Nicki Elson's Blog, page 39
April 10, 2012
A to Z Obscure Disney World Tips: J
J is for: Just buy the Junk when you see it
While it's true you'll bump into a souvenir shop every time you turn around at Disney World, not all shops are created equal. So if you see something you like, don't assume you'll be able to pick it up somewhere else at a later point. I still regret not buying the "I was the Rebel Spy" pin by the bathroom near the Star Tours attraction. And I'm so happy we stumbled upon the small stand just outside Fairytale Garden by Cinderella Castle---it was the only place with a decent selection of Rapunzel items.
If you don't want to carry your shopping bags around with you all day, no worries---Disney resort guests can have them sent to their rooms.
Disney World Trivia A certain type of Disney souvenir can be traded with employees, or "cast members," throughout the property---what type of souvenir is this?
While it's true you'll bump into a souvenir shop every time you turn around at Disney World, not all shops are created equal. So if you see something you like, don't assume you'll be able to pick it up somewhere else at a later point. I still regret not buying the "I was the Rebel Spy" pin by the bathroom near the Star Tours attraction. And I'm so happy we stumbled upon the small stand just outside Fairytale Garden by Cinderella Castle---it was the only place with a decent selection of Rapunzel items.If you don't want to carry your shopping bags around with you all day, no worries---Disney resort guests can have them sent to their rooms.
Disney World Trivia A certain type of Disney souvenir can be traded with employees, or "cast members," throughout the property---what type of souvenir is this?
April 9, 2012
A to Z Obscure Disney World Tips: I
I is for: Incognito at Indiana Jones
To the left of the entrance to the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular at Hollywood Studios is a small exhibit with a rope hanging into a well. The sign says WARNING! DO NOT PULL ROPE. I won't tell you what happens when you pull the rope, and in truth it was neither epic nor spectacular, but the kids got a kick out of it, and it was fun to try out something silly that most people walk right past.
Disney World TriviaWhat was Disney's Hollywood Studios officially named before it became Disney's Hollywood Studios?
To the left of the entrance to the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular at Hollywood Studios is a small exhibit with a rope hanging into a well. The sign says WARNING! DO NOT PULL ROPE. I won't tell you what happens when you pull the rope, and in truth it was neither epic nor spectacular, but the kids got a kick out of it, and it was fun to try out something silly that most people walk right past.
Disney World TriviaWhat was Disney's Hollywood Studios officially named before it became Disney's Hollywood Studios?
April 8, 2012
A to Z Obscure Disney World Tips: H
H is for: Hidden Mickeys
This is one of those secrets that isn't so secret...but it's still a lot of fun. Throughout the parks and resorts the classic three-circle Mickey is camouflaged into the scenery. It's fun enough to spot them on your own, but you can also get a guidebook that gives you clues where to look.
If you get really into it, I can promise you'll be seeing Hidden Mickeys everywhere you go...even after returning home.
Disney World Trivia In which of the four Disney World Parks was the above photo taken?
This is one of those secrets that isn't so secret...but it's still a lot of fun. Throughout the parks and resorts the classic three-circle Mickey is camouflaged into the scenery. It's fun enough to spot them on your own, but you can also get a guidebook that gives you clues where to look.If you get really into it, I can promise you'll be seeing Hidden Mickeys everywhere you go...even after returning home.
Disney World Trivia In which of the four Disney World Parks was the above photo taken?
April 6, 2012
A to Z Obscure Disney World Tips: G
Note to anyone who follows me on Twitter: My account was hacked so please ignore any direct messages from me claiming that someone's saying bad things about you. If someone is saying bad things about you, I don't know about it, and I certainly didn't sent you a direct message about it. Sorry for the inconvenience. :(
G is for: Grand Floridian Getaway
Lots of guidebooks recommend heading back to your resort midday for a respite from the sun & crowds, but if you're not staying at one of the high-end hotels right by the parks, that isn't always practical. Not being a guest at a deluxe resort, however, doesn't preclude you from bopping over to one.
The Grand Floridian is one monorail stop or a simple, relaxing ferry journey from the Magic Kingdom. And its got a pool bar. If you really want to get away from the action to recharge, you can take your drink up to the second floor of the main building to the smoking balcony pictured below (veer to the right after getting off the monorail, pass the staircase down to the pool area, and you're there). We found it completely uninhabited in the early afternoon.
The porch is covered to shelter you from both sun & rain, and you're treated to a serene view of the lagoon and neighboring Polynesian huts. If you're lucky like we were, you might even get to watch a carriage pulled by six white horses arrive to pick up a bride! By the time we caught the ferry back to the kingdom, we were all revved up for more magic.
Disney World Trivia:What TV family stayed at the Grand Floridian in their two-part 1993 episode: "The House Meets the Mouse"?
G is for: Grand Floridian Getaway
Lots of guidebooks recommend heading back to your resort midday for a respite from the sun & crowds, but if you're not staying at one of the high-end hotels right by the parks, that isn't always practical. Not being a guest at a deluxe resort, however, doesn't preclude you from bopping over to one.The Grand Floridian is one monorail stop or a simple, relaxing ferry journey from the Magic Kingdom. And its got a pool bar. If you really want to get away from the action to recharge, you can take your drink up to the second floor of the main building to the smoking balcony pictured below (veer to the right after getting off the monorail, pass the staircase down to the pool area, and you're there). We found it completely uninhabited in the early afternoon.
The porch is covered to shelter you from both sun & rain, and you're treated to a serene view of the lagoon and neighboring Polynesian huts. If you're lucky like we were, you might even get to watch a carriage pulled by six white horses arrive to pick up a bride! By the time we caught the ferry back to the kingdom, we were all revved up for more magic.
Disney World Trivia:What TV family stayed at the Grand Floridian in their two-part 1993 episode: "The House Meets the Mouse"?
April 5, 2012
A to Z Obscure Disney World Tips: F
F is for: Flexibility
I'm a mega-planner when it comes to Walt Disney World. There's so much to do and a limited amount of time in which to do it, so after getting input from the family, I type up detailed daily itineraries (I'd show you a sample, but I like you and don't want you to be frightened of me). I've learned, however, that the most important part of any plan is to know when it's time to take a slight detour or even abandon the ship entirely.
For example, for our first morning at the Magic Kingdom, "the plan" was: Step 1 - Go to Space Mountain, go directly to Space Mountain, do not pass Go, with a carefully orchestrated set of steps immediately following. Yet as my husband examined the park schedule while we waited for the ropes to drop, he informed us that Rapunzel would be at the castle for character greetings, and my daughter squealed (she's 15---I'd thought we were past waiting in line for characters). My eye twitched, just a little, but I smiled and said, "Great."
Then my mother explained that if we all wanted to ride Peter Pan together like we'd been planning (Step 8 - Grab a FastPass for Peter Pan; Step 16 - Ride Peter Pan), we better do it first thing because she and my dad had to head back to the resort at some point to take care of a room issue. Smile in place, I mentally rearranged my steps and replied, "Okay, fine."
And you know what? I meant it. Because how stupid would it be to blow an opportunity to fly on a fleet of tiny ships over London and Neverland with the people I love most in this world? And why, oh why, would I deny my baby girl one last chance to get giggly while having her picture snapped next to her favorite Disney princess?
Besides, I still got on the new & improved Space Mountain 3 times that day. ;)
Disney Trivia:In 2004, Disney Editions published the first book in a (really great) series that provides a re-imagined history of Peter Pan. What was the name of that book and series?
I'm a mega-planner when it comes to Walt Disney World. There's so much to do and a limited amount of time in which to do it, so after getting input from the family, I type up detailed daily itineraries (I'd show you a sample, but I like you and don't want you to be frightened of me). I've learned, however, that the most important part of any plan is to know when it's time to take a slight detour or even abandon the ship entirely.For example, for our first morning at the Magic Kingdom, "the plan" was: Step 1 - Go to Space Mountain, go directly to Space Mountain, do not pass Go, with a carefully orchestrated set of steps immediately following. Yet as my husband examined the park schedule while we waited for the ropes to drop, he informed us that Rapunzel would be at the castle for character greetings, and my daughter squealed (she's 15---I'd thought we were past waiting in line for characters). My eye twitched, just a little, but I smiled and said, "Great."
Then my mother explained that if we all wanted to ride Peter Pan together like we'd been planning (Step 8 - Grab a FastPass for Peter Pan; Step 16 - Ride Peter Pan), we better do it first thing because she and my dad had to head back to the resort at some point to take care of a room issue. Smile in place, I mentally rearranged my steps and replied, "Okay, fine."
And you know what? I meant it. Because how stupid would it be to blow an opportunity to fly on a fleet of tiny ships over London and Neverland with the people I love most in this world? And why, oh why, would I deny my baby girl one last chance to get giggly while having her picture snapped next to her favorite Disney princess?
Besides, I still got on the new & improved Space Mountain 3 times that day. ;)
Disney Trivia:In 2004, Disney Editions published the first book in a (really great) series that provides a re-imagined history of Peter Pan. What was the name of that book and series?
April 4, 2012
A to Z Obscure Disney World Tips: E
E is for: Extra Magic Hours = Extra Crowded
A supposed bonus for guests at the Disney World resorts is the privilege of entering the parks early and staying late. A different park is slated for Extra Morning Magic and Extra Evening Magic each day. Sounds great, right? But have you seen the size of the Disney resorts? They're HUGE!
And all the people who don't know better (like me the first time) pour into the parks for Extra Magic Hours. Combine that with only some of the attractions being open, and it's not so magical. Then add in the non-extra-magical guests after regular park opening, and ay yi yi.
So, the magical tip I wish to bestow upon you today is to check which park is open for Extra Magic and go to a different one. You'll easily make up for fewer hours with shorter lines.
Have any of you had better experience with Disney's Extra Magic Hours?
Disney World TriviaHow many hotel rooms are on Walt Disney World property?
A supposed bonus for guests at the Disney World resorts is the privilege of entering the parks early and staying late. A different park is slated for Extra Morning Magic and Extra Evening Magic each day. Sounds great, right? But have you seen the size of the Disney resorts? They're HUGE!And all the people who don't know better (like me the first time) pour into the parks for Extra Magic Hours. Combine that with only some of the attractions being open, and it's not so magical. Then add in the non-extra-magical guests after regular park opening, and ay yi yi.
So, the magical tip I wish to bestow upon you today is to check which park is open for Extra Magic and go to a different one. You'll easily make up for fewer hours with shorter lines. Have any of you had better experience with Disney's Extra Magic Hours?
Disney World TriviaHow many hotel rooms are on Walt Disney World property?
April 3, 2012
A to Z Obscure Disney World Tips: D
D is for: Dinoland
On the whole, Dinoland is loud and tacky and horrible (except for the Dinosaur ride, which is pretty cool. Oh, and the replica of Sue, the famous T. Rex). But amidst the madness, there's a surprising refuge. If you're looking to kill time while awaiting your Fastpass window for either Dinosaur or Expedition Everest, might I suggest a walk along the Cretacious Trail? It's a peaceful path lined with plants dating back to the Cretaceous era...and dinos hidden amid the flora.
Here's my Cutey McPretty venturing into the Cretaceous Trail with the Stitch she purchased moments before (at a loud, tacky and horrible gift shop):
Disney World Trivia
Walt Disney World displays a replica of Sue, the most complete T. Rex to have been discovered. Where do Sue's genuine bones reside?
On the whole, Dinoland is loud and tacky and horrible (except for the Dinosaur ride, which is pretty cool. Oh, and the replica of Sue, the famous T. Rex). But amidst the madness, there's a surprising refuge. If you're looking to kill time while awaiting your Fastpass window for either Dinosaur or Expedition Everest, might I suggest a walk along the Cretacious Trail? It's a peaceful path lined with plants dating back to the Cretaceous era...and dinos hidden amid the flora. Here's my Cutey McPretty venturing into the Cretaceous Trail with the Stitch she purchased moments before (at a loud, tacky and horrible gift shop):
Disney World Trivia
Walt Disney World displays a replica of Sue, the most complete T. Rex to have been discovered. Where do Sue's genuine bones reside?
April 2, 2012
A to Z Obscure Disney World Tips: C
C is for: Columbia Harbour House
If my blog was more popular, I wouldn't even tell you about this one. As it is, this is your lucky day! Because I'm going to let you in on a little known dining location in the Magic Kingdom---we had the place virtually to ourselves at prime lunch time. I speak of the upstairs at Columbia Harbour House in Liberty Square, right at the entrance to Fantasyland.
It might be packed on the lower level, but search out one of the wide staircases and climb it, because few others do. I swear, this is exactly what it looked like when we got there (on two separate days):
Columbia Harbour House actually has a fairly interesting menu for a fast-food place. Plus the decor's exquisitely detailed, as is everything Disney. Part of the upstairs extends over the passageway from Fantasyland to Liberty Square, so it's a fun place to look out upon all the suckas slapping the pavement on their way to Pecos Bill's or some other overcrowded venue.
I'd be remiss if I didn't thank my momma for giving me this tip. Thanks, Mommasita!
Disney World Trivia
Which Disney movie is given a nod at this nautically themed Walt Disney World restaurant via a song from its soundtrack and a painting of a scene?
If my blog was more popular, I wouldn't even tell you about this one. As it is, this is your lucky day! Because I'm going to let you in on a little known dining location in the Magic Kingdom---we had the place virtually to ourselves at prime lunch time. I speak of the upstairs at Columbia Harbour House in Liberty Square, right at the entrance to Fantasyland. It might be packed on the lower level, but search out one of the wide staircases and climb it, because few others do. I swear, this is exactly what it looked like when we got there (on two separate days):
Columbia Harbour House actually has a fairly interesting menu for a fast-food place. Plus the decor's exquisitely detailed, as is everything Disney. Part of the upstairs extends over the passageway from Fantasyland to Liberty Square, so it's a fun place to look out upon all the suckas slapping the pavement on their way to Pecos Bill's or some other overcrowded venue.
I'd be remiss if I didn't thank my momma for giving me this tip. Thanks, Mommasita!
Disney World Trivia
Which Disney movie is given a nod at this nautically themed Walt Disney World restaurant via a song from its soundtrack and a painting of a scene?
April 1, 2012
A to Z Obscure Disney World Tips: B
B is for: Behind the Scenes
The Magic Kingdom is undergoing construction to expand Fantasyland, slated for a partial open later this year. You can get a sneak peek at the Beast's castle above partitions blocking off the work zone, but you can get a way more comprehensive look if you take a trip on the Disney World Railroad. You'll go right through the action and get some interesting bits of trivia from the conductor.
Unfortunately I didn't learn this info. until I was on my way to the airport after my trip, so if you've done this, please, please tell me all about it!
Disney World Trivia:When the new Fantasyland is completed, which classic Disney World ride will we be getting TWO of?
The Magic Kingdom is undergoing construction to expand Fantasyland, slated for a partial open later this year. You can get a sneak peek at the Beast's castle above partitions blocking off the work zone, but you can get a way more comprehensive look if you take a trip on the Disney World Railroad. You'll go right through the action and get some interesting bits of trivia from the conductor. Unfortunately I didn't learn this info. until I was on my way to the airport after my trip, so if you've done this, please, please tell me all about it!
Disney World Trivia:When the new Fantasyland is completed, which classic Disney World ride will we be getting TWO of?
March 31, 2012
A to Z Disney World Tips: A
For this year's A to Z challenge, I'd like to do my part to help each and every one of you achieve Hakuna Matata at what is one of the world's most wonderful, yet easily overwhelming, places on Earth: Walt Disney World. (And yes, maaaaybe I just want to relive my fabulous trip there last fall.)
Guide books and websites abound, so there's no need for me to tell you what you can easily find elsewhere. Rather, what I aim to do is give you some of the more obscure tips and tidbits that will maximize relaxation and enjoyment. Likewise, I'd love for you to pass along your expertise in the comments as we go along. Are you ready?
C'mon everybody, here we go...
Right, so for my first entry I'm going to completely contradict what I said above and give you a tip that's in all the guidebooks. BUT this is thee essential key to enjoying the parks with both lower crowds and lower temperatures, so it bears emphasis.
A is for: Arrive before park opening
Setting an alarm while on vacation is a bit of a bummer but so worth it. And hey, if you're staying on Disney property you can set up a wake-up call to get your morning greetings from one of the characters.
The crowds feel heavy as you gather before the gates, but once the park opens, you all disperse and you'll fly through the queues for a good couple of hours. Then you can sit and enjoy an early lunch, Fastpasses in hand, while you gloat at all the suckas first rolling into the park. You are so going to zip past them in the Fastpass lane.
You can bide the 10 or 15 minutes waiting out front taking pictures:
My daddy
My kiddos
My adorable niece (who is going to rule the world one day)
I'm also going to do a related Disney trivia question each day---and there will be a prize for whoever answers the most correctly. :)
Disney World Trivia:In what year did Walt Disney World officially open?
Guide books and websites abound, so there's no need for me to tell you what you can easily find elsewhere. Rather, what I aim to do is give you some of the more obscure tips and tidbits that will maximize relaxation and enjoyment. Likewise, I'd love for you to pass along your expertise in the comments as we go along. Are you ready?
C'mon everybody, here we go...
Right, so for my first entry I'm going to completely contradict what I said above and give you a tip that's in all the guidebooks. BUT this is thee essential key to enjoying the parks with both lower crowds and lower temperatures, so it bears emphasis.
A is for: Arrive before park opening
Setting an alarm while on vacation is a bit of a bummer but so worth it. And hey, if you're staying on Disney property you can set up a wake-up call to get your morning greetings from one of the characters.The crowds feel heavy as you gather before the gates, but once the park opens, you all disperse and you'll fly through the queues for a good couple of hours. Then you can sit and enjoy an early lunch, Fastpasses in hand, while you gloat at all the suckas first rolling into the park. You are so going to zip past them in the Fastpass lane.
You can bide the 10 or 15 minutes waiting out front taking pictures:
My daddyMy kiddosMy adorable niece (who is going to rule the world one day)I'm also going to do a related Disney trivia question each day---and there will be a prize for whoever answers the most correctly. :)
Disney World Trivia:In what year did Walt Disney World officially open?
