We just got back yesterday...

[tink2006]

From another magical trip. I will start with a summary and post more details as time allows.
Who: DH, DS15, Myself AND our DS best friend15 (first timer).
Where: POR
Length: 4 nights/3 days in the parks (VERY short trip).

We wanted to show DS bestfriend the highlights of WDW. Since he is 15, the rides were a primary focus. All of the obvious, ie the mountains etc, were a great hit. It was interesting to see the look on his face walking around the different parks. He was taking it all in

It was very hard to avoid the commando style since it was such a short trip. However, we managed to take an afternoon break every day and swim/nap. The groups from Central America were still in full force. They seemed to be having a great time and did not bother too much. Needless to say, the two teenage boys were very glad to see the young girls from Brazil and Argentina spending time in the quiet pool

For July, it seemed that it was not as busy as in year's past. We were the only room in our "hallway" that was occupied. The parks also did not seem as crowded. Don't get me wrong...It was BUSY but not as busy as I remembered it to be this time of year.

We took advantage of EMH (evenings) and fast passes and did not wait very long for any ride or show. We hit a lot of the entertainment throughout the parks such as Mainstreet performers, Jack Sparrow, Divine, African Drummers and many of the Epcot performers.

I was a little dissapointed in POR. We usually stay there and request the same room location. This year, we had bugs in the room and mildew in the bathroom. I requested that the room be fumigated (pest control did their thing) and cleaned. I am not sure that Mousekeeping was informed because they did not even vacuum. When I went to the front desk, the CM asked if I wanted to speak to the manager. Sure...When the CM came back out, he informed me that the manager basically did not want to take the time to talk to me. The CM was somewhat embarrassed

All in all we truly had a magical time (as always) and now I will start planning for next year.....

More details tomorrow

[DizNee143]

sounds like you guys had a wonderful trip..so glad the first timer had a good time!! does he wanna go back now? lol...sorry to hear about the bugs and the mildew...but im glad it didnt get you guys down!..cant wait to hear more about your trip..

[wdwgrl377]

I like to bring someone to WDW for the first time and see it through their eyes too! Thanks for sharing!

[disneymom15]

Bringing a first timer is always fun. I've got 3 newbies going in 4 weeks (can't wait). Glad you had a good time.

[tinkerbell04]

So sorry that you didn't have a great experience with the room, but it sounds like it was a great trip all in all! Thanks for sharing.

[#1disneyfan]

Sounds like you had a great trip!

Too bad you had issues with the POR manager, how "un-Disneylike" of him!

Can't wait to read all about your trip.

[KylesMom]

Zaida, it sounds like it was a wonderful, memorable trip! Interesting about your observation of the crowds - we're just gearing up to deal with the masses beginning this weekend.

A quick question for you - were Fast Passes offered for the major attractions during evening EMH this year? DH wanted me to inquire about this, and since you just returned, I'm hoping you can answer the question. THANKS!

[Lizzie]

Sounds like a great trip. And seems unusual that a manger would not come and talk to you.

[MississippiDisneyFreak]

Sounds great with the exception of the room, try complaining to corporate to see if you get any satisfaction

[tink2006]

A quick question for you - were Fast Passes offered for the major attractions during evening EMH this year? DH wanted me to inquire about this, and since you just returned, I'm hoping you can answer the question. THANKS!

Yes, they were offered for the major attractions. They started allowing fast pass distribution upon normal park closing. This realistically only allows for one fast pass per EMH so you need to plan accordingly. For example, at DS, the lines to get the fast pass for all major rides were VERY long. As you waited in line, you can see the fast pass return clock changing as the people ahead of you got their fast pass. Your fast pass return time could be out far enough not to allow you to get another. Our solution, arrive at the park with enough time to get one fast pass before park closing and another one durine EMH.

Hope this helps!

[TINKERBELL_82]

Hi Zaida! It sounds like you had a great trip aside from the grumpy hotel manager! :-(

Just one question for you- what would you say was the best place that you ate at while you were there? I'm looking for ideas for my upcoming trip.

Thanks and welcome back!!

[tink2006]

Just one question for you- what would you say was the best place that you ate at while you were there? I'm looking for ideas for my upcoming trip.

Thanks and welcome back!!

I would have to say, by far, the best meal was at the Brown Derby. As usual it was WONDERFUL. We also ate at Boma. I know a lot of people love it but we decided it was not going on the "must do" list...sorry. It was very good but not our cup of tea.

One thing I was very sad about...I had to cancel Le Cellier This would have been our first time to try it and I was really looking forward to this....Oh well, there is always next time

[Young@Heart]

Sounds like you had a great trip! Sorry to hear about POR. Too bad they couldn't just switch your room.

[larrybob]

Thanks for the report!

[TINKERBELL_82]

I would have to say, by far, the best meal was at the Brown Derby. As usual it was WONDERFUL. We also ate at Boma. I know a lot of people love it but we decided it was not going on the "must do" list...sorry. It was very good but not our cup of tea.

One thing I was very sad about...I had to cancel Le Cellier This would have been our first time to try it and I was really looking forward to this....Oh well, there is always next time

Thank you!!

And I wouldn't worry too much about Le Cellier. It is wonderful, but the food really is comporable to Outback, IMO.

So go have a bloomin onion and a juicy steak and just pretend you're at Le Cellier!

[faline]

Glad to hear it was such a good trip despite your resort issues.

Have you created another life-long Disney fan?

[pdrlkr]

Thanks for the report!

[dolphinmickey9170]

Thanks for sharing.

[Mackflava99]

Thanks for sharing- its too bad about the Bugs- but it is florida-
Still they need to do a better job making sure that doesnt happen.

[mouseketeer mom]

POR is a place I would like to try someday. I want to see for myself if there is a HUGE difference between mods and deluxes. Your trip sounds great. Sometimes those short trips are enough to get you refreshed.
Thanks for sharing!