26 Nights, Triple Celebration Trip...NYC, RPR & HHN....and Irma has a go...A 2017 Trip

[schumigirl]

Finally! After reading your reports for years, I have a chance to pop in whilst you're still writing and let you know how much I adore them! I have been reading your reports since your son was younger and traveling with you. I'm just not much of a post-er.

Thank you (and Tom) for taking the time write so many details and share so many photos. You seem like such a fun couple and best friends! I am heading down in a couple of weeks with my family (hubby and two daughters) and we will say "hello" to Dr Doom for you!

Deluzy..........I am thrilled to see you post! And even more thrilled to read your lovely comments........

I would love you to say hi to Dr Doom for us....................

Thank you......I’m so happy to read you enjoyed this and previous trip reports........

So you’re heading down soon for a trip.........well, I hope you have a wonderful time there with your family........would love to hear how your trip goes........we’ll be back on December 2nd for a sneaky visit we hadn’t planned on........can’t wait for that!

But, again, glad to see you post.........

so funny! Wow, what a gorgeous hotel! The views are amazing too! It's 2am now so I'm off to bed! Look forward to more!

The New York Palace was stunning! We would definitely stay there again when we go back to NYC.......it was worth every penny.........and yep, it really was like a death cab! Quite easily the worst cab driver we ever had!

More coming soon..........

 

[cocofifi]

I'm all caught up now. I got a little behind, so comments might be out of sequence.

-Hooray for more Tiffany's - gorgeous!
-Hooray for a May trip!
-I enjoy all the pics, but especially loved the Knockturn Alley segment. I really dig the vibe in there, as well.
-The evening by the pool and then popping over to M'ville for cocktails sounds like sheer heaven to me right now.

Loving every post!

 

[pattyw]

Wow- we were in Orlando for 11 days and I fell way behind on your TR! Carole- beautiful rings!! HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!!! My husband and I just celebrated our 30 yr anniversary in Orlando and had a vow renewal ceremony and reception at the HRH(we had all of our family in town as well)
I love all of your pictures! I'm sitting at work -it's 40 degrees(BRRRRRR) and your pictures make me feel like I'm back at Universal and warm!
Love Winter Park as well- haven't been there in a few years, but your posts remind me that we need to go back. My DS just got accepted to the Disney college program for the spring- so I see a lot of Orlando trips for us in 2018!!

 

[schumigirl]

I'm all caught up now. I got a little behind, so comments might be out of sequence.

-Hooray for more Tiffany's - gorgeous!
-Hooray for a May trip!
-I enjoy all the pics, but especially loved the Knockturn Alley segment. I really dig the vibe in there, as well.
-The evening by the pool and then popping over to M'ville for cocktails sounds like sheer heaven to me right now.

Loving every post!

Thank you!!!

I’m so glad you’re enjoying it.........yes, Knockturn Alley is the most amazing place! We could spend hours in there alone.......and yes, M’Ville for cocktails would be nice right now on this cold winters night over here!

And thank you again, I love my new things from Tiffany.......

 

[schumigirl]

Wow- we were in Orlando for 11 days and I fell way behind on your TR! Carole- beautiful rings!! HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!!! My husband and I just celebrated our 30 yr anniversary in Orlando and had a vow renewal ceremony and reception at the HRH(we had all of our family in town as well)
I love all of your pictures! I'm sitting at work -it's 40 degrees(BRRRRRR) and your pictures make me feel like I'm back at Universal and warm!
Love Winter Park as well- haven't been there in a few years, but your posts remind me that we need to go back. My DS just got accepted to the Disney college program for the spring- so I see a lot of Orlando trips for us in 2018!!

Oh Congratulations! 30 years is indeed something to celebrate..........sounds like a lovely celebration........

And sounds like you’ll definitely be visiting more often since your DS is going to be there......how lovely.......hope he enjoys it!! Winter Park is lovely!

Thank you, I adore my new jewellery........a big surprise as I thought New York trip was my gift......lol......he can still surprise me after all these years!

We have the same temps here today.......4C which is around 38F.........too cold!!!! So, yes the warm pictures are making me wishing I was still there right now........

But glad to see you had a lovely trip and nice to see you back again........

 

[sunny_stace]

@schumigirl I have been loving your trip reports! It's been ages since I've been to Universal and I love living vicariously through you and your hubby, you guys definitely know how to have fun! I also appreciate all of your photos and info! I'm in the midst of planning my first trip there in over 10 years and having never stayed on property, seeing all of your resort photos (we want to book RPR also) is super helpful! Can't wait to see what comes next!

 

[schumigirl]

@schumigirl I have been loving your trip reports! It's been ages since I've been to Universal and I love living vicariously through you and your hubby, you guys definitely know how to have fun! I also appreciate all of your photos and info! I'm in the midst of planning my first trip there in over 10 years and having never stayed on property, seeing all of your resort photos (we want to book RPR also) is super helpful! Can't wait to see what comes next!

sunny_stace How lovely you posted!!!

Thank you so much for the lovely comments, I`m glad you have enjoyed reading.........and especially glad to read you plan to stay at RPR......I`m not biased at all.......lol......

I`ll bet you cant wait to get back to Universal!!! If you haven't been for 10 years you will see some HUGE changes in that time........honestly it`ll be fantastic and I`m sure you`ll have the best time!!!!!

 

[schumigirl]

WEDNESDAY 27TH SEPTEMBER

This was a quiet day again. We were beginning to almost wind down a little I think.........well, maybe just today.

We took our time showering and getting dressed this morning.......I was excited as we were picking up my rings today........so no parks, and just a day chilling around.........which would be nice as it was going to be blazing hot again.

I couldn't do all day in any park, however much I loved it in this heat. I felt sorry for those that had a day or two to cover both parks, and judging by a spread sheet we saw at breakfast this morning.....some were intent on covering everything!!!

We walked into the lounge and a family had just arrived for an overnight stay.......one of the Concierge team told them I might be able to answer the question they had .......it was a silly little thing........but the mother....brought out her plan for the next two days and a huge sheet unfolded and was presented in front of me.........NASA don't put as much effort into a plan!!!! I didn't know what to say. Tom at this point had wandered off to eat.........

Everything was scheduled down to the second.......how long it would take to get from one ride to another.....bathroom breaks were timed......yep, timed......and they had a contingency plan if one ride had too long a queue........so while she was asking me this question I stopped her and asked if she knew she had EP......oh yes she did.......but this is what we do at Disney!!!!! I looked at her husband who I swear was silently mouthing "help me" while grimacing at the sounds coming out of his wife`s mouth!!! I answered the question and told her it was just an opinion........and suggested she didn't need the regimented plan.....in a nice way of course........her husband looked hopeful for a short time, but.......regimented plan was in full force as they set off........I wished him good luck.......

And this truly was the difference. Having Unlimited EP is amazing. You don't have to be anywhere at a set time........I couldn't vacation like that. But, each to their own.

By now I was starving..........few mini muffins as they had blueberry, some fruit and then another couple mini muffins. Nice. Tom had enjoyed his croissant with honey........and of course we had a lovely chat with the staff as always.........

Back down to room and got my bag and then out to the car. Getting in to the car is always dreadful........unbelievably hot, but it soon cools down with full blast aircon.......we were heading to Bed Bath and beyond..........love this store!!!!! It`s just at the top of IDrive before the outlet centre........so very close. We picked up so many things in here.........we love the high thread count sheets that we would need to special order in the UK........towels were lovely and so many other things........even little kitchen gadget things......whether we need them or not, we love to buy them!!! I could have picked up so many more things, but Tom was already, again thinking of weight limit for the luggage. My argument was that macraven had given us a few years ago, a portable scale to weigh luggage........it was among a host of other gifts she gave us that year.........but, it was ideal.........Tom laughed and said weighing it wouldn't make it lighter!!!!! Well, I knew that.......but I did try to curtail my shopping in that store. Not easy.

We paid for our haul and set off for the short drive to Walmart........we want to get some gift bags and Thank you cards for a couple of people........of course we never just pick up what we went in for......there`s something addictive about shopping for things you cannot buy in the UK.........silly things like Honey Mustard dressing or various dressings and sauces.........we buy a lot!!!

Load it in to the car and head down to LBV for the Lindt store down there........we had planned to buy a few of the boxes there to hand in to Club Lounge and some for the front desk. But they had stopped doing them.......so we managed to get 4 decorative boxes filled to the brim and they looked even nicer than the old style boxes. You could get 200 in each box.......ideal. We also picked up the bags of dark chocolate for Kyle, they really are his favourites. That was the only store we go to at this outlet centre.........we aren't huge outlet centre fans.........I prefer the Mall at Millenia to anywhere......but this one had a few decent places to shop in.

We drove back home and on the way noticed again how many beggars were hanging around the traffic lights with their begging stories on a piece of cardboard......this is quite unsettling to see, and more and more common. We had seen the same two men every day we had passed the Sand Lake/Turkey Lake junction.........and even saw a few folks pass a few dollars out to them........no way would I be doing that. They were never threatening, but it was uncomfortable when they stand right at your window so you can read their begging sign. We had seen the same guy down at the lights outside the entrance to Hotel Boulevard at Disney a few days before. Not nice.

But we drove on and got back to the hotel........we were just dropping the stuff off and heading back out.......but of course, we chat.......we chat to everyone, so it does take a long time to get back out. But it is so lovely when people you may only have met a few times and they remember your name........of course some folks have known us years there. But, always a pleasure to chat.

We get up to the room Tom packed away the bedding, towels and few other things in suitcase.......I did glance warily at how much room they all took up.......which was his plan of course........

But, for now we were ready to head out for lunch at that was going to be at The Cheesecake Factory at Mall at Millenia.........

The view from this road has changed so much over the years........

The drive is uneventful, but so messy with the roadworks........I`m always amazed just how big a job this massive undertaking actually is......it goes for miles!!!!

Mall is only a five minute drive away......and so pretty........and it looks so quiet today......which is always nice and one of the things we love about this Mall is even on the weekend, it`s never felt overcrowded anytime.........

We don't go straight for lunch.......we first head down to Macy to pick up the make up I had ordered and paid for on a previous day.......this was the day the rewards were given out......so I came away with loads of little goodies.........picked up a Chanel perfume and I spotted a Michael Kors bag I liked.......it wasn't super fancy, but I liked the size of it........I wandered over to ask if they had one out back, Tom had already asked a woman and she had gone to get it.....meanwhile another saleswoman had asked if she could help me........they were a little overbearing.......I told the woman I was just looking when Tom came back with the other woman....and she yelled to the woman talking to me she was dealing with us........it was quite venomous.......I just wanted the bag and to leave before they started bickering.......oh dear. So we paid for the bag and left quickly as both woman were eyeing each other up........

This mall is lovely........peaceful and quiet.......but I did want to go to Bath and Body to pick up a few things........things are so reasonably priced in here, I always feel I get a real load of stuff for not very much in here and of course they are always doing buy 3 get 3 free and such deals........I managed to fill a bag fairly quickly as I knew what I wanted.......again, I just prefer to be left alone when I'm shopping......if I need help I`ll ask. But they weren't intrusive.....just constant....and by that I mean one person if they could help me, I said no thank you......then someone else asked........and continue......but staff were nice. At the checkouts at the rear of the store there was a toddler having the mother of all tantrums........this kid was loud!!!! So we waited a few minutes till they left then joined the queue, paid and left fervently hoping they weren't heading to the Cheesecake Factory..........

We were quite hungry now.........and planned to eat where my son`s most favourite cake is served..........Linda`s Chocolate Fudge cake.........I always remember the year we walked in and one of the girls behind the counter yelled she remembered Kyle from previous year as he was in so often buying it........that was so funny........but today, we planned to eat a proper lunch and not just cake. Although we just had to have a look of course......

We got seated immediately.........it was busy as always but not mobbed........we had a nice booth towards the back of the restaurant.......this is a really pretty place.......I believe they are the same all over as it was identical to the one we went to in Long Island last year.........but friendly staff always.......and today was no different........the young lady who was looking after us was lovely, very genuine and not over the top like some can be..........we knew we were going to be a while deciding as if you have never been here this menu is huge......huge!!!! Some people say to us they wouldn't eat there as its a chain and they have one close to them........well, that's ok, but we don't have this place in the UK and it`s a bit of a novelty........not fine dining or even the best food you`ll eat.......but food is good and not expensive for what it is........I think a lot of Brits tend to frequent it when visiting......and I know some who make the trip to this Mall specifically for Cheesecake..........for now we order strawberry lemonades for both of us.......they are gorgeous here!!!!!

Sorry for the blurry pic.......

We go through the menu and eventually, after much negotiations of what each of us would have if the other ordered a certain thing........we chose......finally..........I went for the Chinese Chicken Salad and added grilled shrimp and a side of raw jalapenos.......with no onions.....and Tom ordered Club Sandwich........he does love a good sandwich..........of course we had totally obliterated from our memory, just how large the portions are here........

Wow!!! And this was the lunch portion........the salad was incredibly fresh and the ginger plum dressing is perfect for me.......I just like jalapenos with almost everything..........I probably never needed the shrimp, but it was nice. Tom loved his sandwich.........he`s quite easy to please really and will usually opt for a club sandwich if available anywhere........but so filling!!! He left so much bread........but we really did enjoy this lunch.

We had drunk 2 strawberry lemonades each and felt quite full afterwards. So a quick bathroom visit to make sure my hands were immaculately clean and we would head up to Tiffany.

Atil had emailed us last night to say the rings had indeed arrived yesterday and would be ready for our prearranged time for pick up.........

We walked in and were greeted warmly as always. Such a nice store to venture into.......Atil sees us and comes over and takes us to sit down while he goes and gets the rings...........we turn down refreshments today, to be honest we are so full but don't feel like anything........he comes back and we chat briefly about different things......then brings the rings out for us to inspect.........they are beautiful. Of course in the store the lights make them sparkle and shimmer so much more, and they look so pretty.........Atil of course tells Tom he should be the one to place them on my finger again.........he asks us if it feels like 25 years, and of course it doesn't........feels like 5 minutes. He has only been married a year so he has a long way ahead of him yet........but the rings are perfect.......the one that had to be resized now fitted as it should. I was incredibly happy with them and thanked Tom once again........he doesn't like a fuss and says its nothing really.......but it means a lot to me.

I do wish I had brushed my hair when Atil said he wanted to take a picture!!! But, was nice of him..........

This really had been a lovely experience........Tiffany do make you feel special, and really take their time to help you choose the right piece or pieces for you.........just before we left I said to Tom we need to replace his wedding ring with a platinum one.......he said he`d think about it........and actually since we came home he has decided to replace it, so maybe one of our early trips next year we`ll get him something nice from Tiffany........just for a change........

We thanked Atil again for helping to make the buying so much fun!! He was nice and I`d definitely look for him in the future to buy from.

We left, and quickly headed back to the hotel where I had a look at everything we had bought today. Bath and Body almost covered the bed and add in the make up.......but this was my favourite picture of what I got this year......I know it`s just the boxes........but.........

I apologise for this ostentatious picture.......my friend Heather made me put it in.........lol........

I had just started putting things away when there was a knock at the door.......we both looked at each other wondering who it was........

Looked though the spyhole and saw a TM........opened the door and he came in with this...........

It was a bottle of house sparkly..........Tom hadn't ordered it. We asked him if he was sure it was for us.......he said absolutely it was a gift for us.........?????? We asked him who it was from and he smiled and said he wasn't sure.......lol.......

I think we both knew who it was from, and such a lovely thing to do!!! We actually opened it straight away...... and it was rather nice!!!!!

We really could get used to this sparkly in the middle of the day........

We got showered and changed and headed up to the Club Lounge.........here I discovered I had no internet.........we had been chatting to Jamie and I left her and Tom talking to go and speak to Atty on the desk in the lounge........she called tech services and yes, there had been a problem as they had swapped providers over for internet..........a few other changes had been made in systems over the summer.......but he assured me I should get internet back in around an hour........well, we were quite happy chatting to Jamie.......we sat for ages just passing the time of day.

We did have a few glasses of wine, but no food as we were going to the Caribbean Carnival tonight over at Sapphire Falls.........a couple of the club lounge staff were going too, said we would look out for them.........

Did indeed get internet back and after Jamie left we had a quick blast around and then headed down to go over to Sapphire Falls.


Cont in next post.......

 

[Deluzy]

So you’re heading down soon for a trip.........well, I hope you have a wonderful time there with your family........would love to hear how your trip goes........we’ll be back on December 2nd for a sneaky visit we hadn’t planned on........can’t wait for that!

We have been inspired by your reports and going for two weeks! Well... technically, 13 nights! I will try to pull together some highlights. My girls are beyond excited! They've been before, but they love the Wizarding World and will visit Volcano Bay for the first time.

 

[schumigirl]

We got down to the front desk to speak to Bryson before we went over.......he was in the Club Lounge last year and now worked front desk mainly..........he was a lovely young man and if it was quiet we could have a quick chat with him.......it was fairly quiet......and nice to catch up again with him.......the new Concierge Supervisor who we had grown close with was Samuel.......another genuinely lovely guy who again, had a good sense of humour.......and loved all things Space and stars.......Kyle and I at very into astronomy, just for fun of course but it was a shared interest and we chatted about that a few times........ he was fairly new to this position and was doing great........had to get a picture of course........

We then realized we had left something up in the Club Lounge......doh!!!! That`ll be the wine we had that caused a bit of brain fade.........so we said adios to the guys and headed back to the elevators......we did have plenty of time........

As we got into the lift another couple and another family got in and both pressed for the 4th floor........I flashed my card in front of the scanner and pressed 7.......the woman from the couple asked, I thought aggressively why I had to do that.......I said it took you to the Club Lounge and Club Level rooms......she kind of grumped and said oh its all right for some!!!!! I was genuinely stunned by her comment.......he husband smiled and said oh maybe one day.......the other family looked shocked too!!!! By this time they were all getting out of the elevator........the couple go out first and then the woman from the family smiled and just said some people.......I don't actually think she was being aggressive. Her accent left me in no doubt where she was from and it can sound aggressive at times. But, hey ho........

We got the sheet we left in the lounge and came back down and walked over to Sapphire Falls........

We genuinely love this hotel too........it doesn't beat RP for us, but its pretty darn close.......and so bright though!! It has a lovely friendly vibe about it, but I think all Loews hotels have that.......but this one is lovely. We are a little early as you don't have to register till 6pm.....well between 6 and 7........so we have a seat in the lovely open lobby area........and our favourite onsite bar........

We wander around just after 6 and head around to where you go downstairs to register..........

The music is irrefutably Caribbean...........and it is colourful.........they do give you a great big warm welcome and I think we are indeed going to like this evening..........

We walk over to where we hand our tickets over and I immediately recognize a familiar face.......she also recognizes us straight away.......Jessica was in the Club Lounge last year, another lovely girl......but as so often happens, they get promoted and go to another position in the other hotels......but it was so lovely seeing her again and find out what she is doing now........

So signed in we wander outside towards where the Carnival is being held.........they have some games set up on the grass outside too, but honestly it was going to be too hot to do anything other than sit tonight.........

We wander through some lovely young ladies who put beads around us and we are escorted to our table by a gentleman who explains how the evening works......where the different foods are and the bar where you can get some wine and beers, or have the house cocktail served to you at your table.......it did all look rather nice........

We were sat right at the front as premier seating would suggest.........

There was a whole section of empanadas, chicken pieces and salads as you walked in.........

Then there was a main selection of food set up outside and a suckling pig which was carved for you inside.........

The selection was lovely and genuinely had something for everyone.........there was different salads, shredded beef, jerk chicken which was both our favourite dish of the whole night, shrimps in a pasta dish, sweet potato dish and assortments of veg and rice dishes........and beside the suckling pig they had my favourite.........cornbread muffins.........I adore them!!!!

They also had this guy who was very popular........

I have to say the cocktail was very nice........not the strongest but you could taste the alcohol in it......it was quite sweet too.........we stuck to that tonight......

You could go up as many times as you like.......I think we went up twice, but didn't have a lot.......of course you could fill your plate if you wanted too......

The desserts looked nice........I`m not a huge dessert fan but apart from the Caribbean Rum Cake which doesn't appeal to me at all, it all looked lovely......it`s funny I love rum and most alcohols, but hate anything alcoholic in any kind of dessert........but we did try a couple.......

I did like the guava flan.......that was the nicest one for me........Tom liked them all except the rum one.......but I have to say the food really was excellent.....all good quality, very fresh and replenished regularly.......

They did tell come around regularly and topped you up with cocktails and very importantly tonight water as it was like a furnace in that area. I will say the place could have been doing with some cooling.......it was open and very hot......... they also made you aware when the food was going to be stopped for the show to begin......

The show was everything you would expect from a Caribbean show.......vibrant and colourful and extremely lively........the acts were amazing........singing was excellent and the acrobats and stilt walker was amazing to watch......the host had a Jimmy Buffet vibe about him......the show is basically a musical tour of the Caribbean and the music it offers......

The show was fun.......it did include audience participation which was dancing up front as part of a large group, nothing on your own......and you felt no pressure to go up.......a song the lady singer and the men had to just answer "yes dear" when she put the mike to them.......there is a conga around the room too which everyone can join in......it is fun!!!! And it is exhausting when it was so hot..........

They were excellent singers and dancers.........but, Tom did laugh when they started singing at first....... I detest Bob Marley......absolutely can`t stand him or his music.........and of course the songs were predominantly Bob Marley.......of course. And of course I couldn't get the songs out of my head all night!!!! Purely personal opinion of course........

It lasted till just after 8 and you could stay to get your picture taken with all of them. We really enjoyed it and would do it again, and we were incredibly grateful to be gifted such a lovely evening. Those poor girls especially were drenched in sweat by the end........

We went back inside to cool down.........we planned to go back to either Strongwater or Orchids, but decided it was far too early to stay in the hotels......so we walked into Citywalk........shoes and all!!!! Thank goodness they were comfy...........

We ended up sitting at the Fat Tuesday in the centre of Citywalk..........by now it was still hot, but there was a little breeze which made it really pleasant......

Mickey was our host for the evening and this is a guy who knows cocktails.........and is perfect for the job......very personable and we could have sat here all night........

We had a few minutes to decide which to try first.........eventually I chose the Citrus Blast and Tom went for the Mango Passion Crush........they were lovely........and Mickey was indeed a fun guy to chat to......it`s a busy little booth.........and it was so nice just relaxing in the breeze.......I mentioned how hot it was as a woman behind me tapped me on the shoulder and said in the dreariest voice ever.......it`s to change badly by the weekend!!!!! Well, thanks for the good news honey...........

We were soon finished those first drinks........I will say, it`s a heavy pour they have there........

I then had the Tropical Breeze and Tom had the Margarita.......I think these were even stronger!!!!! We do prefer rum cocktails to vodka based ones...although I suppose it depends what`s in them really.......

We had certainly enjoyed a few cocktails tonight.........but, such a lovely evening again......and as it was only around 10.30 by now, we weren't ready for bed yet either.........we paid our check and thanked Mickey for the lovely cocktails.......he certainly deserved his tip, he was fabulous!!

So, M`Ville it was.........the bar was busy tonight and we ended up having one cocktail each here tonight, all of a sudden the tiredness hit us......or maybe it was the cocktails of course........

We walked back to the hotel, which doesn't take long at all.......and soon we are in our room.........I think we took a quick shower and were in bed by midnight at the latest.........not thinking about how close our time to leave was creeping up on us........

Tomorrow was back to the parks........

 

[schumigirl]

We have been inspired by your reports and going for two weeks! Well... technically, 13 nights! I will try to pull together some highlights. My girls are beyond excited! They've been before, but they love the Wizarding World and will visit Volcano Bay for the first time.

How fabulous!!!!

That's a fantastic length of time to go........your girls will love VB I`m sure.........we didn't go but friends and my niece and her family were impressed by it......and they don't usually like water parks!!!

I definitely look forward to reading about your time there..........

 

[Cara]

Just wanted to pop in again and say how much I am loving your report! I see you are headed back next month? I hope there will be another trip report!

 

[sunny_stace]

sunny_stace How lovely you posted!!!

Thank you so much for the lovely comments, I`m glad you have enjoyed reading.........and especially glad to read you plan to stay at RPR......I`m not biased at all.......lol......

I`ll bet you cant wait to get back to Universal!!! If you haven't been for 10 years you will see some HUGE changes in that time........honestly it`ll be fantastic and I`m sure you`ll have the best time!!!!!

Thanks for such a warm welcome! Ohhhhhh the number of changes is staggering! The more research I do, the more I realize I know nearly nothing! I see in your signature that you have a trip planned for May 2018, that's when we are looking to go as well! I have never been to Universal at any time other than the fall so I'm interested to see the differences.

 

[Charade67]

I’m sitting here shaking my head about the family with the detailed itinerary. I can understand feeling the need to plan some things, but bathroom breaks???

I guess it’s a good thing we won’t have a car on our vacation. I didn’t know there was a Lindt store nearby. That could be dangerous.

 

[macraven]

Thanks for such a warm welcome! Ohhhhhh the number of changes is staggering! The more research I do, the more I realize I know nearly nothing! I see in your signature that you have a trip planned for May 2018, that's when we are looking to go as well! I have never been to Universal at any time other than the fall so I'm interested to see the differences.

She also has trips planned for next month and again in March 2018 before that May 2018 trip to Orlando
(and fall 2018)

 

[schumigirl]

Just wanted to pop in again and say how much I am loving your report! I see you are headed back next month? I hope there will be another trip report!

Nice to see you again.........

It`s always lovely to hear you`re enjoying reading.........and yep, definite trip report for next month too........so excited as our DS has taken time off work to come with us........I`ve been told over here Orlando is the only acceptable place to still vacation with your parents at that age apparently............his friends heartily concur!!!!! Think a few would come along too......lol........

And we have never been at Christmas so that is an extra treat for us too......looking forward to seeing all things Potter decorated. It will definitely be a park focused trip as its been a long time since DS was there

Thanks for such a warm welcome! Ohhhhhh the number of changes is staggering! The more research I do, the more I realize I know nearly nothing! I see in your signature that you have a trip planned for May 2018, that's when we are looking to go as well! I have never been to Universal at any time other than the fall so I'm interested to see the differences.

I am a bit jealous actually........to be able to see all of the Potter stuff again for the first time.......that would be amazing!!!! You`ll love it, I`m absolutely positive.......and May will be a lovely time for you to go. I hear good things about that time of year.........

Yes, May is a new time for us as well........we decided to have a stay that didn't involve going to the parks, as we felt so time constrained in September trying to do parks, HHN and outside things too........so we decided to stay at the lovely Sapphire Falls for our May trip. Although we may be tempted to go in for a day and just do the highlights for us........we`ll see........not sure I could be so close and not go to the parks.........

 

[schumigirl]

I’m sitting here shaking my head about the family with the detailed itinerary. I can understand feeling the need to plan some things, but bathroom breaks???

I guess it’s a good thing we won’t have a car on our vacation. I didn’t know there was a Lindt store nearby. That could be dangerous.

It was scary!!!! To be so regimented on vacation!!!! And with EP too.......unnecessary..........if someone told me when I could go to the bathroom.......I wouldn't be with them long.......lol.......if I need to go I need to go.........

There`s a Lindt store at the outlet centre top of IDrive.....and another one down at LBV outlet centre........it used to be in the Mall at Millenia, but a few years ago new management in the mall decided Lindt didn't quite fit their image!!!!!! Pah..........so they lost their lease and had to close that one.......I`m not the biggest chocolate fan, but I do like Lindt!!!

She also has trips planned for next month and again in March 2018 before that May 2018 trip to Orlando
(and fall 2018)

lol.........my mother is starting to get worried we are easing her in with these visits to tell her we`re moving there.........I wish!!!!

So looking forward to them all!!!

 

[PoohIsHome]

@schumigirl DH's boss lives in Orlando. My parents are Ocala snowbirds. Tell me we don't have *the* perfect scenario to be able to move to sunny Orlando???

 

[schumigirl]

@schumigirl DH's boss lives in Orlando. My parents are Ocala snowbirds. Tell me we don't have *the* perfect scenario to be able to move to sunny Orlando???

Sounds pretty darn perfect to me!!!

Although, I think for us the reality is different........they only let us Brits stay a max of 6 months.........

Which is one of the main reasons we decided not to go through with the house purchase in Dunedin a few years ago.......I would have hated it to lie empty for 6 months and no way would I rent our home out.........so, it wasn't meant to be......

But you have no such obstacles.........I would go for it..........

 

[schumigirl]

THURSDAY 28TH SEPTEMBER

We again awoke so early........I would love to sleep till 10am one day........and when I said this to Tom he grumbled, quite loudly as it happens that he`s been asking to do that for 11 years!!!! Oh dear........lol.....bless him.....I doubt he could sleep till 10am either.........but he wouldn't have minded trying I`ll bet.......but we had slept so well again.......loved these beds as they are so comfy........

But for today, we had planned a morning going round IOA, out for lunch then back to do water rides this afternoon.......minus camera and bags for a change.......well, that was the plan........for now we just wanted showered and breakfast........we had the weather channel on and yes indeed the forecast was to change come the weekend.........I wasn't sure if I was relieved or not.......although it had been hotter than hades this last 10 days we were so enjoying the heat....after all it was one of the reasons we come to Orlando after all........but it was forecast rain. And lots of it..........

I looked out of the window and to my dismay, saw the gap getting bigger from the disappearing metal......I had got up during the night, looked out and took a picture where you can see the sparks fly from where they are cutting and grinding away one of the best rides in the park......I sent the night picture to Kyle and he just sent back a sad face emoticon!!! I really wasn't taking this ride being demolished well at all.........

But, time to enjoy a quick breakfast of toast, grape jelly and fruit for me and Tom had croissants and a couple of mini muffins.......and coffee. I felt I looked so tired this morning.........so I agreed when one of the staff said I looked like I needed a day off.......she was right, we had been burning the candle at both ends...........but, we would soldier on.......

I did look for the regimented woman and her family.......staff said they had been and gone........I wondered if I would see them in the parks at all........but, we were soon done and went downstairs to put sun cream on and head out.

We walked again today as it was IOA we were going to.........we walked fairly slow as it was sizzling hot this morning.......it wasn't even 8.45. But we still enjoy the walk. So pretty.

We are there just as the park opens and it was strange this morning though.......we saw Orlando Police officers stationed outside the store entrance, which we had never seen before except at HHN when they do have a high police presence........funnily enough as we exited the store there were several senior managers of Universal dotted around the walk down POE.........this was definitely unusual. We never really gave it another thought though once we were in the park though, if there was anything we would soon know......

I like this store.......so many little things to pick up.....pens, notepads, little key rings and so many other touristy things we all waste our money on........we buy a whole lot of stuff for other folks as gifts.......my friends little grand daughter always likes all the little trinket things.......but this year we bought her a couple of minion tees and a new "Kyle" and fluffy unicorn as hers were almost worn done and she was thrilled with them!!! But, its a nice store and honestly.......it`s so cool after the walk in........

We bought the stuff we wanted and had it sent back to our room.....this was such a convenience and saved carrying anything around the parks......of course if you aren't staying onsite you can have any purchases sent to the front of the park where they will be waiting for you at the end of the day.......ideal really.

So we wandered out and saw the managers were indeed still lined up.......but as we went further into the park there was no other sign there any concerns.......

We don't do Hulk this morning........we just felt like we would give it a miss for a change........and went straight to Dr Doom........we love, love, love this ride........and we did it around 10 times........every one was fun!!! It does take slightly longer with the new harness system but only by a few seconds.......we then dip into Spider-Man.......and this was where they took our image with the software they are testing for new ID systems.......took a second.......and we went on........this ride felt a little rougher this morning.......at the spinning bit I find it easier to be sitting behind someone as I can focus on the back on their head as it spins.......makes it bearable if I do feel a little woozy........but usually I`m fine on it........some people can close their eyes when they start to feel dizzy.......doesn't work for me at all....makes it worse......but each to their own..........

This is outside a place we would never eat........food never looks great and haven't heard anyone sing it`s praises.......but I do like the movies......lol......

We then walk round to Toon Lagoon........it is hot today and I have to laugh when I looked in the mirror when we stopped in at the bathrooms.......I did have that dragged through the proverbial hedge backwards look.........some days the hair just doesn't comply........we wander in to the shop as I want a tee shirt for me and another for a friend who loves Popeye........another package conveniently sent back to the room.......

We take our time here today and see that Blutos again isn't open till 10am.......too early to see folks getting wet..........we are always too early here to have lunch at Blondies.......but, you do get lovely freshly made sandwiches here.......home of the Dagwood of course but you can get turkey and beef if I remember right.......nice potato salad too.......

Tom`s new favourite mantra.........we really were going to need another break!!!!

We again pass by Dudley`s and plan to do this this afternoon when we come back into the park.........the only thing I don't like about this ride is the boat......it`s so hard to get in and out of......doesn't matter what size you are.....it`s just awkward.....but such a fast drop so it`s worth it......

But we walk around and see a few meltdowns on the way.......it`s still so early for that!!! But we walk past and go and plan to do Kong.........then we change our mind.......it`s a good ride, but not great......and I have to say we are struggling a little today......both of us are already imagining leaving the heat of the park for somewhere cool for lunch.......but, we soldier on and go do Jurassic Park.........there`s no one here.......

Except the family behind.........they load the boat and the TM tells us to come forward when the woman starts yelling she wants the rest of her family on the boat too.......they were coming up behind........the TM asked if we minded waiting....we told him of course not.......the Italian woman then started reorganizing everyone in the boat......oh dear.......The TM`s I have to say were incredibly patient.....but firmly told her she would have to sit down as the boat was waiting to leave........she was so rude to him!!!! I would have removed her there and then, but of course that's why I`m not a TM!!!! Some of the things they have to deal with are awful........but.....the boat left and he smiled apologetically at us and said we had the next boat to ourselves.......yay!!!!

Love this ride too........and we do get a little wet this time.........but we love when you get on the boat and there`s no one taking pictures when they aren't supposed to or trying to video it!!! This was nice, and we felt a little spoiled........having our own private boat was nice.........


We only do this once today........so off we come and walk round to Potter, passing by the raptor experience......it looked quite busy already and it hadn't long opened.......we had done it, so wouldn't bother again........now came Potter........always a winner here........and didn't seem so busy today.....

We did FJ once, that was enough for me today....there was a queue for the regular line of 45 minutes this morning, so we of course used EP......we used to do single rider, but this was much more civilized as we could ride together......although it doesn't really matter so much on this ride........we do enjoy it though......we don't bother with Flight of the Hippogriff.......not a favourite at all.........

We have a wander round Hogsmeade and of course reflect on DD again.......we chat to some TM we know and they are the same......it`s a ride they'll miss......I`m sure what will go in will be fantastic.......looking forward to those details being officially confirmed........but we will miss this ride!!! I may have mentioned that before though......lol........

We don't buy anything here today at all.........and instead head round to where the fabulous fountain is........sadly again today he isn't working......he is indeed gently snoring which means he won`t be long till he gets back......but we are not hanging around.........

We go around to the Pearl store......strangely we have never gone into this store before......although Tom thinks we did go in years ago.....I don't remember if we did or not.........it`s full of little "treasures" not something we would really buy but nice to wander around to cool down.......

We go back outside and get some pictures in front of Poseidon.......not a thing we do, once was enough....although the water vortex effect is worth seeing......but we take pictures as you never know when this ride will close to be replaced by something more relevant.

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