Solo-on-a-Scooter Abd DLR and DCL Alaska! (7/21-8/6/2012) - Page 20 - PassPorter - A Community of Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, and General Travel Forums
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I have to say that they do seem to be packing things into each day, more than I expected and obviously the heat won't help. One day I would love to do an Adventures by Disney tour, but definitely not in summer in LA. It's also interesting to read your comments about the standing, as obviously that wouldn't work for me at all.
What amazing experiences you've had. I hear you about wanting to do more attractions, but you can do that on any trip - the things you've done so far on this trip are truly once in a lifetime.
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Great update Laurie! I'm green with envy that you got to visit Walt's apartment! Amazing that you got to see the Dream Suite too! I'm glad you enjoyed Storytellers!
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Wow Laurie... looks like a sprint with this tour. Good thing we couldn't meet up with you today. My scooter battery is charging and we are ready for our scooter parade on Friday. Great purchases.... love the pins. The studios are not too far from where I live. Just about 20 minutes north of there. Can't wait to hear what tomorrow brings.
Your shopping selections look perfect. Can't believe how much you did in these two days. You've hit some real highlights of Disney History and Nostalgia.
You'll need some rest in Seattle, but look how many memories you are making!
The Imagineering Studio must have been so fun! I like all your purchases!
Lunch sounds delicious. The Studios tour sounds like fun, but I don't think I could keep the pace the way you describe it. These days I get along pretty well if I walk slow and take frequent rest stops.
Your room looks nice.
In this day and age, it's hard to believe an upscale restaurant without any specific vegetarian dishes. I guess we still have a ways to go in this country!
Minnie Laurie! Awesome!!
The dog makes a cute pirate mouse! I didn't know pets were allowed in the parks!
What a fun breakfast!
I know Stefanie would have loved that you remembered her with Suzy Mouse.
Walt's apartment would be a highlight, for sure!
Oh I love the train car!!
The Dream Suite certainly sounds like a dream.
"It's only 3PM" and "it's only 4:30PM" sounds like an early day... but you have to factor in that it's 6 and 7:30 EDT, and THAT makes for a long day!
I'm reading this update while drinking coffee out of my Imagineering cup just like the one you got! (But mine is bright pink! ) Glad you are doing things at your own pace and listening to your body. Enjoy today!!!
You're making me homesick but I must say I've never seen it quite like this. So jealous of all of the backstage tour stuff - like Walt's apartment. We may have seen Walt out strolling (which is pretty spectacular) but haven't been in the apartment.
Yes, the GC is like WL but more grand - you said it! I love the decor, atmosphere, and access to everything! But we find the DL Hotel to have better service - the GC connects me to WDW but the DL Hotel feels more Disney.
And isn't Downtown Disney awesome? One of our favorite hangouts!
Never been a fan of Steakhouse 55 - the steak is yummy, but the experience really pales next to Napa Rose.
Wow, they really do pack the days full. There is no way my DH could handle this tour with his neck and back injury. Maybe he can just relax in the room while I tour? Of course, he is an engineer, so not sure he would be all that thrilled with me seeing Imagineering and him not.
Ok, back to your report! So sad about the GC having some issues...hopefully they get things worked out soon. Nice you were able to go back and enjoy a sit in the hot tub! That always works wonders, doesn't it?
I cannot believe your ABD tour is almost over. At least we have the Alaska cruise portion coming up!
Two updates tonight! You're like the Energizer bunny tonight!
Neat day! I've been fortunate enough to be in Walt's apartment, too, and there really is an "aura" about the place, isn't there? I would love another opportunity to visit it again!
Did you like the DL version of Buzz? I never did try Buzz in MK, but I've heard it's a lot harder to shoot on that ride because the guns don't lift up for you to point it all around you. I'd probably get a dreadful score at MK!
Sending you that you get to experience Club 33 tomorrow!
I was determined to get caught up before my poor overloaded brain forgot it all! Yes, you definitely get a very powerful feel of what it was like for Walt looking out of those windows watching his dream come true. The docent said that one of the original Mousketeers (Sharon) was in the apartment with Walt on opening day and saw Walt looking out at Main Street with tears running down his face.
I can see how these guns should be easier, but I found them harder because my arns got tired holding it up. I have problems with weakness in my arms. It was fun going on that ride before it opened to the public, though! Made looking for our ride photos at the end pretty easy.
Quote:
Originally Posted by chezp
Thank you so much for all the updates.
I have to say that they do seem to be packing things into each day, more than I expected and obviously the heat won't help. One day I would love to do an Adventures by Disney tour, but definitely not in summer in LA. It's also interesting to read your comments about the standing, as obviously that wouldn't work for me at all.
What amazing experiences you've had. I hear you about wanting to do more attractions, but you can do that on any trip - the things you've done so far on this trip are truly once in a lifetime.
Even the young, healthy, runner-type people on this tour are exhausted, but it's still worth it. If I'd known how packed these days are I'd have paced myself better in the beginning. I could have done without the Hollywood part altogether, since I booked it mainly for Disney. I did enjoy staying at Loews and seeing the Hollywood and Highland center theaters, but it was the least interesting part of the tour, at least to me and to most of the people I've spoken with.
Quote:
Originally Posted by ilovedisney247
Great update Laurie! I'm green with envy that you got to visit Walt's apartment! Amazing that you got to see the Dream Suite too! I'm glad you enjoyed Storytellers!
I loved Storytellers!! You must do the apartment one day, Heather. The ABD guides said they're working on other exclusive one-day or half-day tours and are considering including the apartment because of the interest. It's hard for them to decide because they don't want to diminish the exclusivity of the full Backstage Magic experience. Our guide Hanni writes some of the scripts for the new tours (she was on the opening team for development of the new horticultural tour).
Quote:
Originally Posted by Disney4us2
Wow Laurie... looks like a sprint with this tour. Good thing we couldn't meet up with you today. My scooter battery is charging and we are ready for our scooter parade on Friday. Great purchases.... love the pins. The studios are not too far from where I live. Just about 20 minutes north of there. Can't wait to hear what tomorrow brings.
Looking forward to seeing you tomorrow, Marci. I can't believe this tour is almost over.
Quote:
Originally Posted by shazza
Your shopping selections look perfect. Can't believe how much you did in these two days. You've hit some real highlights of Disney History and Nostalgia.
You'll need some rest in Seattle, but look how many memories you are making!
Definitely worth pushing my limits a bit for this!
Quote:
Originally Posted by Kenny
The Imagineering Studio must have been so fun! I like all your purchases!
Lunch sounds delicious. The Studios tour sounds like fun, but I don't think I could keep the pace the way you describe it. These days I get along pretty well if I walk slow and take frequent rest stops.
Your room looks nice.
In this day and age, it's hard to believe an upscale restaurant without any specific vegetarian dishes. I guess we still have a ways to go in this country!
Minnie Laurie! Awesome!!
The dog makes a cute pirate mouse! I didn't know pets were allowed in the parks!
What a fun breakfast!
I know Stefanie would have loved that you remembered her with Suzy Mouse.
Walt's apartment would be a highlight, for sure!
Oh I love the train car!!
The Dream Suite certainly sounds like a dream.
"It's only 3PM" and "it's only 4:30PM" sounds like an early day... but you have to factor in that it's 6 and 7:30 EDT, and THAT makes for a long day!
I think that dog was a service dog-- possibly a seizure alert dog or a psychiatric assistance dog. She was wearing some sort of a vest but I didn't get a look to see if it was part of the costume or an official vest. I think by now I'm on Pacific time and can't blame my Eastern internal clock any more.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Belle*
I'm reading this update while drinking coffee out of my Imagineering cup just like the one you got! (But mine is bright pink! ) Glad you are doing things at your own pace and listening to your body. Enjoy today!!!
I'm hoping to make it a full day today! Did they have more clothing for women on your ABD tour? I think on Sharon's tour they did.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Two4Disney
You're making me homesick but I must say I've never seen it quite like this. So jealous of all of the backstage tour stuff - like Walt's apartment. We may have seen Walt out strolling (which is pretty spectacular) but haven't been in the apartment.
Yes, the GC is like WL but more grand - you said it! I love the decor, atmosphere, and access to everything! But we find the DL Hotel to have better service - the GC connects me to WDW but the DL Hotel feels more Disney.
And isn't Downtown Disney awesome? One of our favorite hangouts!
Never been a fan of Steakhouse 55 - the steak is yummy, but the experience really pales next to Napa Rose.
Can't wait for more!
I'd say seeing Walt in the parks is pretty spectacular! Next time I'll try Napa Rose. I hope I have time to explore Downtown Disney, but it doesn't look like that'll happen this trip. I thought we'd have more free time, but they keep adding in surprises to the time that on the itinerary is listed as free. Not complaining, but I think on this tour you're lucky if you can just do what's on the tour. Don't count on add-ons. I'm in full agreement about the Disneyland Hotel and hope to stay there next time.
What an amazing and exhausting tour! I can only imagine how taxing it is to be all over the place, and in the hot hot sun, too! But what awesome things you're getting to see!!! Love it!! Thanks for sharing with us every day!!
You are definitely the energizer bunny! I was so tired during my ABD that I just went right to bed each night. I usually had a little time in the morning, but just enough to take some notes. for taking the time to post updates! And the guides take more photos than you think they are, so you'll have pictures of some stuff you weren't able to document yourself.
I am really enjoying reading about all the fun you're having (and reliving my own trip, though I'm now very happy that I went in April instead of July!). So many great moments (and more to come!). I am sorry you had problems at the GC. I always feel bad that it's not my favorite, but I just love the DLH, and your experience at GC makes me feel a little less guilty about it! And I used to hear nothing but raves about Steakhouse 55, but recently, I've heard bad reviews (and had a couple of mediocre meals there myself). Disappointing. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that your farewell dinner is at Club 33!
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You have done so many amazing things it is no wonder you are tired each night. I'm really enjoying your TR. You must be looking forward to some relaxing time on the cruise.
What an amazing and exhausting tour! I can only imagine how taxing it is to be all over the place, and in the hot hot sun, too! But what awesome things you're getting to see!!! Love it!! Thanks for sharing with us every day!!
This tour just packs so much into each day.
Quote:
Originally Posted by JKnott17
You are getting to see some amazing things, the exhaustion is worth it! I'm glad you have found some time to rest though.
Today wasn't as commando as the other days, so I've got some nice down-time right now. If I really were an energizer bunny, I'd be braving the crowds and the heat to see and do more. I've only scratched the surface of DLR on this trip.
Quote:
Originally Posted by PrincessSharon
You are definitely the energizer bunny! I was so tired during my ABD that I just went right to bed each night. I usually had a little time in the morning, but just enough to take some notes. for taking the time to post updates! And the guides take more photos than you think they are, so you'll have pictures of some stuff you weren't able to document yourself.
I am really enjoying reading about all the fun you're having (and reliving my own trip, though I'm now very happy that I went in April instead of July!). So many great moments (and more to come!). I am sorry you had problems at the GC. I always feel bad that it's not my favorite, but I just love the DLH, and your experience at GC makes me feel a little less guilty about it! And I used to hear nothing but raves about Steakhouse 55, but recently, I've heard bad reviews (and had a couple of mediocre meals there myself). Disappointing. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that your farewell dinner is at Club 33!
I'm glad to hear that the guides are documenting things and will really enjoy seeing the CD when it comes. For anyone planning to do this trip, I agree with Sharon-- do not do it in the summer! My next DLR trip will be at the DLH.
I'm sorry to report that dinner will NOT be Club 33.... They told us this morning that we're eating at the Paradise Pier Hotel.
Quote:
Originally Posted by mommapants
You have done so many amazing things it is no wonder you are tired each night. I'm really enjoying your TR. You must be looking forward to some relaxing time on the cruise.
I really am! Right now I feel like cancelling all my port excursions and just staying in the Rainforest room all cruise!
Sorry to hear Club 33 didn't happen, but I'm sure you're enjoying a great farewell dinner right now.
What a tour this has been! They really do pack a lot in...sometimes a little too much it sounds like. Still, you definitely saw things the average joe will never see!
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One day I would love to do an Adventures by Disney tour, but definitely not in summer in LA. 
It's also interesting to read your comments about the standing, as obviously that wouldn't work for me at all. 
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Great purchases.... love the pins. The studios are not too far from where I live. Just about 20 minutes north of there. Can't wait to hear what tomorrow brings.
for taking the time to post updates! And the guides take more photos than you think they are, so you'll have pictures of some stuff you weren't able to document yourself.
And I used to hear nothing but raves about Steakhouse 55, but recently, I've heard bad reviews (and had a couple of mediocre meals there myself). Disappointing. 
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