Every time I return to WDW I remember just how beautiful it is. Even in January, when many plants aren't in bloom and the grass is a little browner, everything is bright, cheerful, colorful - a real contrast to the almost constant gray color of Michigan in the wintertime.
Let me just get the bad news out right from the start: We were all sick. Every last one of us had the stomach flu, and Hunter additionally suffered from bronchitis. He and I both had the pleasure of visiting the Celebration Hospital a few minutes from WDW (I use the word "pleasure" very loosely; it made me appreciate the low waiting times and thorough care I've received at our local E.R.).
That being said, we were able to do almost everything on our lists, as we felt well enough to go to the parks every day (except for one day when Hunter and I stayed home while Dan and Helena whooped it up).
Other good points include: low crowds, non-existent wait times, lovely, mild weather, friendly and caring cast members, understanding housekeepers, and the aforementioned pleasure of just being in such a brilliant place.
The only thing is, because we go to WDW "infrequently" (as in, less frequently than I'd wish, anyway), I feel just a little cheated, and wish we'd had a couple of "make up" days to enjoy. After such a great week you won't find me complaining.
What did I learn this time? Wear surgical masks, bathe in Purell, bring Zofran (adult and pediatric doses), have a big Ziploc bag handy...
Oh, wait! What did I REALLY learn? A simplified list:
1. Get to the park at opening time. This cannot be overstated. Previous to this trip we didn't take advantage of this point and it saves incredible amounts of time. We finished all of the Fantasyland attractions - without a rush, and without waiting in any lines at all - in less than an hour.
2. Have a touring plan. Know where you want to go next. I especially found the touring plans from "The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World" helpful, as well as the recommended attraction times (which tells you which time of the day is best for certain rides). Mostly it's just a matter of getting the most busy attractions out of the way quickly or obtaining a Fastpass to ride them later.
3. Take more pictures, and take more notes. Don't rely on your memory of where you were each day. Even though we'll probably go back, it won't be January of 2009 ever again.
4. Just give in on the character greeting thing. Initially I didn't think Helena would care that much, but I was dead wrong. The girl was standing in line for characters she couldn't even identify (i.e., Brer Bear from "Song of the South.") Indeed, I even bought the Official Autograph Book, which now has a respectable number of autographs. And Helena's smiles were worth a million bucks.
5. Go swimming even if it's cold. Kids loved it.
6. Don't expect too much from your counter service meals. It's just theme park food.
So - as time goes by I may add more. I'll definitely post some pictures. It was wonderful.
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4 comments:
What a good attitude! When I'd heard you were all sick, I was so sad for you...but like a trooper you stayed with the plan. Wow. Your post is getting me excited to go soon!!! Right now the thing I am most excited about is not having to cook or clean for DAYS! :) Can't wait to see all the pictures and read all the stories.
Fingers crossed and prayers said that we don't get sick. I don't know that I could do so well.
OH I could SCREAM I am so excited! PICTURES, PICTURES Please!! I can't tell you how many times I have referred to your blog while planning for this trip (as well as tapping that wealth of information that is your brain.... ;)
Add to your list a citrus scented air freshner to get rid of any smells and keep with the Florida theme. I too never would have thought of the character photos being such a big deal. I can't wait to see those pics.
Waiting for pictures! =)
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