For those who of you didn't join in on my Pre-Trip Report (and why the heck not may I ask!!!), thanks for joining in on my Trip Report.
I'm Michelle and I am your typical Disney Nut; born and raised to bleed Disney!
It's safe to say that I am more than a bit into and obsessed with all things Disney, but I can't see anyone reading this on here thinking that's a problem. My first trip to Disney World (or as I like to refer to it as "home"), was before I was 1 years old. In 1993 my family became DVC members at Old Key West and there began the start of my obsession.
My husband Ryan, on the other hand....not so much. I love him dearly (obviously), but I cannot fathom HOW he isn't as "into Disney" as I am; some peoples children **shakes head**. I will give him credit though, he tolerates and supports my obsession. For someone who "doesn't love Disney"...he sure has been on a lot of trips AND has even helped add visiting other Disney Parks into our "other travel" plans; yes, it shames me to say that I travel to other places than just the Disney Parks...I'd like to stay married LOL.
We recently (and by recently I mean January) returned from our most recent and (in my opinion) too short of a trip to Disney World. Although it was too short, I was so incredibly blessed to have had the chance to go AND to go during Christmas and New Years. Christmas happens to be my favorite time of the year, so I am thankful Ryan was willing to give up some family time and heard to warm and sunny Florida with me. Spoiler alert....it was cold LOL. Oh well, if I have to be cold (but still warmer than home in Toronto at the time), theres no place I'd rather be!
I am (secretly) working on plans to return home, but until I can make them more concrete and to deal with my Disney blues, I thought I'd share my last trip with you fine folks!
Let's get started with some details!
Who: Myself and my loving, amazing husband Ryan!
Where: Disney's Old Key West (original DVC home) and Cabana Bay when we moved over to the dark side, more commonly known as Universal Studios.
When: Tuesday December 26, 2017 - Thursday January 4, 2018
Why: Well....I guess the RIGHT answer is because we wanted to get out of the cold and be there during my favorite time of the year. The REAL answer is because (see picture below!) I cried, whined and threw a temper tantrum last Christmas when I was at home in my Disney PJ's, in my Mickey Santa Hat, drinking mimosa's out of my Disney Champagne glass while watching the Disney Christmas Parade at home and Ryan just didn't want to deal with me so he agreed to this trip LOL. AND WHY NOT GO TO DISNEY WHEN GIVEN THE OPPORTUNITY!
Without further delay....let's get this TR started!
Stop 3: China - Tipsy Duck in Love ($10.50). Again we decided to share this as it sounded quite interesting. Considering the price point and the fact that we didn't know if we'd even like it, this was the best decision!
Nope....not good. Not good at all. It tasted a little bit like a chocolate milkshake with strong coffee flavours. Since I don't like coffee, I REALLY didn't like it. Come to think, Ryan LOVES coffee and still didn't like this LOL.
We tried our best to finish it, so we explored the pavilion a bit more while "enjoying" our drink.
I'd say that half of the drink ended up in bin as we decided to move on to the next country!
Stop 4: Germany - Altenmunster Beer and a Jumbo Pretzel ($18.75).
We really weren't all that hungry, but how do you say no to a pretzel in Germany, right?
Stop 5: Italy - Rosa Regale ($10). I really enjoyed this, but I will admit it was quite a bit sweeter than I was expecting it to be.
We grabbed this and headed to the next country to grab a second beer so we could taste them and compare at the same time (rather than purchasing two beers from the same country).
Stop 7: Japan - Kirin Ichiban ($6.50). We were both pleasantly surprised by this beer, we really liked it.
By now the sun was starting to set and the 6:30 pm viewing of Iluminations was quickly approaching so we high tailed it to the next country on our lis, Morocco with our current drinks in hand to grab a spot.
We found ourselves a great spot (with seating!) in Morocco just around the lagoon and enjoyed the fireworks. Sorry, no photos. They did the regular Illuminations and then the add on for the NYE celebration - I was a bit surprised that they did the whole NYE countdown and everything considering it was only 6:45 pm (or so), but looking back now I guess it's because there are a lot of families with children who may not make it to the midnight countdown.
By the time the fireworks were done, we were done our drinks, but we decided to just hang out in our spot for a little bit while the crowds dispersed. While hanging about, I looked at the different drink options in Stop 8: Morocco and decided we should skip this one for now - unfortunately we never made it back!
Before we knew it, we were back at it and on our way to our next stop.
Stop 9: France - Grand Mariner Orange Slushie ($10.75) and a Croque Glace with Chocolate Ice Cream and Caramel sauce($7).
This was one of my favourite drinks (but I did come into this knowing that I really enjoyed this one!)
My gosh...this thing was AMAZING. It was VERY messy, but so worth it. I would highly recommend finding a table if at all possible to eat it at - this was not possible on this night, but I do wish it was.
We then made our way to the next country.
Stop 10: UK - Bass Ale ($8) and Sam Smith ($8.25)
We took our drinks over to watch the British Revolution set and to just hang out for a little bit of time. Both of these beers were nice and we would get them again.
We spent some time taking in our surroundings and taking some fun photos.
Throughout the whole evening we were enjoying the parties going on in the different countries around World Showcase and we met a lot of interesting people who were partaking in the same experience as us. I am happy to say that even though it was extremely crowded and the majority of people were indulging in adult beverages, I didn't see anyone acting overly inappropriate or getting in arguments with Cast Members. This makes me very happy to report as I always enjoy Drinking Around the World, but I 100% agree that you need to know your own limit (and stick within in), share drinks when necessary and ensure that you are no ruining anyone elses experience!
On to the last country on our list....OH.CANADA.OUR.HOME.AND.NATIVE.LAND.
Stop 11: Canada - Home Sweet Home for some Molson Canadians ($7)
I'd like to state for the record (and for all other Canadians out there!) that when at home I would pretty much NEVER order a Canadian, but felt it was most appropriate at the end our our drinking adventure in Canada.
Our timing was perfect! Just as we snapped the above photo, it was announced that the second showing of Illuminations was about to begin. Since we had such a great view for the first show, we weren't too overly fussed with getting a spot in advance, but we were able to find a quiet spot in Canada to watch the fireworks, ring in the New Year with a kiss and enjoy our final drinks of the night.
Once the show was over, we decided to make our way to the front of the park, but stop in at the different parties to see what it going on on our way so it took quite a bit of time to actually make it to the front. It was on this round about back to the front that we actually made the stop in Norway for the Viking Coffee and School Bread previously noted above.
We eventually made it to the bus depot and were happy to see an Old Key West bus waiting for us. Talk about VIP service. We hopped on (the bus was only partially full) and left within a few minutes. When we got back to the resort, we decided to get off at the Hospitality House stop so we could make our way to the Main Pool to see if anything was going on (we had seen earlier postings of a countdown and little events). I was SO happy to have run into Mickey in his finest wear to ring in the NYE and even happier that he agreed to stop and take a photo with me - he looked like he was just leaving the event, so I was very appreciative!
And just like that it was nearly 2 am. Another year had ended, another one had begun. I was very happy to have celebrated NYE in Disney World (hadn't since 2006!), but I was exhausted. Sad to see another Disney day end, but so happy to crawl into bed that night.
It was fun to "go around the world" with you and hear about all of your drinks! I assumed that NYE would be wall to wall people but you seemed to manage the crowds pretty well it sounds like. Really enjoying your trip report.
It was fun to "go around the world" with you and hear about all of your drinks! I assumed that NYE would be wall to wall people but you seemed to manage the crowds pretty well it sounds like. Really enjoying your trip report.
Drinking (and eating!) around the world is one of my favorite things to do, but I really do encourage doing it responsibly! Personally I have never witnessed, but I have heard horror stories about people drinking past their limit, causing a scene and some ever getting sick. Just takes all the fun out of it and away from the experience of others that did not make the same choices. We had a blast, what a way to spend NYE. It was very busy, but we went into the day knowing we wouldn't be focused on rides or attractions so I think we managed our expectations which led to a better experience. Thanks for following along!
I'm just catching up! I haven't done DATW in a few years, but my wife and I do the same as you two and share in most places. We know our limits!
I would LOVE to be able to last all day in Epcot to ring in the new year there. We did NYE morning in Epcot in 2015 and it was too much and we left after a couple hours. Maybe one day we'll stick it out like you did!
I'm just catching up! I haven't done DATW in a few years, but my wife and I do the same as you two and share in most places. We know our limits!
I would LOVE to be able to last all day in Epcot to ring in the new year there. We did NYE morning in Epcot in 2015 and it was too much and we left after a couple hours. Maybe one day we'll stick it out like you did!
Sharing is caring as they say LOL...plus it's nicer to our wallets!
We were pooped by the end of the day, it was a very long one. I think the only reason we were able to make it though is because we took our time, sat down when we wanted and really didn't have anywhere we had to be (with the exception of our lunch ADR which wasn't long after we arrived). I think with this kind of touring plan you can extend your time in the parks by a lot!
Day 6: Ringing in the New Year, Monday January 1, 2018
After running around all day yesterday, we had plans to sleep in a bit this morning as we planned on having a slower pace to the day. We set an alarm for 8:30 am, just in case we didn't naturally wake up before the alarm. Good thing as the alarm work the both of us up today.
We got up and got showered and headed off to Sense Spa at the Grand Floridian for our couples massage. Our friends and Ryan and I have a tradition of getting massages on NYE together (typically to use the last of our yearly benefits!), but since we weren't with them this year we modified the plans slightly to work with our Disney plans. We figured after being on the go on for the last few days and staying up late the previous night, that a relaxing massage would be the perfect way to ring in the new year!
We arrived and checked in at 9:40 am for our 10:00 massages.
We were welcomed as DVC guests and given a few special treats; DVC robes, added scented aroma oils, hot towel service and a complementary drink in the waiting room. We had never had these offerings before, so I am not sure if this is new, but we were very appreciative.
Our massages were fantastic, so relaxing.
When I returned to the waiting room after our service, I was given the drink menu to select my complementary drink. I noticed that one of the options was Michelle Brut, which was actually our wedding champagne, so of course this is what I selected!
We highly recommend the couples massage service at Senses. We've done it a few times and we've always had amazing service. The ONLY thing I wish were different was that the waiting rooms wasn't separated Male vs. Female OR that the offered a separate waiting room for those having couples services done. I just feel like since we get separated, we don't take full advantage of relaxing there or the sauna/amenities.
When we were done at Senses, we walked over to the DVC section to check it out and view the Christmas decorations. From there, we made our way over to the main building and enjoyed the piano player and decorations a bit more.
We then headed over to check in for our 12:00 noon Afternoon Tea reservation.
We both decided to go with The Cheshire Tea package ($50 per person, $65 if you wanted to add a glass of champagne)
First Course
Selection of exotic fruits and imported cheeses Second Course
Medley of Finger Sandwiches accompanied with Berries, Cheese and Lavosh Third Course
Buttery Scone and Jam Tart Finale
Choice of delicate House-Made Pastries, Strawberries and Creme, or English Trifle
Accompanied by your choice of tea
I selected the Enchanted Forest Tea and Ryan went with the Oolong Tea. We both really enjoyed our selections.
Pinky's up!
Everything was delicious and the pace was great - we weren't rushed at all. The seating was quite close to the party beside us, which was a bit of a damper as they didn't seem to be enjoying themselves (it really sounded like they didn't know what to expect from Afternoon tea LOL). We loved it and we will 100% be doing it again - we actually have it booked for our upcoming September trip, but I think I will need to cancel it as I'm now pregnant and have to limit my caffeine/tea intake AND can't really eat deli/finger sandwiches which I am pretty bummed about, but NEXT trip we will add it back to our list!
After tea we made our way through the lobby and enjoyed the music just a bit more (and of course more photos!) before heading back to the car to make our way home for an afternoon nap. Now this is what I call vacation!
We were able to get a decent 2 hour nap and relaxation in the room in this afternoon - good thing as it was quite cold and rainy out, the weather had REALLY taken a turn for cold .
We started getting ready for our evening out around 5 pm and left for the Yacht Club Resort around 6:30 pm. We checked in for our anniversary reservation at 6:50 pm at the Yachtsman Steak House.
We were surprised with customized Happy Anniversary menus, nice touch Disney!
We started off with a bottle of Riesling ($49) which was fantastic and their signature onion pull apart bread and garlic spread. SO yummy!
Ryan had ordered the 18 oz. Kansas Strip Steak - I can't find the description online, so I think this was a special offering, and I decided to order to 8 oz. Filet Minion - Mashed Potatoes and Cabernet Wine Sauce ($50). We also got a side of Truffle Mac & Cheese to share - Orecchiette Pasta and Reypenaer ($12).
EVERYTHING was absolutely delicious, but we both agreed that the Filet Mignon was the winner; it was perfectly cut and melt in your mouth tender. We also had a fantastic server, Bill. He was so kind and went over and above in every way that he could.
When we were done with our meals, Bill brought the dessert menu over. We viewed it, but we were far to full to even think of dessert. Ryan did decide to order the press pot coffee, which he said was very good, but not as good as the Kona press pot.
After we declined dessert, our server Bill surprised us with complementary champagne and dessert to top of our meal and also brought our custom menus over, rolled up and tied with a ribbon. Honestly, I cannot say enough HOW AMAZING Bill was - and not because he provided us with complementary things, the whole experience as outstanding.
We were thrilled with our experience at Yachtsman Steakhouse and highly recommend it - especially if you can request Bill as your server. We have actually booked this as our 3rd wedding anniversary dinner for our September trip!
When we were finally finished, we decided to wander the hotel for a little bit - the original plan was to walk the boardwalk, but it was freezing cold so that was not happening. After we were done exploring the resort, we went to the front desk to submit a complimentary note about Bill and the amazing experience he had provided to us!
Just as we were getting ready...I had the great idea that NOW we had room for dessert so we made our way to Beaches n Cream (coincidently, as I am writing this the Ice Cream truck is driving down our street LOL!) for something to share. We weren't really all that hungry, but it's tradition and I couldn't think of a time we would be able to get back so it was now or never!
We ended up splitting a hot fudge sundae ($7) before making our way home for the night.
We arrived home just before 11 and had to start the daunting task of packing before heading off to sleep for the night.
Today was a sad day, but not the saddest day. We were checking out of our Disney home to move over to Universal for the next few days. We've visited Universal on multiple trips, but this was the first time we had booked to stay at a Universal resort. I was a little sad to be leaving the Disney bubble (and honestly would have preferred to have had a few more days here), but adding Universal to this trip was part of compromise for coming back - remember, Ryan the non Disney obsessive geek!
We set our alarm for 8 am to allow us some time to finish packing and eat some of the remaining food in the room. We cleaned ourselves and the room up, finished our packing and loaded the car up. We were checked out of Old Key West by 9:15 am and were on our way to Cabana Bay, our home for the next few nights.
We pulled up to Cabana Bay at 10:00 am and we were lucky that our room was ready when we arrived!
But first...Starbucks from the lobby!
We headed up to our room - which was SO difficult to find, the resort map really was not helpful, and unpacked. We then headed over the Universal Studios park.
Note...it was freaking freezing and only got colder for the last few days of our trip!
When we entered the park, we grabbed a virtual line pass for 11:50-12:50 for the Jimmy Fallon ride and headed over to the Mummy for our first ride.
The Mummy had a posted wait time of 35 minutes, but by the time we grabbed a locker (I hate having to do this!!!!) it had jumped up to 65 minutes. Ugh. We decided to use the single riders line instead and ended up waiting nearly 50 minutes, ridiculous! However, we did get to sit together, even though we went through the single rider line.
I will say that we noticed that the wait times posted in the apps were often very off (poster shorter) than the wait time posted at the ride and then the actual wait was usually longer than either of the posted times. This was an ongoing struggle the whole time and quite frustrating as I'm sure you can imagine.
After the Mummy our Jimmy Fallon Race Through New York passes were valid, so we made our way over.
The ride was....interesting. It was a really smooth ride system, but we didn't really get it. It was kind of stupid to us (sorry JF fans!). I will admit that we are not Jimmy Fallon fans or viewers, but we did want to give it a try as it was new at the time of our visit.
By no we were hungry as it was about 1:30 pm so we headed over to The Simpsons are to check out Fast Food Blvd.
I will admit that the area was very immersive, but it doesn't flow very well. You have to wait in this long line just to get into the building, then after that long line you separate into another line to order for the place you would like to get your food from. It took 50 minutes from the time we joined the line until we got to order our food, which I think is overkill. There has to be a better way to manage the traffic through this area.
We decided just to order a single meal to share, so we ordered a Clogger Burger ($14.49) from Krusty Burger and a Duff Beer ($7.99, they only had bottle available at the time, no draft) from Flaming Moes. Please note...we had to wait in two separate lines AFTER the massive line to order these two items.
The food was okay, but it was quite expensive for what it is (in our opinion). It was also so busy and hard to manage the area - once we had our food, we then had to fight the crowds to find a table - it was one of those times you had to stalk someone who looked like they were cleaning their table up and ask them if they are leaving before they actually do....AWKWARD.
When we were done lunch, we explored the area and little bit and decided on a snack - see, there is logic to the madness of sharing our meals LOL.
We had been watching the wait times all day and they didn't seem to be getting any better so we decided to make our way over to Diagon Alley to check things out!
It was completely packed - lines to get into stores, long lines for lockers before rides and even longer lines to get onto the rides, but what could we do. We just tried to play some games to pass the time, but a lot of the lines at Universal are outside and it was FREEZING - we had pants, t-shrits, long sleeve shirts, sweaters, socks, shoes and Ryan had a toque and we were dying!
We decided to bite the bullet and got into the 120 Escape from Gringto's line.
Total wait time ended up being 2 hours and 48 minutes...WAY to long to normally wait for any ride, but all of the lines were long so we didn't really have much of a choice - yes, we did look at purchasing the Express Line passes, but they were over $350 EACH for the two days we would be in the park and that was just far too much, If we do this again, we will book one of the resorts that include the express pass.
As negative as I sound....THE RIDE WAS BRILLIANT, freaking epic. We LOVED IT.
But by now, we were frustrated, annoyed, sick of being crowded in with other people and freezing so we decided to call it quits.
We headed over the City Walk to find some dinner. We really wanted to try Toothsome, so we headed their first. When we got to the front desk, we asked to put our name on the list for a party of 2 and were told that it was a 90 minute wait. We put our name on the list just in case everywhere was crazy busy, but went to check out our other options.
We also really wanted to try Cowfish this trip, so we headed over that way. We used to app to put our name on the wait list once we were within a 1/2 mile of the reservation and it gave us an estimated 20 minute wait time so we continued on. Just as we arrived we got a text message that our table was ready and to go check in. Score!
Ryan decided to go with the Dogfish 99 beer ($9) and the Black Truffle Burger - Beef burger, black truffle cheese, roasted shallots, sautéed mushrooms, roasted garlic aioli, lettuce, brioche bun($17) and I decided on a Sprite ($3.29) and the C.L.C.B.T Burger - Beef burger, cheddar cheese, applewood bacon, white cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, Cowfish sauce, brioche bun($16).
Excuse the random tomato...it was from my burger as I hate them LOL
By the time dinner was done, it was nearly 9 pm and it was freezing cold out (literally shivering!) so we decided to call it a night and headed back to our hotel room for hot showers, a few drinks in our room and an early night. We had plans to get up EARLY tomorrow to take advantage of the early entry to Harry Potter!
Universal sounds miserable compared to Disney.... I couldn't wait in lines that long with my knees and back. I wonder how their express pass compares to Fast Passes?
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