Chapter 13 -- A few things, con't

I have often said to people going on a trip to Walt Disney World, to research research and more research. Unless you have been there, you cant possibly realize how big the place is. To think you might be able to do it all in a couple of days is simply unrealistic! When you consider that all the theme parks, Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom are all individual and separate from one another, you are looking at an incredible amount property. I have often looked it up on Google Earth, and still can't fully appreciate how vast the property is. When I talk to friends on a local level, I can probably give examples of the distance from one local land mark to another. But when talking to people from other places its not so easy.

Let me give you an example. Lets say you rent a car to go to the Magic Kingdom. OK, so you go through the gate that says Magic Kingdom, you pay your parking fee, and then head for the parking lot. As far as the eye can see, there is the parking lot. You are still too far away from the Magic Kingdom to see the castle. You get out of your car, along with the literally hundreds of other people getting out of their cars, especially if you arrive first thing. In the parking lots, the are points where you can board a tram, which will take you to either the monorail entrance or the ferry. You still have to cross the seven seas lagoon to get to the Magic Kingdom. The ferry is a very scenic route to take. You can see the Grand Floridian Yacht and Beach resort which is beautiful, as well as the Caribbean beach club resort. Yes, that is how big the lagoon is...... Half way through you can see the peaks of the castle. Once off the ferry, then you head for the actual entrance of the Magic Kingdom. Have I given you an idea of just how big it is. As friend asked if she could walk from park to park. NO Way. Disney will provide transportation, and if you do think there is enough hours in the day to do two parks in one day, you can get the park hopper option ticket. I think this is a good option, cause lets face it, there are some parks that won't appeal to some as much as others. Epcot, for example, I love the grounds and scenery, but World Showcase is the main attraction there for me. And with the extended hours some parks offer on different nights, one can easily see what they want in one place and take advantage of the extended hours in another.

The main thing to do when planning, is know what you want to do. Don't wait until you get to the entrance and say, "now what" because you'll waste too much time. There will be lines, that is a given. You can certainly take advantage of the Disney Fast Pass, which is kinda like making an appointment to get on a ride. You put in your ticket, and you are given another giving you a time to come back. I did not take advantage of this. On most rides I didn't need to. And on some, the time was actually expired. What do I mean. Well, when in Animal Kingdom, we arrived about noon. The park closed at 5pm. We headed for Expedition Everest, and went right for fast pass, but all the times had been given out already! It had already been booked up until 5! But, the wait wasn't long anyway.

So, I guess the main tip I want to share is plan. Read everything there is to read. Look at maps on the Disney site. If staying off the Disney property, take into account the distance. Not familiar with the area, get a GPS system, you can rent it along with your car. Make your Disney vacation completely stress free, just like mine!!

Chapter 12-- A few things..con't

Well, while planing my trip, I was sure to have a good camera with me. There is so much to see, and so much to photograph. But, when you are a family, doesn't someone always get left out of the picture because they need to take it. Well, that's the other wonderful thing I discovered on my recent trip. The Disney PhotoPass.

Our first full day at Hollywood studios, a Disney photographer approached us and asked if we'd like to get our picture taken. My sister and I looked at each other because the first thing we thought was "how much"? The photographer could tell by the look on our face that we had no clue about this service. He gave us a card, very much like a credit card and, and explained how the program worked. Each time we saw a photographer we would give the card, and our picture would be taken. They are all over the parks, so each photographer may have a different backdrop. For example, our first pictures were taken with the big blue Mickey hat at Hollywood studios. The next photographer was not far from Tower of Terror, so that was in the backdrop. While taking our first set of pictures, the photographer said, "now, point to my sneakers with a shocked/surprised look on your face" we went along with it.......

In the Magic Kingdom we had our pictures done at the beginning of Main St. so you could see the Castle in the back. A few minutes later we got up to the statue of Walt and Mickey, and had more done. My favorite was taken on the side of the castle, the lady who was taking our picture said, hold our your hands, and look at them surprised,,so we did......

Later that day at the Magic Kingdom the curiosity got the better of us. We went to the place at the top of main street, were you can buy the pictures and film for your personal camera, and we were able to view the pictures. Remember when we asked to point at his sneakers, and effect was added, and it looked like Stitch was breaking through the street. By the castle when she said hold out your hand and look surprised, well, Tink paid us a visit!! They were beautiful. The man working at the shop told us to take as many pictures as we could, there was no cost to have them done, and no obligation to purchase. We could buy one picture or all of them, it didn't matter. Disney would also add additional effects if we wanted. We were also able to purchase the entire CD if we wanted. That cost $120, and we were then the owner of the copy rights. The nice thing was, that the pictures includes everyone in your group. My sister and I decided we would buy the CD between us.

On our last day, we did purchase the CD, and along with that came three 5X7 photos, all with a caption added. The photos on the CD had the effects on them ie Tink and Stitch, so when we got home, we just sent an order to Wal-Mart. Nothing to it. But wait, there is more. For one month after your vacation, you can go online to the photopass website, and view the photo's. That's great if you change your mind and wish you had bought them. My sister and I did make an additional purchase.

On the site, there is a template for a book. You choose the pictures, the wording, and its printed for you. You pick the type of cover, mine was a soft vinyl, with a silver imprint of the castle and Tinkerbell, and I was also was able to title the book. It was about $70 and worth every single penny. It is the best keepsake I own. It is very professional and people who have seen it have been extremely impressed with the look. I am so proud of it, I have it displayed on a stand in my living room, and its a beautiful show piece.

Even if you just bought the CD, it is well worth it. We had a total of 110 photos taken. And buying the CD for $120 was just over a dollar a picture. No two pictures are the same, because they are all different photographers in different parts of the park. Think about a digital photo frame, how nice would that look. All those pictures are priceless to me!

Chapter 11-- A few things I learned...

The time between my first and second trip, I spend reading everything I could about Walt Disney World. Not only because I wanted to be prepared for my next vacation, but because i just wanted to know. Disney regularly offers free vacation planning DVD with no obligation. I have had a couple of these over the years, and no 2 are ever the same, plus they are becoming more and more entertaining. If memory serves, the first one I received was very "to the point", while the last one I received was very entertaining, and made me laugh more than once. But even with these DVD's, it still can't possibly cover everything there is to know.

During this blog, I am going to mention some of the extras I learned about. Now I am not an expert. I do not work for Disney, and I dont' pretend to know the in's and out's of everything. My suggestion is to research everything. However, when you don't know something exists, how can you research it. That's what I am hoping to help you with. Little things that might help you out if you knew about them. For example, the Dining Plan. I didn't take advantage of that, but next time I will. This is a feature that requires some research, because there are only some restaurants that work with the meal plan, and others that require advanced reservations. However, having a plan about you meals, certainly keeps you on a good budget, and schedule. There were days that we wanted to eat, and wasted alot of time looking for a place to eat. We often ended up just grabbing the first place we found. Which was usually a quick serve restaurants. They are great, dont' get me wrong. But my sister loves to try new things, and to accommodate that, we should have looked into reservations before we left. A Friend of mine did use the meal plan and made reservations in different parks, and was delighted with the fact that she and her family had no wait once they got to a restaurant were reservations were made, and usually these places were character dining. By doing this, they also got to experience a variety of menu's. I did try to make a reservation at Cinderella's Castle about a month and a half before I left, but it was already booked up, some even paying in advance!

Just a little bit of info on the meal plan. It covers a breakfast, lunch, a sit down meal and a snack. when you buy the meal plan, it is for much less than if you paid for each meal individually. I'm not going to tell you the price, because tomorrow it may be different, however, I can say that is it at a considerable savings to you. Some "sit down restaurant's" or a place you'll probably need a reservations, will require you to use 2 dinner meals. These are the more expensive restaurants, and are probably worth it. In these restaurants, Disney employes world class chef's. Certainly will be a wonderful dining experience. The kids will certainly enjoy too, and there will usually be some Disney character paying a visit.

So, the Disney Dining Plan is certainly something I suggest you look into. It might seem complicated when you first look at it, But remember that the Disney cast members are very helpful, and are happy to explain things to you. Those of you on a budget, or would rather have some extra cash for shopping will love it!

Chapter 10 -- Going home

So, we are all packed and ready to go. Last night when we got back to our room, Disney had our itinerary for today. The time we needed to be at the bus stop to board the Magical Express, a reminder of when i flight departed, and well as the departure gate. I must say, using the Magical Express left use completely worry free. They picked up our luggage when we first arrived, delivered it to our room, and then reminded us that we did have to go home.

In describing my Disney experience i would have to say, the phrase "worry free" comes to mind. Once I arrived in Orlando, there was just no stress in any form. And really, isn't that what a vacation is all about? I felt safe in Disney. There was alot of security, and bags were checked upon arrival to every park. There was a check- in at the start of the driveway for every car coming onto the Pop Century property. I have to say, I felt very comfortable and at home. All the Disney staff were exceptionally nice. Or should I say "cast members". Never once did I say, wow, he/she was rude. Never did they say "have a nice day" it was "have a magical day". They just were able to keep that smile on your face.

So, that was my Disney experience. But, I am going to continue to write a little bit about some tips I feel would be good to share with everyone. Like I told you in my first chapter, my first visit was rushed, and I ended up missing out on alot of things I would have liked to have seen. I have offered advise to friends who have gone, and I think they have found it helpful. So, continue to read on, and I hope some of my advise helps you out too.

Chapter 9-- Animal Kingdom.

Well, this will be our last full day at Disney World. It's hard to believe! The time went by so quickly. We start the day like any other, taking our time, getting breakfast. We head to the bus and I find myself looking around more, staring at things more, trying to just burn all the images into my memory. I think things like, this will be the last time I drive this highway, this will be the last time I see this or that. Kinda silly really...nawww, not to me.

We arrive at Animal Kingdom. Like I told you at first, we were there in January, and we didn't realize that the park hours were not as long as the other. OK,,not alot of time. We really kind of knew what we wanted to do the most there. Expedition Everest, and Kilimanjaro Safari.

We figure we would you the "fastpass" for Expedition Everest. But, we didn't need to! After a short wait, we were on the coaster. Now, Expedition Everest is set in Asia. The roller coaster is us, the guests, on the hunt for Yeti. The Yeti is on the loose in Mount Everest, and we are in search of it. While waiting to get on the ride, we go through a "camp" where other people have been while searching. The coaster is a real thrill ride. It's fast, exciting and a real scream.

After we got off that ride, we took in alot of sights, did a bit of shopping. The shopping there was really different. We went into a store had all Chinese merchandise. Very beautiful silk PJs and bags, and scarf's. I purchased a necklace, with a pewter charm, with the Chinese symbol for wealth, and one for my daughter with the symbol for success. There was alot we didnt' have time to see while in Animal Kingdom. The White water rapids ride, taking a look at dinosaurs, see the show, A Bugs Life, soo much to do, soo little time.

We did head for the Kilimanjaro Safari. There was a long line for that one, and we had a long wait. There were alot of animals to see on the safari, and it really had the feel of being in Africa..which is the whole point of it. There were lots of animals to see. Some I'd never even heard of before, some were expected of course. Just some of the animals we saw were, Giraffe, Zebra, Lion, Tiger, Alligators, Hedgehog, Elephant, and some that I don't even know the name of! Some strange looking, some very regal looking. Animals like that are on the roam ... not like a zoo. So, sometimes you just might get a glimpse as they went behind a tree. But, it was certainly a wonderful thing to see.

Once the ride was over, we make our way out of the park. But, we did stop to shop. And before we left, we stopped at the photo shop, and bought our "photopass" CD. It had all the pictures the Disney photographers took of us, along with the special effects added. For example, there was a photo of me fighting Captain Hook, another of me holding Tinkerbell. There were a total of 110 photos on the CD, and when we purchased it, they gave us 3 5x7 pictures, and allowed us to choose a caption for each. It was certainly very special. While we waited for the bus, we did think about going to another park, it was only about 6pm, and there was certainly time to go somewhere. However the practical side of us came out, and we figured our time would be better spent packing for the trip home tomorrow.

Chapter8-- Meeting the STARS

We all know there are lots of parks to Walt Disney World. Besides Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios, there is Epcot , Animal Kingdom, Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon. But I just love Magic Kingdom so much, I needed another day. Today is the day we actually meet some of the characters. I know I've seen pretty much all of them so far in the parades and things like that, but I wanted my picture taken. So, off we trot to Mickey's Toontown Fair.

Now there is a place right out of the cartoons. We see Minnie's house and Mickey's house, but before we go in there, we go into what looks like a big barn. Inside we choose the line that will take us to the Princesses. But, which ones? Finally it's our turn. We go into a room that is indeed fit for a princess, waiting for us is Cinderella, Belle and Sleeping Beauty. Each of them were kinda enough to take a photo with each of us, and sign our autograph book. They even took the time to chat a bit, and ask where we were from. I was particularly taken with Belle, she is my favorite of the princess's and her beautiful golden gown was just breathtaking! It shimmered in the light. Cinderella gave us tips on how to pose like a princess, and Sleeping Beauty was in her pretty pink gown, and was very sweet. I didn't want to leave, but being royalty, they had other matters to attend to. So, we set off to meet the mouse himself.

Mickey was nice enough to allow us a tour of his house. He seemed to be in the middle of some minor renovations, and there was some painting still in the works in the kitchen. In his back yard, we saw Pluto's dog house, and Mickey's shed. He had a few projects on the go. He has a lovely garden, and even his pumpkins are growing his trademark ears! In the far back of his yard, there was another barn we went into, and after a small wait, we had a private visit with him. He is a very gracious host, he shook our hands. But I was so excited,,I took his hand and told him I'd waited a very long time to meet him, and I was very happy. I put my arm around the friendly mouse and had my picture taken. I was thrilled! Talk about feeling like a kid! I really felt like jumping up and down, but I tried really hard to keep my composure. And I did to some degree.

Ok, so that was definitely the highlight of my trip. But there was still more to see and do. We spent the rest of the day visiting attractions and rides we hadn't had time for the previous days, we finally made it on Thunder Mountain, that was a long wait, but worth it. We paid another trip to the Haunted Mansion, it was just so much fun the first time. We tried some tasty treats, stopped into a few shops along the way, and then headed back to the hotel. As I was leaving, I kept turning around to see the castle, one last time. It was dark, and the castle was glowing. It truly is the most beautiful thing I've ever seen. Tomorrow is our last full day. My sister has been very patient with me and indulging me. Tomorrow its her choice, and she chooses Animal Kingdom.

Chapter 7 -- The Magic Kingdom day 2

Well, day 2 and I'm rested and ready to go. It's a little chilly today, we actually had to wear a jacket. LOL, who cares, I'm in Disney World! The sun is shining, and I can't wait to get back to the beautiful Magic Kingdom. We took the bus, which isn't at all crowded and enjoy all the beautiful gardens on the ride there. Again I'm taking pictures and using my video camera, I want to capture everything.

Today, we are going to visit all the "lands" of the Magic Kingdom. We visit Pirates of the Caribbean, and take in the Jungle Cruise. I've got to say the Jungle Cruise was so enjoyable. Our tour guide was so funny, and kept us all laughing. What a thrill it must be to work in Disney. I think I'd go to work with a smile on my face everyday! On our way to Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, we just happened to stumble on Woody and "Woody's Roundup". You know Woody, from "Toy Story"! Characters are walking around like that everywhere! There was quit a lineup for Thunder Mountain, so we decided to move along (very slowly) to Tomorrow land. We rode the go cars...had a laugh on those, and then headed for Space Mountain. We had a long wait for that ride, but, it was sooo worth it. It was a blast. When we got off the ride, my sister and I had to sit on the bench to "recoup" I was just laughing so hard, really enjoying everything.

As we left Tomorrow land, we noticed some activity in front of the Castle. All the characters were putting on a show. And what a show it was. The Prince and Princesses were dancing, Peter Pan was fighting Captain Hook, Mickey and Minnie and all their friends were battling the evil Fairy from Sleeping Beauty, and winning of course. The dancing , the music, the fireworks....what a show indeed. We didn't make it back to Thunder Mountain that day, we'll do that tomorrow. The day doesn't be long going by... We stake out a place to watch Spectro Magic. The very beautiful light parade. I could try to describe that, but words would never do it justice. The huge floats full of twinkling lights, Cinderella in her glass coach all lite up in lights, dancing fairies and butterflies...all to music just so beautiful.

Once the parade is over, we now just have to wait a short time for the Wishes fireworks display. My sister goes to the bakery on Main St. to get us a piece of cake and a hot chocolate. Yummm, that hits the spot. We stand in the middle of Main St. and all the lights on the buildings go down, and it begins. The most magical display of fireworks ever! Wishes is what Disney is all about, and we can hear quotes from famous Disney movies. Pinocchio saying "I wish I was a real boy!" Snow White wishing her prince would come. Fireworks exploding in the shape of happy faces and hearts and all while Jimminy Cricket is telling us that all we have to do is believe. It was really something special, and as the fireworks were going off, my sister and I looked at each other and giggled, as we both had goose bumps all over..haha. Of course we did, how could you not? We were witnessing something truly amazing and beautiful. OH, did I mention how Tinkerbell flies off the castle at the start?? How could I forget that, with all the crowd down below gasping in disbelief! The castle would glow different colors, to add to the beauty of everything. People think Disney is for kids, but after seeing all that, I also believe it is the most romantic place on earth too. Just imagine holding the hand of someone you love while watching those fireworks, and seeing Tinkerbell flying overhead. Truly a place we fairy tales come to life.