Universal Guide Book - Written by disgruntled Disney employee?

[kellymonaghan]

It actually was Kelly's book. I just picked it up today. It's definitely a good read and has the most diverse information on Universal. The sentence that stuck out most in mind was "Disney World as perceived by many as a kids park that adults will enjoy". I think that would be said by someone that has never been to Disney World. Any adult that has been knows that simply isn't true. Another one that got me is saying Disney tends to present itself as a park of yesterday, where Universal is a thing of tomorrow. That might be a knock. I happen to love the theming of the "yesterday" parts of Disney, primarily in the Magic Kingdom.

First, some background: Yes, I've been to Disney World. Many times. In fact, I've been known to cough up for an annual pass or two. I also Disney World. In fact, I publish a number of guidebooks and other books about WDW, including books by Disney Legend Charles Ridgway, Steve Barrett (Mr. Hidden Mickeys) and Lou Mongello (the WDW trivia expert). (Thank you for buying them!) I think that qualifies me as someone with great respect and high regard for WDW.

That out of the way, I am tempted to ask, "What part of 'Disney World is perceived by many as a kids' park that adults will enjoy' didn't Boomhauer understand? The fact that Boomhauer doesn't perceive it that way, doesn't make the statement any less true. Boomhauer is obviously not 'many people' and I stand by the statement.

And, if anything, it seems that Boomhauer actually agrees with the fact that WDW, especially MK, is bathed in nostalgia. Nothing wrong with that.

As to Universal being the "antithesis" of WDW, to the extent that is true, I think it only makes good marketing sense. Trying to out-Disney Disney would be a fool's errand. Trying to position yourself as a viable alternative to Disney, for those who might be looking for something different, on the other hand, makes perfect sense.

Boomhauer, if you prefer WDW to Universal, I respect you for your feelings. We live in a free country and everyone's entitled to their preferences in theme parks. I only ask that you extend the same courtesy and consideration to those who might (respectfully) disagree with you.

 

[kellymonaghan]

I'll bet next will be a new edition of the Other Orlando because of Aquatica. (Kelly. . . can I cover that for you??)

Actually, I was thinking of doing a whole new book devoted to the Busch Parks -- "Aquatica, Discovery Cove, and SeaWorld" (with a bonus chapter on Busch Gardens Tampa).

Whaddaya guys think? Would that fly?

As to your question, wwessing, are you old enough to remember that TV commercial catchphrase, "Mother, please, I'd rather do it myself!"?

 

[kellymonaghan]

I never worked at any Disney park. As much as I might have liked to have worked at WDW, I don't think they'd have me.

I have a beard!! (Or have they relaxed that rule?)

 

[loribell]

Actually, I was thinking of doing a whole new book devoted to the Busch Parks -- "Aquatica, Discovery Cove, and SeaWorld" (with a bonus chapter on Busch Gardens Tampa).

Whaddaya guys think? Would that fly?

I think it would be a great idea Kelly. The Busch parks are continuing to grow and they need coverage. There just aren't enough people here on the forums to give a good understanding of the parks. Plus there would then be another book for my collection!

As to your question, wwessing, are you old enough to remember that TV commercial catchphrase, "Mother, please, I'd rather do it myself!"?

I never worked at any Disney park. As much as I might have liked to have worked at WDW, I don't think they'd have me.

I have a beard!! (Or have they relaxed that rule?)

Well to me you are just to young for a beard, at least in my minds description of you. And you can't have a beard and work at Disney?

 

[wwessing]

Actually, I was thinking of doing a whole new book devoted to the Busch Parks -- "Aquatica, Discovery Cove, and SeaWorld" (with a bonus chapter on Busch Gardens Tampa).

Whaddaya guys think? Would that fly?

As to your question, wwessing, are you old enough to remember that TV commercial catchphrase, "Mother, please, I'd rather do it myself!"?

I guess that's why you are the author. . . and, well, I'm not. I didn't even think of a whole new book just for the Busch parks. That's excellent. Right now, you can't even find out what dining options are available at Aquatica. I know. . . I called and asked. I'm certain there will be much more information available as the place opens, but I'm thinking you've got a winner!! I'm in. . .


Oh, and I'm apparently not old enough cuz I don't remember that commercial at all Can't blame a girl for tryin

 

[boomhauer]

First, some background: Yes, I've been to Disney World. Many times. In fact, I've been known to cough up for an annual pass or two. I also Disney World. In fact, I publish a number of guidebooks and other books about WDW, including books by Disney Legend Charles Ridgway, Steve Barrett (Mr. Hidden Mickeys) and Lou Mongello (the WDW trivia expert). (Thank you for buying them!) I think that qualifies me as someone with great respect and high regard for WDW.

That out of the way, I am tempted to ask, "What part of 'Disney World is perceived by many as a kids' park that adults will enjoy' didn't Boomhauer understand? The fact that Boomhauer doesn't perceive it that way, doesn't make the statement any less true. Boomhauer is obviously not 'many people' and I stand by the statement.

And, if anything, it seems that Boomhauer actually agrees with the fact that WDW, especially MK, is bathed in nostalgia. Nothing wrong with that.

As to Universal being the "antithesis" of WDW, to the extent that is true, I think it only makes good marketing sense. Trying to out-Disney Disney would be a fool's errand. Trying to position yourself as a viable alternative to Disney, for those who might be looking for something different, on the other hand, makes perfect sense.

Boomhauer, if you prefer WDW to Universal, I respect you for your feelings. We live in a free country and everyone's entitled to their preferences in theme parks. I only ask that you extend the same courtesy and consideration to those who might (respectfully) disagree with you.

You're pretty much dead on. One thing though - I've only been to Universal once. Literally, just one day. And this was before the hotels, IOA, etc. So, I really can't tell you my opinion as of yet. Not a fair one anyways.

As I said, I'm a big fan of travel guides. I own just about all of the Disney ones. Thus, the point of the post. In all of the Disney books, there was never a mention of Universal. There is never any trying to convince Universal fans to go to Disney. When reading your book, then reading the Universal website, it seems as though there's a conserted effort to convince Disney fans to try Universal. Not saying it's the wrong thing - Just pointing out my perception.

I hope you didn't take any offense to my post. I really am enjoying reading your book. It's an enjoyable, informative read.

 

[kellymonaghan]

it seems as though there's a conserted effort to convince Disney fans to try Universal. Not saying it's the wrong thing - Just pointing out my perception.

It's like Willie Sutton said when asked why he robbed banks. He said, "Because that's where the money is."

Other theme parks target Disney visitors because that's where all the tourists are.

Glad you're enjoying the book.

 

[yankeepenny]

Actually, I was thinking of doing a whole new book devoted to the Busch Parks -- "Aquatica, Discovery Cove, and SeaWorld" (with a bonus chapter on Busch Gardens Tampa).

Whaddaya guys think? Would that fly?

As to your question, wwessing, are you old enough to remember that TV commercial catchphrase, "Mother, please, I'd rather do it myself!"?

Please do. I wish we had had more background on Seaworld the first trip.

 

[the Dark Marauder]

I never worked at any Disney park. As much as I might have liked to have worked at WDW, I don't think they'd have me.

I have a beard!! (Or have they relaxed that rule?)

Nope. They still say "no beards/goatees." Mustache, yes.

Male Universal employees can have beards/goatees/mustaches if well groomed.

 

[nerdboyrockstar]

Nope. They still say "no beards/goatees." Mustache, yes.

Male Universal employees can have beards/goatees/mustaches if well groomed.

I couldn't work for Disney.

 

[the Dark Marauder]

Neither could I. That reminds me, I need to call Uni and, well, I'll put the rest in the SAN thread. This thread is about Kelly's Book.

 

[bubba's mom]

Actually, I was thinking of doing a whole new book devoted to the Busch Parks -- "Aquatica, Discovery Cove, and SeaWorld" (with a bonus chapter on Busch Gardens Tampa).

Whaddaya guys think? Would that fly?

Kelly...I think that is a great idea! Count on ME buyin'! I've never been to SW and would love to go. But, with staying onsite at UO and the "carefreeness" we have there, I need to 'research' before taking the troops. I want to go to Discovery Cove, but the MOST info I've ever found on it was Eric's (yaytez) trip report on it The info is just not out there... .....especially compared to Disney.... and at least you are catching Universal up in that area

 

[Judy from Boise]

Kelly, I really enjoyed your "christmas gift" guide, that covered the Holy land experience. It convinced me i want to go. Also I would love a comprehensive guide to all of the themed mini golf choices, especially organized by areas.
So for me, I guess i would rather have a single comprehensive book on "all things not Disney"

and just an aside, most all of the Disney guidebooks I own have a token section on Universal, and why wouldn't they ?

 

[EverythingDisney]

Ok, WHAT is the NAME of this "Kelly" book?
I want it !! I have never been to Universal, I have just always gone to Disney. This year we are doing both, and I am so excited !! I can't wait for FOTL !!
Thanks

 

[phamton]

Ok, WHAT is the NAME of this "Kelly" book?

Universal Orlando 2008: The Ultimate Guide to the Ultimate Theme Park Adventure (Universal Orlando) And in the book he lists the DisBoard as a great resource for information.

 

[tarheelmjfan]

Actually, I was thinking of doing a whole new book devoted to the Busch Parks -- "Aquatica, Discovery Cove, and SeaWorld" (with a bonus chapter on Busch Gardens Tampa).

Whaddaya guys think? Would that fly?

As to your question, wwessing, are you old enough to remember that TV commercial catchphrase, "Mother, please, I'd rather do it myself!"?

More info on the dining options at BG would be nice too. Also, don't forget Adventure Island. No Aquatica by any means, but worth a visit, if one is already visiting BG.

 

[calgarygary]

Ok, WHAT is the NAME of this "Kelly" book?
I want it !! I have never been to Universal, I have just always gone to Disney. This year we are doing both, and I am so excited !! I can't wait for FOTL !!
Thanks

You do know that FOTL comes with a warning - it is addictive and makes it very difficult to stay offsite in the future.

 

[willis37862]

Actually, I was thinking of doing a whole new book devoted to the Busch Parks -- "Aquatica, Discovery Cove, and SeaWorld" (with a bonus chapter on Busch Gardens Tampa).

Whaddaya guys think? Would that fly?

I would buy a copy. We are planning to spend a day at Aquatica this fall when we visit WDW and I miss having info about it to plan that day.

 

[Metro West]

Nope. They still say "no beards/goatees." Mustache, yes.

Male Universal employees can have beards/goatees/mustaches if well groomed.

I remember hearing when Disney wouldn't allow any facial hair which I thought was funny since Walt Disney himself had a mustache in just about every picture I've seen.

 

[angiepangie8]

Me either, but I bought it! Something inside me makes me buy the guides but I never use them.

Me too i finally read through one i got for Xmas!

I'm thinking of getting the Universal Guide Book from the Library instead of buying it!