Category: Travel – USA

Day 15 – Our first day at EPCOT

Posted on by Libby Withnall

I woke up about 5am and we so happy to be able to make a cup of tea. I boiled the water in the bathroom to not be too noisy for Christy and luckily she is a deep sleeper so I didn’t disturb her. I worked on blog posts until 7.30am and then headed for my shower and to get ready for the day. I enjoyed a toasted bagel for breakfast for sitting on our balcony.

Then before 9am we walked over to the Skyliner for our first trip on it over to EPCOT. Such a fun and relaxing way to get to the park. Much better than the walk we had at Universal. The only takes about 5mins and you arrive right at the back entrance to EPCOT – which does seem a little strange when we are so used to arriving at the front.

The plan was, in fact, to head towards the front part of the park, do some things there and then work our way back to the back entrance/exit. So we did have a bit of a walk when we first got into the park and made our way to The Land Pavillion.

Our first ride was Soarin’ Around the World, with a 20min wait. This is always an enjoyable ride. When we got off the wait was 40mins.

Next was Living With the Land – which we hadn’t done for about 8 years. We did have a DAS booking but the wait was short so, though we used it, we didn’t really need it. We all really enjoyed this boat ride through all their gardens – all of the food grown is used in the restaurants. I wouldn’t mind doing this again as it was hard to take everything in.

Kevin wanted to get a snack from the Sunshine Season Food Court and though he didn’t end up getting anything, Christy got a M&M cookie – which Kevin ended up eating most of !!

We had a little rest and were then on our way over to ride Finding Nemo. We had only got the DAS pass for this while we were sitting having a snack and we were glad we did when the wait was 35mins by the time we got there. Another cute ride.

We then spent some time checking out all the fish in this aquarium type area.

And, of course, my favs. the manatees (which have been injured and are being treated here).

We then went for a wander around Spaceship Earth and to see the new entrance area to the park.

There were a few photopass photographers around so we were able to get some photos.

We then had a little sit down rest in the shade before watching The Jammitors – which was good little show (though hot standing in the sun – the top temp today was 28C). Though it was only 12pm we decided to place our order for lunch at 1.20pm so it would be ready to pick up later.

After that we went to Club Cool to sample some softdrinks from around the world. Some were really good and some not so good. Not sure how but Kevin actually got me to try the Beverly (don’t think I ever have before since I knew most people thought it was awful). And yep, it was awful, though Kevin is one of those weird people who like it. My fav was the tropical tasting Country Club from the Dominican Republic.

We were very excited to check out the new Creations store but were sadly dissapointed. The store it replaced was one of my favs but I don’t think there much here that we won’t find at World of Disney and other stores around the parks. But it was quite busy while we were there so maybe that’s why I didn’t like it.

Since we were so quick in the store we still had time to wait for lunch. It worked out well though because it meant we got to have decent break. We found a table in the Connection/Starbucks cafe buidling – which is huge. They even have some nice little couches with foot stool here – which would be the perfect location if you had a long wait for people.

After a while Kevin spotted a free booth so we moved to there but I’m not sure it was any more comfortable and part of it was in the sun. Finally (about 20mins after we said we were ready for our lunch order) Kevin was able to pick our lunch. Only to discover problems with getting our drinks. Kevin dropped off our lunch and went back to get the drink. But mine was unavailable for now and we were told to come back. I would have rather just gotten my money back but that didn’t seem to be an option. Kevin wasn’t impressed at how unorganised they seemed to be in the mobile order section of the cafe.

Thankfully my vegan curry pizza was absolutely delicious and I was given 2 HUGE pieces (one so big I had to cut it in two). Kevin said his kids burger was okay (but cold and dry by the time he got to eat it) and Christy enjoyed her fries. Kevin was enjoying his (alcoholic special drink) but started to feel unwell and get the sweats (which he can get usually when eating super sweet foods) so he decided not to drink anymore in case it was from the drink.

We waited a bit for Kevin to feel better and finally headed to Guest Services to try and work out the Memory Maker photo pass that I had prepurchased. Funnily enough I think we were almost there with it but it just been a bit too confusing. Anyway, we quickly got it sorted and can download our photos.

It was then time for our DAS pass to ride Spaceship Earth. It wasn’t needed at this time though (2.30pm) as the lines had died down to a 5min wait. As always we enjoyed this ride and planning for our future at the end. Christy, who was seated behind us, said our videos of the future were almost identical.

We now started our walk back towards World Showcase, stopping to check out a few shops – mainly in search of magic bands but none of could find any we were in love with.

We stopped at the Canadian pavilion and shop for a look around. If you want a really quiet spot to hang out towards the back here is perfect.

There was a store across from here selling Twinnings Christmas tea so Kevin bought us 4 boxes since it’s one of our favs and yet we have none with us.

Next up with the UK pavilion. Lots of lovely things here and it was nice to here some British accents and a Hi-ya as we entered the store. I just love it in here. I really need to visit the UK again soon – it’s been way too long. I ended buying a nice double ended Alice in Wonderland oven mit saying “It’s always tea time”. Pretty perfect for me don’t you think?

World showcase we getting pretty crowded now as people were coming in to eat and drink at the Festival of the Holidays booths. We had managed to get a DAS pass for Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure so we headed past our exit to the French Pavilion. They have done a wonderful job with this area and it is just stunning. And the closest we’ll get to France for some time yet.

The wait time for Remy’s was ???. I am so appreciated to have the DAS pass and it’s already proved so worthwhile for us. No way could I have waited in such long, noisy lines – which would mean I’d have to miss an awful lot of rides. The ride was pretty cute – though I think we’d already seen much of it in youtube videos. Christy wasn’t impressed and said once was enough but I’d like to do it again to pick up more – I do find it hard wearing 3D glasses on top of normal glasses – I’m pretty sure I don’t get the best viewing of rides like this. Cute as it was there is no way I’d want to wait too long for this ride as it is one of the short ones.

Since we were in France Kevin had to get a crepe. In fact, he had been talking about them all day. Christy and I found a nice bench to sit on while Kevin ordered and then ate his crepe. He was pretty disappointed in it though and was really just wanting a nice lemon and sugar like he used to be able to get from the old crepe stand.

Finally it was time to end our day at the park, after taking some more photos, and catch the skyliner back to the Riviera Resort. I cannot say enough how wonderful this was. We are so pleased the the Riviera is one of our home resorts.

More photos, this time of the absolutely stunning murals, and we were back in our room with our feet up and a cup of Christmas Tea to enjoy.

I worked on this blog post for a while before enjoying a nice bath (the bath here is incredible), having dinner (another frozen dinner since Kevin just wanted to have some fruit) and watching a couple of YouTube videos with Kevin (he’s been really missing this). By 9pm I was crashing and went right to sleep without even reading one word !!

Day 14 – Checking into the Riviera Resort

Posted on by Libby Withnall

We were all very appreciative of a sleep in this morning. Even though I woke up around 7am, I was in quite a bit of fibro pain, so was so glad I didn’t have to rush out of bed. Instead I tried editing a vlog – though I kept falling asleep. I would then have trouble falling asleep if I laid down – though I must have at one point cause Kevin said I was snoring.

About 9.30am I eventually headed for my shower so I could get dressed and start packing. I woke everyone else up around 10am – trying to give them as much sleep and rest as possible. My legs were still very sore and with some fibro pain I knew I needed a most restful day so opted out of another park visit. There were only a few things I missed out on doing (that I’d wanted to). Kevin was also feeling pretty sore today, but Christy was eager for a final visit.

We packed up and left our room about 5mins past our check out time of 11am. So nice to have such a late check out time – though that seems to be the norm here in America. In Australia is it usually 10am check out, which is just too early for relaxing.

We took all our luggage out to the front of the hotel and Kevin went off to fetch the car. Christy headed off to the parks for a couple of hours. Once we had loaded everything in we set off for a nearby SuperTarget. We had a nice wonder around – and managed to find some Britta (filter) bottles for Kevin and Christy – I had bought mine from home. As always we marvelled at ALL the things available in the USA but unlike past trips we didn’t buy much – mainly consumable stocking stuffers and some groceries.

We also had a rest break at Starbucks where I got my usual Dragon Drink. While there we overhead someone ordered a Mango Dragonfruit Lemonade – so we got one of those to try. It was nice and would probably extra good if you hot, but I still prefer my Dragon drink.

We were almost finished our shopping when Christy texted to say she was heading for the gates (having ridden on Hagrids again). So that was pretty perfect timing indeed. We went through checkout and then headed back to the Pacific Resort to pick her up.

We arrived first but didn’t have to wait too long for her to appear, tired and sore but happy. Though it turns out the boats had just started running again. Typical that this would happen as we were leaving. We really missed having the boats as an option to get too and from the parks. Even though it’s only about a 10min walk, it still a saving on your feet :-).

Finally it was time to head to the Riviera Resort – which is one of our home DVC resorts. It was our first time ever seeing and staying here so we were very excited. And oh my – it is just stunning.

When we drove up some cast members came to welcome us home and take our luggage (ready for when our room was available). Sadly we didn’t have change for which to give them a tip – something we need to rectify. We then parked the car, getting one of the best spots possible and headed into the resort. We had checked in online so we just waiting to recieve a text with our room number, which is said to be available after 4pm.

And it is even more stunning than we thought. Firstly it smells amazing when you walk into the lobby. Of course, it looks extra good decorated for Christmas. It is so stylish, yet welcoming at the same time. There are beautiful flowers, fresh I think, and lovely comfy seating.

We were quick to spot the gift store and headed in there for a look. Excited to see many things when seen in vlogs, and of course, new things as well, and some things we want to buy. We also checked out the cafe and looked at cakes and desserts that look too good to eat. Around the corner from that is a “library” which looks like another quiet place to chill or hang out.

Honestly I don’t think photos will do justice to this place and the videos we’ve seen certainly didn’t. After a little explore, and lots of photo taking, we joined Christy who was sitting in the lobby. The lounges here were super comfy and it was really nice actually having the opportunity to hang out here and enjoy the atmosphere – usually it’s just straight to your room or off to a park. But this is the SLOW TRAVEL we are trying to embrace.

We hadn’t been here long before we had one of the magical Disney moment. I got SO EXCITED when I saw Donald entering the lobby, along with Pluto. He heard me exclaim “There’s Donald” and came over to see us first. He looked so good in his 50th Birthday celebration attire. It’s funny I think I get more excited about seeing the characters now than I did when I was younger, or maybe it’s just post pandemic. We got some photos and then waited for Pluto to come around. I told him how it was so nice to see him since we were missing our puppies and he gave me a big hug. He was so soft and cuddly. What a way to start the Disney portion of our holiday.

We sat for a bit longer then I realized it was approached 3pm and we should probably get some lunch. We decided on the Bar Riva and went outstairs and outside to the pool ( the bar is directly opposite). We got a great table and place our order with the waitress. Christy was even able to order a cheese toasty from the cafe next door (instead of having to order it there) as I assume they share a kitchen

Like the lobby, this was a lovely place to have relaxed and take in the atmosphere – which really does look like I imagine the Riviera does. Kevin ordered mushroom aranchini and I order the grilled veggie skewers with pita bread. We all absolutely loved our meals and ate every bite !!

And just as were finishing up at 3.30pm we got the text to say our room was ready. So Kevin paid the bill and we headed up to our room – which wasn’t too far away. Kevin did stop to get out some cash so we’d have something to tip people with.

Then the grand reveal of our room. Which is stunning. The furniture and attention to detail is just what you expect with Disney. We are thrilled to have a kitchen again (and laundry facilities) and Christy will have her own room to sleep in. Everything just seems so perfect.

Kevin wasn’t feeling the best today so had a lie down while I unpacked our suitcases and the groceries we had bought from Target. We didn’t have any cold groceries yet and would need to go get them.

Which we did about 5pm. The plan had been to go to Wholefoods, not realizing it would take almost 30mins at this time of day. Instead we opted to go to Publix in Celebration (we had been here once before but tried to avoid it since they sold live lobsters). Kevin is not all that comfortable driving in the dark since his eye surgery and Publix was only 10mins away.

Unfortunately he still wasn’t feeling good but we managed to get our groceries and were back in our room just after 6.30pm. While I sent Kevin off to have a bath I put the groceries away and then worked on yesterdays blog post (before I get too far behind and can’t remember what’s happened).

We ended up having dinner about 8pm. Kevin had some stuffed potatoes, Christy had mozzerella sticks and I had an Amy’s frozen meal – it was pasta and broccolli and rather yummy. We then all headed to bed, where I worked on blog posts till about 10pm. Thankfully I got yesterdays all finished and wiill hopefully have time in the morning to write up todays (which I did).

Day 13 – Fun & relaxation at Universal

Posted on by Libby Withnall

It was hard for all of us to get up and moving this morning. I didn’t even wake up until 6.20am. So it was a case of rolling out of bed, taking my meds and hopping into the shower. Once I was done I woke up Christy so she could start her morning routine. Then after 7am I woke up Kevin so he could shower and get himself organised. Considering how much we didn’t want to get out of bed, we did well and were out the door on time at 7.30am.

We walked around to Islands of Adventure and arrived just as the gates were opened. Like yesterday we followed the crowds around to Hagrids and luckily this time it was operating. The line was already saying 40mins wait. But this was well worth the wait. What an incredible ride. We had not watched or heard it (on purpose) so it was a real surprise.

Kevin got himself a frozen butterbeer. There are now vegan ones available (they just have a different topping I think). I did have a sip of his, as did Christy, but we both found it too sweet. Kevin said he had to have one as it’s tradition.

Christy then did Harry Potter & The Forbidden Journey (which is in the Hogwarts Castle). Kevin & I sat and waited, first in the sun, then moving into the shade when a seat became available. We were quite glad to just and people watch. She also rode Flight of the Hippogriff which she said was fun but very short.

We then moved into the Jurassic Park area and on to the Kong ride. This was pretty new last time we were here but this time there was only a little wait. I quite like this ride but found it, like many rides, to be too short.

We continued on around the park and into Toon Lagoon, stopping for Kevin to pose with the hamburgers like he does every trip.

The Marvel Super Hero Island. Kevin and I weren’t feeling like doing any thrill rides (he gets motion sick and I’ve been getting headaches), so we left Christy to it and went and found somewhere to sit outside Starbucks where we could people watch. Kevin went and got us a drink which we enjoyed while observing all the different types of people and families that were enjoying the day (for the most part anyway). Kevin had a pumpkin cream cheese muffin which he enjoyed and I had one of the shortbread cookies.

When Christy met back up with us we headed towards Seuss Landing – which is just so well decorated at Christmas time.

We ran into some people from Whoville as we entered so stopped to take some photographs,

before we continued around to go and see The Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular. was so fun. The Grinch was such a great character and all loved seeing Max the dog.

We explored a bit more of Suess Landing, checking out some shops and going on The Cat in the Hat ride, which is very much a kids ride, but still cute.

By now it was after 1pm and time for us to leave the park and head back to the hotel for a rest.

Christy opted to stay in the room for a bit while Kevin and I got changed and went to the Bula poolside bar for lunch. We got a table with a lovely view of the pool. We were even visited by a family of ducks. So cute. We even watched them go for a swim in the pool. Kevin had a burger (which he had been craving) while I opted for Nachos. Not realizing quite how big the nachos were!!!! I really enjoyed them though.

With full tummies we then lay on some sunloungers (for which you could get a fancy towel cover along with your towel) and when Christy joined us we went for a swim in the pool. The pools here have all been heated so a lovely comfortable temperature for swimming. We did a lazy lap around the whole pool area before getting out.

Christy went back to the room so she could have a shower. Kevin and I relaxed and dried off in the sun. Having lunch and spending time in and around a pool is something that just screams HOLIDAYS to me. Even doing this at home makes me feels like I’m on holidays. Kevin ordered himself a fancy cocktail while we were there. While by the pool we also ordered some Voodoo Donuts to pick up later since we’d heard lots of good things about them (and they have vegan ones). Eventually we had to make a move and get dressed again before walking back to the park.

This time we walked through City Walk to get to the front entrance of Universal Studios. Our first goal here was to ride Men In Black. This is a shooting ride and Christy was super proud of herself for getting the highest score. Though Kevin later confessed that he’d had his eyes closed for half the ride to stop from getting motion sick.

On our way back to Diagon Alley we stopped to meet the Knight Bus driver & conductor. I always think this is a fun meet & greet.

Then back into Diagon Alley for Christy to use her wand to do some spells. Kevin & I had a wander around looking at the some of the areas we had missed yesterday, then found a spot to wait for Christy to be done. The sun was setting now so all the lights were starting to stand out more.

We left Diagon Alley expected to catch The Hogwarts Express over to Hogsmede in Islands of Adventure but even the express lane had an expected 40+ min wait. So we decided to just walk on over. We did hit a bit of snag when we got stuck behind the Macy’s parade – but it was actually kinda neat getting to see just a little of the parade.

We decided to stop by Voodoo Donuts to pick up our order to save us having to walk back later. Christy took the shorter way to Island of Adventure and we met her in the park.

We then took the shortcut to bypass Seuss Landing and made our way to Hogsmede (which is right at the back of the park). It was pretty busy here as we joined to back of the crowd waiting their turn to see The Magic of Christmas at Hogwart’s Castle. Eventually it was our turn and we made our into the area in front of the castle. I remember reading that near the stage was a good spot so we just stopped there. It ended up not getting to crowded and was easy to leave from so I agree it was a good spot. Others had done the same so the word is out :-).

I really enjoyed the show – there are projections on the castle and it’s really well done. At the end there are, of course, some fireworks. It’s definitely not a must-do but I’d recommend it, especially if you are going to get at Hogsmede after dark.

Our last goal for the evening was to ride Velicoaster in the dark. We got there around 6.30pm and there was an expected wait time of 30min. Unfortunately the ride went down while we were waiting so it more like 7.15pm (and after the official closing time of 7pm) when we got a ride. But what a fun, crazy ride in was in the dark. I’ve always loved dark roller coaster so that we especially great. And thankfully my head didn’t seem to get quite as rattled this time.

We were all complaining of sore feet by now so took a very slow walk back through Seuss Landing (which looks so gorgeous all lit up with Christmas lights) and out of the park and back to our hotel. We even took a few little breaks along the way. My legs were so sore by the time we got back. Later I discovered I had walked over 20,000 step today so no wonder I was feeling it. Kevin & I still needed dinner (since the ride had taken us past closing time) so we headed to the Tuk Tuk Market. There wasn’t a lot of choices that sounded good and Kevin wasn’t very hungry so we decided to share a cheese pizza.

Luckily it didn’t take too long (we just sat while we waited) and we were back in our room with our feet up for a proper rest. Even my calves and shins were sore at this point. The pizza was really enjoyable. I worked on a blog post while I ate. Then I read, like one page, before I fell asleep.

Day 12 – Universal Studios

Posted on by Libby Withnall

I woke up at 4am today, which gave me time to finish off yesterdays blog post and work on a YouTube video. At 6.30am I woke up Christy and Kevin and went to have my shower.

By 7,30am we were all ready and out the door. Sadly the boats are running at the moment so we had to walk to the parks. Luckily it wasn’t very far. We were quickly through security, over the bridge and in line for early entry at Islands of Adventure. Christy had been feeling unwell on the walk over but luckily it didn’t last too long.

We only had to wait a few minutes before the park was officially opened around 7.45am and we on our way, with the crowds.

It was our intent to ride Hagrids but before we got there someone came back saying it was down, so we quickly turned back and headed towards Velocicoaster (we’d only just gone past the turn off). We were very excited to ride this. And after a quick walk through the line area, we put our bags into the lockers and almost walked on to the ride. And what a cool ride it is. And a decent length – when so many rides/coasters are super short. My only issue with the ride was I felt it rattled my head around. I noticed this on other coasters today – not sure it’s a new age related thing or from being post covid. Sadly it meant I was only keen to go on most things once.

Since Hagrids now had a wait time of 120mins Christy went back onto Velocicoaster while Kevin & I waited.

When Christy returned we continued the walk around to Hogsmede. Love the feeling when you first walk into that area – it never gets old. It’s beautiful with snow on the buildings.

We checked out a few shops (like the candy shop where Kevin bought a pumpkin pasty – which he liked but wasn’t impressed with amount of pumpkin in at.

At 9am, when the park officially opened, we caught the Hogworts Express over to Universal Studios. Such a fun ride / mode of transport.

We went to try and get a cup of tea but were unsuccessful so went into Diagon Alley to explore.

We visited some shops and then went into Knockturn Alley – the theming here is incredible, well it’s like that in all the Harry Potter areas.

We then went to ride Escape from Gringotts, however the ride had broken down so ended up with quite the wait – over 30mins I’d guess. The ride, when we eventually got on, was pretty fun – I didn’t remember it all so it was a surprise :-). It seemed very quick though.

We collected our bags once more from the lockers (nearly every ride requires that you use them), then went to The Leaky Cauldrun for a sit down and a cup of tea – though after ordering (via the mobile app) found out they didn’t have any soy milk !!

After our break we went back out into the main Universal Studios

and came across some street performers. We sat on the curb to watch. It singing Christmas songs acapela and were really good. It was also another nice little rest break.

Next up was The Mummy ride which only recently reopened after a refurb. We had around a 15min wait for this one. And as like always, I’d forgotten that it’s a dark coaster. Again a fab ride but again my head felt rattled around. Maybe I’m getting too old for roller coasters ??

While trying to decide what to do next, Kevin realized he didn’t have his phone. It seemed it was close by so he went back to check the locker he’d just used for The Mummy. It was there.

I happened to spot The Tribute Store, which we’ve never been in, but have seen in lots of Disney vlogs. It’s a cool store and obviously is currently all Christmas themed. I loved seeing the displays.

We then rode Jimmy Fallon – again with a rather long wait – well, longer than we’d like. This was cute and quite enjoyable and it was fun doing a new ride.

We then went in search of lunch – which was from Central Crepes. We must have arrived at a bad time however and was told it would be at least 40mins. But we wanted to try these so went and sat and waited a table nearby, then Kevin went back nearer the time they would be ready (but still had to wait about 2omins). Finally they were ready. I had the vegan berry crepe, which was delicious. Christy had a plain crepe with sugar which she really enjoyed. And Kevin had a strawberry hazlenut crepe which he wasn’t a big fan of since there were only a couple of strawberries and lots of hazlenut stuff.

With full tummies we headed around to ride ET. This was also having problems so wasn’t the usual walk on that it is. It wasn’t too bad though and I enjoyed this. So did Christy. Kevin said the best part of was getting off. Guess he’s not too nostalgic.

We had a quick look through the main store but only Christy bought some earrings for me for Christmas.

Our last ride was Minions. And another longer than expected wait. Kevin and I opted for stationary seats. This is quite cute but basically just another simulator ride.

Christy then rode Rip Ride Rocket while Kevin and i enjoyed a snack while sitting on the grass. Kevin had an icee and i had a packet of chips. I realized at this time (around 4pm) that I was really done for the day.

Yes I could push and do more, but then I didn’t know how I’d fair tomorrow. So Kevin and I left Christy at the park and walked back to the hotel. I must say it was so nice to sit on the bed and put my feet up. Kevin wasn’t too good by now and almost immediately fell asleep.

Christy turned up about an hour later. At 7pm Kevin went to the Island Dining Room, where we ate last night, to order some dinner for tonight. He had Wonton soup, and I had some spring rolls and gyozas. I enjoyed mine, Kevin not so much. Kevin had also ordered a pineapple donut for desert and it was HUGE. Crazy huge for one persons desert. Needless to say Kevin didn’t manage to eat very much of it.

I’d been on my laptop pretty much some coming home (having a a break earlier to do a bit of handwashing and refill our meds) and finally got this post finished at 9.45pm. So it’s now time to read a few pages and go to sleep.