we want when without worrying about others; maybe that’s a little selfish.Another really great Noreen411! Love you trip reports- DH and I do most of our trips now just the two of us, so your reports have lots of good ideas and good restaurants we can try. I applaud your dedication to continuing your workouts while on vacation
We try to work out just about every day; at home too. It’s makes us feel better during the day especially if we’re eating various treats at least we know we started the day off right. It’s a slippery slope and missing a day could easily become a few days, weeks, etc.
It was crazy hot when we were there. We’ve had all sorts of different weather this time of year from comfortable to terribly hot and humid, throw in some hurricanes too. It used to not be crowded since kids were back in school but lately it seems like it’s always crowded. I hope your Sept trip has better weather this year.
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