Doug Travels Orlando

Disney Cruise Line – Holiday Cruises

Published on June 5, 2017 in Disney Cruise Line by Crystal Boston

It’s never too early for holiday shopping and I can help you give the perfect gift this year!

Now is the time to book YOUR holiday cruise with Disney!

Itineraries now available through January 2019.

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Pandora – The World of Avatar – My Nighttime Experience

Published on May 30, 2017 in Walt Disney World by Crystal Boston

Pandora – The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom park opened May 27, 2017 bringing a flight simulator based-banshee attraction and boat ride through the landscape of Pandora. I experienced a preview of this amazing new land earlier in May and was there on opening day to experience the new entertainment and nighttime Pandora.

Entertainment on Pandora – The World of Avatar is focused around a Na’vi-built drum circle, containing instruments you can play, Na’vi totems and other cultural items found throughout the land. Swotu Wayä – which means “Sacred Place of Song” – is located in the heart of Mo’ara Valley and has the most beautiful backdrop of any stage at Walt Disney World! Performances are fun and interactive with a message of peace and can be seen every hour on the half starting at 10:30 am until 30 minutes before Pandora closes.
*Please check Time Guides for updated performance times.

Once darkness falls, the many unique and exotic plants of Pandora come to life with their beautiful bioluminescence in many different shades and patterns – even the ground you walk on is full of beautiful color!

Look for interactive experiences throughout the land too – floating plants that respond to your arm movements and more. And it’s not only the colors that will surprise you, even the sounds of this amazing land change after sunset. As you move through Pandora at night you can occasionally hear the calls and footsteps of the many fantastic beasts that populate the nearby mountains.

On opening day, Walt Disney World also introduced mobile ordering – only available at Satu’li Canteen. Simply find a table at the canteen area and, using your My Disney Experience Mobile App, you can easily place your order for food and beverage and will be notified via your app when your order is ready. You will only need to know your order number for pick-up. Currently, to use Mobile Order, your MDE account must have a credit card linked and all charges will be applied to the linked credit card – Disney Dining Plans and Gift Cards are not accepted. Mobile Order will expand to other quick service locations at Disney’s Animal Kingdom park this summer – and hopefully property-wide soon after!

For a limited time, now thru July 4, 2017, Disney’s Animal Kingdom park will be open from 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM, giving you more time than ever to explore Pandora – The World of Avatar.
And for Guests staying at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels there will be “Extra” Extra Magic Hours—available exclusively in Pandora – The World of Avatar from 11:00 PM to 1:00 AM, May 27 to July 4, 2017 AND July 4 to August 19, 2017 from 10:00 PM to Midnight! There’s still time to book your summer vacation and experience Pandora – The World of Avatar for these special resort Guest benefits!

Be sure to read about my preview experience on Pandora – The World of Avatar too!

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The Disney Fantasy – A Disney Cruise Line Ship

Published on May 29, 2017 in Disney Cruise Line by Crystal Boston

I just returned from my Disney Cruise Line vacation on the inaugural sailing of the Disney Fantasy after dry dock and WOW – the Disney Fantasy is a magical ship!

It’s been 2 ½ years since my last cruise and I was ready! This was my first experience on the Disney Fantasy and I was excited to experience the ship and learn about everything new.

My husband was cruising with me and we chose a Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah for our first Disney Fantasy experience.

Disney Cruise Line has thought of everything to ensure first-rate comfort and convenience during your voyage. The verandah is a private sanctuary where you can watch the sun rise, bask in ocean breezes and enjoy your morning coffee or an evening beverage. We have never felt cramped or crowded in our stateroom when cruising with Disney. The Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah design features include:
– A sitting area with a couch, TV and desk
– A heavy privacy curtain to separate the sitting and sleeping areas
– A “split bath” (in most) that includes a bathroom with a vanity, sink, shower and tub and a half bathroom with a vanity, sink and toilet
– A leather-upholstered ottoman with hollow inside storage
– Cabinets with storage space in the living area
– And my favorite feature – Elevated wooden bed frames for under-bed storage of suitcases and other large items
For the kids (or kids at heart), a mural of Peter Pan, Tinker Bell, Wendy and her brothers soaring through a starry sky reveals itself when the upper-berth bed is pulled down!

This inaugural sailing included 2 full days on Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island, consistently rated by Disney Guests as their favorite port of call – and MY favorite port of call when cruising with Disney!! Castaway Cay is reserved exclusively for Disney cruisers and the ship will dock right at the island to allow you to come and go as you please while enjoying experiences such as snorkeling, boating, swimming and sunbathing and bicycles can also be rented if you want to explore the island’s nature trails.

While all areas of the island can be reached by walking, an island tram offers four stops to help you easily get where you want to go.

Your “Key to the World” card will work for all purchases on Castaway Cay except at the local post office where you can send mail to your loved ones back home with a Bahamian postage stamp; the post card postage rate is approximately $0.65 USD each.
Dining is also included as part of your cruise package with covered outdoor restaurants serving burgers, BBQ chicken and ribs. Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase and, if you are traveling without children, Disney offers “adult only” areas at Castaway Cay – Serenity Bay is a secluded beach exclusively for adults (where you just might encounter Captain Jack Sparrow strolling the beach!) and families can have fun together at the Castaway Family Beach.

We are runners and Disney Cruise Line offers a 5K on Castaway Cay. It’s very informal but you do get race bibs and a medal at the finish line. If you want to participate in the 5K on Castaway Cay, you can register at Guest Services when you board your cruise.

Your registration ticket, “Key to the World” and photo ID are required the day of your event to participate. The 3.1-mile out-and-back event is free and family friendly; it’s open to walkers and runners ages 10 and older. The race takes place first thing in the morning on the island, typically with a meeting time onboard of 8 am. The vibe of the event is casual, a fun experience worth the early wake-up!

Cruising with Disney is a very casual experience – I wore simple dresses and flip flops while my husband wore shorts and polos – even to dinner. The only exceptions are if you reserve adult only dinging experiences at Palo or Remy which both have dress codes. We enjoy the rotational dining exclusive to Disney Cruise Line, experiencing a different restaurant and menu with the same servers each evening. And, unlimited room service is also included!!

In addition to exceptional dining experiences, Disney Cruise Line offers many entertainment options including Broadway-like musical productions, viewings of recently released Disney movies, character meet & greets that you often cannot find at the parks, deck parties, dance clubs, karaoke, trivia and so much more!

A few new experiences now offered on the Disney Fantasy include Sweet on You, Tiffany & Co., and something just for kids, Star Wars: Command Post and Marvel Super Hero Academy.

Indulge in frozen desserts that satisfy your confectionary cravings at Sweet on You, a specialty ice cream emporium located just outside Cabana’s featuring 20 hand-crafted gelatos, 16 ice cream flavors, 32 toppings, homemade chocolate, truffles, a large selection of candy and more!

Disney Cruise Line now hosts the world’s premier jewelry and iconic American luxury brand, Tiffany & Co., with an exclusive store aboard the Disney Fantasy. Indulge your most dazzling fantasies and peruse Tiffany’s timeless designs and discover why that little blue box is known around the globe!

At Disney’s Oceaneer Club young cruisers can experience Star Wars: Command Post and Marvel Super Hero Academy.

There is definitely enough to keep you busy on a Disney Cruise if you aren’t the lounging at the pool or beach type.

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Pandora – The World of Avatar

Published on May 15, 2017 in Walt Disney World by Crystal Boston

Pandora – The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom park is scheduled to open May 27, 2017 bringing a flight simulator based banshee attraction and boat ride through the landscape of Pandora. I recently experienced a preview of this amazing new land!

As you enter, you walk through the Valley of Mo’ara and the enormous floating mountains are all around you. The valley is also home to many unique species of plants that can only be found on Pandora. There is a Na’vi-built drum circle, containing instruments you can play, Na’vi totems and other cultural items found throughout the land as well as two new Wilderness Explorers challenges with badges to collect.

This new land also offers 2 new ride experiences as well as a new quick service dining option and a new beverage stand and, of course, Pandora – The World of Avatar themed shopping experiences too!

Avatar Flight of Passage is an exhilarating, 3D ride where you fly on the back of a mountain banshee offering you a breathtaking, first-person flight over the moon’s incredible landscape. This experience is for those 44” and taller and is quite a thrilling ride. Once you enter, there is a pre-experience que similar to DINOSAUR that is narrated by video conferencing but that is also interactive. Once you enter the flight room you mount your own banshee and prepare to take flight. Many have compared this experience to Soarin’ but it is SO MUCH MORE! This is not just a view of the World of Avatar, this ride truly immerses you in the land! FastPass+ is highly recommended for this new experience. After our flight we were able to tour the standby que so even if you don’t have FastPass+, the standby que is quite amazing in itself.

Na’vi River Journey is a boat ride that takes you on a journey deep into a bioluminescent rainforest in search of the Na’vi Shaman of Songs. This is an experience the whole family can enjoy and is similar to boat experiences at the other Walt Disney World parks. The boats each have two rows that will comfortably seat 4 Guests each. After coasting through a series of caves, and passing by exotic glowing plants and amazing creatures of the rainforest, you’ll soon find yourself face-to-face with the Na’vi Shaman of Songs. Your adventure comes to a conclusion as the Shaman demonstrates her deep connection to the life force of Pandora and sends positive energy out into the forest through the power of her music.

The new Pandora – World of Avatar dining and beverage options are Satu’li Canteen and Pongu Pongu, meaning “Party Party” in the language of the Na’vi.
Both offer themed menu items with Satu’li Canteen offering Quick Service dining for breakfast, lunch and dinner and Pongu Pongu offering a quick stop for themed beverages. Of course, my favorite treat on the menu was the Blueberry Cream Cheese Mousse!

For Pandora – The World of Avatar themed shopping, this new land offers Windtraders, which is the exit for Avatar Flight of Passage where you can choose from Na’vi cultural items, toys, science kits and more.

And Colors of Mo’arais, a retail kiosk that also offers Na’vi-inspired face-painting.

Maximize your time at Pandora – The World of Avatar with extended theme park hours, “Extra” Extra Magic Hours for resort Guests and FastPass+!
For a limited time, May 27 to July 4, 2017, Disney’s Animal Kingdom park will be open from 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM, giving you more time than ever to explore Pandora – The World of Avatar.
And for Guests staying at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels there will be “Extra” Extra Magic Hours—available exclusively in Pandora – The World of Avatar from 11:00 PM to 1:00 AM, May 27 to July 4, 2017 AND July 4 to August 19, 2017 from 10:00 PM to Midnight!
There’s still time to book your summer vacation and experience Pandora – The World of Avatar for these exclusive benefits offered only to resort Guests! Request Your Today!

*TIP: Avatar Flight of Passage and Na’vi River Journey are both Tier 1 FastPass+ selections at Disney’s Animal Kingdom park. If you are only planning for one day at this park, I highly recommend FastPass+ for Avatar Flight of Passage and doing Na’vi River Journey as standby. However, if you are a resort Guest the “Extra” Extra Magic Hours may give you the opportunity to do both without FastPass+.

Check HERE to read about my nighttime experience on Pandora – The World of Avatar which comes to life with beautiful bioluminescence each night!

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Disney’s Express Transportation – Walt Disney World Resort

Published on May 7, 2017 in Walt Disney World by Crystal Boston

There’s a new way to get around Walt Disney World parks and it’s a VIP experience!!

If you have been to Walt Disney World Resort recently, you know all about getting through security and bag checks… Wouldn’t you love if you only needed to pass through a security checkpoint once per day? Now you can!!

If you have a Park Hopper ticket or are an Annual Passholder, you can add Disney’s Express Transportation option and only go through security and bag check once each day – even if you hit all 4 parks – giving you more time in the parks! Disney’s Express Transportation picks you up and drops you off INSIDE the parks!

Start your day in one park, using the normal security checkpoint, and when you are ready to head to the next park simply check-in at the Express Transportation kiosk location inside the park and a Cast Member will escort you backstage to your VIP transportation.

Purchase your Express Transportation access at any ticket window outside a park, Guest Relations inside a park, Disney Springs ticket window, your hotel concierge, or at the kiosks at the Express Transportation check-in locations and you are ready for VIP transportation for one day for date of purchase or up to 7 consecutive days beginning on date of purchase. Advance purchase is not yet available.

Disney’s Express Transportation service departs approximately every 30 minutes and runs each day from 10:00 AM until park closing. Your VIP Express Transportation will travel directly between each of the theme parks, no stops along the way, and drops you off inside the park so you are ready for fun from the moment you arrive! You will have unlimited transfers between all 4 theme parks for as long as your Express Transportation ticket is valid.

Price per Guest (Ages 3+)
Single-day ticket: $19 – Valid for date of purchase only
Multi-day ticket: $29 – Valid for up to 7 consecutive days beginning on date of purchase
*NOTE: Pricing and availability are subject to change.

I took advantage of Disney’s Express Transportation during my last stay at Walt Disney World Resort. It was so quick and easy to get from one park to another. This VIP experience is definitely the way to go, especially if you have little ones with strollers and bags, and I felt the price was very fair!!

**Please Note: The Express Transportation add-on service at Walt Disney World Resort will end Wednesday, August 23, 2017. The last day for guests to purchase this service will be Wednesday, August 16, 2017.

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Everything Star Wars at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Published on April 23, 2017 in Orlando/Stay on Property/Walt Disney World by Crystal Boston

UPDATED: 7/20/2020 With the reopening of Disney’s Hollywood Studios, some Star Wars experiences may be modified or no longer available, please be sure to check your My Disney Experience Mobile App for the most up to date information. UPDATED: 1/24/2020 With so many new Star Wars experiences added since I first wrote this blog it was definitely time to update the information… Disney’s Hollywood Studios is still THE PARK for everything Star Wars! Discover new and updated Star Wars experiences that bring you closer to the epic saga than ever before. It’s all here for you to explore! In order to help you plan your Hollywood Studio’s visit, you will find below links and information for all of the Star Wars experiences. When the land is busier, for access to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge you can use a Boarding Group feature in your My Disney Experience Mobile App to reserve your entry time rather than waiting in a physical line. See my Blog for detailed instructions. •Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge (SWGE) •Hollywood Blvd (HB) •Echo Lake (EL) •Animation Courtyard (AC) •Commissary Lane (CL) •Grand Avenue (GA) •Disney’s Hollywood Studios (DHS) Rides, Shows, Stage Shows & Fireworks: – Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run (SWGE) (38 inches) Ride in the famous cockpit of the Millennium Falcon on a daring flight—and whether you’re a pilot, engineer or runner, every role is crucial. *Check out my experience riding Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run *Tip: FastPass is available for this experience and is recommended.

*Tip: For vacation dates on or after February 19, 2020, you are now able to secure an advance FastPass+ time. In some cases you may need to join a Boarding Group in order to enter Batuu and/or experience Rise of the Resistance, be sure to ask a Cast Member on arrival at the park. – Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance (SWGE) (40 inches) Join the Resistance in a climactic battle against the First Order. *Check out my experience riding Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance

– Star Tours – The Adventures Continue (EL) (40 inches) *Offers Rider Switch

Make the jump to hyperspace—and to a new destination from Star Wars: The Force Awakens—during a 3D, motion-simulated space flight. *Tip: FastPass is available for this experience and is recommended.

– Star Wars: Path of the Jedi (EL) Watch a 10-minute retelling of the blockbuster Star Wars saga and get a peek at the future of the galaxy. – Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple (EL) Watch younglings train in the ways of the Force and put their skills to the test against the Dark Side!

*TIP: Arrive before park opening to register your child, ages 4-12, for this experience. Your child must be present at the time of registration to participate. Registration is located at the Indiana Jones Adventure Outpost located between the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular! and the 50’s Prime Time Café. Availability is limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Be flexible with your schedule to accommodate training times. *TIP: During this experience a PhotoPass Photographer will be taking photos of everyone participating, including your child, and each participant will receive a PhotoPass Card so that you can download the photos to your Memory Maker. If you take the card to the Memory Maker Sales Center located just inside the park entrance, they will access the photos and add only the photos of YOUR child to your Memory Maker account. – Star Wars Launch Bay (AC)

Check out movie props, play games, snap photos, screen videos, and greet Star Wars heroes and villains. – Star Wars Launch Bay Theater (AC) Watch a behind-the-scenes video and see how a new generation of filmmakers is designing the future of the Star Wars saga. – March of the First Order (HB) *Temporarily suspended Watch and listen as Captain Phasma leads her squad of Stormtroopers up Hollywood Boulevard to Center Stage. *This experience provides a great photo or video opportunity too!

– Star Wars: a Galaxy Far, Far Away (HB) Witness the power of this live show that brings iconic Star Wars moments to life.

*Tip: If you have seen this show previously or the viewing area in front of the stage is already full, stand behind the stage during the show and then just to the left facing side of the stage as the show is ending and you will see the Star Wars characters as they exit, sometimes getting a fist bump or two, for great photo opportunities! Another good spot to see the characters enter and leave the stage (if you have already seen the show) is in the courtyard behind the stage. – Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular (HB) Conclude your day with an out of this world fireworks finale bursting with Star Wars music and magic.

*TIP: Cast Members will ask everyone to stand up before the show starts. The best location is, of course, front and center stage – but you will need to arrive early to snag a spot! If the front section is full, the next best spot is center to the stage just to the right of the handicap area behind the section taped off for a walkway or any spot center to the stage will be a good viewing area. The There is no stage show, everything happens on the screens mounted on the stage or in the sky. Watch for the light sabers too! Star Wars Characters Meet & Greets: – Darth Vader at Star Wars Launch Bay (AC)

– Chewbacca at Star Wars Launch Bay (AC)

– BB-8 at Star Wars Launch Bay (AC)

*TIP: Wait times can be long but the lines do move quickly, so don’t be intimidated by a long wait time – at least it’s air conditioned! If you are a Disney Visa Cardmember, just present your Disney Visa card for a special character meet & greet offered daily from 11am to 4pm. Characters may vary daily for this offer. Also, during the Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular Dessert Party is a great time to experience the characters as wait times are 20 minutes or less. Photo Opportunities: – Star Wars Photo Opportunities Snap a photo in Star Wars settings throughout the park, including Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Dining: *Disney Dining Plans not accepted. You can now use Mobile Order via your My Disney Experience Mobile App to avoid waiting in lines at select Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Quick/Counter Service locations. – * Oga’s Cantina (SWGE) Oga’s Cantina in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is the notorious watering hole where smugglers, bounty hunters, and weary travelers of all ages can come partake in some out-of-this-world refreshments. To make trip planning easier, Oga’s Cantina will follow the 180-day reservation process currently offered for restaurants requiring reservations. While there will be limited walk-up availability, reservations are highly recommended. Cancellations can be made up to the day before without penalty; however, any no-shows will be charged. *Disney Dining Plans not accepted. *Check out my experience at Oga’s Cantina

– * Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo (SWGE) Mobile Order Hungry travelers can fuel up on galactic grub at this local eatery in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge – * Milk Stand (SWGE) Mobile Order Quench your thirst with a cup of Batuu’s legendary blue or green treat, served frozen – * Ronto Roasters (SWGE) Mobile Order Sink your teeth into a savory grilled sausage and roasted pork wrap at this exotic meat stall – * Kat Saka’s Kettle (SWGE) Pop into this eclectic food stall for some Outpost Mix, a sweet, savory snack made with popcorn – Backlot Express (EL) Two Suns of Tatooine Hummus available at this Quick Service Dining location Shopping: – Savi’s Workshop – Handbuilt Lightsabers (SWGE) Constructing a lightsaber is a rite of passage in the life of a Jedi, as this elegant weapon from a more civilized age is attuned to its wielder through the Force. Inside Savi’s Workshop, your Clients will feel the presence of the Force as they craft their own lightsabers, customizing them with various hilts, accessories and the all-important kyber crystals. For the Savi’s Workshop experience, there will be limited walk-up availability, but reservations are highly recommended. A credit card guarantee is required for each reservation. Cancellations can be made up to the day before without penalty; any no-shows will be charged the full price of the experience. Guests can bring one guest to observe the experience. UPDATED: 7/20/2020 – Savi’s Workshop is currently a modified experience and advance reservations are not required. Legacy lightsabers are available for purchase and you scan a QR code on arrival to view the available options. Below is a sample of available options during a recent visit.

– Droid Depot (SWGE) Droids can be some of the most loyal companions in the entire Star Wars galaxy, and now your Clients can have the chance to build and customize their own astromech friends at the Droid Depot. Patrons pick pieces and parts off a conveyor belt to construct one of two core models (R-series or BB-series), which can then interact with elements throughout Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Reservations are highly recommended and there will be limited walk-up availability. A credit card guarantee is required for each reservation. Cancellations can be made up to the day before without penalty; any no-shows will be charged the full price of the experience. The experience area is limited to the builder and one Guest—at least one person in the party must be age 14 or older.

– Creature Stall (SWGE) Discover curious creatures and critters from across the galaxy—and take home a new friend! – Toydarian Toymaker (SWGE) Browse handcrafted toys and collectibles at this whimsical workshop in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge – Black Spire Outfitters (SWGE) Outfit yourself for galactic adventures at the colorful apparel shop in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge – Jewels of Bith (SWGE) Features exclusive items from Batuu. – Resistance Supply (SWGE) Pick up gear that proves your allegiance to the Resistance and helps fight the First Order – Dok-Ondar’s Den of Antiquities (SWGE) Shop for mysterious and unique galactic artifacts collected by a legendary antiquities dealer – First Order Cargo (SWGE) Proclaim your allegiance to the mighty First Order and shop for recruitment gear and supplies – Tatooine Traders (EL) Descend upon this desert dome to procure rare Star Wars memorabilia and create your very own lightsaber or droid. – Launch Bay Cargo (AC) Take home a piece of the Star Wars saga—including life-size sculptures, autographed memorabilia, high-end movie prop replicas and print-on-demand phone cases featuring your choice of extraordinary Star Wars art. – Keystone Clothiers (HB) Star Wars fans, your shop has come in! And it’s loaded with epic apparel, gifts and gear for the whole crew. Special Events & Tours: – Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular Dessert Party Watch the fireworks from a reserved viewing area with Star Wars-themed desserts and drinks.

*Tip: Advance reservations are highly recommended.

–Star Wars Guided Tour This seven-hour guided tour will be led by a Star Wars “all-in-the-know” tour guide. You will blast off on Star Tours – The Adventures Continue, get an in-depth, insider’s tour around Launch Bay. Plus, Guests age 4-12 will have an opportunity to participate in Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple. And, the finale of this unforgettable day includes reserved viewing for the fireworks show.

*TIP: I highly recommend this experience, especially if you are a Star Wars fan! The cost for the tour compared to the cost for the dessert party is a DEAL! Plus, this BONUS, if you have younglings that want to participate in the Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple experience, doing the tour provides the opportunity to participate without the need to arrive before park opening to sign up. Disney’s Hollywood Studios park admission is required for both experiences. Additional fees apply for these separate ticketed experiences. COMING SOON: Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser A 2-Night, All-Immersive Adventure. Come live your very own epic Star Wars story with exclusive amenities and experiences, including a planet excursion to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge! Scheduled to open 2021. *Please check your My Disney Experience Mobil App or Times Guides at the park for current performance times for the major stage shows and fireworks. You can also follow me on Facebook for more live posts and photos as well as Instagram and Pinterest – SWGE!

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Sidewalks Can Be Interesting! – Part 1

Published on March 30, 2017 in Florida Locales by Doug Wilcoxon

You may notice that this isn’t a sidewalk and if it is, it’s a short one and it has rails running through it… that is a bad sign for a sidewalk. If your sidewalk has embedded rails don’t walk on it. Just down these tracks about a quarter mile is the SunRail Maitland Station. A sidewalk does not cross these tracks. It comes up to the tracks on the North Side and after crossing it picks up again on the South side. Nothing special about these sidewalks other than they don’t connect.

Was out for a walk today in Maitland, Florida maintaining an old habit from childhood, which is looking down at the ground while I walk. Probably not the best habit in an urban area full of cars. Me walking and looking at the ground and drivers driving and looking at their phone, not a great combination. Since I grew up in a more rural setting it wasn’t much of a problem and smartphones didn’t exist at that time (rotary was the tech of the day). Honestly, the habit is mostly a thing of the past, but today it got me involved with some sidewalks.

Leaving Jersey Mike’s after enjoying Jersey Shore’s Favorite prepared “Mike’s Way”‘ I was returning to work and noticed a section of sidewalk wasn’t the typical slab of concrete, but laid in pavers. All the pavers are square and of the typical variety being approximately 12 inches on each side. Pavers like you may see at the home improvement store. The idea and follow through took dedication from someone or some group to make the effort and place something different where a typical installation would suffice… to make the sidewalk unique.

And to “plus it” as Walt would say, accent blocks are sprinkled in to provide a bit of an artistic touch.

This is my favorite accent stone. Have always liked different depictions of the sun in various media and the detail in the concrete is well done.

Location Details at the my Orlando Map

It’s the small touches that make places unique in which they have their own character and personality. It’s in the real world and a nice break from the monotony of the typical ribbons of sidewalk. A nice find along a busy street.

Sidewalks Can be Interesting! – Part 2 will look at some residential sidewalks in Augusta, Georgia.

Brentwood, Tennessee – Texas Bar-B-Que Stop

Published on March 11, 2017 in Other 49 States by Doug Wilcoxon

Had a quick trip over the weekend to Nashville, Tennessee and visited a BBQ joint we found by coincidence a few years back. Its not in the most visible locale, or the largest, but its BBQ has been consistent over the years. Judge Bean’s Bar-B-Que identifies as a Texas BBQ joint, which was a good choice since two Texans were in my party.

I split “The Feast” with one of the Texans and neither of us was disappointed. Will point out that I wasn’t that crazy about the Texas toast, but who cares about toast on a BBQ platter since it’s just window dressing anyway. Not being too hungry I had a couple slices of Brisket, a Rib, one Diablo, Cowboy Beans, Mac & Cheese and some Pulled Pork. My tablemate finished off the remainder of the “The Feast”… reading over my food list apparently I was hungrier than I thought.

Overview of “The Feast”. Clockwise starting in the upper left, Brisket, Ribs, Pulled Pork, Texas Toast, Cowboy Beans, Baked Beans, Mac & Cheese, Diablos and Wings at the center. The beans and mac & cheese are sides. Two side come with the meal, but curiosity of the Cowboy Beans got the better of me. I prefered the cowboy beans over the BBQ Beans. The Cowboy Beans have much more heat and are more flavorful… almost to a chili like flavor. The Cowboy Beans have jalapenos in the mix, but I am guess also a large component of the spice is cumin… which is my favorite spice.

The Diablo is Judge Bean’s jalapeno pepper stuffed with shrimp and cheese and wrapped in bacon. I didn’t eat the shrimp, but did try the remainder of the Diablo. It was ok, but not the favorite side item of mine (that would be the Cowboy Beans). Also known as ABT’s, a good recipe and a great final picture is at this link.

A post-worthy shot of the three meats. Brisket, RIbs, and Pulled Pork.

The Diablo. You can just see the shrimp peeking out from the jalapeno.

Two hot wings. This is my favorite pic showing crispy wings and a slathering of sauce. The white is a reflection of the light in the sauce… a sauce I can almost see myself in.

The menu appears to be a bit different than the menu online. Don’t believe that really matters since the Bar-B-Que is good regardless. Did do a review of the photo gallery on the Judge Bean website and unless I am missing something somewhere it doesn’t appear that the photos have been updated since 2012. Again it doesn’t really effect the Bar-B-Que….still good. If you happen to visit, tell them Doug Travels Orlando says “Howdy”. They won’t know who you are talking about.

The brand new map for places other than Florida… here. A bit sparse as of this time.

Rivers of Light – Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park

Published on March 8, 2017 in Orlando/Stay on Property/Walt Disney World by Crystal Boston

The long awaited ‘Rivers of Light’ at Disney’s Animal Kingdom park has finally made it’s debut!

Rivers of Light is located in the park’s Discovery River lagoon between Discovery Island and Expedition Everest. It features water fountains, mist screens, floating lanterns, fire effects, lasers, lights, fog, projection mapping as well as live performers and incorporates the park’s Tree of Life into the show too.

This new nighttime experience celebrates the beauty of all living things. With a brilliant fusion of water, sound and light, it’s a unique experience that will entertain the whole family!

Rivers of Light is staged in the middle of the Discovery River, with seating split in two sections: on the shores of Asia in front of Expedition Everest, and along the banks of DinoLand U.S.A. in front of Finding Nemo—The Musical. All of the seats in Asia – half of the show’s 5,000 seats – are reserved for Guests with FastPass+. The other half of the seats, on the DinoLand side, are for those booking the Rivers of Light dining packages (available at Tusker House or Tiffins) and for standby Guests. There are also very limited, partially obstructed viewing areas around the river. I have viewed from all 3 areas and I highly recommend the dining package viewing area if you plan to see this new experience!

As sunlight fades, the ‘stars’ begin to twinkle in the trees surrounding Discovery River. A vibrant awakening of flitting fireflies leading to a ceremonious procession across the water of floating lotus blossoms that morph into colorful dancing fountains and over-sized animal sculptures – tiger, turtle, elephant, and owl – that light up in various colors.

The show begins with four flickering, lotus flower lanterns floating on the lagoon. They’re soon joined by shamans. The shamans conjure the forces of fire and water to reveal the majesty of the natural world, mostly as video projections on a huge water screen projected at the back of the lagoon.

In the final moments, the largest lotus sprouts a blazing tower. This magnetic display culminates in a triumphant blend of song, light, color and earthly elements. We are all bound together by earth and spirit — past, present and future.

Rivers of Light joins other nighttime experiences recently added to Animal Kingdom, including the sunset Kilimanjaro Safaris, Discovery Island Carnivale, Harambe Wildlife Parti and the Tree of Life awakening. Be sure to watch the video posted above, my photos do not do this show proper justice!

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A trip to Tiffins Restaurant at Disney’s Animal Kingdom*

Published on March 8, 2017 in Walt Disney World by Doug Wilcoxon

Tiffins Coaster. For clarity we shall call this the “front of the coaster”.

Why the asterisk? The post title needs additional detail, but I didn’t want it to be too long and off putting in the header. The full title is “A trip to Tiffin’s Restaurant at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, which sits right at the entrance of the soon to be opening Pandora – The World of AVATAR… and we wished to visit before the crush of humanity makes it impossible to leisurely stroll directly to the restaurant entrance”. That being said, if you want to visit this restaurant (which I recommend), then you had better take advantage of the My Disney Experience app, or online reservations, or by phone (the old fashion way) and make your reservations early.

From the start, as we entered the restaurant I was drawn to the decor and overall general laid back atmosphere. This restaurant trip could be referred to as a “cold call” since no prior research of the restaurant was done by myself, and it is a pleasant surprise to be pleasantly surprised. I’m not saying that no planning was done, since the hardest working travel planner in the travel planning business, Crystal, booked our reservation for the monthly Disney Dining Excursion.

It’s hard to say what put me at ease as we entered the restaurant, but the look and warm glow of wood finishes is something that has always been a favorite of mine… then again it could have been the easily accessible restrooms just to the right of the hostess stand. Everybody has their thing. As we enter through the double doors of square glass panes and wood carvings the hostess station is directly in front. I advise any guest to make good use of their wait time, turn around and take a look at the carvings as you enter the building (after you check in of course). The wood carvings throughout are something to admire. The colors glowed of warm gold, browns and copper.

We dined in Tiffin’s Grand Gallery and of all the Walt Disney World restaurants we have enjoyed since starting the monthly Disney Dining Experience, this is my favorite room. Why?… two reasons. 1. The room decor is a pleasure to view throughout the meal. Each wall is unique. 2. The Grand Gallery is smaller and has a more laid back pace. The hustle and bustle you may experience at some of the large open dining rooms doesn’t seem to be prevalent at the Tiffin’s.

We had 3:15pm dining reservations and the obviously the crowd was thinning a bit, but we did wait at least 20 minutes beyond our confirmed dining reservation time. An interesting point brought up by this tripadvisor review concerns the dining package for reserved seating at Rivers of Light. This review contradicts my laid back statement… so you may wish to consider your dining times when making your reservation.

Being a bit surprised at the size of the dining area (not that I’m complaining), we questioned our server and he enlightened us to the layout of the restaurant. There are three dining rooms. The Grand Gallery, Safari Gallery, and the Nomad Lounge. Table seating in the Bar at Nomad Lounge does require a reservation except at the bar. See paragraph one, last sentence. There isn’t a feeling that you are being turned quickly and the pace of the wait staff is relaxed. The setting is conducive to easy conversation with your fellow diners.

Unless of course you don’t want conversation with your fellow diners then I would recommend Chef Mickeys. We love that place, there is a lot of activity at all times; a monorail overhead; special visits from the Mouse himself and guests; and you can leave the table at any time to get some food. For example, your table mate starts to speak, and you say “Excuse me I need to go get another plate of Filet of Beef and some dessert.” If that is said to you don’t take it personally now that you know the secret.

View of the totems from our table. Totems, must not have been happy with me as they were putting out fuzzy vibes towards my picture.

Why are we here? That is a deep question and my answer has always been… we are here to eat. Someone has to do it and it might as well be me. Unfortunately it isn’t an appetizer sort of day for us and we proceed directly to the Main Courses. The meal consists of a two Berkshire Pork Tenderloins ($39), Pan-seared Duck Breast ($39) and Grilled Swordfish ($42).