Bob Sehlinger's Blog, page 1190
September 5, 2014
Packing It All In: How to Fit a Week of Disney Fun into Two Suitcases (With a Family of Four!)
Do you remember the carefree days of air travel, when each member of your party would board the aircraft with large pieces of luggage, plus carry-on and personal item? Travelers had so much room in their baggage, they had the luxury of packing for every contingency, as well as all of the comforts of home. Ah, the good ol’ days.
Fast forward to today, where airlines have started charging a la carte for everything from snacks and seat upgrades to baggage. Most airlines are currently charging $25 and up for a checked bag (and some are even charging for carry-on baggage too). Unless you don’t plan to bring any of your items home with you, those fees are doubled for round-trip. I don’t know about you, but I’d rather spend that money on Mickey Ice Cream Bars and Vinylmation figurines on my Disney vacation.
So how can you limit the amount of baggage (and fees) for a family of four heading to a 7-night trip to Disney World? I will show step by step how my family managed to pack it all in to two checked bags and four carry-ons.
Guidelines/Disclaimers
After my first trip to Disney World I realized my old, heavy, mid-sized luggage wasn’t going to cut it. Before my second trip, I went and bought the biggest and lightest luggage I could find at a reasonable price (I purchased mine online, it’s the “American Tourister iLite XL 25″ Rolling Expandable Upright” which is apparently no longer manufactured). My luggage measures 25.5″ x 18″ x 9″, and weighs only 8.5 pounds per piece.
Ultra light and ultra large are the key features of this luggage.*
*Adorable cat not included
We always pack carry-ons that can be stored under the seat in front of us so they are readily accessible while we’re in the air. They are generally backpacks, which can be easily carried through the airport when we’re trying to catch a connecting flight.
When packing two suitcases, I divide everything in half when possible. Half of my outfits go in one, half in the other. Half of my husband’s in one, half in the other. And so on. If we lose one of our pieces of luggage, at least we have *some* clothes for each of us. We can always do laundry at the resort in case of such an emergency.
Note that I am packing for a family of two adults and two tweens. I realize that packing for an infant would require approximately 47 pieces of luggage (of course we need to bring the special blankie, bouncy seat and teething ring!!), and packing for 4 adults would also probably also require more than two pieces of checked baggage to accommodate the larger clothes.
Packing Food
The first thing to note is, I’m moderately frugal. I try to pick and choose the things I care the most about when I spend my hard-earned money, and Disney breakfasts and snacks aren’t something that provide me a ton of bang for my buck (we will eat Disney snacks when on the dining plan because they are included, but when we are not on the plan we bring snacks to the park with us and only splurge on the most special snacks, usually sharing them).
The food is a pretty substantial portion of what we pack, taking up about a quarter of one of my suitcases and about 8 pounds of weight. The cost savings by bringing our own food to Disney is also pretty substantial, so I make sure to make room for it in my luggage. And by bringing food, we make room for souvenirs as we eat!
Breakfasts:
Individual non-dairy flavored creamers for my coffee –and- my own travel coffee mug (I like flavored coffee and I like to drink out of my own mug, these are small comforts that I enjoy)
Granola bars
Individual cereal boxes and disposable spoons (I buy milk at our Disney resort, which is more expensive but more convenient than going off-property)
Oatmeal packets and disposable spoons (you can heat water in the microwave or coffee pot and mix the oatmeal in a mug)
Instant breakfast powder packets to add to the milk I purchased at the resort
I also purchase juice at the resort
Snacks:
A variety of individually wrapped snacks to bring to the parks (cheese crackers, granola bars, fruit snacks, cookies)
Reusable water bottles and water flavoring (Florida water tastes pretty metallic, and needs the flavoring… we refill several times a day at drinking fountains in the park) — our water bottles have straps so the kids can carry them for us like the pack mules good helpers they are
Breakfast and snacks for a week, with packaging (try not to judge the nutritional content – we’re on vacation).
Breakfast and snacks for a week WITHOUT packaging weighs nearly a pound less, and can be tucked into nooks and crannies much better. Also, water bottles and travel mugs make great snack storage areas.
Packing Clothes/Shoes
I always look at the weather forecast just before the trip to see what kind of clothing we will need. Our upcoming trip is forecasted in the high 80’s/low 90’s, so shorts and t-shirts are going to be the staple (along with one sweatshirt just in case). We never have the need to dress up, so no extra clothing necessary for that. I pack light figuring there are always washing machines available at the resort in case of true emergency (or really, because we are likely to buy souvenir t-shirts that we can wear if we want).
7 complete outfits for each of us (shirt, shorts, undergarments, socks)
3 extra shirts each (these are an easy way to freshen up in the middle of a sweaty day)
3 extra undergarments/socks each (also an easy way to feel clean again on a hot day)
1 set of pajamas each
1 sweatshirt each
2 comfortable pairs of shoes per person (“comfortable” differs by person, and varies from flip flops to tennis shoes to walking sandals…. the shoes must be able to still be comfortable after 10 miles of walking per day) — we wear our heaviest shoes on the plane and pack our lighter ones to save weight
1 pair of flip flops each (for the pool)
2 swim suits each plus goggles (I like to have an extra swim suit because putting a on wet suit makes me grumpy)
Packing outfits into compact rolls saves space. And creates a fun Tetris-like puzzle when fitting them all in the suitcase.
Packing Other Miscellany
A dryer sheet in each suitcase for fresh smelling clothes
Toiletries (I love my toiletry bag from LL Bean – it has about a million pockets to hold toothbrushes, razors, travel size shampoo, small quantities of various pain/cold medications just in case, deodorant, etc.)
Disney trading pins and lanyards
Autograph books and pens (you may want to pack this into a carry-on instead, in case of an unexpected character sighting)
Disposable ponchos for the inevitable Florida afternoon rainshower (I bring two per person, but in a pinch they can be laid out to dry and reused)
Sunglasses
Sunscreen (this is seriously expensive to buy at a Disney resort, let me tell you)
Misting fan for those super-hot days
Cell phone chargers/battery backup
Park bags (we use one fanny pack and one saddle bag purse for touring the parks)
Plastic grocery bags and sealable sandwich bags – to keep a wet swim suit away from other clothes, to store leftover snacks, etc… they are lightweight so we pack quite a few
Packing travel sizes of your toiletry items save valuable space and weight. This bag holds a ton of stuff, plus can be hung on a towel bar at your hotel to save counter space.
Packing the Carry-ons
There are two types of things to carry on to the plane: Things related to the travel itself (boarding passes, Disney reservation information, touring plans, Magic Bands) and things that are difficult to replace if your luggage is lost (valuables, medications). I like to pack our carry-ons pretty light (unless my checked baggage is over the allowed weight, then I would stuff them). In my family, everyone must be able to carry their own carry-on across a big airport, so backpacks are the way to go. Our carry-ons include:
MagicBands
Flight paperwork
Paper Itinerary booklet from Disney
Touring plan printouts
One swimsuit per person (in case your luggage doesn’t make it to your Disney resort room before you want to swim)
Wallets with ID, health insurance card, credit cards and cash
Prescription medications
Gum & snacks
Cell phones (we use these as cameras, so no need for us to pack a camera and extra batteries)
Small blanket (a little something from home)
Something to do on the plane while you anxiously await your arrival (books and games)
Leaving the carry-on pretty empty means that if your checked baggage exceeds the weight specified, you can transfer items to your carry-on. Also, it’s another space for souvenirs.
In the end, we have two checked bags totaling 52.5″ each (length plus width plus heighth, which are less than the 62″ maximum per Delta Airlines) and weighing 39 and 37 pounds each (well within the 50 pounds each I’m allowed), plus four carry-ons. I think we’ve packed the perfect amount in order to save money, but not to feel deprived of things we would want (except my pillow… I do wish I had my pillow).
Two checked bags and four carry-ons, ready for our vacation. Perfect for my family of four.
A bonus: Packing the Park Bag
Here is a pictoral example of what I bring for a day at the park (yes, that black bag does fit everything in the photo except for the water bottle). It does beg the question – are there any other “laminators” out there?
Park bag deconstructed
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Packing It All In: How to Fit a Week of Disney Fun into Two Suitcases (With a Family of Four!) is a post from the TouringPlans.com Blog. Signup for a premium subscription today! Or get news via Email, Twitter, & Facebook.
September 4, 2014
Disney World Crowd Report – August 24 to August 30, 2014
By far, the least crowded season of the year is the period between Labor Day and mid-September. Schools are back in session and most families have completed their summer vacations. Judging by last week’s crowd numbers that September lull may have begun a week early. We saw very low wait times across the resort.
Let’s look at how the crowd levels stacked up each day last week on the TouringPlans.com Disney World Crowd Report:
Walt Disney World Resort Crowd Levels – Daily Breakdown
(Click to view overall details for this day)
WHAT WE
THOUGHT
WHAT WE
SAW
ANALYSIS
Magic Kingdom
4
2
Crowd levels were all below average as expected on Sunday. Magic Kingdom was the lowest with the other parks not far behind. Haunted Mansion (20 minutes), Jungle Cruise (18) and Winnie the Pooh (22) hit their lowest point on our 1 to 10 scale.
Epcot
2
3
Hollywood Studios
4
4
Animal Kingdom
4
3
(Click to view overall details for this day)
WHAT WE
THOUGHT
WHAT WE
SAW
ANALYSIS
Magic Kingdom
4
4
Our predictions of ‘4’ at Magic Kingdom and Epcot and of ‘2’ at Animal Kingdom hit the mark. Only The Studios fell outside normal range with a 22 minute average posted time at Great Movie Ride as well as 72 minutes at Toy Story Mania. Star Tours also hit a healthy 24 minute average.
Epcot
4
4
Hollywood Studios
4
6
Animal Kingdom
2
2
(Click to view overall details for this day)
WHAT WE
THOUGHT
WHAT WE
SAW
ANALYSIS
Magic Kingdom
3
3
Tuesday’s crowd at Epcot was the first sign that the Septmeber lull in attendance may have been occurring early this year. Test Track averaged 52 minutes, well below expected although Spaceship Earth hit 16 minutes, exactly as we predicted.
Epcot
6
2
Hollywood Studios
3
4
Animal Kingdom
3
1
(Click to view overall details for this day)
WHAT WE
THOUGHT
WHAT WE
SAW
ANALYSIS
Magic Kingdom
4
1
More signs of lower than expected crowds on Wednesday. All parks came in two or more levels lower than history would suggest. Many attractions hit a level ‘1’ on our scale, especially at Magic Kingdom, an occurrence that is normally reserved for the week after Labor Day.
Epcot
4
2
Hollywood Studios
5
3
Animal Kingdom
6
2
(Click to view overall details for this day)
WHAT WE
THOUGHT
WHAT WE
SAW
ANALYSIS
Magic Kingdom
3
2
Our predictions of ‘3’ or lower at Magic Kingdom, The Studios and Animal Kingdom were within range but Epcot’s crowd was unbelievably low. Test Track averaged 43 minutes, Spaceship Earth 10, Soarin’ 34 and Living with the Land 2, all the lowest on our scale.
Epcot
6
1
Hollywood Studios
3
1
Animal Kingdom
2
1
(Click to view overall details for this day)
WHAT WE
THOUGHT
WHAT WE
SAW
ANALYSIS
Magic Kingdom
3
1
Ones across the board (except for The Studios at ‘2’) are another sign of the Labor Day lull in attendance arriving early this year. No headliner attraction resort-wide went above a level ‘3’ on our scale – and the most common level by far was ‘1’.
Epcot
5
1
Hollywood Studios
4
2
Animal Kingdom
2
1
(Click to view overall details for this day)
WHAT WE
THOUGHT
WHAT WE
SAW
ANALYSIS
Magic Kingdom
3
4
Predictions returned to normal performance on Saturday with only one park (Magic Kingdom) missing the mark, slightly. We predicted Soarin’ would average a posted time of 49 minutes and we observed exactly that.
Epcot
2
2
Hollywood Studios
4
4
Animal Kingdom
3
3
What to Expect This Week
August 31 to September 6, 2014
How Crowded is Walt Disney World
If last week was slow then imagine how quiet this week must be. By far, the number one best time of the year for low crowds is the week after Labor Day. The summer heat is still blazing however so be prepared to take breaks – not from the crowds but from the heat.
To see Walt Disney World Crowd predictions for the days of your vacation, check the Crowd Calendar.
To get details about our predictions of future crowds or details about crowds in the past check out the Crowd Calendar and select “Jump to Date” on the left margin.
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Disney World Crowd Report – August 24 to August 30, 2014 is a post from the TouringPlans.com Blog. Signup for a premium subscription today! Or get news via Email, Twitter, & Facebook.
SeaWorld Tours: Beluga Interaction and Wild Arctic
By Thomas Cook
Today we’ll explore a couple of SeaWorld Orlando’s remarkable behind-the-scenes tours: the Beluga Interaction Program and the Wild Arctic Tour. These are two of the many tours SeaWorld offers which include animal interactions.
SeaWorld beluga whale Aurek and guest during the Beluga Interaction Tour. Photo by Thomas Cook
It’s pretty obvious that meeting beluga whales, seals, and walruses up-close in the wild is nearly impossible, especially since they mostly live the north of the Arctic Circle. Even getting to their habitat is a remarkable journey.
SeaWorld Orlando’s Wild Arctic attraction will be celebrating its twentieth anniversary in 2015, but it remains an interesting and popular venue. It offers an exciting flight-simulator helicopter ride to the Arctic that drops guests off at Station Wild Arctic, designed to appear like a 19th century wooden sailing ship that was stranded and crushed by sea ice. Inside the ruins of the ship are places to view belugas and walruses both above and below the water line.
The two tours take place in Wild Arctic, and both are excellent for children, adults and families. Both are very different in nature, however.
The Beluga Interaction Program is about as immersive as you can get when it comes to a theme park tour. Often mistakenly called dolphins, belugas are from a different family in the sub order of toothed whales. They share their family with narwhals, another remarkable Arctic species.
SeaWorld beluga whale Aurek, guest, and trainer during the Beluga Interaction Tour. Photo by Thomas Cook
As can be inferred by the name Beluga Interaction Program, the main part of this tour is the twenty minutes participants spend with a trainer and one or more belugas. SeaWorld Orlando currently has four of the magnificent animals, two females (Whisper and Maple) and two males (Nanuq and Aurek). Each has its own distinct personality and habits and during the interaction the participants witness that. The water they inhabit is cold, at least by Florida standards, so each participant is required to wear a wetsuit, provided by SeaWorld. There are two parts of the interaction, one where participants stand and kneel at the water’s edge and one where the participants sit in about six inches of water with their legs dangling over a ledge.
The trainers communicate with the belugas using hand signals and have them interact directly with the guests. There are multiple opportunities to touch and multiple opportunities to get splashed by whales that range in size from 1,500 to 3,500 lb (700 to 1,600 kg). The interaction takes place in the main public viewing area in Wild Arctic, so guests get to watch while the participants enjoy their experience. Frequently family members of the participants watch along with other park guests.
The Wild Arctic Tour is more of a sampler experience. While SeaWorld can’t promise which animals you’ll see on the tour, you’re likely to see and interact with belugas, walruses, and seals. Each Wild Arctic Tour is limited to 12 guests and lasts one hour. During that time, guests stand right next to highly trained and skilled animal trainers in the areas of the Wild Arctic not open to guests.
A knowledgeable tour leader guides participants between the animal habitats. The trainers will show guests in some detail how they teach and reinforce useful skills known as husbandry behaviors: things which the animals can do to help with their own healthcare, such as lie still to be examined, turn their head to accept eye drops or offer a flipper for a voluntary blood draw.
SeaWorld walrus from Sea Lion Stadium, similar to the ones on the Wild Arctic Tour. Photo by Thomas Cook
Meeting the beluga whales provides a pool-side view next to a trainer and a family interaction with one of SeaWorld’s friendly canaries of the sea. Guests get to help the trainers go through a training session similar to the one in the Beluga Interaction Program.
Most guests also come face to face with one of SeaWorld’s most remarkable animals – the Pacific walrus. There are two walruses in Wild Arctic, Garfield, a 31 year-old male who as rescued as an infant and Kaboodle, an 11 year-old female. One of the walrus trainers describes walruses as the most intelligent animals at SeaWorld. There are many interesting facts that participants learn about these huge animals: tusks, whiskers (vibrissae), vocalizations and more. While the trainers are teaching the guests about walruses, Garfield or Kaboodle sit eight feet away showing how smart they are and happily slurping up fresh fish. By the way, Kaboodle was born at SeaWorld San Diego; her mom’s name is Kit.
My favorite animals on the Wild Arctic Tour are the three seals that call the enclosure home. There are two harbor seals – Bumstead and Sturby and a harp seal named Wiley. Wiley is naturally shy, since he would consider anything larger than him in the wild a predator, so guests mostly just get to peek at him as he swims around. On the other hand, Bumstead and Sturby are experienced 17 year old seals who love interacting with the guests. Guests get to pose with and pet the seals as well as see a rundown of their husbandry skills.
SeaWorld Harp Seal named Wiley. A participant on the Wild Arctic Tour. Photo by Thomas Cook
Wild Arctic is a really fun tour that provides surprising memories for years. Guests regularly laugh and get choked up with emotion during the tour. It’s also a great way to inspire children to help protect and care for wildlife.
Because of the intimate interaction with animals, cameras and phones aren’t allowed on either tour so SeaWorld’s skilled photography team captures the participant’s experience. Photo prints and CDs are available for an additional charge.
The tours are offered year round; they’re currently not offered on Wednesdays. Tours can be affected by inclement weather, especially if there is lightning in the area, a common occurrence from June through August. The Wild Arctic tour is an outdoor tour so lightning or heavy rain can mean a postponement or cancellation of a tour. The Beluga Interaction Tour happens indoors, but SeaWorld’s large beluga pool is partly indoors and partly outdoors, so if there is lightning in the area the trainers and the guests will not be allowed to enter the water. If lightning were to strike the water, it would be attracted to something that is grounded, like a person sitting on the side of the pool with their feet in the water. The belugas would actually be quite safe.
Both tours are offered in the afternoon; ironically this can make the Wild Arctic Tour hot. Guests are provided with shade much of the time, but it still can be nearly 100°F (37°C) in the Florida summer.
The fine print:
SeaWorld Orlando prices and rules for the Beluga Interaction Program: $119 – 169 depending on the time of the year
Participants must be at least 10 years of age. Participants under 14 must be accompanied by a paying adult.
Participants must be able to comprehend safety-instructions in English.
The area in the beluga whale habitat can be difficult to maneuver, if you have any physical limitations talk to someone before booking a tour.
SeaWorld park admission is required and is not included in the Beluga Interaction Program price.
Participants must bring swimsuit to wear under wetsuit.
Wetsuit and full changing facility with showers are provided.
You will be expected to sit and stand in shallow water which is at a temperature below 55 F (12C).
SeaWorld Orlando prices and rules for The Wild Arctic Tour: $59 – 79 depending on the time of the year
Participants must be at least 8 years of age. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by a paying adult.
Participants must be able to comprehend safety-instructions in English.
The area in the beluga whale habitat can be wet and difficult to maneuver, if you have any physical limitations talk to someone before booking a tour.
Shoes may get wet during portions of the tour.
SeaWorld park admission is required and is not included in the Wild Arctic Tour price.
General tips for both tours (and really for all theme park tours):
SeaWorld expects guests to check-in when they get to the park at the Information and Reservations counter at the entrance. Tour meet-up locations will be given out then. Tours do not always start at the entrance to the park. Information and Reservations is where you will be handed the actual tickets for tours.
Arrive at your tour meet-up location on time. Guides will not wait for late arrivals. Once tours go behind-the-scenes, you might not be allowed to join the tour and you might not be able to re-book it later in the day due to availability.
Tour times, prices and components are subject to change and availability.
Cancellations with less than 24 hours notice are nonrefundable.
For more information check out SeaWorld Orlando’s website pages for the tours:
SeaWorld Beluga Interaction Program
While I’ve given you a description and review of the tours offered at SeaWorld Orlando, to be complete, I want you to know that SeaWorld’s other parks in San Diego, California, and San Antonio, Texas, offer the tours, as well, and I’ve been told they are essentially the same. Here’s their pricing:
San Diego: Beluga Interaction – $215; Wild Arctic – $70 ($64 for kids)
San Antonio: Beluga Interaction – $140-170
Note that the rules for the tours at San Diego and San Antonio might be different than Orlando’s. Regardless it’s wise to check with the website and fully understand the rules and limitations before booking any theme park tour.
Prices and information are current as of August 22, 2014.
Let me know if you’ve ever taken either of these tours and what you thought of it.
Thanks!
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Hidden Details of the Disney World Resorts
There are many reasons why the Disney Parks stand apart from other theme parks around the world, but one of the biggest has to be Disney’s incredible attention to detail. You can see the extra mile in the form of details just about everywhere on Disney property, from attractions to parade costumes to resorts to transportation to even the bathrooms! Personally, I love the details. They are not only appealing to the eye and fun to find, but almost always meaningful to the history of an attraction or to the story the Imagineers are trying to tell. For today’s post, let’s take a look at the hidden details of the Disney World Resorts!
Deluxe Resorts
Grand Floridian Wedding Chapel
The Grand Floridian Resort and Spa: Disney’s flagship resort is also home to Disney’s Wedding Pavilion, a fairy tale location with a view of Cinderella Castle! Even if you’re not getting married, you can still walk over to the pavilion area where the chapel and Franck’s Bridal Studio are located. Be sure to look up to notice a special detail: a heart-shaped weather vane of Mickey posing as Cupid!
Animal Kingdom Lodge: Throughout Animal Kingdom Lodge’s Kidani Village you will find African quotes and proverbs on the walls and rock work; however, one of them is different from the rest in that it’s a quote from Walt Disney. You can find it around the Samawati Springs pool area!
The Contemporary: For years, guests have been reporting a small, metal Mickey perched on the edge of a rooftop at the Contemporary Resort. When riding the Express Monorail, keep your eyes open when you approach the entrance to the resort.
Saratoga Springs Detail
Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa: This sprawling, equestrian style resort offers beautiful, pastel-colored buildings and gorgeous grounds; and to further sell the theme, Imagineers added a detail to make navigating a little easier. Instead of mile markers, you can tell how far you’ve walked by furlongs!
The Polynesian Village Resort: This detail is a big one. You see, the hidden detail is the actual layout of the Polynesian Village Resort itself. The resort’s various longhouses are named after different Polynesian islands, and their positions at the resort are intended to match the actual island positions on the map.
Old Key West: The resort’s lobby is warm and welcoming, but my favorite detail isn’t in plain sight but rather right under your feet. It’s a beautiful inlay which stands out against the dark wood floor and is made up of ropes and shells encircling a conch shell, perfect for this resort’s charming, old Florida style.
Yacht and Beach Club’s Beaches and Cream
Yacht and Beach Club: A popular restaurant at the Yacht and Beach Club is the Beaches and Cream Soda Shop which offers traditional diner dishes and an assortment of creative, ice cream concoctions, including the famous Kitchen Sink dessert. The restaurant itself is small, but I don’t mind sitting outside because the tables are shaped like ice cream cones!
Wilderness Lodge: Most guests don’t realize that the two giant totem poles in the cavernous lobby are different from one another. One totem is topped with a raven, while the other is topped with an eagle. The reason for this is because Northwest American Indians would trace their family lines to either the Eagle Clan or the Raven Clan.
Boardwalk Inn Chandelier
Boardwalk Inn: The Boardwalk Inn is so much fun to explore. The vintage 1920s and 1930s Atlantic City theme is fun, yet refined. There are dozens of things to discover in this resort, but my personal favorite is the chandelier. It’s so unique and perfect for this whimsical, seaside-style resort.
Moderate Resorts
Port Orleans French Quarter: When you’re checking in, take a good look at the musical notes behind the desk. The arrangement is the tune to “When the Saints Go Marching In.”
Port Orleans Riverside Crates
Port Orleans Riverside: This Southern-style resort is beautiful inside and out, from the lobby’s giant paddle-fans and magnolias in the carpet to the Disney Princess-themed Royal Rooms. Riverside is where I usually stay when visiting Disney World, but only recently have I uncovered this hidden detail inside of Fulton’s General Store: travel stickers on crates that Donald’s mischievous nephews are about to ship down river. Take a closer look at these stickers. Could the Canada and Norway sticker be a little nod to Epcot’s World Showcase?
Coronado Springs: Have you ever noticed the donkey with wings positioned near the front of Panchito’s Gifts and Sundries? He’s actually a character from “The Flying Gauchito,” one of the shorts from The Three Caballeros.
Caribbean Beach Pirate Room
Caribbean Beach: For a little extra, you can book a Pirate Room at the Caribbean Beach Resort. This special room is filled with nods to the Pirates of the Caribbean film franchise, plus a treasure print bedspread and a pirate ship shaped bed! A detail that may go unnoticed is a seal off to the side of the stack of crates which serve as your dresser and entertainment center. If you look closely, you will see that the seal is that of the East India Trading Company, an actual establishment in history but also a threat to Captain Jack Sparrow in the films.
Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground: Trail’s End, a country-style buffet at The Settlement, connects to Crockett’s Tavern and is filled with items and artwork and other decor themed after the legendary Davy Crockett himself! Why? Well, the legendary frontiersman does compliment the resort’s rustic theme, and Davy Crockett is an important part of Disney history due to the popular 1950′s television show.
Art of Animation Spark Plug Fence
Value Resorts
All-Star Sports: When walking through the All-Star Sports lobby, look just below the counter. There are rows and rows of lockers!
All-Star Movies: Disney’s Fantasia is one of the several movies showcased at the All-Star Movies Resort, as evidenced by the giant, marching mops and sorcerer’s hat. Although, some of you may remember that there is another Fantasia film, Fantasia 2000. Well, that film is represented here too with other giant characters and icons. What’s interesting though is that Fantasia 2000 didn’t actually open in theaters until after All-Star Movies opened to guests!
All-Star Music: The music notes on the front desk aren’t just a random arrangement, they are actually the tune to “When You Wish Upon a Star.”
Pop Century: Need to freshen up or check your hair, ladies? The bathrooms in Pop Century’s lobby contain framed pictures of women’s styles throughout the decades. It’s sure to make you feel better about your style or bad hair day!
Art of Animation Resort: Of the different themed wings of the Art of Animation Resort, the Cars themed wing has to be my favorite. It’s also, in my opinion, the most detailed! This wing also features a pool, the Cozy Cone Pool; but what you probably haven’t noticed is that the fence surrounding the pool is topped with spark plugs?
So these are a just a few of the many hidden details to be discovered at the Disney World Resorts. Which of these have you found? Do you have a favorite?
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#TBT: EPCOT Center Touring Plan for Adults
Original Flavor Unofficial Guide
Welcome to Throwback Thursday, a day we jump into the Wayback Machine and look at the Walt Disney World that was. It’s 1985; when Epcot was still EPCOT Center and the year of the first edition of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World.
Today we’re going to look at the first touring plan we published for EPCOT Center. This is taken directly from the first edition of the Guide. If you get too hot, you can always take a dip at River Country or take in some retail and dining therapy at Walt Disney World Village.
At this point, EPCOT Center had been open for 3 years. The old ticket books were a thing of the past, and guests used either a one-day ticket ($18) or a World Passport (what is now a multi-day park hopper, at $45 for three days) to enter the park. Wonders of Life wouldn’t be opened until 1989, and you’ll notice there’s no nighttime spectacular on the plan. In the book, there is a short mention of LaserPhonic Fantasy, which was performed on World Showcase Lagoon when the park was open late.
The Fife and Drum Corps and Voices of Liberty were at the American pavilion, but Canada boasted its own band, the Maple Leaf Brass.
If you were hungry, Le Cellier served up its food cafeteria style, and the Odyssey was still open to the public.
EPCOT Center One-Day Touring Plan for Adults
For: Adults without small children.
Assumes: Willingness to experience all major rides and shows.
DIRECTION
EXPLANATION
1. Have your admission paid and be at the turnstile ready to go 45 minutes before the park’s stated opening time.
NOTE: EPCOT Center often opens a half hour before its stated opening time.
Being one of the first visitors admitted to the park will allow you to see many of the most popular attractions at the time of the day when the lines are shortest. The thirty to forty-five minutes you invest in our early morning arrival will literally save you hours during the remainder of your touring day.
2. When you are admitted to the park, proceed posthaste to Spaceship Earth (the huge geodesic dome just inside the entrance).If your top priority is obtaining reservations for a World Showcase lunch or dinner, skip Spaceship Earth until late afternoon and proceed directly to Step 3. If you want to have your cake and eat it too, find someone in your party who will volunteer to forego Spaceship Earth and have him run ahead to make meal reservations while you take the ride. He can meet you inside Spaceship Earth where the ride disembarks.
Spaceship Earth, because of its theme, distinctive design, and positioning near the entrance to the park, develops an incredible line mere minutes after EPCOT Center opens. Moreover, because of the attraction’s popularity, the line remains quite long all day. The only shot you have, therefore, of avoiding a 45-minute or longer wait for Spaceship Earth is to hop in line during the first few minutes the park is open. A short line for Spaceship Earth (30-minute wait) is one which fills the attraction’s queue area (the system of parallel railings situated in front of Spaceship Earth). A medium line would completely fill the queue area and would additionally extend down the sidewalk to the right (west side) of Earth Station. A medium line usually corresponds to a wait of 35 to 55 minutes. A long line for Spaceship Earth extends past Earth Station and into the open area between Communicore East and West. Waiting time for a long line is from one to three hours. If the line you encounter is short to mid-medium, go ahead and see Spaceship Earth. If the line is longer, bypass Spaceship Earth for the time being.
3. Go directly to a WorldKey Information video display terminal and make restaurant reservations for lunch and dinner. We recommend asking for a late seating for dinner (8 P.M. – 9 P.M.). This will allow maximum touring flexibility in the itinerary and take advantage of the fact that World Showcase usually stays open later than Future World. If your tummy throws a fit, grab a snack around 5 P.M. to tide you over.
The better restaurants at EPCOT Center are sit-down restaurants requiring reservations which must be made on the same day that you plan to dine. Some visitors walk to the eatery of their choice and stand in line for reservations. By far an easier approach is to make reservations when you first arrive via the WorldKey Information Service. There are many WorldKey terminals scattered around the park, but the largest number are situated on the far side of Earth Station opposite where you exit the Spaceship Earth ride. For greater elaboration see “Eating in EPCOT Center,” page 142, and the special section on the WorldKey Information Service, page 115. IF you only have one day to visit EPCOT Center, you may be better off making a reservation for dinner only and having a fast-food lunch.
4. Go directly to The Living Seas and enjoy the tour (open January 1986).
This is a new and popular ride, and the best time to catch it is in the morning.
5. Go directly to The Land, situated behind Communicore West and take the boat trip, Listen to the Land.
The Land pavilion consists on three attractions and a variety of restaurants. The best way to see this attraction is to arrive early before the restaurant crowd hits. On a One-Day Touring Plan we bypass for the time being the other two attractions here.
6. Proceed to Journey into Imagination, the next big pavilion to the right of The Land. Ride Journey into Imagination first, then see the 3-D film, Magic Journeys, at the Magic Eye Theater.
Following this Touring Plan, you should arrive at Journey into Imagination before attendance gets particularly heavy. Ride first and then see the movie for the most efficient crowd avoidance.
7. Exit Future World and proceed directly to World Showcase.
By this time crowds will be building throughout the Future World section of the park. Leave Future World and proceed to World Showcase where crowds will not as yet reached their peak.
8. Bypassing Canada and England for the time being, go directly to France and see the film Impressions de France.
By moving directly to the far end of World Showcase Lagoon you can reach the French and American exhibits before they become extremely crowded. The French exhibit, particularly, becomes quite congested as the noon hour approaches.
9. Go directly to the American pavilion and see The American Adventure.
This is a large-capacity theater production which will accommodate large numbers of viewers even when the park is busy.
10. If the lines are not prohibitive (and if you did not make reservations for a sit-down lunch) grab a bite at the Liberty Inn, or quicker yet, at the bratwurst stand on the left side of Germany.
With the exception of some street vendors, this is the only source of fast-food meals in the immediate area. Liberty Inn is quite large and can probably serve more food to more people in less time than any other restaurant in World Showcase. IF you are not hungry, stop later for a bratwurst from the street vendor in Germany.
11. Whether you eat or not, go next to the Japanese exhibit and from there proceed in a counter-clockwise direction to Italy, Germany, and the People’s Republic of China. At the Chinese exhibit see the film Wonders of China.
The entire park will be very busy by this time of day. Enjoy the atmosphere of the respective international pavilions.
12. Bypass Mexico for the time being and reenter Future World; see the World of Motion.
This is a continuous loading ride where the wait in line is almost always tolerable.
13. Go next door and tour Horizons.
This is a continuous loading ride where the wait in line is almost always tolerable except when the audience of a just-concluded Universe of Energy performance (next pavilion in the direction of the dome) descends en masse. If you encounter long lines at Horizons any time during the evening, just take a break; they will usually work themselves out in about 10-15 minutes.
14. Next, go to the Universe of Energy and ask an attendant what the anticipated wait will be. If less than 45 minutes, stay and see the show, otherwise, proceed to Step 15.
Lines at the Universe of Energy vary considerably in length (owing in part of the unreliable nature of nearby Spaceship Earth, which breaks down frequently, dispersing its masses of waiting people primarily to Universe of Energy). If you catch Universe of Energy at a bad time, skip it for the present and try again later. If you can get in in less than 45 minutes, bite the bullet and hop in line.
15. Cross through CommuniCore and return to The Land. See the film Symbiosis at the Harvest Theater and a performance of the Kitchen Kabaret.
The lunch crowd will be gone by the time you return to The Land. See whichever of the two productions begins sooner, followed by the other. This is a good time and place to grad a snack if your dinner reservation is for a late seating as recommended.
16. While in Future World, see Spaceship Earth and/or Universe of Energy if you missed them earlier.
Spaceship Earth will have its shortest lines between 5:30 P.M. and 7:30 P.M. (which only means that the lines will be comparatively short; expect at least a forty-five minute wait). Lines at the Universe of Energy should be tolerable unless some other nearby attraction in not operating.
17. Backtrack to the World Showcase and see England followed by Canada; at Canada see the film O Canada!
18. An hour or so before your dinner seating go to Mexico and ride El Rio del Tiempo, the River of Time.
This ride has long lines until after 6 P.M. on most days.
19. Proceed to dinner.
20. After dinner, if you have any energy left, visit or revisit the EPCOT Center attractions of your choice.
NOTE: EPCOT Center One-Day Touring Plan for Adults operates under the assumption that you are willing to do some extra walking to avoid long waits in line. There is, therefore, some backtracking involved. Visitors adhering closely to the Touring Plan and moving expeditiously from Steps 1 through 9 particularly, will normally be able to see almost the entire park in a single day with an acceptable pace and minimal waits in line.
So there you have it, the first touring plan (or should I say “Touring Plan”) for EPCOT Center. Did it take you back? Any surprises? Reminisce in the comments.
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Daisy Lauren’s Best Week Ever: September 4, 2014
By Daisy Lauren
Hi, Everyone! Welcome to the Best Week Ever here at Walt Disney World! This week we’re visiting Typhoon Lagoon, taking a look at the fall decorations at Magic Kingdom, and stopping by to check on Frozen at the Disney’s Hollywood Studios. You may notice a little difference in the photo quality this week. I picked up a new camera, the Canon S110. I wanted to get something a little more portable than my big DSLR. I’m still getting the hang of it so forgive me if anything looks “off”. With that out of the way, let’s get started! I thought what better way than how I start every trip to Disney? WIth a quick pass under this magical sign!
Our first stop is Typhoon Lagoon, somewhere I’ve never taken you before! When I visited I had every intention of busting out the GoPro and taking you on some slides, but mother nature had a different plan. Black, ominous storm clouds started to fill the horizon and I knew it was going to be a short trip. I decided to run around and take a few photos and ask you if you’d like to see more. Pictured below is the Crush ‘n’ Gusher. I’ve only done the slides a few times and didn’t love it, but the wading pool out front is very nice.
As I was dashing around I ran into this guy! There was only one family waiting to meet Stitch so I had to stop. He was so funny. Since I had him all to myself he went into full photo shoot mode, striking pose after pose and then blowing me a kiss when I finally moved on. A themed costume is the only thing that would have made it better. It seems like at the water park they’d throw a hawaiian shirt on him. Still, character greetings don’t get better than this!
If you’ve never visited Typhoon Lagoon this might look like just a boring, old water photo. What you’re actually looking at is people swimming with sharks! Did you know that long before the days of Discovery Cove the Shark Reef offered the first controlled snorkeling experience in Orlando? It’s included in your admission to Typhoon Lagoon. It doesn’t look like much from here but it’s a beautiful (but cold!) experience when you’re actually in the water.
Here’s the last shot I have to share with you from my quick visit. That sky might look normal if it was late at night. However, I was looking at that sky at 3pm! The clouds moved quickly and the storm was huge. As much as I love the parks in the rain, even I skipped this crazy storm!
The next morning, all the weather had passed and it was a beautiful day to visit the Magic Kingdom. The fall decorations seem to go up earlier every year. When I was greeted by this sign out front I knew most of the decorations were up in the park. This is my favorite time of year so I’m certainly not complaining that pumpkins are starting to pop up in August! It does seem a little early, though. What do you think?
I believe these pumpkins were placed in the flower bed right in front of the train station last year, but I like them much better here. When the opening show switches to their fall costumes this will be a beautiful shot! It was funny to see them in their summer costumes singing all about summer during the morning Main Street performances. I’m not sure when they switch to Fall, but it isn’t soon enough. Once they decorate all of Main Street it’s time to update the show!
I say it every year, but why can’t Disney sell these wreaths?? It seems like they’ve replicated so many other decorations around the parks but still not this guy. I can’t wait for when they finally sell these. I might keep mine up all year long! 
All along Main Street the typical garlands and buntings are on display. These are wrapped around every building! It’s really beautiful when you add in the wreaths. I’ll be sure to get you a photo closer to dusk looking down Main Street towards the castle. The lighting wasn’t right for it this morning and I didn’t want to ruin it!
Of course, there are my favorite pumpkin people on display too! There are several more of these than the two I pictured. Take a moment to stop and visit if you’re lucky enough to be here during the fall season. Just like last year everything is up except the statues around the partners statue. I’m not sure why they always seems to save those for last.
Okay, last one! Here are another few happy pumpkins around City Hall. As usual, the decor ends at Main Street and there is nothing in the other parks. Though, Villains Unleashed gives me a glimmer of hope for Halloween events coming to the Studios someday.
After my adventure down Main Street I decided to check out Adventureland! Nothing new to report there, but I did take a quick ride on Pirates of the Caribbean. I wanted to test the low light abilities of my new camera. Since it’s just a point and shoot it isn’t perfect but you can see the results below.
Afterwards, I passed back through the hub and headed towards Tomorrowland to check progress on refurbishments going on there. As I passed by I noticed they were filming in the rose garden. I believe I even spotted John O’Hurley! I should have zoomed in but I was already getting the stink eye from security so I moved on.
Blocking the unsightly construction views along the bridge are green fences that I’ve showed several times. But the below one I just noticed this weekend. Could it be new? On it Stitch has painted Disney villain outlines over his wanted posters! (the one on the far end is tough to see, but it’s Jafar)
And behind the wall… is this mess. They are really making great progress. I can’t wait to see the new bridge once it’s all put together. Hopefully the changes will make it a little easier to move around the park. Goodness knows it’s gotten nothing but more difficult since New Fantasyland opened, despite the price increase.
In Tomorrowland, I’m very happy to report that the Astro Orbiter is slowly coming back together. The crane is back but it’s worth it to not have that empty hole there! Hopefully they are on track to reopen on the 28th. I’ll be there to get video for you when it does!
Speaking of video, last week Cleo asked to see Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover. I’d originally planned to just record a clip, but since we got the front seat I did a full ride through. I’m always excited to help with your requests! Just let me know in the comments below!
Last week, I also promised a ride through of Living with the Land that I’d had trouble posting. You can find it linked below. It’s a whopper at almost 14 minutes long, but it’s such a relaxing ride! I like to just listen to it. (actually, I have it in the background while I’m writing this very post!)
Our last stop this week is the Disney’s Hollywood Studios for a little Frozen Fun. Now that the summer crowds are gone this event is really growing on me. The band is fun to watch and it adds an energy that’s been missing at the studios for years. I’m really hoping something more permanent springs up from this event.
And like all good things, let’s end with fireworks! I often get asked about fireworks viewing spots outside the parks. This is what the Frozen fireworks look like from outside the Disney’s Hollywood Studios. While they are beautiful I really think it’s missing something without the music for this particular show. I’m confused why they wouldn’t pipe the music outside the park? In any case, I recommend you head inside for the best experience on this one.
That’s everything for this week. Now let’s see what you can expect if you’re visiting next week.
Crowd Calendar: While Olaf can’t wait for summer, all year long I can’t wait for September! You’re going to enjoy to slowest crowds all year. Here’s a look at this same time last year. Enjoy it while it lasts!
Weather: It’s still a little warm out there and we’ll see some rain but neither are as bad as the summer season. And with the low crowds you can hide from the heat riding your favorite rides all day!
Remember: Dole Whips are available again at the Polynesian! The newly opened Pineapple Lanai is home to everyone’s favorite treat. Sadly, they are no longer self serve. But there’s a nifty, new souvenir bowl. (Well, new to us. Old to Disneyland.)
Here’s my top tip for this week: You don’t want to miss next week. No REALLY. I have an epic surprise for you guys! 
Do you have any news I missed or any requests for coverage next week? I’d love to hear from you in the comments below, and thanks so much for reading! I’m wishing all of you the Best Week Ever, until next time!
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September 3, 2014
Walt Disney World Noteworthy News – 9/3/14
I’m back again with quite a few great little tidbits that you may want to keep in mind for your next Walt Disney World vacation.
The Harmony Barbershop, located on Main Street, U.S.A., will be closed for almost two months this winter. The popular stop for guests to get their little one’s first haircut (and my hubby likes getting his cut here, too) will be closed from February 5 through March 30, reopening for guests on March 31.
The “Move It, Shake It, Celebrate It” Street Party at the Magic Kingdom will have an amended schedule for September 10, 11, 15, and 17. The parade will only perform at 5:40 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
We all know that Epcot will be getting new acts over the next few months in World Showcase. Well, now I’m here to share a few small details about the acts. Sbandieratori Flags is the flag choreography act in Italy; the Canadian Lumberjack Show, which is considered a thrill show, will take place in Canada; B’net Houariyat is a musical/dance act for Morocco; and Scottish Musical Trio will perform Celtic music in the United Kingdom Pavilion.
The Pangani Exploration Trail at Disney’s Animal Kingdom will see portions closed off for a few months. Both the aviary and underwater hippo viewing areas will be closed through November 14, reopening November 15. The other portions of the trail, including the gorillas, will remain open.
While Disney’s All-Star Music Resort’s food court, Intermission Food Court, is closed for its refurbishment, guests looking for breakfast have one more option to consider. The Disney Food Truck will be parked near the Singing Spirits Pool Bar every day from 7:00 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. The menu should include items like egg, bacon, and cheese croissants; strawberry-covered waffles; kielbasa and caramelized onion biscuit sliders with gravy; doughnut holes; and more.
The Downtown Disney internal water taxi service has expanded operating hours until 2:00 a.m., with the last Guest pick–up taking place at 1:30 a.m. This free water taxi service provides transportation between Downtown Disney West Side, Pleasure Island and Downtown Disney Marketplace.
Speaking of Downtown Disney, valet parking prices have changed. Guests are now charged by based on how long they park:
0-2 hours: $10
2-3 hours: $15
3 hours or more: $20
That’s it for today’s Noteworthy News…thoughts?
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Mayhem at the Mansion App Game To Debut at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party
©Disney
Edit 9/3/14 4:30 p.m.: Odd…while I have the game app from the Apple Store, which I downloaded onto my iPad a few days ago, I cannot find it anymore in the Apple App Store. Also, more curious is that it seems that the Disney Parks Blog post about this is missing now too. Not sure if a re-launch is going to take place on September 9, the first party the app was slated to be active or if it has been pulled all-together. The experience was noted on the map for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party.
Disney has recently been getting in on the augmented reality fun. Lately, it has popped up during both Star Wars Weekends and during the Frozen Summer Fun event. For the Halloween season, Disney has created a free app for use during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party.
The app is called Mayhem at the Mansion. The story behind the app is that The Haunted Mansion’s Hitchhiking Ghosts have escaped and are causing mayhem at the Magic Kingdom during the party. Your goal is to use the “Specter Collector,” found inside the app, to take photos of the ghosts, and return them to The Haunted Mansion. Guests can find the location of the ghosts by aiming the “Specter Collector” at a park map.
Once all three ghosts have been collected and returned, you will be able to unlock exclusive Mayhem rewards.
I recently downloaded it and started playing with it. The app is very simple. There is an introduction video, an link to purchase Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party via Disney’s website, a video explaining how the process of collecting works, and the “Specter Collector” camera. I am not sure if more will be updated once the app officially is unveiled for park use on September 9, but the basics are already there.
The game doesn’t seem as though it will be intrusive and seems like it is geared towards families with little ones. It should be a fun addition to the party for those who choose to play.
The app is available now at the Apple App Store and is supposed to be available soon on Google Play.
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Staying in Tampa for Your Walt Disney World Vacation
By Scott Wurzel
©Scott Wurzel
A common topic of discussion for Walt Disney World vacation planning is whether to stay on or off-site. Assuming you choose the latter, most look to Orlando area hotels and resorts. This of course gives you good access to Disney World parks and other area attractions, but if you are interested in a more complete Florida vacation, staying in Tampa for your Walt Disney World vacation is a compelling alternative. Because Interstates 75, 275, and 4 form a triangle around the city, most attractions in Central Florida are an hour or less away, and the best beaches in the continental United States are even closer.
Orlando Parks
Walt Disney World (All Parks)
Via: I-4
Travel Time: 75 minutes.
Universal Orlando (Universal Studios Florida and Island of Adventure)
Via: I-4
Travel Time: 85 minutes.
SeaWorld Orlando
Via: I-4
Travel Time: 70 minutes.
©Scott Wurzel
Beaches
With white powdered sand, warm gulf water, and calm seas the beaches of Pinellas county consistently rank in the top ten beaches in the US. The best part: sunsets. No need to drive to California to watch the sun sink into the ocean.
Clearwater Beach
Via: State Road 60, over the scenic Courtney Campbell Causeway.
Travel Time: 50 minutes.
St. Petersburg Beach
Via: I-275.
Travel Time: 55 minutes.
Central Florida Attractions
When you separate yourself from the Orlando area, your attraction options widen. Busch Gardens and its seasonally operated water park Adventure Island, are located in North Tampa and are less than 20 minutes away from anywhere in the city. The Embassy Suites a few blocks away are a good base camp for the whole area and a short walk to the park.
The Channel District houses the beautiful Florida Aquarium and Central Tampa has the small but well themed Lowry Park Zoo. Legoland is also about as far away as Disney World, and Dinosaur World is on the way to both! Kennedy Space Center is a little further away, but possible (and worth it) for the space enthusiast in your family.
Busch Gardens, Adventure Island, Florida Aquarium, and Lowry Park Zoo
Via: Local Roads.
Travel Time: 10-20 minutes.
Legoland
Via: I-4.
Travel Time: 60 minutes.
Dinosaur World
Via: I-4.
Travel Time: 20 minutes.
Kennedy Space Center
Via: I-4.
Travel Time: 2 hours.
Museums
The area also boasts Florida’s most popular museums. The Tampa Museum of Art, Glazer Childrens’ Museum, and the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts are all within a few blocks of each other in downtown. Near Bush Gardens is the Museum of Science and Industry. A short drive to St. Petersburg gets you to the Salvador Dali Museum and about an hour south of Tampa is the Ringling Museum of Art in Sarasota.
Salvador Dali Museum ©Scott Wurzel
Tampa Museum of Art, Children’s Museum, Museum of Photographic Arts, and MOSI
Via: Local roads.
Travel Time: 10-20 minutes.
Salvador Dali Museum
Via: I-275.
Trave Time: 40 minutes.
Ringling Museum of Art
Via: I-75
Travel Time: 70 minutes.
Food and Drink
Orlando and the Walt Disney World area have a lot of well known names on their restaurants, but the cultural and creative trends in the Tampa area are unique in the state. Without exhaustively listing the best restaurants and drinking establishments, here are some I think you would regret missing.
Bern’s Steak House (map)
World famous steaks and an entire room dedicated to dessert. Its cellar is an attraction itself and supports the restaurant’s claim to the largest wine list anywhere in the world.
Cigar City Brewing ©Scott Wurzel
Cigar City Brewing (map)
Located in a nondescript area near Tampa International Airport, this little brewery is quickly becoming one of the most famous in the country. On the weekends and Friday you will usually find a local food truck parked outside.
Columbia Restaurant (map)
Florida’s oldest restaurant, this Spanish establishment opened in 1905 in Ybor City; now Tampa’s historic district. Standouts are paella, arroz con pollo, and local seafood cooked in various Spanish styles.
The Refinery (map)
Twice nominated for a James Beard Award, it features a menu that changes weekly and some of the best deals on wine and beer in the area.
Rapp Brewing Company (map)
This is about a 40 minute drive over Tampa Bay, but if you are a beer drinker, there isn’t a better place in all of Florida to have a few. Stop by on your way to the beach. Food trucks usually show up on Saturday.
When you plan your next adventure to visit the Mouse, consider not just staying offsite, but in one of Florida’s *other* rich entertainment strongholds. Maybe you will discover a little piece of what brought Walt to Florida (other than the gigantic swath of vacant swamp). Since you will be driving a little bit to get the Walt Disney World, make sure you check the crowd calendar. It will help you determine how late you can sleep in and when the parks open.
Do you have any favorite areas of Florida to stay? Please share below.
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Video: Oswald the Lucky Rabbit Makes His First Appearance at Disney California Adventure
Oswald the Lucky Rabbit, one of Walt Disney’s original animated characters, won’t have a permanent meet and greet in Disney California Adventure until September 14. Howeer, Annual Passholders at a private party last night got an early look at the character. Oswald did not meet and greet during the event; he only traveled down Sunset and Hollywood Boulevards in the jalopy usually used by Five & Dime.
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