WDW General Questions

[DisneyCrazyGirl]

Wow!! Thanks you guys for all the GREAT advice!! One of my FAVORITE rides is Peter Pan so HE MUST go on it whether he likes it or not. I also plan to do all the mountains.
He really has never been to anything like Disney World. When he was 5 years old he moved to the USA from Brazil. His family never really had the money to go. He and his sister always said the only thing missing from their childhood was a dog and Disney World. (PS they got the dog two years ago!) His mother is SO happy that I am taking him because she feels guilty about not taking him ever!!
This is really going to be fun and i WISH it was September already!!
One more thing, I also signed up for this Magical Express service and am a little skeptical about letting a stranger pick up my luggage, etc. Any thoughts?
Once again, thank you to everyone for your FABULOUS advice!! Speak to you all soon!

 

[KevinPage]

I tend to agree mostly with the advice that MKCP1985 gave you. Except that I probably would not recommend trying to get him on Peter Pan Flight. I'm also not too sure he'd be that impressed with Space Mountain. Space Mountain is popular with Disney fans due to the sentimental value. In actuality, it's not that impressive of a roller coaster and the "special effects" are really kind of laughable. I would tend to think that ride would leave him with a poor impression of Disney

I couldn't agree any LESS. Yes, part of Space Mountain's charm is the nostalgia, but unless you are some ultra jaded coaster weenie, what's not to like? I've been on plenty of coasters across the country and while SM is not the fastest, craziest or ultimate of all ultimate's, it is a extremely FUN ride.

RnRC doesn't hold a candle to Space Mountain IMHO. RnRC is a very well done ride, but no Space Mountain.

I've never seen or been with people who didn't enjoy SM, let alone think of Disney in a negative light because of it.

 

[celticdog]

RnRC doesn't hold a candle to Space Mountain IMHO. RnRC is a very well done ride, but no Space Mountain.

Sorry Kevin, I'll have to disagree with statement. RNRC is such a smoother ride. Space Mtn beats and bangs you around too much. It's really starting to show it's age. Don't get me wrong, I still think it's a fun coaster, but it's not better than RNRC.

 

[MKCP 1985]

I couldn't agree any LESS. . . .

With Merlin's input, or with my original suggestions, or both? I am just vain enough to care what you think! (BTW, I said Space Mountain was a sure bet while Merlin had the comments otherwise. )

 

[KevinPage]

With Merlin's input, or with my original suggestions, or both? I am just vain enough to care what you think! (BTW, I said Space Mountain was a sure bet while Merlin had the comments otherwise. )

I diasagreed with Merlin. And yes you should be hinged on my every thought and word. :lol:

 

[KevinPage]

Sorry Kevin, I'll have to disagree with statement. RNRC is such a smoother ride. Space Mtn beats and bangs you around too much. It's really starting to show it's age. Don't get me wrong, I still think it's a fun coaster, but it's not better than RNRC.

RnRC is basically a cleverly veiled Vekoma launch ride that plenty of parks already had before coming to MGM Studios, with the typical "headbanging" effect found on all Vekoma looping coasters.

Space Mountain has a "kick" to it, but I find it much easier and enjoyable to ride. I like physical coasters, not "rough" from the onset ones (which is prototypical Vekoma).

I'm also of the belief that NO looping coaster can compete with a good sit down woodie or hyper/mega coaster as well.

 

[MKCP 1985]

I diasagreed with Merlin. And yes you should be hinged on my every thought and word. :lol:

:lol: Sorry, now back to the regularly scheduled discussion topic. :lookaroun

but I like them both, although RockNRoller Coaster could be 30 seconds longer and Space Mountain is just right . . .

 

[Thrawn]

NEWBIE HERE!!!
I am the biggest Disney freak I know! I am taking my boyfriend down there in Septmeber. He is 30 years old and has never been! However, it has been a LONG time since I was a "tourist" in Disney and I am afraid I will neglect him of experiencing all the Magic! If I go I will not be heartbroken if I miss the parade, but do I have to see it this time around? In other words, what is the "must list" for a First Timer (please keep in mind he is 30 -- he will be 31 when we go!)
I have never been in September so I have a few questions. What's the weather / crowds like in September? We are going September 11-18. I am not sure when the Jewish holidays are but I think they are around that time, are there usually crowds?
We are staying at Coronado, because I heard it is not as family oriented but I have also read on allearsnet.com that the food court is bad! Has anyone stayed there? Opinions or comments welcome!
We are really not into the romantic mushy mushy stuff. We are definitely looking forward to having a fun time!

I have stayed at Coronado, and thought the same thing. Nice resort, but the food court is pretty bad. Also, its pretty far away from everything. I would definetly recommend staying in the Mansions area of Port Orleans Riverside. My favorite resort, and has a very upscale (and somewhat romantic, but not over the top) look to it. You can also take the boat to DTD from there, and the food court is much better.

 

[longfamily]

realistically, you will not be spending that much time in your room anyway, right? Consider, staying at a cheaper hotel, if you're on a budget, so that you can spend the $$$ you've saved on victoria & Albert's or really good seats at Cirque Du Soleil. The moderates are fine but so are any of the choices out there...it is Disney after all. Hopefully when you guys are done in the evenings, you'll be so exhausted you won't care where you end up sleeping

And if you want to impress your guy and show him how "adult like" Disney is, I strongly suggest V&A's. $200 plus tip for the two of you to dine there but worth every penny!!! This can be viewed as romantic but can also be viewed as an all around unique experience with food which is alot of fun!
If he hasn't seen Cirque, this is a must do too. The show is a truely "jaw dropping" experience (so is V&A's). Have fun

 

[Merlin]

I couldn't agree any LESS. Yes, part of Space Mountain's charm is the nostalgia, but unless you are some ultra jaded coaster weenie, what's not to like? I've been on plenty of coasters across the country and while SM is not the fastest, craziest or ultimate of all ultimate's, it is a extremely FUN ride.

RnRC doesn't hold a candle to Space Mountain IMHO. RnRC is a very well done ride, but no Space Mountain.

I've never seen or been with people who didn't enjoy SM, let alone think of Disney in a negative light because of it.

Don't get me wrong, the CONCEPT of Space Mountain is a great one. And as someone who also is a major coaster buff, I've never felt that what makes Space Mountain underwhelming is the lack of speed or loops. For example, I think DL's version of Space Mountain is one of the best coasters ever. But WDW's version has two major flaws in my opinion: First, the special effects, while impressive in the 1970's, are just childish and almost embarassing today. Second, while the track layout may be fine, it has fallen into quite a state of disrepair due to a lack of adequate maintenance. Consequently, it is bumpy, rough and uncomfortable.

 

[wannabeBelle]

I agree with the nice dining thing, but V & A may be a touch pricey. it is for most of the people I know. One of the restaurants that I had brough a newbie to recently was O'hana's it is a great dinner spot. the food is amazing, and all you care to eat served to your table!!! It is a very pretty place!!! Had you thought much about your dining Priority Seatings?? Belle

 

[KevinPage]

Don't get me wrong, the CONCEPT of Space Mountain is a great one. And as someone who also is a major coaster buff, I've never felt that what makes Space Mountain underwhelming is the lack of speed or loops. For example, I think DL's version of Space Mountain is one of the best coasters ever. But WDW's version has two major flaws in my opinion: First, the special effects, while impressive in the 1970's, are just childish and almost embarassing today. Second, while the track layout may be fine, it has fallen into quite a state of disrepair due to a lack of adequate maintenance. Consequently, it is bumpy, rough and uncomfortable.

I guess I've been on to many coasters that were insanely "rough" that SM doesn't bother me in the least bit. Any looping coaster always has a "headbanging into the restraint" effect on me, so I always find them rough no matter how "new". RnRC is by no means "Six Flags" rough, but it still is a Vekoma ride.

I enjoy the special effects, or at least what is there. Still better than 99.9% of the other roller coasters in existence.

P.S. - Are you the same Merlin over at SaveDisney.com

 

[DisneyCrazyGirl]

Being to Disney over a dozen times in my life, I have become accustomed to a "schedule." I eat breakfast every morning usually allowing one morning for a character breakfast. This year I HOPE to get into Cinderella's Castle for breakfast. Then I usually eat a big meal for a late lunch/early dinner. I'll snack throughout the day. Obviously my diet is not an option while on vacation !

My favorite restaurants are Sci-Fi; 50's Prime Time; Alfredo's; San Angel Inn; Beaches and Cream (seriously the BEST burger); Mama Melrose's. I would split my priority seating between these restaurants.

I was debating whether to do a really nice dinner, he mentioned it also. My friend and her husband got engaged years ago at the Contemporary's California Grill while the fireworks were going off. He really liked that idea. I would like to plan something like that, but with my luck, it would rain the night of and the whole plan would be shot to ____*t. I really cannot go too over the top. We are budgeting about $150-$200 per day. That cannot all be blown on one meal.

Any ideas?

 

[longfamily]

I was debating whether to do a really nice dinner, he mentioned it also. My friend and her husband got engaged years ago at the Contemporary's California Grill while the fireworks were going off. He really liked that idea. I would like to plan something like that, but with my luck, it would rain the night of and the whole plan would be shot to ____*t. I really cannot go too over the top. We are budgeting about $150-$200 per day. That cannot all be blown on one meal.

Any ideas?

That is why I suggested staying in a cheaper hotel and splurge one night on something big like Victoria & Albert's. With the $$ that you would save by staying at an all-star as opposed to a moderate you might be able to do this. I know $200 for a meal seems outrageous, but i promise if you take the chance you will not be disappointed. That restaurant is truely a very wonderful experience, you wouldn't bat an eye at regret
But, if you just can't, a good bet would be the Brown Derby as a nice Dinner. San Angel would be a nice dinner too.
Also, if you have never done it before, the fireworks cruise is fun. The Champagne cruise cost $125 or so and includes beverages and snacks like chocolate covered strawberries, an assortment of desserts, and fresh fruit.

 

[celticdog]

I agree with the nice dining thing, but V & A may be a touch pricey. it is for most of the people I know. One of the restaurants that I had brough a newbie to recently was O'hana's it is a great dinner spot. the food is amazing, and all you care to eat served to your table!!! It is a very pretty place!!! Had you thought much about your dining Priority Seatings?? Belle

On an additional note: Make a Priority Seating at Ohana's and when you get there, ask for a table near the windows that face out toward Seven Seas Lagoon. The view is fantastic. And if you time it right, you can head right to the beach and watch Wishes and the water pageant.

 

[DisneyCrazyGirl]

That is why I suggested staying in a cheaper hotel and splurge one night on something big like Victoria & Albert's. With the $$ that you would save by staying at an all-star as opposed to a moderate you might be able to do this. I know $200 for a meal seems outrageous, but i promise if you take the chance you will not be disappointed. That restaurant is truely a very wonderful experience, you wouldn't bat an eye at regret
But, if you just can't, a good bet would be the Brown Derby as a nice Dinner. San Angel would be a nice dinner too.
Also, if you have never done it before, the fireworks cruise is fun. The Champagne cruise cost $125 or so and includes beverages and snacks like chocolate covered strawberries, an assortment of desserts, and fresh fruit.

That's the one thing I let my boyfriend decide was the hotel. I gave him 3 choices: Coronado, All-Star Music, or Port Orleans -- Riverside. I gave him all the info i could find. The hot tub and the pool at Coronado was the deal breaker. I did not want to be the bearer of bad news and tell him we really would not be spending too much time in the pools. Also, he decided on Coronado because it is more couple friendly :animwink: than family friendly. I cannot take it back.

I am going to talk the V&A dinner with him see what he says. And I may be excommunicated from the boards for asking this but where is Ohana? I am sure I have heard of it or passed it but I am drawing a complete blank! I'm sorry!

 

[wannabeBelle]

That's the one thing I let my boyfriend decide was the hotel. I gave him 3 choices: Coronado, All-Star Music, or Port Orleans -- Riverside. I gave him all the info i could find. The hot tub and the pool at Coronado was the deal breaker. I did not want to be the bearer of bad news and tell him we really would not be spending too much time in the pools. Also, he decided on Coronado because it is more couple friendly :animwink: than family friendly. I cannot take it back.

I am going to talk the V&A dinner with him see what he says. And I may be excommunicated from the boards for asking this but where is Ohana? I am sure I have heard of it or passed it but I am drawing a complete blank! I'm sorry!

Coronado is pretty awesome. Epcotfan has a link to a website they have done that shows a lot about this resort. Dont change it, you will love it!!!! O'Hanas is a polynesian flaired restarant in the Polynesian resort. it is an all you care to eat location but it is served to your table so it isnt a buffet per se. Here is the menu from Deb Wills' Site www.allearsnet.com :
http://www.allearsnet.com/menu/menu_oh.htm
Hope this helps!!! Belle

 

[longfamily]

I'm sure you guys will have a great time no matter what you do! It's always alot of fun to take a newbie to Disney, then of course they become addicts like the rest of us. Since he's almost guaranteed to become a convert, if you two can't make it to V&A's on this trip, try it on the next one
When you get back, you'll have to share with us all the fun stories, including how sad your guy will be when the trip is over! Are you going to take advantage of the meal plan while there?

 

[longfamily]

I'm sure you guys will have a great time no matter what you do! It's always alot of fun to take a newbie to Disney, then of course they become addicts like the rest of us. Since he's almost guaranteed to become a convert, if you two can't make it to V&A's on this trip, try it on the next one
When you get back, you'll have to share with us all the fun stories, including how sad your guy will be when the trip is over! Are you going to take advantage of the meal plan while there?

By the way, O'Hana's is really great for breakfast too! They serve a coconut bread with every breakfast and it is truely to die for if you like coconut. Plus every breakfast is all you can eat served "family style" and it's a character breakfast too! Not many kids though...weird

 

[DisneyCrazyGirl]

I told him he was going to be in that Disney Depression when he comes home. He doesn't believe me yet, but he will be proven WRONG!

As for the dining plan, I decided against it. It's too new for me and I do not know how it will work out. Maybe next time I'll do it. I am not going for a while, but I will be sure to fill you guys in with all the juicy details and how much he loves it. If he hates it, It will never work between us!! HA HA HA!

Now that you mention Ohana, I have stayed there and eaten there! I was really young though, so that's why I did not remember right away!