My Lucky Stars Aligned-Epic 24 hour+ trip a success

[Katzateer]

Got back yesterday from my short WDW weekend trip. I was able to accomplish a lot of my goals and I think short trips to WDW may be in my future.

Started out on a Thursday night getting to Philly by train. I spent the night at an airport hotel so I could be at airport terminal by 4:30 am. All transportation went smoothly and I was on the plane by 6am and actually at the hotel by 9 am! Mears ride was quick and easy and I was at the first drop off point (Holiday Inn Disney Springs). Left my small backpack at hotel and got on shuttle bus to TTC. The Disney Springs hotels use different buses- my first ride was an old Disney bus. It was a little run down and a bit smelly ( like stale cigarettes). But it was timely and took us to almost same spot as Shades of Green buses ( where we stay normally).

Decided Epcot was my first destination. Inside the park by 10:30. The security check line very long. Took a few pictures. Started towards World Showcase and enjoyed the decorations. Stopped in China for veggie egg rolls for breakfast.i had a list of entertainment I was hoping to see but the timing didn’t work for some and I didn’t feel like backtracking. I was able to catch a few groups walking by and only sat for the Canadian music group. They aren’t off kilter 💕 but not bad. The Jewish entertainer is boring. The group last year much better. The pastrami melts in your mouth❤️, the potato knish was interesting but way too much for one person. Loved the sour cream herb sauce on it. The black and white cookie was ok. Have had better. I also got a Noel log in France and another caramel log in outside booth in France. I had them in a container and ate them later. Both were very good. Shopped a little in Japan. Nice to be in there early without the evening crowds. Also, saw the movie in France. Love the music and scenery.

Made my way out of Epcot and over to Magic Kingdom. Had fast passes for Buzz ( got my highest score ever!!!), Jingle Jungle Cruise ( love the holiday edition. Our skipper was ok- not the best but ok), Haunted Mansion then headed to front of castle. It was around 5:30 by this point and one of my main goals was to see the castle lighting. Since it was a MVMCP night, I didn’t want to take the chance of getting chased out of park, so I sat and waited. The castle changed colors and is beautiful to watch as the lighting changes at sunset. Had front row view of castle lighting and enjoyed the beautiful presentation. Took more pics and walked out to monorail to get back to Epcot to see hoilday Illuminations.

This was our holiday tradition for many years with grandma and I love the memories. I stopped in Mexico and got nachos. Then I walked up near bathrooms in old Odyssey building. I could sit, wait and then had perfect view of show. I felt grandma and my youngest Stephanie by my side singing the words and enjoyed my last Holiday Illuminations. Made my way back to monorail. Hoping to see holiday Wishes at TTC but it was just getting over as monorail arrived. Skipped Disney Springs, went to hotel and crashed for the night.

[Katzateer]

I forget to mention, that day in Epcot was the most perfect weather day, the kind of day you dream about. Not too hot, sun, a gentle breeze. I could have just sat all day and just soaked up the atmosphere and been happy but I had goals to accomplish. It was a little chilly at night waiting for Illuminations but being up by the bathrooms I was comfortable without a jacket. Down on the rail by water I would have been too cold. And walking out, I was fine without a jacket since I kept moving.

[PopPhan]

I had never thought of going up near the bathrooms/First Aid Station at the Odyssey to watch Illuminations. What a great thought. How crowded was it there to watch?

Sounds great so far...

[missymouseworld]

I had never thought of going up near the bathrooms/First Aid Station at the Odyssey to watch Illuminations. What a great thought. How crowded was it there to watch?

Sounds great so far...

When we were there Thanksgiving week, I sat and saw the show there while waiting for others to ride Test Track. It was a nice view of the fireworks. There were people there, but not packed at all and easier to manage exiting the park afterward.

[Katzateer]

It wasn’t too crowded and a great place to watch but don’t tell anyone������

[PopPhan]

Unfortunately, it is just too far away from my Grand Marnier Slushies in France!!! LOL Would have to find a new adult beverage to enjoy while watching. And...I am not a fan of tequila, so margaritas aren't the answer....LOL

[faline]

Rather hectic day but you packed a lot into it!!