Disney operates an efficient bus service to and from all the resorts and theme parks that is essentially their own public transit system included in the price of resort accommodation.
We're about a 20 minute ride from Magic Kingdom. With this delightful perk, the stress of navigation and parking has freed Jay up to enable him to enjoy his surroundings without listening to his helpful back seat driver!
So around about 8:30 we joined the masses and herd our way through very thorough security checks and spilled out into Main Street. For me, having visited as a kid, it was pretty hard to not be crying tears of joy in front of everyone...all the magic is still here and then some! While we oriented ourselves, Minnie Mouse was busy hugging her admirers and signing autographs. We started what was the beginning of a billion steps in the super muggy 37F Florida sunshine to reach the iconic Cinderella's Castle. Jay remarked on how it was so amazing to finally see the castle in person after watching it on our TV screens every Sunday evening as a child. Walt had spun his magic on Grace and Molly in the past with classics and newer Disney characters and they were equally drawn in by the castle.
Our first of many attractions was, of course, It's A Small World. We board our wee boat and set sail amidst the cheerful singing of a thousand global voices...okay, yes, you caught me...my smiling cheeks got a little wet here.
Next was the Haunted Mansion which was eerily fun.
From there we headed over to pay Jack Sparrow and his mates a visit at Pirates of the Caribbean and then onto Jungle Cruise. We rested a bit while cooling off with a Dole Whip ice cream.
Boy it sure is muggy, as in walking around in a perpetual mist.
By the way, we couldn't help but notice how clean, organized and efficient the entire Disney World is run...not a scrap of paper, gum, or spills is left anywhere and all the attractions line ups are handled equally as well. As a child I'm sure I saw that but with my adult eyes it really stands out.
At this point we were probably nearing one o'clock and due to the oppressive heat/humidity (feels like 46), we thought it best to take a break back at the resort pool! We were all getting a tad edgy and empty. After a refreshing swim we scouted out the water taxi service.
Our resort sits on the Sassagoula River which enables the boats to ferry guests to and from our neighbouring resort and also to Disney Springs shopping mecca...again all included!
When we had refueled, we zipped back up to the Magic Kingdom for some evening entertainment. This involved Stitch's Great Escape, a favourite of Grace's. It was a theatre in the round style animatronics.
Unfortunately tonight, Space Mountain was closed so the girls will come back another night to try.
The nightly spectacular at the castle was about to start so we secured a spot and finished our fantastic day with a colourful, musical blast.
xo
A wonderful day for all of you. I am still singing "It's A Small, Small World" and can picture 2 little girls enjoying the ride. So many years later, can picture all of you. Am sure today will be another awe inspiring adventure. Enjoy!!
ReplyDeleteHey Kim, you should consider a writing career, that was a wonderful narrative of your fantastic day. I'm sure tears of joy were ever present as nostalgia was front & center for you & Jay! Have the girls stopped smiling yet?
ReplyDeleteYep, that Florida July heat is tough & you did the right thing taking a break and a swim to cool down. No question if you were wearing a Fitbit you'd be well over 10,000 steps a day!
I attended a conference a few years back that was located on Disney & can attest to both the efficiency of their transit system and the cleanliness of the whole place. Our city councils could learn a lot from Disney about running a city!
Continue to enjoy & we look forward to sharing your fun!
Yes! Jay & I had the same thought about our local city councils! As you remember, no matter where you go here, even along the outskirts, every single plant and shrub is beautifully manicured and the road signage in clear bold lettering. I shake my head at what Ottawa could achieve if the dollars were better accounted for although Disney is pulling in mind boggling amounts of moolah! 😉
DeleteSounds like your having some fun filled days ! Pirates of the Caribbean = scary
ReplyDeleteScary and fun! They have added a very life like Jack Sparrow. 😃
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