Trip Reports
02-20-2007, 10:14 PM
Rosie Kay - May 2003 - Yacht Club Resort
Time of Year: Spring
Travel Method: Plane, personal car
Resort: YCR
Accommodations: Concierge
Ages Represented in Group: Elementary, Adult, Senior
WDW Experience Represented in Group: Frequent
Comments: Making a family trip to Disney World is now a family tradition for the birthday of Kay's father. Local discounts really help Kay put this trip together and this report is a good example of the planning that can go into a successful trip.
Rosie Kay -- May 2003 -- Walt Disney World (YCR)
Rosie has written two previous trip reports:
May 2002
June 2002
The Players: (All early risers, thank goodness)
RK (Me): Self-described “Disney-Nut” (36), 15 (or so) visits in last 12 years (first visit 30 years ago). Once again I do all the planning and scheduling. I started my purchases at the Disney Character Store near me two weeks after we returned last year! I am still waiting to see which of my brother’s offspring will join me in my Disney fanaticism – maybe I’ll get lucky and they both will!
KF: My Better Half and best friend (48), enjoys WDW, but not in large quantities. Grew up near Disneyland and has been “hundreds of times”
Mom: 70-something, just wants everyone to have fun and get along (thrilled to be a “built-in babysitter” for her adored grandchildren – an AMAZING benefit for their parents)
Dad: 80ish, has both visual and audio limitations and will ride a scooter in the parks. Also, D is kosher, so we have to plan restaurants around fish and veggies. More on this later ?.
LK: brother (45), fourth visit: the group perfectionist – I actually had a great time with him last year and look forward to sharing all the ‘wild’ rides with him again.
BB: coolest sister-in-law ever (44), maybe we can cure some of the “chicken of the sea” impulse and get her on some of those “wild” rides
Isabella: niece (8) second visit: Hopefully not too cool for the characters (that her aunt loves!)
Jordan: nephew (5) second visit: He loved the parks last year – Star Wars Weekend should be a highlight.
After a wonderful time last year for Dad’s birthday, we decided to make this family excursion an annual event. This year, since Isabella is in school and we don’t want her to miss too much, we will brave the Memorial Day Weekend crowds. This coincides nicely with Mom’s birthday.
**WARNING: I enjoy the planning almost as much as the trip (well, not really), so I include lots of details about how I set it all up. If you are not as anal as I am, you may want to skip ahead to the actual “trip itself” ?. If anyone wants a copy of my planning spreadsheet, just email me.
THE PLAN
4 nights and 5 days (almost) of fun in the Disney sun for the Kay family. Last year we stayed at the GF and booked the Discovery Magic package. We all loved the Yacht and Beach Clubs when we visited the Boardwalk and decided that even with Dad’s ECV (electric scooter) we would be okay at a non-monorail resort.
As the self-proclaimed Disney Nut in the family, I began my planning eleven months out. We re-thought the whole ‘package’ idea and I did a cost analysis to determine whether we really benefited from the package. Although we are all “foodies” and love good meals, the package inspired us to eat much more than we normally would (it’s included, better eat it).
When I considered the cost of Florida Residents Annual Passes (the seasonal ones), meals (thanks to wdwig for prices on the menus), airfare for my brother’s family and car rental for Mom, Dad, KF and I, I realized that we could splurge on Yacht Club concierge for less than the total package was in 2002 (and we could have some breakfasts and lunches in the lounge for an added savings).
Dad has limited hearing in both ears and his vision is impaired somewhat, so his movement is slower and methodical. We rent him an ECV from Walker Mobility and either LK, KF or I walk with him so that he does not have any difficulties. He won’t get a wheelchair, as he does not consider himself handicapped (yeah Dad). He only agrees to the ECV because I refuse to go on the trip if he doesn’t. We will probably not use it as often this year as last, but it still speeds him up some.
We don’t want to stress anyone out (this is a vacation after all) so even though I can be a commando when I travel alone, we are going to plan afternoons back at the hotel, swimming, golfing, spa-ing and relaxing. (Thanks Brian Bennett.) Although I plan, I get buy-in from each of the families before making any PS or activity reservations.
Our tentative schedule
Day one: arrive mid-morning, check in (maybe rooms will be ready early like last year), early lunch at Beaches & Cream and then the afternoon at MGM, dinner at Hollywood & Vine and then back to the YC. The non-grandparental adults will probably go out on the Boardwalk.
Day two: breakfast with Cindy (I hope – here is where I really hope the concierge service comes in handy), morning at MK, lunch at concierge lounge, dinner at either Tony’s Town Square or L’Originale Alfredo and then Spectromagic and Fantasy in the Sky (we did not see either last year and I really want the kids to see this parade.)
Day three: breakfast in concierge lounge, AK in morning, mid-afternoon golf, swimming, Richard Petty Driving Experience for LK and dinner at either Coral Reef or Flying Fish, evening in Epcot
Day four: free day for all – no planning other than dinner at Boma
Dave five: early breakfast at Cape May Café and then home (I am considering a backstage tour, but will play it by ear)
EPCOT will be a “filler” in the afternoons and evenings, since the kids are still kind of young we think that they will enjoy the other parks more.
October-November 2002
Great prices available for airfare from Boston to Orlando on Delta – $205 per person. I kept checking and they actually started to go up, so I booked them at $215 per person plus cancellation insurance of $15 per person (just in case). Started shopping at the Disney Premiere Shop for discounted gifts for the kids (save a bundle by shopping before you get there!).
December 2002
Called to book the Yacht Club rooms. The CM recommended that I book the concierge room rather than the lagoon view room if there was a chance we might change our minds. She said that the concierge rooms might not be available closer to our dates, but the lagoon view rooms probably would be. Ouch! Steep prices, but I will keep checking mousesavers for discounts. If we can get a 20-30% discount it makes the concierge rooms worth it.
I requested three rooms, two connecting with double beds for LK, BB and the kids and Mom & Dad. The third should be “nearby” but not attached. I also requested an Epcot view and made sure they knew about Dad’s limitations and Mom’s birthday. I don’t like to request too much, but I like them to have all the necessary facts to help with any extra pixie dust they may want to sprinkle our way. If you don’t ask, you won’t get.
February 2003
KF and I visited LK, BB & the kids and we talked about restaurants. Since Dad is kosher we need there to be fish or vegetarian items for him – he loves buffets and requested as many of them as possible. I showed them the menus that Mom and I thought would work and we agreed on Hollywood & Vine, Boma (both buffets), L’Originale Alfredo and Coral Reef. LK requested Flying Fish instead of Coral Reef – we ate there last year and he really loved it.
I called 90 days out and got PS for the non-park restaurants (including Cape May Café for our farewell breakfast).
March-April 2003 (60-90 days out)
Yeah! Florida Resident discount codes available (thanks mousesavers). I save 18% and the rate includes tax. If AP rates make it even lower I’ll be thrilled, but even if they don’t we’re sticking with our plans for the YC concierge. (AP rates came out and were the same as Florida residents – no complaints, they were still good enough to keep us where we wanted to be.)
Called the concierge (after being transferred to the GF for some reason?) and updated her on our family and its ‘special needs.’ She offered to contact the Flying Fish restaurant and ask if they could have more kosher options for D – wow! Great idea. She is going to book the PS for the park restaurants (we’ll double book a couple and then cancel when we make our final decision) and our golf tee times. She also said that she could try for CRT for us. Keeping my fingers crossed here. Got an email follow-up from her the next day – truly Disney Service!
Re-booked LK’s Richard Petty Driving Experience – he got rained out last year, so we are using the rain check.
Concierge got us an 8:05am reservation for CRT!!!! I printed up “invitations” from Cinderella to both Isabella and Jordan and sent them out 3 weeks before the trip. They had the castle and clip art of Cindy herself and her personal invitation to breakfast with the Princesses and Prince Charming. All the adults are already excited about this special meal, why not get the kids really into it too!
I emailed the concierge to ask about the Star Wars Weekend. Jordan loves Star Wars and asked me if he could learn to use a light saber. They have “Jedi Training Sessions” and I wanted to know if you could sign up ahead of time. The concierge forwarded my email and I got an immediate response! Can’t sign up ahead of time, but she gave me suggestions for getting him selected to participate (they get to battle Darth Vader after their training – cool!). I will bring Jordan back to MGM one afternoon for this, I am sure.
May 2003
Everything is set. Richard Petty Driving Experience called and moved LK’s session time up to 1pm since they have been getting many rainouts of the afternoon program. Smart move. I had signed up for the Disney Dining Experience – Florida residents can pay $60 for a discount card that gets them 20% off all meals for up to 6 people. It took two tries for them to actually get me the card (lost in the mail!), but I have them and am psyched. A few more emails back and forth with the concierge (Amy) and all is set.
Now all I have to do is wait!
THE TRIP ITSELF
Day One
Left the house (without KF who will meet us there tomorrow) at 5:50am to pick up M&D. Pouring rain, I could barely see the car in front of me – but that will not slow me down in my quest to get to WDW by 9:30am. Slowed down long enough for M&D to jump in the car (LOL) and off we go. An uneventful trip (avoided the FHP, whew) and started to see those wonderful purple signs by 9:15. Those signs are when I know I have arrived. What a great choice of color, it makes you so happy ?.
Valet parked and sent M&D up to the concierge level while I separated the bags for the different rooms. They got drinks and snacks and I checked us in. One of the nice perks of the concierge level is checking in up there rather than waiting in line downstairs. At 9:30 one of our rooms was available – M&D’s. It was a handicap access connecting with A&B’s room as requested. Ours was next door as well. I asked if there was a corner room that I could have. It seems that there is, in fact, a corner room with water view (I was told that there was not when I asked earlier). Betty walked me down to see the room so I could decide if I liked it. 5241 – outstanding! Although as far from the concierge and elevators as you can get, but a great view. And it was ready now.
Unpacked and then walked over to the International Gateway to activate our Florida Resident passes. Mine is a Seasonal Pass ($199) and Mom &Dad got “Play Four” passes ($109 apiece). The walk over was long for Dad so we took the boat back. I love being so close to Epcot. How easy it is!
Back to wait for the rest of the crew. A CM delivered Dad’s ECV to me at the concierge desk and while waiting I chatted with the concierges about – what else – Disney. They told me that they learn a lot of information from their guests (I guess I am not the only crazy one). One CM offered to show me the Admiral’s Suite where Michael Eisner stays when he visits (yep – he stays at the YC not the GF). WOW!!! Must be nice, is all I can say.
LK, BB and the kids arrived, without their main suitcase (thanks to Delta). My brother looked so cute in my (his little sister’s) shorts ?. He called Delta endlessly while we headed down to Beaches N Cream for lunch. Love that first greeting from the kids. Being an aunt is a WONDERFUL thing. Isabella saw that her grandfather was moving slowly and went back and held his hand and walked him the whole way to the restaurant. This was a theme the whole weekend. She helped the “grownups” assist Dad the whole time.
I brought the ECV down and gave Dad a reminder lesson in how to use it. He is convinced that this is a better machine than last year – it’s exactly the same, but believe it or not he was much more confident and competent the entire trip. Mind over matter!
Lunch at Beaches N Cream was very good – burgers and salads. The service was a little slow and they had some difficulty with my Dining Experience Card. We saw a family of seven order the “kitchen sink” – some unheard of amount of ice cream, every topping possible and an entire can of whipped cream. It looks like a gooey delicious mess ?.
First stop MGM. Took the Friendship Boat over. It is a quick trip and the CMs were very nice. Isabella and I got Dad through security and we headed right to Little Mermaid. The park was not crowded at all except for Little Mermaid. We got Fastpasses, but they were not for another hour. One problem when you have little ones and Dad is that you don’t go anywhere fast. They were not interested in the Backstage Tour or Animation Tour, but Playhouse Disney was about to start, so off we went. Not really my cup of tea, but the kids enjoyed it. I should have stayed outside with Mom &Dad and walked around instead.
Rather than wait for the Fastpass time, we headed to Honey I Shrunk the Kids Playground, which we missed last year. LK and I dropped them all off and headed out to Tower of Terror and Rock N Rollercoaster (which I promised I would not chicken out of this year). Fastpass for TOT was only 45 minutes away so we walked on RNR (5 min) and used the kids’ tickets for additional FP (also 45 min). I was a little nervous, but I now have a new favorite ride. WOW! What a rush. The only problem was I wish it was longer.
TOT time. I love this ride. The new drop sequence was fun, since I did not know what to expect. I don’t think we got the open door the same way we have in the past, but it was still great. While we satisfied our need for adventure the rest of the crew headed to Mermaid and walked in.
Cell phones are a much better way to keep in touch than the walkie-talkies last year. We kept in constant contact and could go where we wanted while we waited. Since there was no answer from the Mermaid when we exited TOT -- RNR again!! This ride is awesome.
BB was already talking about dinner (at 4pm) because the kids were getting tired. She and LK took Jordan for his first ride on Star Tours while Isabella was interested in seeing One Man’s Dream (is this kid her aunt’s dream come true or what!). I was telling her about Walt and how he built the park as we walked to the ride
Isabella: I thought that Walt’s brother built WDW
RK: How did you know that?
Isabella: You told me last year
RK: You’re right, he did!
Isabella found Roy as interesting as Walt. I think she loved the fact that he carried out his brother’s dream. Come to think of it, I love that too. We walked through the exhibit with Mom & Dad. I need to spend more time here next time. There is so much to see you could spend hours. We all loved the movie (even Dad ?).
The parade was starting so we headed to the Hollywood & Vine and watched it near there while we waited for the others. It was Isabella’s first Disney parade and she loved it – especially Mickey and Minnie in their car. We watched with Mom while Dad napped on a bench.
We ate early at H&V (I should have skipped the burger earlier). Everyone seemed to enjoy the food, but it started to pour – bucket and buckets full. There were people everywhere. And we only had two ponchos. I trekked out to buy more (again) so that we could all be covered. LK did not want to go out in the rain since he did not have any other clothes (suitcases still had not arrived), so BB and I took the kids back on the boat while LK waited with Mom & Dad for the rain to stop.
We were going to go to Illuminations, but the rain kept us in for the night. I had the concierge check on transportation to the Magic Kingdom for our early PS at Cindy’s in the morning. No transportation at 7:30 so she arranged two taxis for us (one that could take the ECV). In Mom & Dad’s room there was an entire birthday party set up – a delicious chocolate cake with balloons, hats and noisemakers. Major pixie dust moment!
Called KF to say “Hurry up and get here already.” Bedtime around 10pm. I love SoapNet on TV. It is one of the things I look forward to at WDW. Delta brought the luggage around 10:30pm – yeah!
Day Two
Early morning and Jordan is not feeling well. We cancelled the extra taxi (and kept the call for the wheelchair taxi), but then he woke up and wanted to go. Now I had been looking forward to this morning probably more than any other. The kids were very excited about their “invitations” to breakfast with the Princesses and invited us all to come along ?. We were all downstairs waiting for the taxi at 7:20 (scheduled pickup time). By 7:30 a bus (yes, there was in fact WDW transportation that early ?) had gone by, but no sign of the taxi. At 7:40 the valet called Mears to find out where they were. He handed me the phone (“You don’t want to do that”) and I was told by a VERY RUDE woman, “We only have a few wheelchair taxis and none of them are in your area right now. You’ll just have to wait. They are first-come, first-serve.” Isn’t that why we made a reservation???? My response was to say, “This is why I don’t use Mears,” and throw down the phone. Childish, I’ll admit, but I had worked so hard and all I wanted was the chance to walk down Main Street with no crowds.
Mom to the rescue. She and my brother offered to wait with Dad for the next bus and BB and the kids and I took a taxi to the Contemporary and walked from there. Of course when I got there I had Dad’s ticket in my pocket, so I had to explain the problem to the CM with the clipboard who promised to let him in. Now my brother loves to tease. So when I called him to tell him about Dad’s ticket, I also made the mistake of asking where they were. “Still waiting for a bus,” was his response. WHAT! Only kidding, they were almost here. You would think I would know better after all these years ?.
Walked down Main Street. I could have just stayed here. I really think that this is my favorite part of the Magic Kingdom. We were able to get pictures with Walt & Mickey without waiting in line and I told Isabella more about Roy. As we walked up the ramp to the castle – here comes the rest of the gang. Yeah. Checked in and then up the stairs (elevator) we went.
The food was good (although Dad was not happy, as usual) and plentiful – scrambled eggs, bacon, rolls – I can’t remember what else. The kids got very little inside them, as they spent more time watching for the princesses. They seem to move together, from one section to another. We met Cinderella, Mary Poppins, Aurora, Snow White and Isabella and my favorite – Belle. I even got a picture with her! Sorry Jordan, no Prince Charming this morning. Well, all the trouble was worth it – once. I can’t say I would work so hard to do this again (although I would definitely make an early PS for another MK restaurant and get the early access to the park ?).
The next best thing about an 8:05 PS is that you finish eating before the other Guests enter the park. Got FP for Peter Pan. Dumbo was first since the lines move the slowest. Isabella would not ride, so BB and I shared an elephant as did my brother and nephew. The boys and I went to ride the teacups next (no wait) while Isabella, BB and Mom & Dad made a pit stop. Since we spun the teacup as fast as we could, Jordan looked like a crazy kid with a goofy smile as he was forced back in the cup. Picture moment!
LK took his son to ride the Indy Cars (20 min wait) and I met up with everyone else for It’s a Small World (no wait), Mom’s favorite (and I think BB’s too). Hey, did you know that cell phones work inside this attraction? Mine was on vibrate and just as we entered I got a call. Can you imagine the laughs at the other end as I whispered business to the tune of “It’s a Small World After All?”
Next was the Carousel (no wait) which Isabella, BB and I rode together. I haven’t been on this in years. Nostalgia. I called LK and offered to get Buzz FP and meet everyone back at the Tinkerbell shop. I passed them along the way as I ran. Jordan loved the cars. His Dad even let him drive!
Peter Pan (Isabella’s favorite) was next. Now Peter Pan is a challenge for any people who have limited mobility. The pirate ships do not stop (unless there is a problem ?). We entered via the handicapped entrance, put LK and his family in a ship a few ahead of Mom & Dad and I so that he could help us get Dad out at the end, and then we tried to board our ship. Well Dad did not move fast enough and I was hanging on trying to get in. If you were riding Peter Pan on Friday, May 23rd around 10am, I am sorry. It was my foot that stopped the ride. It almost got caught under the ship. The good news is that the system is very sensitive to anything unusual and immediately shuts down. (Scared my niece, but BB explained that it was probably due to her grandfather – well, indirectly). Funny, no problems getting him off the ride! This ride will always be one of my favorites, but I think Dad may have to skip it next year.
So by 10:30am we had finished all on our Fantasyland list. Isabella did not want to ride Buzz, so we parked Dad and his ECV with a New York Times (he was happy) and she and Mom went on the TTA (no wait). They took so long coming back we got worried. It seems Isabella liked it so much she wanted to ride twice. What is it about this simple ride that we all seem to enjoy so much (and I know we are not alone). I was sorry to miss it, but Buzz was waiting. I got the high score of the four of us (but don’t tell my brother). I really think that if you control the turn of the car you have a great advantage.
Now we already had our FP for Big Thunder (thanks to my brother’s swift feet before Buzz) so we decided to split up. Mom & Dad and BB took Isabella to the Jungle Cruise, while LK was willing to try the grownup ride. A note on the Jungle Cruise. If you are with a physically challenged person, but they can leave their ECV or wheelchair and walk on this ride, do it. They waited for a handicapped boat (ramp to make it easier for Dad) and had to wait much longer than they would have for a regular boat.
On the way to Big Thunder we stopped and watched the drop at Splash Mountain. Jordan decided that he did not want to do it this year, but “next year, when I’m older.” He is too cute! I think he was a little nervous about BTMR, but he really enjoyed it – those looks on his face were a mix of sheer joy and sheer terror. But I know he liked it because he said that he would do it again sometime. On the way back to the Jungle Cruise LK went to get us drinks and my nephew insisted on playing with the toy guns for sale in Adventureland (don’t remember the store). What is it about little boys and guns? He also made his first pin trade with the CM here – another Buzz Lightyear pin. I actually think he was more excited by the Mickey ears back to the pin. Go figure.
Next up, Pirates of the Caribbean. I worried that this might be too scary, but the kids were game so off we went. Isabella was frightened during much of it, but her brother LOVED it. Pirates and guns. What could be bad to a five year old boy? Mom & Dad opted out of this one – Dad had enough boat rides, thank you very much.
Rather than try to find something that everyone would like for lunch at the MK, it was back to the YC for lunch and a quick rest before the afternoon activities. KF was en route too, so I was anxious to get back. The Southwest flight was late by about 45 minutes, so KF was not going to make it in time to go to MGM with us. Still, there would be time to unpack and get settled in before dinner.
After a quick lunch at the hotel LK took his daughter to Blizzard Beach. She is a petite little girl, afraid of many of the attractions throughout WDW, but skis like a pro and has no fear of the water slides. They told me that there were only about 1000 people in the park (there are usually 7-8000) and in two hours they were able to do every slide that they wanted to – many more than once! Yeah.
Dad took a nap and Mom decided to join BB, Jordan and I for Star Wars Weekend. Now I had it all planned. We had the schedule for Jedi Training Sessions. We were going to go straight there and get my supremely adorable nephew (hey, this is my trip report and I am totally unbiased, LOL) selected to participate. What do they say about “good intentions?” We entered the park, walked by really cool Star Wars characters and all the different activities they had set up, found the stage, waited 15 minutes for the Jedi to come out – and then Jordan decided he was hot and did not want to be picked. No amount of coaxing would work. He wanted to go, NOW. He wanted to ride Star Tours again and was very excited about it, so that’s what we did. No wait, and Mom even came with us (and she is the original chicken of the sea). Jordan loved it again.
Now I had given each kid 20 Disney Dollars to spend on whatever they wanted (if their mother said okay). Jordan wanted a light saber. He is not allowed to have guns or swords – we rationalized that since there is really no such thing as a light saber it was not the same thing as a weapon that mimics something he could actually buy and hurt someone with. Isn’t it amazing how we find loopholes when we want to? As we were walking back to the Friendship boat there were lines for photos/autographs with Queen Amidala and Darth Maule. Short lines so we waited. That Darth Maule was scary! He did not say anything, but when we wanted to take a photo he turned Jordan’s head toward to camera for him and held him still. The Amidala they had was a dead ringer for Natalie Portman (in full makeup, of course). She was great.
So much for resting in the afternoon. We now had to get ready for our PS at Alfredo’s. An abbreviated account of this fiasco will do, I think. We should have used Dad’s ECV to start – it is a much longer walk than anticipated. By the time we arrived (15 minutes late) everyone was tired and cranky (all three generations). The food was fair at best. I don’t think that anyone really enjoyed what they had – and at these prices it would have been nice to enjoy it! I could go on, but I’ll leave it at this: Of all the restaurants I have ever eaten in at WDW this was the worst experience I have had (a unanimous verdict in the Kay family).
LK, BB and the kids headed back to the hotel quickly, we took a leisurely stroll with Mom & Dad to get back. At the American Adventure I stopped in to see the Trade Center Flag. As I tried to enter a CM stopped me and made me feel quite stupid when she said, “that has already left. It was only here for a year.” Am I crazy or had I not heard that it was going to stay on until February 2004? Oh well.
Exited through the International Gateway and while Mom & Dad went back to their room, KF and I stopped at Beaches & Cream for some decadence – a Milky Way sundae (ice cream, hot fudge, butterscotch, whipped cream, milky way bars, and heaven knows what else) and a coffee milkshake. Yummy! What a great ending to a mediocre night. Turned in by 10pm (I love SoapNet ?).
Day Three
Well Jordan was up most of the night coughing. The Concierge arranged to have a doctor come to the room and he had a prescription sent over from the pharmacy. They do their best to make everything convenient, don’t they? KF, LK, Mom & Dad and I were going to take Isabella to the Animal Kingdom for the morning, but I asked her if she wanted to try EPCOT. She decided to the save the Animal Kingdom for when her brother was feeling better. While KF and BB worked out and the rest of the gang had breakfast at the concierge lounge and watched Jordan, Isabella and I decided to take our breakfast out to the beach and eat by the water. Once the Concierge assured my niece that it was OK to take the food downstairs ? off we went. We sat and talked and fed the ducks some fruit loops. It was great bonding time, walking in the sand with our shoes off – no one else was around (at 8am). KF joined us for a little while and we explored Stormalong Bay before heading back upstairs.
With Dad on the ECV the walk to EPCOT was easy. We were in the park within 10 minutes. First stop was Journey Into Imagination – I have not seen the new ride and was sorely disappointed with version number 2. LK went off to get Test Track FPs for us “in-betweeners” (not the kids and not the grandparents) while we visited with Figment. A walk-on. There was not one person in the entire building with us other than Cast Members. Now Isabella decides to be scared so she sits between KF and myself. We get Dad (and Mom) loaded in the back of the vehicle and off we go (no foot stuck in the ride this time ?). I really enjoyed this ride. It is not nearly as good as the original (I still miss Dreamfinder in a starring role), but a significant improvement. Isabella did not like the dark portions (or the loud ones), but did OK. I don’t think Dad really understood what was going on.
LK joined us after the ride and we all had fun conducting music with our body movements, sending email postcards, etc. We headed off to Honey I Shrunk the Audience. Now I was very concerned about Isabella in this one. I did not know how she would react to the myriad of 3D elements. No Problem! She sat with her Dad who laughed during any part that might have been scary and kept her from being afraid. My mother was another story. The snake freaked her out and she buried her head in Dad’s shoulder. Too funny.
Since we wanted to visit the Land next, I sent KF and LK to use the Test Track FP without me. They would call on the cell phone when they were finished so they would know where to meet us. We grabbed a snack from the cart outside Imagination (I could not convince Isabella to get the souvenir cup, she is so not a “gimme” type kid it is amazing). Off to Food Rocks. Now I like this, but it ain’t nothin compared with the Kitchen Kabaret! “Veggie, veggie, fruit, fruit, veggie, fruit, fruit.” I think that so many of the rock icons they use are unknown to kids anyway, they would probably enjoy the Kabaret as much or more. Please bring it back! (OK enough begging.) Mom & Dad like this better than Isabella did, but it was still fun.
LK and KF came back, but LK had to leave for his Richard Petty Driving Experience. Now I have to explain about this. Last year KF got to drive at the RPDE (and did pretty well too!). LK was supposed to go, but got rained out. The raincheck was only good for one year, which was part of the reason we decided to go earlier this year. About 6 weeks before the trip RPDE called and said that they were moving the afternoon session up from 2pm to 1pm to try to avoid rainouts. We booked the Experience for Saturday rather than Sunday, figuring if it rained he would have another shot before we left. Good Idea! He went through the training portion (again), was all suited up and was the next one to go – when the heavens opened up. (Where we were, it never rained. Go figure.) Once again he was going to have to re-schedule for Sunday morning. That is one unhappy brother.
The rest of us decided to stroll through EPCOT on our way out of the park. Mom, KF and I had a 2pm tee-time at Magnolia. On our way out there were marching bands playing. Isabella insisted that we stop to watch one from Ontario, CA – KF’s home town. What a small world (after all). We looked at some of the topiaries for the Flower and Garden Festival and headed back to the Yacht Club. On the way back we stopped in the last store before the exit. Isabella finally found something to buy – her grandmother showed her a beautiful snowglobe and Aunt Rosie added an extra $5 to the Disney dollars she had to spend. I was just thrilled that she found something she really wanted to buy! We really did not accomplish much in EPCOT this morning. It is hard with so many people with such different needs and interests. BB would have enjoyed this park – maybe next year.
BB was going to have to stay in with Jordan and Isabella while we all went to the golf course. I told Mom that it would be okay if she did not play with us. She felt guilty leaving BB alone all day (grandmother’s guilt) and figured that she could watch Jordan while BB and Isabella played in Stormalong Bay (where they were already catching what they thought was a half-hour swim). As I looked out the window of our room, I saw them getting out of the pool. I yelled down to them that “it was okay, Mom is going to stay with Jordan and you can keep on swimming.” BB jumped up and down and said, “Did you hear that Isabella, we can stay!” It was really cute. I’m glad that they got to have some more fun. They all grabbed snacks from the concierge lounge and were happy.
KF and I headed out in the minivan to the golf course. We arrived about ½ hour before our tee-time – and good thing too. They did not have us in the system – anywhere – at any time – on any day. The young CM behind the counter did not know what to do. I asked him to call the concierge at the YC, but it had been scheduled before we arrived by the planners, not the concierge, so they had no record of it. He was ready to turn us away, but Hank (I think that was his name) came to the rescue. He called the starter and told him that he needed to fit us in. There was a gentleman about to tee off alone, so he joined us up with him (and his wife/girlfriend who was driving along with him).
Did you know that Bambi lives at WDW on the Magnolia Golf Course? Really. We saw him and his friends chasing each other and playing out on the course. They completely ignored the people playing. It was great! Although rain clouds threatened (and caught LK at the Driving Experience), we were able to get in nine holes as planned. We both played pretty well – KF much better than I, but I am the (relative) novice.
Dinner was at The Flying Fish Café at 6:15. KF, Isabella and I took the boat over, while everyone else walked. We got there at the same time. They brought Dad’s ECV with them since he had already walked a lot during the day.
Dinner was good, the best so far. Dad was his usual picky self and would not order the grouper (LK once got sick on grouper, now Mom & Dad won’t eat it ?). BB zoomed back to the hotel on Dad’s ECV during dinner to get Jordan’s medicine. They give the kids “fish” games which kept them entertained. I don’t really remember what we all ate, but I know the crabcakes were outstanding! After dinner we went to the sweetshop next door to get my favorite Mickey Mouse chocolate covered pretzels. Yummy – with sprinkles, toffee and white chocolate toppings. I buy boxes to take home and ration them to myself, LOL.
On the way back to the YC it was too dark for Dad to ride the ECV so LK took it. He took Jordan with him and they had lots of fun. Let’s suffice it to say that Dad was screaming at him to stop the cart and get out. He then insisted that LK was never to drive it again. Jordan could not stop giggling. BB drove it the rest of the way home. My brother the troublemaker.
KF, BB and I decided to catch Illuminations while everyone else went to bed. We walked to the bridge inside the International Gateway, sat down and enjoyed the show. It may not be the best viewing site, but we could see most of it. I like Illuminations, but I still think the version from 10 years ago was better. Oh well, progress. We caught the first Friendship boat back and turned in for the night.
Day Four
Well LK went off to finally get his drive at Richard Petty (they made him go through all the training for a third time). He enjoyed it, but they limit the speeds you are allowed to drive now (they did not when KF did it last year). He really looked like Richard Petty in his souvenir photo. When he finished he took everyone except KF and I to Sea World in the mini-van. They could not take Dad’s ECV, but he was a real trooper – even though it was so hot you could fry an egg… Since I am a Disney nut not a Sea World nut, I will simply say that they all enjoyed the park, but it was very crowded. I don’t think they got to see everything they would have liked, but no complaints.
I insisted that KF had to experience Rock N Rollercoaster. I had breakfast while KF went to church (now off-site, not as easy) and then we were off to MGM. We got fastpasses (1/2 hour later) and decided to just hang out and wait for the time. We got some sodas and people-watched. It is amazing how stressed out some people get while at WDW. I know it can be overwhelming, but it is supposed to be fun, isn’t it?
Anyway, about 5minutes before our time I noticed that the standby line was very empty. It seems the ride had shut down and most people had abandoned it. The CM told us that the FP would be honored all day. As we walked away I overheard another CM say “open the standby line” so we immediately jumped in. The only people in front of us were those who were inside when it broke down.
KF loved the ride and we immediately went back on it again – also standby. I decided to save the FP in case I wanted to go back later in the day. I absolutely love this ride. As a matter of fact, I love MGM. It is just such a fun atmosphere.
Now KF had a flight out in the afternoon, so we decided to quickly head over to EPCOT for a couple of hours. Walked around to look at the topiaries – the Doggone Maze was adorable. I took pictures of all of them, but Lady & Tramp were my favorites! Some of the other topiaries were amazing – I wish I could bring one home with me ?.
Decided to get some fish & chips in England. This was good as always, and we were able to sit outside near the water where it was nice and quiet while we ate. KF had to catch a plane so we headed back to the YC to say goodbye (until tomorrow). I decided to go back to Epcot to catch a few favorites that I had missed.
First up was Test Track. The single rider line is a savior, I have to say. I waited about 10 minutes and sat with two young girls who were very scared (but loved it). They screamed at each bump and turn (which was very frequently) but giggled at themselves too. I told them that they had to try RNR – they would love it.
Believe it or not I had never been to Ellen’s Energy Adventure. I waited about 10 minutes for the next show. The pre-show was very cute, but in the middle of the first room the cars stopped and the lights came on. Now it is interesting to see the attraction from this vantage point, but I really wanted to see it the real way! They had to back us out which took about 25 minutes. I hate wasting any valuable WDW time, but what can you do?
Spaceship Earth was next. I still miss Uncle Walter’s voice in my ears during this journey. As much as I love this attraction (and I do not want it to go away!) it is definitely showing its age and could use a rehab/update. Still it is a do not miss on each visit.
The only other thing on my must see list was the new movie in China (it had just opened). It was worth it! I think that all the films in Epcot are terrific, but this update made it even better. Check it out.
Headed back to the YC to catch up with the gang. LK, BB and I went for a quick swim in Stormalong Bay. The whirlpool is lots of fun as was the slide – even for us “grownups.”
Dinner was scheduled for 6:30 at Boma. The concierge told me that a friend of hers was a chef (when I expressed my hope that there would be enough for Dad on the buffet). She told me not to worry – she was right! We arrived early hoping to sit sooner. There was a wait so we walked around the pool and one savannah. This would be a fun place to stay with kids, but it is a little too boisterous for me. Still the lobby is gorgeous and it is wonderful to see the animals up close.
Finally were seated around 6:25pm (early, I guess). This was my first visit to Boma, but it will not be my last. From now on every visit will include dinner here. It was fabulous. I wish I could remember all the things we ate, but my memory is clouded by the zebra domes. WOW! What an incredible dessert. Right after we sat down with our first plates a chef came out with a platter of three different types of fish (many pieces of each and not available on the buffet) for Dad. Very nice! Then when we were ready for dessert he came back with a platter of chocolate covered strawberries and a chocolate birthday card for Mom. What a nice birthday surprise. Pure Disney Pixie Dust.
After getting the kids to bed and the bags packed, BB and I decided to go for a walk around the Boardwalk (I was going to go to the late show of Fantasmic, but I was tired and did not want to deal with the crowds – next time I’ll make it there). We had fun checking out the Vacation Club and the shops and just chilling out. It was a nice ending to our last full day. More SoapNet on TV and treats at the Concierge Lounge and off to bed.
Day Five (homeward bound)
We all go home this morning so I scheduled a character breakfast at Cape May Café for 7:30am. The food was very good – a nice breakfast buffet – and it was not too crowded so we got plenty of face time with the characters. Chip and Dale were each trying to convince us that they were the better looking of the two. Dale tried to ‘explain’ how to tell them apart. It was great fun. Goofy in his surfing attire is also adorable. The kids really enjoyed it and I think this is a great way to end the trip on a high note.
On the way out to breakfast Isabella asked me for Mickey’s address because she wanted to send him a thank you note. I mentioned this to the Concierge who told me that she would have it for us when we got back. Well, not only did she have the address, she also had cards with signed photos for both kids (The Big Cheese and his Main Squeeze in yachting attire ?). More pixie dust. I took them with me and sent them out to the kids a week after they got home. They were thrilled!
After LK, BB and the kids left for the airport we took off in our rented minivan. 3 hours back home and back to reality. It was an uneventful ride back, but a wonderful trip. Thanks Mom & Dad!
If you stuck it out, I hope you enjoyed my recount of the Kay family escapades in WDW. I know that I always enjoy reading all of yours.
Most Magical Things
Breakfast with the princesses at Cinderella’s
Isabella’s interest in Walt and Roy and her request to see “One Man’s Dream.”
Dinner at Boma and the special plates for Mom &Dad
Jordan being old enough (and daring enough) to ride some of the ‘wilder’ rides with LK and I
Mom being scared at Honey I Shrunk the Audience (too funny)
Mom’s birthday party set up in her room
All the concierges’ pixie dust and recovery from the less than magical moments
Isabella’s thank you note to Mickey
Rock N Rollercoaster
Isabella joining the ranks of the “grownups” and helping with Dad
Least Magical Things
Jordan getting sick
Mears taxi for breakfast at CRT “This is why I don’t use Mears.”
Delta losing luggage
Dinner at Alfredo’s
No tee time for golf (good recovery though)
Rain so hard we had to buy ponchos (again)
Missing Fantasmic (again)
Hopefully I’ll get to use my AP again soon!
Rosie Kay
Time of Year: Spring
Travel Method: Plane, personal car
Resort: YCR
Accommodations: Concierge
Ages Represented in Group: Elementary, Adult, Senior
WDW Experience Represented in Group: Frequent
Comments: Making a family trip to Disney World is now a family tradition for the birthday of Kay's father. Local discounts really help Kay put this trip together and this report is a good example of the planning that can go into a successful trip.
Rosie Kay -- May 2003 -- Walt Disney World (YCR)
Rosie has written two previous trip reports:
May 2002
June 2002
The Players: (All early risers, thank goodness)
RK (Me): Self-described “Disney-Nut” (36), 15 (or so) visits in last 12 years (first visit 30 years ago). Once again I do all the planning and scheduling. I started my purchases at the Disney Character Store near me two weeks after we returned last year! I am still waiting to see which of my brother’s offspring will join me in my Disney fanaticism – maybe I’ll get lucky and they both will!
KF: My Better Half and best friend (48), enjoys WDW, but not in large quantities. Grew up near Disneyland and has been “hundreds of times”
Mom: 70-something, just wants everyone to have fun and get along (thrilled to be a “built-in babysitter” for her adored grandchildren – an AMAZING benefit for their parents)
Dad: 80ish, has both visual and audio limitations and will ride a scooter in the parks. Also, D is kosher, so we have to plan restaurants around fish and veggies. More on this later ?.
LK: brother (45), fourth visit: the group perfectionist – I actually had a great time with him last year and look forward to sharing all the ‘wild’ rides with him again.
BB: coolest sister-in-law ever (44), maybe we can cure some of the “chicken of the sea” impulse and get her on some of those “wild” rides
Isabella: niece (8) second visit: Hopefully not too cool for the characters (that her aunt loves!)
Jordan: nephew (5) second visit: He loved the parks last year – Star Wars Weekend should be a highlight.
After a wonderful time last year for Dad’s birthday, we decided to make this family excursion an annual event. This year, since Isabella is in school and we don’t want her to miss too much, we will brave the Memorial Day Weekend crowds. This coincides nicely with Mom’s birthday.
**WARNING: I enjoy the planning almost as much as the trip (well, not really), so I include lots of details about how I set it all up. If you are not as anal as I am, you may want to skip ahead to the actual “trip itself” ?. If anyone wants a copy of my planning spreadsheet, just email me.
THE PLAN
4 nights and 5 days (almost) of fun in the Disney sun for the Kay family. Last year we stayed at the GF and booked the Discovery Magic package. We all loved the Yacht and Beach Clubs when we visited the Boardwalk and decided that even with Dad’s ECV (electric scooter) we would be okay at a non-monorail resort.
As the self-proclaimed Disney Nut in the family, I began my planning eleven months out. We re-thought the whole ‘package’ idea and I did a cost analysis to determine whether we really benefited from the package. Although we are all “foodies” and love good meals, the package inspired us to eat much more than we normally would (it’s included, better eat it).
When I considered the cost of Florida Residents Annual Passes (the seasonal ones), meals (thanks to wdwig for prices on the menus), airfare for my brother’s family and car rental for Mom, Dad, KF and I, I realized that we could splurge on Yacht Club concierge for less than the total package was in 2002 (and we could have some breakfasts and lunches in the lounge for an added savings).
Dad has limited hearing in both ears and his vision is impaired somewhat, so his movement is slower and methodical. We rent him an ECV from Walker Mobility and either LK, KF or I walk with him so that he does not have any difficulties. He won’t get a wheelchair, as he does not consider himself handicapped (yeah Dad). He only agrees to the ECV because I refuse to go on the trip if he doesn’t. We will probably not use it as often this year as last, but it still speeds him up some.
We don’t want to stress anyone out (this is a vacation after all) so even though I can be a commando when I travel alone, we are going to plan afternoons back at the hotel, swimming, golfing, spa-ing and relaxing. (Thanks Brian Bennett.) Although I plan, I get buy-in from each of the families before making any PS or activity reservations.
Our tentative schedule
Day one: arrive mid-morning, check in (maybe rooms will be ready early like last year), early lunch at Beaches & Cream and then the afternoon at MGM, dinner at Hollywood & Vine and then back to the YC. The non-grandparental adults will probably go out on the Boardwalk.
Day two: breakfast with Cindy (I hope – here is where I really hope the concierge service comes in handy), morning at MK, lunch at concierge lounge, dinner at either Tony’s Town Square or L’Originale Alfredo and then Spectromagic and Fantasy in the Sky (we did not see either last year and I really want the kids to see this parade.)
Day three: breakfast in concierge lounge, AK in morning, mid-afternoon golf, swimming, Richard Petty Driving Experience for LK and dinner at either Coral Reef or Flying Fish, evening in Epcot
Day four: free day for all – no planning other than dinner at Boma
Dave five: early breakfast at Cape May Café and then home (I am considering a backstage tour, but will play it by ear)
EPCOT will be a “filler” in the afternoons and evenings, since the kids are still kind of young we think that they will enjoy the other parks more.
October-November 2002
Great prices available for airfare from Boston to Orlando on Delta – $205 per person. I kept checking and they actually started to go up, so I booked them at $215 per person plus cancellation insurance of $15 per person (just in case). Started shopping at the Disney Premiere Shop for discounted gifts for the kids (save a bundle by shopping before you get there!).
December 2002
Called to book the Yacht Club rooms. The CM recommended that I book the concierge room rather than the lagoon view room if there was a chance we might change our minds. She said that the concierge rooms might not be available closer to our dates, but the lagoon view rooms probably would be. Ouch! Steep prices, but I will keep checking mousesavers for discounts. If we can get a 20-30% discount it makes the concierge rooms worth it.
I requested three rooms, two connecting with double beds for LK, BB and the kids and Mom & Dad. The third should be “nearby” but not attached. I also requested an Epcot view and made sure they knew about Dad’s limitations and Mom’s birthday. I don’t like to request too much, but I like them to have all the necessary facts to help with any extra pixie dust they may want to sprinkle our way. If you don’t ask, you won’t get.
February 2003
KF and I visited LK, BB & the kids and we talked about restaurants. Since Dad is kosher we need there to be fish or vegetarian items for him – he loves buffets and requested as many of them as possible. I showed them the menus that Mom and I thought would work and we agreed on Hollywood & Vine, Boma (both buffets), L’Originale Alfredo and Coral Reef. LK requested Flying Fish instead of Coral Reef – we ate there last year and he really loved it.
I called 90 days out and got PS for the non-park restaurants (including Cape May Café for our farewell breakfast).
March-April 2003 (60-90 days out)
Yeah! Florida Resident discount codes available (thanks mousesavers). I save 18% and the rate includes tax. If AP rates make it even lower I’ll be thrilled, but even if they don’t we’re sticking with our plans for the YC concierge. (AP rates came out and were the same as Florida residents – no complaints, they were still good enough to keep us where we wanted to be.)
Called the concierge (after being transferred to the GF for some reason?) and updated her on our family and its ‘special needs.’ She offered to contact the Flying Fish restaurant and ask if they could have more kosher options for D – wow! Great idea. She is going to book the PS for the park restaurants (we’ll double book a couple and then cancel when we make our final decision) and our golf tee times. She also said that she could try for CRT for us. Keeping my fingers crossed here. Got an email follow-up from her the next day – truly Disney Service!
Re-booked LK’s Richard Petty Driving Experience – he got rained out last year, so we are using the rain check.
Concierge got us an 8:05am reservation for CRT!!!! I printed up “invitations” from Cinderella to both Isabella and Jordan and sent them out 3 weeks before the trip. They had the castle and clip art of Cindy herself and her personal invitation to breakfast with the Princesses and Prince Charming. All the adults are already excited about this special meal, why not get the kids really into it too!
I emailed the concierge to ask about the Star Wars Weekend. Jordan loves Star Wars and asked me if he could learn to use a light saber. They have “Jedi Training Sessions” and I wanted to know if you could sign up ahead of time. The concierge forwarded my email and I got an immediate response! Can’t sign up ahead of time, but she gave me suggestions for getting him selected to participate (they get to battle Darth Vader after their training – cool!). I will bring Jordan back to MGM one afternoon for this, I am sure.
May 2003
Everything is set. Richard Petty Driving Experience called and moved LK’s session time up to 1pm since they have been getting many rainouts of the afternoon program. Smart move. I had signed up for the Disney Dining Experience – Florida residents can pay $60 for a discount card that gets them 20% off all meals for up to 6 people. It took two tries for them to actually get me the card (lost in the mail!), but I have them and am psyched. A few more emails back and forth with the concierge (Amy) and all is set.
Now all I have to do is wait!
THE TRIP ITSELF
Day One
Left the house (without KF who will meet us there tomorrow) at 5:50am to pick up M&D. Pouring rain, I could barely see the car in front of me – but that will not slow me down in my quest to get to WDW by 9:30am. Slowed down long enough for M&D to jump in the car (LOL) and off we go. An uneventful trip (avoided the FHP, whew) and started to see those wonderful purple signs by 9:15. Those signs are when I know I have arrived. What a great choice of color, it makes you so happy ?.
Valet parked and sent M&D up to the concierge level while I separated the bags for the different rooms. They got drinks and snacks and I checked us in. One of the nice perks of the concierge level is checking in up there rather than waiting in line downstairs. At 9:30 one of our rooms was available – M&D’s. It was a handicap access connecting with A&B’s room as requested. Ours was next door as well. I asked if there was a corner room that I could have. It seems that there is, in fact, a corner room with water view (I was told that there was not when I asked earlier). Betty walked me down to see the room so I could decide if I liked it. 5241 – outstanding! Although as far from the concierge and elevators as you can get, but a great view. And it was ready now.
Unpacked and then walked over to the International Gateway to activate our Florida Resident passes. Mine is a Seasonal Pass ($199) and Mom &Dad got “Play Four” passes ($109 apiece). The walk over was long for Dad so we took the boat back. I love being so close to Epcot. How easy it is!
Back to wait for the rest of the crew. A CM delivered Dad’s ECV to me at the concierge desk and while waiting I chatted with the concierges about – what else – Disney. They told me that they learn a lot of information from their guests (I guess I am not the only crazy one). One CM offered to show me the Admiral’s Suite where Michael Eisner stays when he visits (yep – he stays at the YC not the GF). WOW!!! Must be nice, is all I can say.
LK, BB and the kids arrived, without their main suitcase (thanks to Delta). My brother looked so cute in my (his little sister’s) shorts ?. He called Delta endlessly while we headed down to Beaches N Cream for lunch. Love that first greeting from the kids. Being an aunt is a WONDERFUL thing. Isabella saw that her grandfather was moving slowly and went back and held his hand and walked him the whole way to the restaurant. This was a theme the whole weekend. She helped the “grownups” assist Dad the whole time.
I brought the ECV down and gave Dad a reminder lesson in how to use it. He is convinced that this is a better machine than last year – it’s exactly the same, but believe it or not he was much more confident and competent the entire trip. Mind over matter!
Lunch at Beaches N Cream was very good – burgers and salads. The service was a little slow and they had some difficulty with my Dining Experience Card. We saw a family of seven order the “kitchen sink” – some unheard of amount of ice cream, every topping possible and an entire can of whipped cream. It looks like a gooey delicious mess ?.
First stop MGM. Took the Friendship Boat over. It is a quick trip and the CMs were very nice. Isabella and I got Dad through security and we headed right to Little Mermaid. The park was not crowded at all except for Little Mermaid. We got Fastpasses, but they were not for another hour. One problem when you have little ones and Dad is that you don’t go anywhere fast. They were not interested in the Backstage Tour or Animation Tour, but Playhouse Disney was about to start, so off we went. Not really my cup of tea, but the kids enjoyed it. I should have stayed outside with Mom &Dad and walked around instead.
Rather than wait for the Fastpass time, we headed to Honey I Shrunk the Kids Playground, which we missed last year. LK and I dropped them all off and headed out to Tower of Terror and Rock N Rollercoaster (which I promised I would not chicken out of this year). Fastpass for TOT was only 45 minutes away so we walked on RNR (5 min) and used the kids’ tickets for additional FP (also 45 min). I was a little nervous, but I now have a new favorite ride. WOW! What a rush. The only problem was I wish it was longer.
TOT time. I love this ride. The new drop sequence was fun, since I did not know what to expect. I don’t think we got the open door the same way we have in the past, but it was still great. While we satisfied our need for adventure the rest of the crew headed to Mermaid and walked in.
Cell phones are a much better way to keep in touch than the walkie-talkies last year. We kept in constant contact and could go where we wanted while we waited. Since there was no answer from the Mermaid when we exited TOT -- RNR again!! This ride is awesome.
BB was already talking about dinner (at 4pm) because the kids were getting tired. She and LK took Jordan for his first ride on Star Tours while Isabella was interested in seeing One Man’s Dream (is this kid her aunt’s dream come true or what!). I was telling her about Walt and how he built the park as we walked to the ride
Isabella: I thought that Walt’s brother built WDW
RK: How did you know that?
Isabella: You told me last year
RK: You’re right, he did!
Isabella found Roy as interesting as Walt. I think she loved the fact that he carried out his brother’s dream. Come to think of it, I love that too. We walked through the exhibit with Mom & Dad. I need to spend more time here next time. There is so much to see you could spend hours. We all loved the movie (even Dad ?).
The parade was starting so we headed to the Hollywood & Vine and watched it near there while we waited for the others. It was Isabella’s first Disney parade and she loved it – especially Mickey and Minnie in their car. We watched with Mom while Dad napped on a bench.
We ate early at H&V (I should have skipped the burger earlier). Everyone seemed to enjoy the food, but it started to pour – bucket and buckets full. There were people everywhere. And we only had two ponchos. I trekked out to buy more (again) so that we could all be covered. LK did not want to go out in the rain since he did not have any other clothes (suitcases still had not arrived), so BB and I took the kids back on the boat while LK waited with Mom & Dad for the rain to stop.
We were going to go to Illuminations, but the rain kept us in for the night. I had the concierge check on transportation to the Magic Kingdom for our early PS at Cindy’s in the morning. No transportation at 7:30 so she arranged two taxis for us (one that could take the ECV). In Mom & Dad’s room there was an entire birthday party set up – a delicious chocolate cake with balloons, hats and noisemakers. Major pixie dust moment!
Called KF to say “Hurry up and get here already.” Bedtime around 10pm. I love SoapNet on TV. It is one of the things I look forward to at WDW. Delta brought the luggage around 10:30pm – yeah!
Day Two
Early morning and Jordan is not feeling well. We cancelled the extra taxi (and kept the call for the wheelchair taxi), but then he woke up and wanted to go. Now I had been looking forward to this morning probably more than any other. The kids were very excited about their “invitations” to breakfast with the Princesses and invited us all to come along ?. We were all downstairs waiting for the taxi at 7:20 (scheduled pickup time). By 7:30 a bus (yes, there was in fact WDW transportation that early ?) had gone by, but no sign of the taxi. At 7:40 the valet called Mears to find out where they were. He handed me the phone (“You don’t want to do that”) and I was told by a VERY RUDE woman, “We only have a few wheelchair taxis and none of them are in your area right now. You’ll just have to wait. They are first-come, first-serve.” Isn’t that why we made a reservation???? My response was to say, “This is why I don’t use Mears,” and throw down the phone. Childish, I’ll admit, but I had worked so hard and all I wanted was the chance to walk down Main Street with no crowds.
Mom to the rescue. She and my brother offered to wait with Dad for the next bus and BB and the kids and I took a taxi to the Contemporary and walked from there. Of course when I got there I had Dad’s ticket in my pocket, so I had to explain the problem to the CM with the clipboard who promised to let him in. Now my brother loves to tease. So when I called him to tell him about Dad’s ticket, I also made the mistake of asking where they were. “Still waiting for a bus,” was his response. WHAT! Only kidding, they were almost here. You would think I would know better after all these years ?.
Walked down Main Street. I could have just stayed here. I really think that this is my favorite part of the Magic Kingdom. We were able to get pictures with Walt & Mickey without waiting in line and I told Isabella more about Roy. As we walked up the ramp to the castle – here comes the rest of the gang. Yeah. Checked in and then up the stairs (elevator) we went.
The food was good (although Dad was not happy, as usual) and plentiful – scrambled eggs, bacon, rolls – I can’t remember what else. The kids got very little inside them, as they spent more time watching for the princesses. They seem to move together, from one section to another. We met Cinderella, Mary Poppins, Aurora, Snow White and Isabella and my favorite – Belle. I even got a picture with her! Sorry Jordan, no Prince Charming this morning. Well, all the trouble was worth it – once. I can’t say I would work so hard to do this again (although I would definitely make an early PS for another MK restaurant and get the early access to the park ?).
The next best thing about an 8:05 PS is that you finish eating before the other Guests enter the park. Got FP for Peter Pan. Dumbo was first since the lines move the slowest. Isabella would not ride, so BB and I shared an elephant as did my brother and nephew. The boys and I went to ride the teacups next (no wait) while Isabella, BB and Mom & Dad made a pit stop. Since we spun the teacup as fast as we could, Jordan looked like a crazy kid with a goofy smile as he was forced back in the cup. Picture moment!
LK took his son to ride the Indy Cars (20 min wait) and I met up with everyone else for It’s a Small World (no wait), Mom’s favorite (and I think BB’s too). Hey, did you know that cell phones work inside this attraction? Mine was on vibrate and just as we entered I got a call. Can you imagine the laughs at the other end as I whispered business to the tune of “It’s a Small World After All?”
Next was the Carousel (no wait) which Isabella, BB and I rode together. I haven’t been on this in years. Nostalgia. I called LK and offered to get Buzz FP and meet everyone back at the Tinkerbell shop. I passed them along the way as I ran. Jordan loved the cars. His Dad even let him drive!
Peter Pan (Isabella’s favorite) was next. Now Peter Pan is a challenge for any people who have limited mobility. The pirate ships do not stop (unless there is a problem ?). We entered via the handicapped entrance, put LK and his family in a ship a few ahead of Mom & Dad and I so that he could help us get Dad out at the end, and then we tried to board our ship. Well Dad did not move fast enough and I was hanging on trying to get in. If you were riding Peter Pan on Friday, May 23rd around 10am, I am sorry. It was my foot that stopped the ride. It almost got caught under the ship. The good news is that the system is very sensitive to anything unusual and immediately shuts down. (Scared my niece, but BB explained that it was probably due to her grandfather – well, indirectly). Funny, no problems getting him off the ride! This ride will always be one of my favorites, but I think Dad may have to skip it next year.
So by 10:30am we had finished all on our Fantasyland list. Isabella did not want to ride Buzz, so we parked Dad and his ECV with a New York Times (he was happy) and she and Mom went on the TTA (no wait). They took so long coming back we got worried. It seems Isabella liked it so much she wanted to ride twice. What is it about this simple ride that we all seem to enjoy so much (and I know we are not alone). I was sorry to miss it, but Buzz was waiting. I got the high score of the four of us (but don’t tell my brother). I really think that if you control the turn of the car you have a great advantage.
Now we already had our FP for Big Thunder (thanks to my brother’s swift feet before Buzz) so we decided to split up. Mom & Dad and BB took Isabella to the Jungle Cruise, while LK was willing to try the grownup ride. A note on the Jungle Cruise. If you are with a physically challenged person, but they can leave their ECV or wheelchair and walk on this ride, do it. They waited for a handicapped boat (ramp to make it easier for Dad) and had to wait much longer than they would have for a regular boat.
On the way to Big Thunder we stopped and watched the drop at Splash Mountain. Jordan decided that he did not want to do it this year, but “next year, when I’m older.” He is too cute! I think he was a little nervous about BTMR, but he really enjoyed it – those looks on his face were a mix of sheer joy and sheer terror. But I know he liked it because he said that he would do it again sometime. On the way back to the Jungle Cruise LK went to get us drinks and my nephew insisted on playing with the toy guns for sale in Adventureland (don’t remember the store). What is it about little boys and guns? He also made his first pin trade with the CM here – another Buzz Lightyear pin. I actually think he was more excited by the Mickey ears back to the pin. Go figure.
Next up, Pirates of the Caribbean. I worried that this might be too scary, but the kids were game so off we went. Isabella was frightened during much of it, but her brother LOVED it. Pirates and guns. What could be bad to a five year old boy? Mom & Dad opted out of this one – Dad had enough boat rides, thank you very much.
Rather than try to find something that everyone would like for lunch at the MK, it was back to the YC for lunch and a quick rest before the afternoon activities. KF was en route too, so I was anxious to get back. The Southwest flight was late by about 45 minutes, so KF was not going to make it in time to go to MGM with us. Still, there would be time to unpack and get settled in before dinner.
After a quick lunch at the hotel LK took his daughter to Blizzard Beach. She is a petite little girl, afraid of many of the attractions throughout WDW, but skis like a pro and has no fear of the water slides. They told me that there were only about 1000 people in the park (there are usually 7-8000) and in two hours they were able to do every slide that they wanted to – many more than once! Yeah.
Dad took a nap and Mom decided to join BB, Jordan and I for Star Wars Weekend. Now I had it all planned. We had the schedule for Jedi Training Sessions. We were going to go straight there and get my supremely adorable nephew (hey, this is my trip report and I am totally unbiased, LOL) selected to participate. What do they say about “good intentions?” We entered the park, walked by really cool Star Wars characters and all the different activities they had set up, found the stage, waited 15 minutes for the Jedi to come out – and then Jordan decided he was hot and did not want to be picked. No amount of coaxing would work. He wanted to go, NOW. He wanted to ride Star Tours again and was very excited about it, so that’s what we did. No wait, and Mom even came with us (and she is the original chicken of the sea). Jordan loved it again.
Now I had given each kid 20 Disney Dollars to spend on whatever they wanted (if their mother said okay). Jordan wanted a light saber. He is not allowed to have guns or swords – we rationalized that since there is really no such thing as a light saber it was not the same thing as a weapon that mimics something he could actually buy and hurt someone with. Isn’t it amazing how we find loopholes when we want to? As we were walking back to the Friendship boat there were lines for photos/autographs with Queen Amidala and Darth Maule. Short lines so we waited. That Darth Maule was scary! He did not say anything, but when we wanted to take a photo he turned Jordan’s head toward to camera for him and held him still. The Amidala they had was a dead ringer for Natalie Portman (in full makeup, of course). She was great.
So much for resting in the afternoon. We now had to get ready for our PS at Alfredo’s. An abbreviated account of this fiasco will do, I think. We should have used Dad’s ECV to start – it is a much longer walk than anticipated. By the time we arrived (15 minutes late) everyone was tired and cranky (all three generations). The food was fair at best. I don’t think that anyone really enjoyed what they had – and at these prices it would have been nice to enjoy it! I could go on, but I’ll leave it at this: Of all the restaurants I have ever eaten in at WDW this was the worst experience I have had (a unanimous verdict in the Kay family).
LK, BB and the kids headed back to the hotel quickly, we took a leisurely stroll with Mom & Dad to get back. At the American Adventure I stopped in to see the Trade Center Flag. As I tried to enter a CM stopped me and made me feel quite stupid when she said, “that has already left. It was only here for a year.” Am I crazy or had I not heard that it was going to stay on until February 2004? Oh well.
Exited through the International Gateway and while Mom & Dad went back to their room, KF and I stopped at Beaches & Cream for some decadence – a Milky Way sundae (ice cream, hot fudge, butterscotch, whipped cream, milky way bars, and heaven knows what else) and a coffee milkshake. Yummy! What a great ending to a mediocre night. Turned in by 10pm (I love SoapNet ?).
Day Three
Well Jordan was up most of the night coughing. The Concierge arranged to have a doctor come to the room and he had a prescription sent over from the pharmacy. They do their best to make everything convenient, don’t they? KF, LK, Mom & Dad and I were going to take Isabella to the Animal Kingdom for the morning, but I asked her if she wanted to try EPCOT. She decided to the save the Animal Kingdom for when her brother was feeling better. While KF and BB worked out and the rest of the gang had breakfast at the concierge lounge and watched Jordan, Isabella and I decided to take our breakfast out to the beach and eat by the water. Once the Concierge assured my niece that it was OK to take the food downstairs ? off we went. We sat and talked and fed the ducks some fruit loops. It was great bonding time, walking in the sand with our shoes off – no one else was around (at 8am). KF joined us for a little while and we explored Stormalong Bay before heading back upstairs.
With Dad on the ECV the walk to EPCOT was easy. We were in the park within 10 minutes. First stop was Journey Into Imagination – I have not seen the new ride and was sorely disappointed with version number 2. LK went off to get Test Track FPs for us “in-betweeners” (not the kids and not the grandparents) while we visited with Figment. A walk-on. There was not one person in the entire building with us other than Cast Members. Now Isabella decides to be scared so she sits between KF and myself. We get Dad (and Mom) loaded in the back of the vehicle and off we go (no foot stuck in the ride this time ?). I really enjoyed this ride. It is not nearly as good as the original (I still miss Dreamfinder in a starring role), but a significant improvement. Isabella did not like the dark portions (or the loud ones), but did OK. I don’t think Dad really understood what was going on.
LK joined us after the ride and we all had fun conducting music with our body movements, sending email postcards, etc. We headed off to Honey I Shrunk the Audience. Now I was very concerned about Isabella in this one. I did not know how she would react to the myriad of 3D elements. No Problem! She sat with her Dad who laughed during any part that might have been scary and kept her from being afraid. My mother was another story. The snake freaked her out and she buried her head in Dad’s shoulder. Too funny.
Since we wanted to visit the Land next, I sent KF and LK to use the Test Track FP without me. They would call on the cell phone when they were finished so they would know where to meet us. We grabbed a snack from the cart outside Imagination (I could not convince Isabella to get the souvenir cup, she is so not a “gimme” type kid it is amazing). Off to Food Rocks. Now I like this, but it ain’t nothin compared with the Kitchen Kabaret! “Veggie, veggie, fruit, fruit, veggie, fruit, fruit.” I think that so many of the rock icons they use are unknown to kids anyway, they would probably enjoy the Kabaret as much or more. Please bring it back! (OK enough begging.) Mom & Dad like this better than Isabella did, but it was still fun.
LK and KF came back, but LK had to leave for his Richard Petty Driving Experience. Now I have to explain about this. Last year KF got to drive at the RPDE (and did pretty well too!). LK was supposed to go, but got rained out. The raincheck was only good for one year, which was part of the reason we decided to go earlier this year. About 6 weeks before the trip RPDE called and said that they were moving the afternoon session up from 2pm to 1pm to try to avoid rainouts. We booked the Experience for Saturday rather than Sunday, figuring if it rained he would have another shot before we left. Good Idea! He went through the training portion (again), was all suited up and was the next one to go – when the heavens opened up. (Where we were, it never rained. Go figure.) Once again he was going to have to re-schedule for Sunday morning. That is one unhappy brother.
The rest of us decided to stroll through EPCOT on our way out of the park. Mom, KF and I had a 2pm tee-time at Magnolia. On our way out there were marching bands playing. Isabella insisted that we stop to watch one from Ontario, CA – KF’s home town. What a small world (after all). We looked at some of the topiaries for the Flower and Garden Festival and headed back to the Yacht Club. On the way back we stopped in the last store before the exit. Isabella finally found something to buy – her grandmother showed her a beautiful snowglobe and Aunt Rosie added an extra $5 to the Disney dollars she had to spend. I was just thrilled that she found something she really wanted to buy! We really did not accomplish much in EPCOT this morning. It is hard with so many people with such different needs and interests. BB would have enjoyed this park – maybe next year.
BB was going to have to stay in with Jordan and Isabella while we all went to the golf course. I told Mom that it would be okay if she did not play with us. She felt guilty leaving BB alone all day (grandmother’s guilt) and figured that she could watch Jordan while BB and Isabella played in Stormalong Bay (where they were already catching what they thought was a half-hour swim). As I looked out the window of our room, I saw them getting out of the pool. I yelled down to them that “it was okay, Mom is going to stay with Jordan and you can keep on swimming.” BB jumped up and down and said, “Did you hear that Isabella, we can stay!” It was really cute. I’m glad that they got to have some more fun. They all grabbed snacks from the concierge lounge and were happy.
KF and I headed out in the minivan to the golf course. We arrived about ½ hour before our tee-time – and good thing too. They did not have us in the system – anywhere – at any time – on any day. The young CM behind the counter did not know what to do. I asked him to call the concierge at the YC, but it had been scheduled before we arrived by the planners, not the concierge, so they had no record of it. He was ready to turn us away, but Hank (I think that was his name) came to the rescue. He called the starter and told him that he needed to fit us in. There was a gentleman about to tee off alone, so he joined us up with him (and his wife/girlfriend who was driving along with him).
Did you know that Bambi lives at WDW on the Magnolia Golf Course? Really. We saw him and his friends chasing each other and playing out on the course. They completely ignored the people playing. It was great! Although rain clouds threatened (and caught LK at the Driving Experience), we were able to get in nine holes as planned. We both played pretty well – KF much better than I, but I am the (relative) novice.
Dinner was at The Flying Fish Café at 6:15. KF, Isabella and I took the boat over, while everyone else walked. We got there at the same time. They brought Dad’s ECV with them since he had already walked a lot during the day.
Dinner was good, the best so far. Dad was his usual picky self and would not order the grouper (LK once got sick on grouper, now Mom & Dad won’t eat it ?). BB zoomed back to the hotel on Dad’s ECV during dinner to get Jordan’s medicine. They give the kids “fish” games which kept them entertained. I don’t really remember what we all ate, but I know the crabcakes were outstanding! After dinner we went to the sweetshop next door to get my favorite Mickey Mouse chocolate covered pretzels. Yummy – with sprinkles, toffee and white chocolate toppings. I buy boxes to take home and ration them to myself, LOL.
On the way back to the YC it was too dark for Dad to ride the ECV so LK took it. He took Jordan with him and they had lots of fun. Let’s suffice it to say that Dad was screaming at him to stop the cart and get out. He then insisted that LK was never to drive it again. Jordan could not stop giggling. BB drove it the rest of the way home. My brother the troublemaker.
KF, BB and I decided to catch Illuminations while everyone else went to bed. We walked to the bridge inside the International Gateway, sat down and enjoyed the show. It may not be the best viewing site, but we could see most of it. I like Illuminations, but I still think the version from 10 years ago was better. Oh well, progress. We caught the first Friendship boat back and turned in for the night.
Day Four
Well LK went off to finally get his drive at Richard Petty (they made him go through all the training for a third time). He enjoyed it, but they limit the speeds you are allowed to drive now (they did not when KF did it last year). He really looked like Richard Petty in his souvenir photo. When he finished he took everyone except KF and I to Sea World in the mini-van. They could not take Dad’s ECV, but he was a real trooper – even though it was so hot you could fry an egg… Since I am a Disney nut not a Sea World nut, I will simply say that they all enjoyed the park, but it was very crowded. I don’t think they got to see everything they would have liked, but no complaints.
I insisted that KF had to experience Rock N Rollercoaster. I had breakfast while KF went to church (now off-site, not as easy) and then we were off to MGM. We got fastpasses (1/2 hour later) and decided to just hang out and wait for the time. We got some sodas and people-watched. It is amazing how stressed out some people get while at WDW. I know it can be overwhelming, but it is supposed to be fun, isn’t it?
Anyway, about 5minutes before our time I noticed that the standby line was very empty. It seems the ride had shut down and most people had abandoned it. The CM told us that the FP would be honored all day. As we walked away I overheard another CM say “open the standby line” so we immediately jumped in. The only people in front of us were those who were inside when it broke down.
KF loved the ride and we immediately went back on it again – also standby. I decided to save the FP in case I wanted to go back later in the day. I absolutely love this ride. As a matter of fact, I love MGM. It is just such a fun atmosphere.
Now KF had a flight out in the afternoon, so we decided to quickly head over to EPCOT for a couple of hours. Walked around to look at the topiaries – the Doggone Maze was adorable. I took pictures of all of them, but Lady & Tramp were my favorites! Some of the other topiaries were amazing – I wish I could bring one home with me ?.
Decided to get some fish & chips in England. This was good as always, and we were able to sit outside near the water where it was nice and quiet while we ate. KF had to catch a plane so we headed back to the YC to say goodbye (until tomorrow). I decided to go back to Epcot to catch a few favorites that I had missed.
First up was Test Track. The single rider line is a savior, I have to say. I waited about 10 minutes and sat with two young girls who were very scared (but loved it). They screamed at each bump and turn (which was very frequently) but giggled at themselves too. I told them that they had to try RNR – they would love it.
Believe it or not I had never been to Ellen’s Energy Adventure. I waited about 10 minutes for the next show. The pre-show was very cute, but in the middle of the first room the cars stopped and the lights came on. Now it is interesting to see the attraction from this vantage point, but I really wanted to see it the real way! They had to back us out which took about 25 minutes. I hate wasting any valuable WDW time, but what can you do?
Spaceship Earth was next. I still miss Uncle Walter’s voice in my ears during this journey. As much as I love this attraction (and I do not want it to go away!) it is definitely showing its age and could use a rehab/update. Still it is a do not miss on each visit.
The only other thing on my must see list was the new movie in China (it had just opened). It was worth it! I think that all the films in Epcot are terrific, but this update made it even better. Check it out.
Headed back to the YC to catch up with the gang. LK, BB and I went for a quick swim in Stormalong Bay. The whirlpool is lots of fun as was the slide – even for us “grownups.”
Dinner was scheduled for 6:30 at Boma. The concierge told me that a friend of hers was a chef (when I expressed my hope that there would be enough for Dad on the buffet). She told me not to worry – she was right! We arrived early hoping to sit sooner. There was a wait so we walked around the pool and one savannah. This would be a fun place to stay with kids, but it is a little too boisterous for me. Still the lobby is gorgeous and it is wonderful to see the animals up close.
Finally were seated around 6:25pm (early, I guess). This was my first visit to Boma, but it will not be my last. From now on every visit will include dinner here. It was fabulous. I wish I could remember all the things we ate, but my memory is clouded by the zebra domes. WOW! What an incredible dessert. Right after we sat down with our first plates a chef came out with a platter of three different types of fish (many pieces of each and not available on the buffet) for Dad. Very nice! Then when we were ready for dessert he came back with a platter of chocolate covered strawberries and a chocolate birthday card for Mom. What a nice birthday surprise. Pure Disney Pixie Dust.
After getting the kids to bed and the bags packed, BB and I decided to go for a walk around the Boardwalk (I was going to go to the late show of Fantasmic, but I was tired and did not want to deal with the crowds – next time I’ll make it there). We had fun checking out the Vacation Club and the shops and just chilling out. It was a nice ending to our last full day. More SoapNet on TV and treats at the Concierge Lounge and off to bed.
Day Five (homeward bound)
We all go home this morning so I scheduled a character breakfast at Cape May Café for 7:30am. The food was very good – a nice breakfast buffet – and it was not too crowded so we got plenty of face time with the characters. Chip and Dale were each trying to convince us that they were the better looking of the two. Dale tried to ‘explain’ how to tell them apart. It was great fun. Goofy in his surfing attire is also adorable. The kids really enjoyed it and I think this is a great way to end the trip on a high note.
On the way out to breakfast Isabella asked me for Mickey’s address because she wanted to send him a thank you note. I mentioned this to the Concierge who told me that she would have it for us when we got back. Well, not only did she have the address, she also had cards with signed photos for both kids (The Big Cheese and his Main Squeeze in yachting attire ?). More pixie dust. I took them with me and sent them out to the kids a week after they got home. They were thrilled!
After LK, BB and the kids left for the airport we took off in our rented minivan. 3 hours back home and back to reality. It was an uneventful ride back, but a wonderful trip. Thanks Mom & Dad!
If you stuck it out, I hope you enjoyed my recount of the Kay family escapades in WDW. I know that I always enjoy reading all of yours.
Most Magical Things
Breakfast with the princesses at Cinderella’s
Isabella’s interest in Walt and Roy and her request to see “One Man’s Dream.”
Dinner at Boma and the special plates for Mom &Dad
Jordan being old enough (and daring enough) to ride some of the ‘wilder’ rides with LK and I
Mom being scared at Honey I Shrunk the Audience (too funny)
Mom’s birthday party set up in her room
All the concierges’ pixie dust and recovery from the less than magical moments
Isabella’s thank you note to Mickey
Rock N Rollercoaster
Isabella joining the ranks of the “grownups” and helping with Dad
Least Magical Things
Jordan getting sick
Mears taxi for breakfast at CRT “This is why I don’t use Mears.”
Delta losing luggage
Dinner at Alfredo’s
No tee time for golf (good recovery though)
Rain so hard we had to buy ponchos (again)
Missing Fantasmic (again)
Hopefully I’ll get to use my AP again soon!
Rosie Kay