Forums Closed
|
As of January 1, 2019, we have closed our forums. This is a decision we did not come to lightly, but it is necessary. The software our forums run on is just too out-of-date and it poses a significant security risk. The server software itself must be updated, and it cannot be without removing the forums.
So it is with a heavy heart that we say goodbye to our long-running forums. They came online in 2000 and brought together so many wonderful Disney fans. We had friendships form, careers launch, couples marry, children born ... all because of this amazing community.
Thank you to each of you who were a part of this community. You made it possible.
And a very special thank you to our Guides (moderators), past and present, who kept our forums a happy place to be. You are the glue that held everything together, and we are forever grateful to you. Thank you aliceinwdw, Caldercup, MrsM, WillCAD, Fortissimo, GingerJ, HiddenMickey, CRCrazy, Eeyoresmom, disneyknut, disneydani, Cam22, chezp, WDWfan, Luvsun, KMB733, rescuesk, OhToodles!, Colexis Mom, lfredsbo, HiddenMickey, DrDolphin, DopeyGirl, duck addict, Disneybine, PixieMichele, Sandra Bostwick, Eeyore Tattoo, DyanKJ130, Suzy Q'Disney, LilMarcieMouse, AllisonG, Belle*, Chrissi, Brant, DawnDenise, Crystalloubear, Disneymom9092, FanOfMickey, Goofy4Goofy, GoofyMom, Home4us123, iamgrumpy, ilovedisney247, Jennifer2003, Jenny Pooh, KrisLuvsDisney, Ladyt, Laughaholic88, LauraBelle Hime, Lilianna, LizardCop, Loobyoxlip, lukeandbrooksmom, marisag, michnash, MickeyMAC, OffKilter_Lynn, PamelaK, Poor_Eeyore, ripkensnana, RobDVC, SHEANA1226, Shell of the South, snoozin, Statelady01, Tara O'Hara, tigger22, Tink and Co., Tinkerbelz, WDWJAMBA, wdwlovers, Wendyismyname, whoSEZ, WildforWD, and WvuGrrrl. You made the magic.
We want to personally thank Sara Varney, who coordinated our community for many years (among so many other things she did for us), and Cheryl Pendry, our Message Board Manager who helped train our Guides, and Ginger Jabour, who helped us with the PassPorter-specific forums and Live! Guides. Thank you for your time, energy, and enthusiasm. You made it all happen.
There are other changes as well.
Why? Well, the world has changed. And change with it, we must. The lyrics to "We Go On" for IllumiNations say it best:
We go on to the joy and through the tears
We go on to discover new frontiers
Moving on with the current of the years.
We go on
Moving forward now as one
Moving on with a spirit born to run
Ever on with each rising sun.
To a new day, we go on.
It's time to move on and move forward.
PassPorter is a small business, and for many years it supported our family. But the world changed, print books took a backseat to the Internet, and for a long time now it has been unable to make ends meet. We've had to find new ways to support our family, which means new careers and less and less time available to devote to our first baby, PassPorter.
But eventually, we must move on and move forward. It is the right thing to do.
So we are retiring this newsletter, as we simply cannot keep up with it. Many thanks to Mouse Fan Travel who supported it all these years, to All Ears and MousePlanet who helped us with news, to our many article contributors, and -- most importantly -- to Sara Varney who edited our newsletter so wonderfully for years and years.
And we are no longer charging for the Live Guides. If you have a subscription, it's yours to keep for the lifetime of the Live Guides at no additional cost. The Live Guides will stay online, barring server issues and technical problems, for all of 2019.
That said, PassPorter is not going away. Most of the resources will remain online for as long as we can support them, and after that we will find ways to make whatever we can available. PassPorter means a great deal to us, and to many of you, and we will do our best to keep it alive in whatever way we can. Our server costs are high, and they'll need to come out of our pockets, so in the future you can expect some changes so we can bring those costs down.
Thank you, thank you, thank you for your amazing support over the years. Without you, there's no way us little guys could have made something like this happen and given the "big guys" a run for their money. PassPorter was consistently the #3 guidebook after the Unofficial and Official guides, which was really unheard of for such a small company to do. We ROCKED it thanks to you and your support and love!
If you miss us, you can still find some of us online. Sara started a new blog at DisneyParkPrincess.com -- I strongly urge you to visit and get on her mailing list. She IS the Disney park princess and knows Disney backward and forward. And I am blogging as well at JenniferMaker.com, which is a little craft blog I started a couple of years ago to make ends meet. You can see and hear me in my craft show at https://www.youtube.com/c/jennifermaker . Many PassPorter readers and fans are on Facebook, in groups they formed like the PassPorter Trip Reports and PassPorter Crafting Challenge (if you join, just let them know you read about it in the newsletter). And some of our most devoted community members started a forum of their own at Pixie Dust Lane and all are invited over.
So we encourage you to stay in touch with us and your fellow community members wherever works best for you!
Best wishes for a wonderful and magical new year!
|
|
Welcome! We're happy you've found the PassPorter Community -- the friendliest place to plan your vacation to Walt Disney World, Disney Cruise Line, Disneyland, and the world in general! You are now viewing the PassPorter Message Board Community as a guest, which gives you limited access. As our guest, feel free to browse our messages by selecting the forum you want to visit from the list below.
To post messages and ask questions, join our FREE community today and you'll get access to tools and resources not available to guests, such as our vacation countown timers, "living" avatars, private messaging system, database searches, downloads, and a special PassPorter discount code. Registration is fast, simple, and completely free. Just click the Join Our Community link.
If you think you've already joined, log in below now. If you don't remember your member name or password, please visit our Member Name and Password Recovery page. You are also welcome to contact us.
|
 |
|
09-16-2006, 11:12 AM
|
#16
|
Community Rank: Trailblazer 
Join Date: Sep 2005
Location: Tennessee
Posts: 5,325
|
Re: The Grand Fiesta 10th Anniversary Trip Report - THREAD 2 Day 3 Done Updated 9/15
Great update! Sorry about the rain but sounds like you have a great time anyway!
Can't wait for more!
|
|
|
|
09-16-2006, 11:24 AM
|
#17
|
|
RED SOX NATION!!
Join Date: Aug 2002
Location: Connecticut
Concierge Level: 9
Posts: 136,854
|
Re: The Grand Fiesta 10th Anniversary Trip Report - THREAD 2 Day 3 Done Updated 9/15
<font color="blue"> Day 4 – Monday, August 14th – A visit to the dark side, and a change in Venue
It was another early morning for us. We were up at 7. We (or rather I) had packing to do, as we were moving to the Beach Club today. I also had wanted to do some laundry this morning, as the clothes pile was stacking up. Breakfast was again at the Mara. It consisted of a breakfast platter and a waffle. I guess we weren’t too hungry this morning [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/082502no_prv.gif[/img]
The kids didn’t want to swim this morning, so the time was spent helping me pack (I don’t think it was really helping) and finish up the laundry. We finally got all the luggage downstairs and into the car, and were on our way to Universal Studios (the Dark Side) just after 10. A little later than I was hoping for, but that’s what you get when no one helps me pack!
It was a quick ride to Universal, and by this time, there was a long line of cars waiting to pay and get into the garage. We forked over our $10 [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/rolleyes.gif[/img] and headed into the garage. And boy, what a garage that is. I’ve never seen one so big [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/082502no_prv.gif[/img] We ended up in the Spiderman Section, which wasn’t actually too far away from the rolling walkways. And again, there was quite a line to pick up the tickets. I had ordered them online so I could just pick them up at the kiosk once we got there, but there had to be about 15 people in front of me. And it didn’t help that most of them weren’t paying attention, as there were machines not just on the front, but on the sides as well. I finally made my way to the front, input the confirmation numbers, and the tickets were finally in hand. Ugh. I was tired already!
At least in US defense, it was much quicker to get thru the gates (at least today)! Just scan the barcode on the ticket, and you’re in [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/082502yes_prv.gif[/img] We picked up a times guide and map, and headed for Jimmy Neutron. We had about a 25 minute wait, but at least there were big fans helping to cool you off (and that it was covered). Colin wasn’t tall enough, so he couldn’t ride in the moving vehicles. Matt sat with him down front. We love Jimmy Neutron here, and have been watching him for years. It was a great show, and both kids really enjoyed it, as did me and Matt. Next up was right across the way, Shrek-4D. This was pretty much a walk on for some reason and we entered into the “dungeon” right away (of course, with about 200 other people behind us)! Cramped!!
Another well done production, and a great time was had in here as well [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/082502yes_prv.gif[/img] That pretty much covered what the kids could do in this area, and by now it was after 12, so tummies were hungry. Of course the question of what do you want to eat for lunch was “pizza” [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/rolleyes.gif[/img] so we headed toward the kid’s area where we found a deserted Kid Zone Pizza. Two cheese pizzas and a bunch of drinks later, we were stuffed and hydrated. We continued thru the kid area (whose name escapes me at the moment) and we found the Woody Woodpecker roller coaster (basically Goofy’s Barnstormer. Colin loved it, and Alexa did too. We rode it a couple more times.
We made our way over to ET and waited about 10 minutes, if that. It’s been years since I’ve been on this ride, and I think they changed the ending at the end, because I don’t remember it looking like that [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/confused.gif[/img] Then we made our way to the Playground (think Honey I Shrunk the Kids like at MGM). It was cute, but best of all it had a water/flume ride! Jackpot!!
        
Back to the roller coaster for a couple of more turns.
 
It was hot, and the kids were getting worn out, so we headed to the Curious George water park area. This is something Disney should invest in [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/082502yes_prv.gif[/img] The kids had a great time in here. Alexa wore her bathing suit under her shorts for the entire trip, and thankfully I had one of Colin’s in the bag. I didn’t have a towel, but I figured they’d dry off or I’d just wipe them down with their clothes.
         
While the kids were cooling down, Matt went to ride the Mummy. I really had no desire to do that one, and I think that was the only ride left in the park that he felt was worth doing. The kids finished up and then I took them into the bathroom to change. We then headed next door to a two-floor area that had a bunch of foam balls that you shoot around and suck up in big vacuums. They have one of these things at Storyland in New Hampshire as well.
It was quickly approaching 3:30, so I had had enough fun on the dark side and wanted to check into the Beach Club. We had dinner tonight at California Grill, so this probably meant no time for naps. On the way out of the park, we met up with Jimmy Neutron and Dora. Alexa was too old to pose with Dora, but not Jimmy!
 
We stopped in the store on the way out, and purchased Colin a Spiderman dogtag necklace that had his name on it. I don’t recall what Alexa got, but it was also something with her name on it (since those are hard to find), and they both got some candy. Finally back at the car, we were soon on our way to the Beach Club. It sprinkled some very light rain, but that was it.
Coming Up Next.....Back to the good side, is this an upgrade, and a fanastic meal
</font> |
|
|
|
|
09-16-2006, 11:40 AM
|
#18
|
Community Rank: Globetrotter 
Join Date: Aug 2006
Location: Celebration, FL
Posts: 3,915
|
Re: The Grand Fiesta 10th Anniversary Trip Report - THREAD 2 Day 3 Done Updated 9/15
That sounds like a nice day (I have never been to US before) and you gave a great description, thanks. Sorry you didn't have help packing. Enjoy the remainder!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
*
|
Sponsored links
 | | PassPorter's Free-Book to Walt Disney World
It’s hard to believe anything is free at Walt Disney World; but there are actually a number of things you can get or do for little to no cost. This e-book documents over 200 free or cheap tips to do before you go and after you arrive. You could save a considerable amount of money following these tips. Perhaps more importantly; you can discover overlooked attractions and little-known details most people whiz by on their way to spend money. Click here to see free sample pages from the e-book!
Get this popular e-book free of extra charges when you join the PassPorter's Club for as little as $4.95. A club pass includes access to all our other e-books; e-worksheets; super-size photos; and more! This e-book is also available for separate purchase in the PassPorter Online Store for just $5.95. |
|
|
09-16-2006, 01:13 PM
|
#19
|
Community Rank: Scout 
Join Date: Nov 2004
Location: Songtan, South Korea
Posts: 4,681
|
Re: The Grand Fiesta 10th Anniversary Trip Report - THREAD 2 Day 3 Done Updated 9/15
Sounds like the "Dark Side" wasn't too bad. Glad you had a fun time. Hurry back with more!
|
|
|
|
|
09-16-2006, 01:14 PM
|
#20
|
PassPorter Message Board Manager
 PassPorter Guide Author
Community Rank: Legend VIP 
Join Date: Jun 2002
Location: Maidstone, Kent, UK
Concierge Level: 3
Posts: 190,285
|
Re: The Grand Fiesta 10th Anniversary Trip Report - THREAD 2 Day 3 Done Updated 9/15
It looks like you had a fun time at the dark side [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img] and the kids look like they were having a ball in that water play area! [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/082502yes_prv.gif[/img]
|
|
|
|
|
09-16-2006, 01:47 PM
|
#21
|
Community Rank: Legend Extraordinaire 
Join Date: May 2004
Location: Ohio Football Hall Of Fame
Posts: 42,304
|
Re: The Grand Fiesta 10th Anniversary Trip Report - THREAD 2 Day 3 Done Updated 9/15
Sounds like a pretty great day!! Great pictures!!
|
|
|
|
|
09-16-2006, 02:20 PM
|
#22
|
Community Rank: Adventurer 
Join Date: Feb 2006
Location: loveland, colorado =)
Posts: 689
|
Re: The Grand Fiesta 10th Anniversary Trip Report - THREAD 2 Day 3 Done Updated 9/15
Just got caught up [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img] Great updates...sorry about the rain, but sounds like you had a great time at US!! Looking forward to more [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img]
|
|
|
|
|
09-16-2006, 02:47 PM
|
#23
|
Community Rank: Adventurer
Join Date: Apr 2003
Location: Wentzville, MO
Posts: 818
|
Re: The Grand Fiesta 10th Anniversary Trip Report - THREAD 2 Day 3 Done Updated 9/15
Sounds like a good day so far. Can't wait to hear about the rest.
Steph A
|
|
|
|
|
09-16-2006, 04:41 PM
|
#24
|
|
Living Seas wannabe
Join Date: Apr 2003
Location: Jacksonville, FL
Concierge Level: 6
Posts: 31,940
|
Re: The Grand Fiesta 10th Anniversary Trip Report - THREAD 2 Day 3 Done Updated 9/15
Looks like you had a good day - albeit a dark side one!!
|
|
|
|
|
09-16-2006, 05:54 PM
|
#25
|
|
Tinkerbell's Aunt
Join Date: Oct 2004
Location: McHenry IL
Concierge Level: 6
Posts: 13,254
|
Re: The Grand Fiesta 10th Anniversary Trip Report - THREAD 2 Day 3 Done Updated 9/15
The water park area of US looks like a great place to spend time on a hot day. Glad the kids had swim atire with them. Looking forward to hearing about your stay at BC.
|
|
|
|
|
09-16-2006, 06:25 PM
|
#26
|
Community Rank: Trailblazer
Join Date: Jan 2004
Location: New Jersey
Posts: 5,668
|
Re: The Grand Fiesta 10th Anniversary Trip Report - THREAD 2 Day 3 Done Updated 9/15
Sounds like a fun day. I just don't enjoy US the way I do a Disney Park though. Your kids seemed to really have a good time. Can't wait to hear about your room at the Beach Club! Hurry Back. [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/smile.gif[/img]
|
|
|
|
|
09-16-2006, 07:09 PM
|
#27
|
Join Date: Jan 2004
Location: Tulsa, OK
Concierge Level: 6
Posts: 21,627
|
Re: The Grand Fiesta 10th Anniversary Trip Report - THREAD 2 Day 3 Done Updated 9/15
Great report, I'm finally caught up again.
|
|
|
|
|
09-16-2006, 07:30 PM
|
#28
|
Community Rank: Globetrotter
Join Date: Mar 2005
Posts: 3,651
|
Re: The Grand Fiesta 10th Anniversary Trip Report - THREAD 2 Day 3 Done Updated 9/15
Great updates, looking forward to hearing about your Beach Club experiences!
|
|
|
|
|
09-17-2006, 08:49 AM
|
#29
|
Community Rank: Globetrotter
Join Date: Jul 2004
Location: Mahopac, NY
Posts: 3,460
|
Re: The Grand Fiesta 10th Anniversary Trip Report - THREAD 2 Day 3 Done Updated 9/15
MArnie....great update on universal....me and the dh are contemplating doing this for one day while we are there. Did you see any Avatar characters there????
|
|
|
|
|
09-17-2006, 08:56 AM
|
#30
|
|
RED SOX NATION!!
Join Date: Aug 2002
Location: Connecticut
Concierge Level: 9
Posts: 136,854
|
Re: The Grand Fiesta 10th Anniversary Trip Report - THREAD 2 Day 3 Done Updated 9/15
[ QUOTE ]
MArnie....great update on universal....me and the dh are contemplating doing this for one day while we are there. Did you see any Avatar characters there????
[/ QUOTE ]
No, we didn't see any Avatar characters [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/frown.gif[/img] And the Avatar merchandise was also very limited as well [img]/ubb/images/graemlins/frown.gif[/img]
|
|
|
|
| Thread Tools |
|
|
| Display Modes |
 Linear Mode
|
Posting Rules
|
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts
HTML code is Off
|
|
|
|
|
About This Page: 
Like
Thank
Pixie Dust
