With 3 days left my verdict is in

[TravelingJen24]

I have to say it is hard for me to feel sorry for anyone, newbie or veteran, that is at Disneyland presently when I have to get up and go to work tomorrow. My worst day at dis is still a great day compared to 100 degree heat and sitting in a suit all day.

 

[iKristin]

shoot...I knew about the closures and I STILL booked my 3 day trip for September 10th, 11th and 12th lol. I would rather be there than be nowhere

 

[skiingfast]

PMA can make all the difference in almost anything you do. I'd suggest everyone try it out if you want to enjoy yourself.

 

[MyYearWithTheMouse]

Maybe it's just me, but I guess I'm kind of old-fashioned when it comes to vacations being vacation. That is, I take an internet break and just concentrate on the vacation I'm experiencing--good and bad, and believe me, I've had some bad vacations . I guess I just don't get why I would come on to a DLR fan message board in the middle of my vacation and talk about what a horrible time I'm having at their beloved park. What exactly are we supposed to do about it? What exactly are you expecting out of such an action? It's not like you're going to convince someone on the DLR side of DIS not to go to DLR because of your trip report. So are you just trying to pick a fight or stir the pot?

It's like getting halfway through football season and then going on a Green Bay Packers fan site and saying "the Packers suck!!!" Well sure, a lot of people agree with that, but you will not find those people on a Packers fan site. What you WILL find are a bunch of hard-core Packers fans telling you why you're wrong. And sure, it's a matter of opinion and everyone is entitled to their opinion, but if you're looking for support and validation, there are better places to go. If you're looking for contention and an argument, then carry on.

But why use up all of that emotional energy when you're on vacation with your family? Even if this is the worst vacation of your entire life and the biggest waste of money you've ever spent--that's a memorable vacation too. I mean, not a great one, sure, but it happens. Not every experience in life is going to be a fabulous one, no matter how much money it cost you to have it.

I'm really sorry you're not having a good time at the DLR. That has never been my experience but I do not doubt that this is yours. But you're on vacation with your family. I presume you're not working while you're here. Even if you aren't enjoying the parks--even if you think this is the biggest waste of time and money you've ever spent, you're still here with your family. So stop going to the parks if they're so disappointing . Spend a couple days at the pool. Rent a car and go to the beach. Go see Hollywood or Legoland or Universal Studios or the San Diego Zoo or take the OCTA (city bus) to Knott's. There's no shortage of things to do in the Disneyland area. Or just take your family out to a nice meal and relax. But focus on your family. Unplug from the feed. Try to relax. Try to make the absolute best you can out of the apparently crappy vacation you've experienced up to now.

I understand that you're disappointed, but it is a colossal waste of time and emotional energy to come on a message board where you KNOW that many people, rightly or wrongly, consider Disneyland to be sacrosanct, and try to argue that their park sucks and another destination is much better. If you want to come back here after you've gotten home to argue the same points then hey, knock yourself out. But complaining here about how much Disneyland sucks and how disappointing you are in the middle of your vacation is going to do nothing to make your situation better or make your visit more enjoyable.

Make the best you can out of your bad situation, or at least try. At the end of the day, Disney magic is not about the rides (open or closed) or the shows (easy to see or not) or the cast members (knowledgeable or not). It's about time spent with people you love and care about, with experiencing something you can't experience anywhere else (because DLR and WDW are two totally different experiences). Disney magic is not something that happens TO you when you're here (or in FL or any other Disney property). Disney magic is about the whole experience. Some of that experience you can control--other parts you can't. Even if the rest of the trip is a disappointment, at least try to make the parts you CAN control be the best they can be.

 

[HappyHaunt]

I can't imagine fighting with a bunch of Disneyland fans is making your trip any better. I'd be ticked if my husband even spent this much time doing so when we were supposed to be having fun! We actually had a vacation in the mid 90's where we got stuck on quite a few rides. After awhile it felt like we were spending more time stuck on a ride then doing much else. So I can understand some disappointment there. Even then we didn't let it ruin our vacation. We still had a lot of fun.

In June we had things go down here and there. That does happen, and I'd much rather them fix whatever it is then, then to continue to let people ride it! We would just go find something else to do, and come back later. Really that isn't that hard as you say. We've done it with a small child. If that really is hard for you, perhaps you should wait until your children are older and can handle getting around the parks (although I'm not sure how you do WDW then, it's a lot of traveling place to place there).

We love both DLR and WDW for what they have to offer, two very different vacations. But no vacation goes perfectly, and you sometimes have to make the best of what your dealt. Being at ANY Disney park is certainly better then being at home, or at work. But really if your looking for something to complain about, you'll find it. Try having a better attitude about things.

 

[candygirlIRE]

I think if it was a ONE DAY Disneyland trip, the anger would be pretty valid, but knowing there is an 8 DAY PARK HOPPER involved... no pity here.
Having 2 days is a luxury to me, makes me feel we can get it all in despite occasional breakdowns etc.
This year we have a 4 day park hopper... I am freakin over-joyed!!! I feel like we can be leisurely and stroll (or maybe skip) if we wish I would crawl like a baby around the park if I had an 8 day!!


Breathe deeply and relax - if everyone else is having a nice time it doesn't matter that you can't go on Splash Mountain or whatever. We missed plenty last year, no big deal. It was awesome and we didn't feel more stressed AFTER the trip then before the trip - it's a holiday!!


Group Hug everyone - Disneyland Rocks!



PS- Stay at home Mom of 3 here - but it's not a contest!

 

[candygirlIRE]

Oh and I was thinking that rides might be closed because maybe someone vomited on them --- I think I would rather wait in line or come back later than continue to ride.... imagine that stank!

I am sure vomit happens.
Much like diarrhea.
And verbal diarrhea.



Now go enjoy your trip!!

 

[miss.potatohead]

Oh boy this thread has been an interesting read. I'm a lover of a good debate/argument/discussion provided it doesn't turn nasty and become personal...I'll just chuck my two cents worth in for the heck of it.

Tino I like others am sorry you haven't had the best experience. For me, I had a great time - we'd come half way across the world from Australia to visit Disneyland and it was a trip I will never forget. It was a time when there was no bickering between myself and my siblings, I was so grateful of the sacrifices that my family made for us to have the trip there - heck, I wouldn't have cared that much if many rides were down, granted we were there in low-ish season so there were minimal crowds and a few rides were down for repairs which meant we didn't get to ride them, BUT WE DIDN'T CARE BECAUSE WE WERE ON A FAMILY HOLIDAY TOGETHER, SPENDING TIME WITH THOSE WE LOVED!

I think it is unfair to call DL just an amusement park - it is definitely something more. I would not compare it to any of the 'theme parks' in Australia, there is that additional something special, whether that be the friendly CMs or the attention to finer detail. But unfortunately there are always instances where things are not how they should be and if that was the case then it should be reported to higher authorities.

It's summer right now therefore it's expected that crowds are to be higher. There would be additional pressure of CM. There would be additional pressure on the rides and attractions! They'd be seeing many more guests each day than during the regular season so it is to be expected that the will break down from time to time - Disney can do some magic but they are certainly not able to fix everything at once. Be thankful you're not going in the next few months when there are many of the major attractions down for maintenance at once.

See what you dont understand is that whether you want to believe it or not all your research and pointers while helpful could be done by anyone of us on these boards, if we had the time and desire. No special skills needed. Just more time running around with Mickey Mouse.

Owch! It is your opinion that everyone could complete and compile the research and pointers by HydroGuy, the point is, they weren't, and if they have been taken to in a positive outlook, they would be of great benefit. I was extremely thankful of some of these tips before we travelled, especially as we had no idea about seating for World of Colour and Magic Morning hints.

Anyway that's my two cents worth, probably nothing new and not much help but positivity is always the key. Even if nothing is working out, there will always be a light at the end of the tunnel, provided you are looking for that light ahead!

 

[tinkermomma]

I know you're having a hard time, but what occurs to me (I'm a filmmaker and a WAHM among other things since we're sharing occupations here) is that your attitude bears a striking resemblance to a combination two well known film characters. Cameron from Ferris Bueller's Day Off "I haven't seen anything good today" and Steve Martin in Parenthood with the feeling that the roller coaster of life is just too much for him.

I hope you can come to terms with your resentment and like them eventually let go and just enjoy what you can of the rest of your vacation.

Also, seeing as how you are familiar with Hydroguy's tricks and suggestions, I can almost guarantee you that you would not have seen as much as you did if you hadn't heeded at least some of his advice and would be even more ornery about how you "haven't seen anything good today". You should try to be nicer to him for helping you out a bit, rocket scientist or not.

I wasn't going to, but I can't help but want to share a little story with you, for a little humor and perspective.....

My almost 80 yr old Father almost died yesterday from a minor stroke and kidney failure and as they hoisted him up in a tiny gurney (my dad is not a small man) a 1/2 a story up on THE most precarious hydrolic business you've ever seen in to a mobile MRI unit outside the ER, the Nurse at the top dryly said "Think of it like you're at Disneyland".

As I held my baby tight and prayed for my extremely weak Father's safety and life, I couldn't help but think she must have been saying it all day and, like you, must have had some awful experience at Disneyland to say something so twisted.

True to form my amazing Dad reminded me and the transporter on his way back up to the room "that which does not kill you makes you stronger." and his famous "if it's not funny it's just one long dental appointment".

My point is: You need to lighten up (at least for your kids) and try to remember the world is not out to get you. Your attitude towards life is what makes things end up good or bad, NOT what gets thrown at you.

Good Luck!

 

[tinkermomma]

I think if it was a ONE DAY Disneyland trip, the anger would be pretty valid, but knowing there is an 8 DAY PARK HOPPER involved... no pity here.
Having 2 days is a luxury to me, makes me feel we can get it all in despite occasional breakdowns etc.
This year we have a 4 day park hopper... I am freakin over-joyed!!! I feel like we can be leisurely and stroll (or maybe skip) if we wish I would crawl like a baby around the park if I had an 8 day!!

And oh. my. gosh. TOTALLY this.

 

[Tino]

I don't hate Disneyland. Hydroguy I am sorry. Just hurt when you said I had 0 credibility, when I really was trying to have a good time,and I did for 80% of my trip. Looking at my kids faces when something goes wrong kills me. Am I a pessimist,yes is that a fault yes. Are there things wrong with Disneyland yes but the good out weighs the bad. This might shick people but I would consider coming back. You know it really wasn't the ride closures that bothered me,it was the manuevering of a double stroller aroumd crowds. I wish the walkways were bigger. Anyway I saw Fantasmic, with dessert seating great show, great seats bad dessert to fancy for me. My kids didn't like desserts either. To rich tasting. I thought kids would have something a little simpler. Fantasmic was so much more organized than WOC prefered dining, but I enjoyed WOC more. I can really only go to any Disney park in summer. My wife is school teacher. Again sorry I upset people. Hydroguy I apologize again. I leave tonight. We are doing Mickeys morning madness in morning. Hope its fun. Read mixed things about it. Lastly I am a manager in a NYC apartment building.

P.S. watching the fireworks with my family tonight on my last night, I felt some sadness that we were leaving and yes a little MAGIC.

 

[nunzia]

PMA can make all the difference in almost anything you do. I'd suggest everyone try it out if you want to enjoy yourself.

What is PMA (Permanent Mind Alteration?)
I'm a no longer Food & Beverage manager who took a crummy sit down job for tons of freedom and little pay.

 

[nunzia]

I don't hate Disneyland. Hydroguy I am sorry. Just hurt when you said I had 0 credibility, when I really was trying to have a good time,and I did for 80% of my trip. Looking at my kids faces when something goes wrong kills me. Am I a pessimist,yes is that a fault yes. Are there things wrong with Disneyland yes but the good out weighs the bad. This might shick people but I would consider coming back. You know it really wasn't the ride closures that bothered me,it was the manuevering of a double stroller aroumd crowds. I wish the walkways were bigger. Anyway I saw Fantasmic, with dessert seating great show, great seats bad dessert to fancy for me. My kids didn't like desserts either. To rich tasting. I thought kids would have something a little simpler. Fantasmic was so much more organized than WOC prefered dining, but I enjoyed WOC more. I can really only go to any Disney park in summer. My wife is school teacher. Again sorry I upset people. Hydroguy I apologize again. I leave tonight. We are doing Mickeys morning madness in morning. Hope its fun. Read mixed things about it. Lastly I am a manager in a NYC apartment building.

P.S. watching the fireworks with my family tonight on my last night, I felt some sadness that we were leaving and yes a little MAGIC.

Well..YEA! Also..just a little tip..I know you don't like to see your kids disappointed, but it will do them good to learn that things WON'T always go their way and that is is more important HOW we react to something then that something awry happened. Your kids will react to disappointments the same way you do..if you want them to have a positive outlook then they must see you have one (this is from someone who was quite edgy in her 20's..and ok 30's maybe even a tad in the 40's..anyway I've mellowed ALOT)
Yes, strollers are a royal pain for parents (and stollerless guests) and double one more so, but Oh well..it is what it is and you either have to deal with that or carry them on your shoulders all day and night.
Fantasmic dessert..LOVE those rich little things and usually take them back to the room and enjoy later for several treat sessions..the fruit is good and the cheese and crakers really help cut the sweetness and are good to save for the trip home.(one gripe..Disney can't you PLEASE figure out a way to make the lids stay ON?)
And yes, you can get a decent drink in DCA or the hotel bars so all is not lost on that front
When you look back be sure to joke about all the mishaps..that makes them fun. My 31 year old son STILL makes a big deal about being stuck on Small World FOREVER

 

[snikelfrizt]

Hey we have something in common!! We were foster parents in Oregon too (Coos Bay & Medford).......not doing it now, but we did adopt 4 of the kiddos we had in our home!!

Cool! I am at the other coast.... LincolnCity Tillamook area. So far have been able to take every foster kid that comes to our home to Disneyland. It is sooooo fun!!!!

 

[DizNee Luver]

Cool! I am at the other coast.... LincolnCity Tillamook area. So far have been able to take every foster kid that comes to our home to Disneyland. It is sooooo fun!!!!

That's awesome!! We never were able to do that (financially), but we also took in the babies/toddlers. Our now 10 yr old's first trip was when he was 3 & we were in the process of adopting him. The now 6 yr old also went at age 3 prior to the adoption & our now 4yr old twins went before their 2nd birthday prior to adoption......so technically....I guess we did take our "foster kids"......lol

Keep up the good work you're doing.....we're no longer doing it.....no room at the inn!!!

 

[snikelfrizt]

I don't hate Disneyland. Hydroguy I am sorry. Just hurt when you said I had 0 credibility, when I really was trying to have a good time,and I did for 80% of my trip. Looking at my kids faces when something goes wrong kills me. Am I a pessimist,yes is that a fault yes. Are there things wrong with Disneyland yes but the good out weighs the bad. This might shick people but I would consider coming back. You know it really wasn't the ride closures that bothered me,it was the manuevering of a double stroller aroumd crowds. I wish the walkways were bigger. Anyway I saw Fantasmic, with dessert seating great show, great seats bad dessert to fancy for me. My kids didn't like desserts either. To rich tasting. I thought kids would have something a little simpler. Fantasmic was so much more organized than WOC prefered dining, but I enjoyed WOC more. I can really only go to any Disney park in summer. My wife is school teacher. Again sorry I upset people. Hydroguy I apologize again. I leave tonight. We are doing Mickeys morning madness in morning. Hope its fun. Read mixed things about it. Lastly I am a manager in a NYC apartment building.

P.S. watching the fireworks with my family tonight on my last night, I felt some sadness that we were leaving and yes a little MAGIC.

Hope you trip ends in a Great way!!!!
I do need to tell you this Tino.....when I mentioned this thread to my husband he said he is probly from NYC. I asked why he said that and he said they just have a different perspective on things........ I hope you do come back and because you have been here now, are less stressed.....

 

[snikelfrizt]

That's awesome!! We never were able to do that (financially), but we also took in the babies/toddlers. Our now 10 yr old's first trip was when he was 3 & we were in the process of adopting him. The now 6 yr old also went at age 3 prior to the adoption & our now 4yr old twins went before their 2nd birthday prior to adoption......so technically....I guess we did take our "foster kids"......lol

Keep up the good work you're doing.....we're no longer doing it.....no room at the inn!!!

LOL It's great that you were able to adoted!! We got to keep one of our guys on a Permanante Gaurdianship...... he is 14 now. I have 3 kids of my own the oldest is 23 and youngest is 14.
When the state raised the stipend pay last year it made it so much easier to take the kids to DL..... Thanks for the kind words...

 

[EmmersIsTheMommy]

I don't hate Disneyland. Hydroguy I am sorry. Just hurt when you said I had 0 credibility, when I really was trying to have a good time,and I did for 80% of my trip. Looking at my kids faces when something goes wrong kills me. Am I a pessimist,yes is that a fault yes. Are there things wrong with Disneyland yes but the good out weighs the bad. This might shick people but I would consider coming back. You know it really wasn't the ride closures that bothered me,it was the manuevering of a double stroller aroumd crowds. I wish the walkways were bigger. Anyway I saw Fantasmic, with dessert seating great show, great seats bad dessert to fancy for me. My kids didn't like desserts either. To rich tasting. I thought kids would have something a little simpler. Fantasmic was so much more organized than WOC prefered dining, but I enjoyed WOC more. I can really only go to any Disney park in summer. My wife is school teacher. Again sorry I upset people. Hydroguy I apologize again. I leave tonight. We are doing Mickeys morning madness in morning. Hope its fun. Read mixed things about it. Lastly I am a manager in a NYC apartment building.

P.S. watching the fireworks with my family tonight on my last night, I felt some sadness that we were leaving and yes a little MAGIC.

lol Well the NYC thing explains a bit about how you felt about everything. It also explains how you haven't blown up at everyone. Way to hold your own.

Thanks for the review on the Fantasmic dessert. I hate over rich things. Seems like that isn't the way to go for us. Also glad to hear WOC was worth it. I was beginning to think I wasn't going to bother when I go. Hmmmm

So now that you're almost done and have calmed down a bit about the bad stuff..you gonna come back and start a new thread about the whole trip? I'm interested to hear more about your comparisons now that you've found some good too

 

[blackjackdelta]

Cool! I am at the other coast.... LincolnCity Tillamook area. So far have been able to take every foster kid that comes to our home to Disneyland. It is sooooo fun!!!!

I love that area we go down at least once a month. One of the nurses my wife works with, her 19 y.o. son just drowned in the ocean there off the coast. (I Think about 3 days ago.)The Tillamook area has some real nasty undertows. We are saddened, he was an eagle scout and an excellent swimmer. Stuff happens.

Jack

 

[DizNee Luver]

LOL It's great that you were able to adoted!! We got to keep one of our guys on a Permanante Gaurdianship...... he is 14 now. I have 3 kids of my own the oldest is 23 and youngest is 14.
When the state raised the stipend pay last year it made it so much easier to take the kids to DL..... Thanks for the kind words...

We have 3 grown boys as well (26, 24, 22).....so 7 kids!! It's awesome!!

I love that area we go down at least once a month. One of the nurses my wife works with, her 19 y.o. son just drowned in the ocean there off the coast. (I Think about 3 days ago.)The Tillamook area has some real nasty undertows. We are saddened, he was an eagle scout and an excellent swimmer. Stuff happens.

Jack

Oh Jack....that's horrible. The Oregon coast is known for those sneaker waves & undertows. I hate hearing stories about that......prayers for the family during this tough time & for you as well!!