A Heartfelt look back at Soarin' (or Soarin' Over California)

Soarin' to tower, we are clear to take-off!

Welcome to my first post of 2020! On the penultimate day of 2020 no less!

This was written early this year at the start of quarantine. I didn't know if I'd have the motivation to actually post it, but I have realized that these blogs are more therapeutic than anything. I actually started this post al the way back in March in honor of Soarin' Over California returning at Disney California Adventure for their Food and Wine festival, but that unfortunately was cut short. I hope everyone is safe, and I hope this entertains you for a 10 min read!

Soarin' Over California

Mark Sumner an imagineer on the Disney's California Adventure project, had an idea for the ride mechanism of a planned flight simulator in the Condor Flats section of the park. Using an old an erector set. While playing around with the set, he had designed the basic ride mechanism for Soarin' Over California. This design allowed for guest to be seated on the ground floor and lifted into an OMNIMAX screen, to give them the sensation of flight, and illusion that they were being transported to each location.

(Image from: wdwthemeparks.com)

The Condor Flats section of the park, while lacking theming, would pay homage to California's love of aviation. What better way to pay homage than to fly guests through California's beautiful landscapes and national parks? Some locations included the Golden Gate Bridge, Malibu, Napa Valley, Monterey Bay, Los Angeles, Yosemite, and Disneyland, just to name a few. The queue line would match the theming to Condor Flats and be a tribute to California aviation.

Disney approached longtime Hollywood composer Jerry Goldsmith about composing the ride score and loading music. You might recognize his name or some of his works which include Planet of the Apes, Mulan, The Mummy, Air Force One, Alien, and of course the iconic theme of Star Trek: The Motion Picture. Do you know the theme song of Star Trek: The Motion Picture? Yup, he wrote that. After riding the vehicle test, Goldsmith came off the ride crying, telling the Imagineers that he wanted to be a part of this experience so much that he would score this attraction at no cost. Disney still compensated him for his work. This would be one of the last projects he ever worked on before his death in 2004.

Jerry Goldsmith (bottom center) with some space guys. (Photo: CBS)

The ride opened with the park on February 8th, 2001. While the opening of Disney's California Adventure was lackluster to say the least, some park guests said that Soarin' Over California was one of, if not perhaps, Disney's best rides.

Fun fact: Did you know that there is a hidden Mickey on the golf ball that is shot at you when you fly over the golf course?

Really hard to make it out, but there is a Hidden Mickey on the golf ball that is hit at Palm Springs (Photo: findmickeys.com)

Soarin'

Now how did this attraction soar over to Epcot? At that time, Epcot needed more attractions to draw crowds, like the Tower of Terror and Rock 'n' Roller Coaster did for MGM in the mid to late 1990's. Soarin' Over California was so well received by guests that Disney executives almost immediately wanted to make a clone of the ride at Epcot. At this point in the history of Epcot, around 2004, the park itself really did not know what it wanted to be thematically. For example, the Living Seas would become the Seas with Nemo and Friends, while you still had the Wonders of Life operating in its unchanged state teaching about the human body from 1989. However, Disney saw a good opportunity to tie the ride into an already existing Future World pavilion.

The Land pavilion was selected to receive the new ride, along with an update of the interior of the building itself. The show Food Rocks! (formerly Kitchen Cabaret) closed in January of 2004 in order to accommodate space needed for the queue line and the 2 new theaters.

The Soarin' exit takes up where the entrance to Food Rocks was (most notably: same area where the fastpass kiosks were). Also look at those sick Land trashcans.

Construction began almost immediately after the closure in order to make the expected opening date of May 5th, 2005. This was to coincide with the Happiest Celebration on Earth event, celebrating Disneyland's 50th anniversary. The ride's name was shortened from Soarin' Over California, to Soarin'. Since the ride experience took place in California, the queue line would be themed to an airport, and now you would be "catching a flight" to California.

Now, I have many stories about my time at Walt Disney World, but this one memory is one that will stick out. One day, in March of 2005 on our annual family vacation, my cousins and I were headed to Journey into Imagination when a cast member approached and asked us "would you like to test a new experience out?" Before he had time to finish his sentence, I excitedly told him, "YES!". I immediately knew what we were being asked to test. We were then directed to wait by the restrooms behind Journey into Imagination for a cast member to take the group of about 20 park guests backstage to the Land. When he opened the doors, the queue line was still filled with tarp and painting was still being finished. We were told to go all the way down to the next cast member. When we got to the front of the line the cast member greeted us and welcomed us to Soarin'! At that time, he instructed us to go to Concourse B, as Concourse A was not operational that day. Once we were given our seating assignments, I saw the now iconic Patrick Warburton preflight instructional video for the very first time.

We buckled in and proceeded with our first flights aboard Soarin'. Now I have experienced many rides in my life, but this was the first time I experienced a ride where people started clapping, cheering, some crying. It was the first time I realized that other people had the potential to think of attractions the way I viewed them, as unique and an art from much like film or shows. Rides can be beautiful because they are experienced with other people. The thing I remember most is seeing not only my cousins enjoy Soarin', but to see my grandparents enjoy themselves, and my Grandpa asking if we can ride it again.

Soarin' would continue to be soft opened for park guests until grand opening. Just like it's opening at DCA, it was a hit at Epcot. 

Here's a little trivia for you: When cast members refer to your flight number 5505, that's a direct reference to the month, day and year that Soarin' opened in Walt Disney World. They still refer to that flight number to this day.

Soarin' Around the World

At some point during the construction of the Walt Disney World's Soarin', it was brought up that a film that fit better in Epcot was an option, but was decided that it would wait. In 2015 at the D23 Expo it was announced that Soarin' Around the World would open at both Epcot and Disney California Adventure, as well as opening at Shanghai Disneyland in Spring of 2016.

Like the title implies, we visit locations from all over the world like Paris, Fiji, Monument Valley, Neuschwanstein Castle as well as many others. You will notice more CGI were used in the film, as well as a very familiar score. The score was written/arranged by Bruce Broughton but used the same melody and just adapted Jerry Goldsmith's wonderful score. 

Did you know: Bruce Broughton has written some of your favorite Disney Parks, Epcot, and Disney films scores and music? I've bet that you've heard some of his works which include: Le Visionarium (The Timekeeper theme), Honey, I Shrunk the Audience, Spaceship Earth (2008), The Rescuers Down Under, Ellen's Energy Adventure (Universe of Energy 1996-2017) as well as many others heard around the parks!

From January 2016 up until June 2016, the Disney California Adventure converted the original film to digital 4k, while Epcot's Soarin' remained under refurbishment until the reopening date. 

Finally, on June 17th, Soarin' Around the World opened at Disney California Adventure and at Epcot. The Shanghai Disneyland version of the ride, named "Soarin' Over the Horizon" opened on June 16th. Unlike the original, the ending actually matched the location you were seeing the film in, instead of always ending in Disneyland. For example when watching the film at Epcot, the ride will end flying over Epcot (minus the construction walls).

(Photo: BuzzFeed)

But like the original, the ride was again an instant hit. Guests loved that there was a new film to refresh the attraction. 

In 2016, a version at Tokyo DisneySea was announced, and finally opened in 2019. This time it was renamed as "Soaring: Fantastic Flight". This version had a minor change to the film, which saw the replacement of the Eiffel Tower scene with a Tokyo Tower scene.

Soaring Fantastic Flight at Tokyo DisneySea (Photo: japan.travel)

In a surprising but not unwelcome announcement, the Disney Parks Blog announced that in July 2019, Disney California Adventure would be showing the original Soarin' Over California for the month. Due to wait times and popular demand, this showing was actually extended a month into August 2019.

Again, Disney Parks Blog announced that for the DCA Food and Wine festival, Soarin' Over California would return, and did briefly, but was cut short unfortunately due to the current Covid-19 pandemic.

The impact of Soarin' Over California

Soarin' was revolutionary in the amusement park industry. While there were similar rides to Soarin' like Back to the Future the ride, none have had the industry wide effect that Soarin' Over California had. Not only did it spawn numerous knock-offs at other parks and locations, it made the industry rethink what a thrilling attraction could be. No longer did a thrill ride need to be fast or have over 3 inversions to be thrilling. The best examples of such attractions at Disney Parks are Flight of Passage and Rise of the Resistance.

Personally, this ride has had a profound effect on me, something I wasn't aware of until I became an adult.

Seeing and hearing people clap and cheer at the end of each ride cycle made me realize that other people see the beauty in this unique multimedia experience that we call rides. Soarin' made me want to be serious about pursuing a career in the Amusement/Hospitality industry. Especially in 2020, I thank God that I am still able to have a job that makes family's happy everyday.

Ironically, in January of 2016 I was in Anaheim for a work conference, and I was lucky enough to catch the Soarin' Over California one last time. Since Soarin' Around the World was announced in 2015, I had thought that the last time I would see the original in Nov 2015. So to my surprise, I got to see the original one last time at Disney California Adventure and it was quite an emotional experience. I remember when I exited the ride, I had that same feeling of joy and wonder when I first rode it as a teenager, 10 years prior.

We Go On: IllumiNations - 30 Years of Nighttime Fun

I would like to take this blog to explore the nighttime entertainment at Epcot for the last 30 years and why Epcot and Epcot Center, were and for the next few days, are my favorite time at any Disney park.

IllumiNations (1988)

The word IllumiNations and Epcot have been synonymous since 1988. Epcot has gone through 4 name changes, and a form of IllumiNations has been playing throughout that entire time. Even before IllumiNations, a New World Fantasy and Laserphonic Symphony led the way to the amazing nighttime shows that we've had for the past 31 years.
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First, a little backstory that may be a bit change of tone, but necessary to tell the whole story.
I was raised by my grandparents from early childhood out of necessity, but my parents were still apart of my life. We, like many families joined the Disney Vacation Club in 1994, so we could make family vacations every year to Florida. My grandparents, aunts and cousins and my mom and dad, would all get a grand villa at Old Key West and have a fun week, usually spring break. This was one of the times of the year I was able to have normalcy in my life. That is what Disney was to me. Normalcy.

Around 1999, my dad got sick. For the next four years he was in and out of the hospital, and we as a family went Disney still but he was only able to go once maybe twice. The last time he was able to go was 2000. There are so few experiences at Disney left from the year 2000 that I was able to experience with my father, and it to this day, makes every showing of IllumiNations so wonderfully bittersweet.

After my father passed in 2002, my family went on an impromptu trip to Walt Disney World for the Fourth of July that year and I made sure that we watched IllumiNations.

Believe it or not, that's not the biggest reason why I love IllumiNations and Tapestry of Nations so much, that would be because of my Grandfather. We did everything together at Disney. He is a champ.
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IllumiNations (1988-1996)
IllumiNations 25A (1996-1997)
Illuminations 25 B (1997-1999)

(I found these in a WDW book from 1992!)

I'm a 90's kid, and I'm sure I'm not alone in saying that IllumiNations from this time doesn't get enough love. My Grandpa especially loved these versions of IllumiNations and I remember how (low key) we always had to make time to see IllumiNations, his favorite being the 1997-1999 version. These versions took musical compositions from famous composers around the world. The most unique of them was IllumiNations 25A which had music composed specifically for it. If you you are lucky enough to be at Epcot during one of it's major birthdays, like Epcot 35th, the anniversary tag (addition to the regular show) features some of this music. This show also had the most, "unique" ending in that an arrangement of the "Circle of Life" ended this show. The 25B version featured again, classical music compositions and was the version I always listened too on the WDW official album!

Then the Millenium Celebration...

Walt Disney World: Millenium Celebration

I remember vividly watching the Walt Disney World planning video for that was sent to homes during this time, and there was a preview of the additions that were being added in 1999, which included both Tapestry of Nations and IllumiNations 2000: Reflections of Earth. Basically they are hype videos and are everything! I was so excited. I watched this ALL THE TIME after I got home from school. I couldn't wait until we went on our yearly trip to see it in person.


For the next section, I highly recommend you listen to this: 

Tapestry of Nations

Tapestry of Nations was, by far, my family's favorite parade. It is so cherished and fondly remember by Disney fans that were able to see it, almost everyone that I talk to says that it is one of, if not their favorite parade that Disney has ever done. Besides, Spectromagic in the Magic Kingdom, I would have to agree.

Both IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth and Tapestry of Nations have the central theme that is celebrating our past, the past 2000 years of humanity and the earth in general.

As soon as I see it on some home videos, or more often hear it play throughout Epcot after IllumiNations is over I just tear up and want to dance. It was so short lived (1999-2003) and I probably had only seen this 5-6 times, yet it has a resounding impact on me. I remember vividly my Grandpa especially do a little happy dance while the puppets went by. The puppets would reach into the crowd to interact with the children. It was amazing.

The bread and butter of the parade was the music and the joyful atmosphere it created. I have never seen a parade bring so much joy to myself and other parade goers, it's insane. Everyone was dancing, some singing along with the music or trying to reach out and touch the giant puppets/marionettes. The music for both Tapestry of Nations, IllumiNations and the theme of the Millenium Celebration "Celebrate the Future Hand in Hand" were all written by Gavin Greenaway (Hans Zimmer also contributed) and are now ICONIC Epcot music.

Tapestry of Nations ran twice a night, and each performance their was actually two going on at the sametime. If you timed it correctly and sat by either Morocco or Mexico (depending on which way the parade was going). Sadly, the parade ended in 2003 (then under the name Tapestry of Dreams).

Tapestry of Nations sets up IllumiNations as this sort of acted as the pre-show to IllumiNations. It is missed dearly by many park goers. My Grandpa to this day will tell you this was his favorite thing at Walt Disney World.

IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth

I say a lot of things are my favorites in Walt Disney World, and I don't know if that's because of bad writing or I love a lot of things, or maybe both, but when I say that IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth is my favorite thing at Walt Disney World, I really do mean this. There is not another thing in WDW that makes my heart so happy than watching IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth. I fully expected this to end, so, when I can, I've tried to see it as much as possible.

If you've ever wondered what those 19 torches are that light the perimeter of World Showcase Lagoon, they represent the past 19 centuries. They remain lit, until the iconic words of Jim Cummings echo throughout the Lagoon:

Good evening. On behalf of Walt Disney World, the place where dreams come true, we welcome all of you to Epcot, and World Showcase. We’re gathered here tonight, around the fire, as people of all lands have gathered for thousands and thousands of years before us, to share the light, and to share a story. An amazing story as old as time itself, but still being written. And though each of us has our own individual stories to tell, a true adventure emerges when we bring them all together as one. We hope you enjoy our story tonight: Reflections of Earth. (cue all the readers blowing out the torches).

For the next section, I highly recommend you listen to this (I have added time stamps for the corresponding events): 

Chaos (0:26):

As the drums get faster and faster a single firework from the American Plaza Theater is launched. An explosion, followed by fireworks that explode on the lagoon and a roaring fire, the universe is being made.

The music is sporadic and loud, with crashing cymbals throughout. After witnessing the universe for a brief second being made, we suddenly focus our attention on earth burning with another blast from the inferno barge. This time it burns brighter and, hotter. With one long blast earth is made.

Space (2:09):

We see Earth finally in the distance floating through the stars (that are lit on the surface of the water). The music slows, a vast contrast from the harsh staccato notes from before. The music changes and a beat starts.

Life (3:39):

The fountains turn green, representing life on earth. We see animals, water and forests. We see a horse running and it becomes a painting.

Man and Adventure (4:16):

A cave painting to be exact, and as other paintings are made on the wall of these caves, we look towards the opening of the cave, to the new horizon. The music crescendos, and the fountain lights up blue. The globe shows us different people from around the world, different vessels and innovations.

Suddenly half of the countries silhouettes are bright with lights lining the buildings, then the other half. If anyone remembers the previous IllumiNations, you'll definitely love this tribute to the shows that ran before. On the earth globe you'll see different countries and cultures. Fireworks explode above the globe.

The globe turns darks as the lagoon starts sparkling with lights on the water. The globe shows an artists pallet. We see the fountains light up pink, green, orange, yellow, these colors our the colors they use to paint a picture in the night sky.

First the pink fireworks shoot straight up, then towards the globe, away from the globe, and again straight up. This repeats with green, orange, and yellow. All of the colors then start shooting up in a circle around the globe, and a few fire over the globe.

The globe then shows people who have impacted the world like Martin Luther King Jr, Amelia Earhart, John F. Kennedy and Walt Disney.

We zoom in on earth.

Home (8:00)

All the countries are lit, and fireworks burst over the lagoon and twinkle in the night sky. All the lasers shine and the music starts to slow.

Celebration (8:34)

Probably the coolest effect in the entire show, usually surprising guests, fireworks are launched from the perimeter of the lagoon (near the guests) and shoot off towards the center. The music in this section is iconic. In the past it has been used in numerous marketing materials, to hype people about Epcot.

The fireworks dance in the night sky, as video of Tapestry of Nations is shown. A true celebration of the last 19 centuries.

As it culminates the perimeter fireworks are fired again, and the music ends.

Meaning (9:30)



My favorite movement in IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth, by far. The song "We Go On" is played in this section, and acts as the grand finale. The lyrics to this song, and the post show song Promise are powerful and ring true the original concept for Epcot. The smoke clears, as Kellie Coffey starts to sing.

With the stillness of the night
Their comes a time to understand
To reach out and touch tomorrow
Take the future in our hand

Small torches on the surface of the water light up.

We can see a new horizon
Built on all that we have done
And our dreams begin another
Thousand circles 'round the sun

All of the 19 torches surrounding World Showcase Lagoon suddenly start burning in unison. At this point, I'm a mess.

We go on
To the joy and through the tears
We go on
To discover new frontiers
Moving on
With the current of the years

The earth globe starts to open up, and we see the 20th torch, emerging from the center.

We go on
Moving forward now as one
Moving on
With a spirit born to run
Ever on
With each rising sun
To a new day
We go on

The 20th century torch now aflame, every country shining bright.

Then, 3 sets of fireworks shoot from the 20th torch on the earth globe.

We go on...

Blinding fireworks fill the night sky. Truly a sight to see. Followed by one more perimeter firework, and a thunderous ending.

Immediately following IllumiNations the song Promise is played. Again it is sung by Kellie Coffey, and all the torches, including the earth globe remain burning during it.

This song in the last few years has really hit me hard. I've ugly cried before. The lyrics are so fitting to how I feel about these shows, and Epcot in general.

Promise

Every evening
Brings an ending
Every day becomes a legacy

Every sunset
Leads to morning
With the promise of opportunity

We can reach for the stars we find along the way
Dreaming as we learn to love everyday

Promise 
You will take my hand
As tomorrow comes 
We'll go on

We'll go on
Growing closer through the years
Moving on
Through the good times and the tears
Ever on
Another thousand circles 'round the sun
If two can be as one
We'll go on

There is music
If you listen
In the rhythm of each breath we take

Destinations
Undiscovered
Revelations from every choice we make

And I know
There are diamonds dancin' in the sky
All we have to do 
Is open our eyes

Promise
We'll walk side by side
As a new day dawns
We'll go on

We'll go on
Growing closer through the years
Moving on
Through the good times and the tears
Ever on
Another thousand circles 'round the sun
A new life has begun
The two of us as one
We'll go on

Moving on
Through the good times and the tears
Ever on
Another thousand circles 'round the sun
A new life has begun
When two of us are one
And we live to keep the promise

We'll go on
Ever on
We'll go on


And of course, the icing on top is Tapestry of Nations is played while everyone is heading out of the park.

IllumiNations in any form will always have a special place in my heart. Through the good times and the tears, we'll go on!

Also please check out this the following link, of CLIFFLIX's IllumiNations Reflections of Earth 2017. It's in 4K and the best on YouTube: CLIFFLIX IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth

My Top 10 Favorite WDW Resorts and Hotels (That I Have Stayed At)

10. Disney's All-Star Movies

This was the first Disney Value Resort that I had stayed at and I think it is actually quite charming. Is it the Grand Floridian? No. But for the price point of the rooms it could be just plain and have no theming, but resort itself actually has a lot of theming.

The food court court, Intermission Cafe, has a secret menu here that is probably the coolest thing about the resort in whole. Ask a cook or server if you can glance at the secret menu and a cast member with a briefcase with come out and give you a view-master. Yup the secret menu is on a flippin view-master. I don't want to spoil the menu, but it has very unique dishes. This is the only All-Star Resort that does this, so if you stay at AS Sports, or AS Music I think it's worth it to stop by Movies to experience the secret menu! Other than that though the food is pretty pedestrian.

The rooms itself are small and will be accessed by a door that leads outside (rather than an interior hallway). The rooms have received an update, and in my humble opinion, looks much better. There is a king sized bed and a table/pull down queen much like there is in the Art of Animation. I thought they were much cleaner than my stay in 2017, and the staff was very friendly.


9. Disney's Fort Wilderness Lodge

Perhaps the most picturesque Resort on the list. The lobby is looks like a pacific northwestern lodge and is truly magnificent. There are giant fireplaces and seating  which makes it feel like home. The start of a little creek is formed from the lobby area and runs all the way down to Bay Lake. While the pool wasn't open during our visit, the rock work surrounding it makes it look like you are in a natural springs, oh and there is a slide.

I haven't had a good meal here, but I admittedly have only been to Roaring Fork. I haven't been to Whispering Canyon Cafe which is known to be a very fun restaurant. But the newest option, Geyser Point Bar and Grill looks to be a very good restaurant. Anyplace that serves sandwiches with waffle fries is a hit in my book, looking forward to trying it.

The rooms in the hotel itself are more spacious than standard studio rooms on property, and there is a cool bunk bed option. I actually stayed at the Boulder Ridge Villas here, and had a less than stellar visit, but a lot of the negatives were due to the fact that there was a tropical storm at the time. The biggest downside was how far away from the actual lobby and food options you are. We were on the 4th floor at the end of the building and it was about a 9 min walk to Roaring Fork. The lobby of Boulder Ridge is again stunning.

8. Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa

Saratoga Springs is a very nice resort. It's theme is upstate New York on a race track, so every so often you'll hear the "first call" (the bugle that plays before horse races).

The food here is very hit or miss. I've had good food from the quick service location Artist's Pallet, but pretty mediocre food at The Turf Club Bar and Grill. It is unfortunate that the main refillable mug location is at Artist's Pallet as most of the rooms are a pretty far walk.

This is a Disney Vacation Club resort, which means the rooms are bigger than normal. The deluxe studio doesn't have a kitchen, but is pretty spacious, and the 3 bedroom grand villas are actually two stories which is awesome.

Also it's huge resort with 5 bus stops, which doesn't bother me, but may take a tad bit longer getting to the parks. It takes only about 7 mins to get to Epcot. Saratoga Springs also has a water shuttle service to Disney Springs.



7. Disney's Art of Animation Resort

This resort is awesome. By far the best Value Resort on Disney property, but also the most expensive in that category. It's lobby's layout is similar to the All Stars and identical to Pop Century's but has an incredible mural of rough animations cells all the way down to finished film cells from The Lion King, The Little Mermaid, Cars, and Finding Nemo. On the opposite wall you have many different shades of colors representing a pallet. This lobby is not to be missed, and just like they did at Hollywood Studios, animation classes are held everyday for both kids and adults!

The food court, Landscape of Flavors is my second favorite on property (Capt. Cooks at the Polynesian just beat it out) and has truly good and wide selections for your entire travel party. They have many unique pastries in the bakery case and are usual open until midnight. Also the Drop Off bar (next to the big blue pool) has so many options for both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, which includes frozen jack and coke, frozen rum and coke, and dole whip with rum.

The main pool, the Big Blue Pool is the largest pool on Disney property and also probably the busiest. I had a very hard time finding a spot to put my stuff while I swam. But the pool is so much fun! There is an adorable splash pad for toddlers that makes it look like Marlin and Nemo's sea anemone.

And the building's are themed to whatever section your building was in. I was most impressed with the Cars section. The theming was excellent and matched the quality of Cars Land at Disney California Adventure. Most of the Resort are family suites, excluding The Little Mermaid section which is normal Value Resort room.

Honestly, if it were easier to get to the bus from your room, this Resort ranking would be a lot higher. It will be interesting to see how much the Skyliner impacts the transportation situation.


6. Disney's Coronado Springs Resort and Gran Destino Tower

(Photo credit: Disney Park Blog)

The only Moderate Resort that I've stayed at was at Disney's Coronado Springs Resort and I was really impressed with it. The former lobby space was beautiful and huge, but I believe that the new check in for everyone is at the Gran Destino Tower (not 100% sure though). This resort has one of the best retail spaces that I've seen (Panchito's) paired with the worst food at any Disney resort I've stayed at (Pepper Market, Maya Grill, Rixs). Both Rix and the Pepper Market actually have nice themed seating areas but the food is not well prepared nor is it held to a high standards. My chorizo was cold and the replacement wasn't any better.

However, it has gotten a new life in terms of food with the brand new Gran Destino Tower and the beautiful Toledo.

The rooms at the Gran Destino Tower are pretty spacey and has everything centrally located either in the Tower or connected to the convention center.

I stayed in the Casitas portion of the resort which is closest to the old lobby area/restaurants. The room was rather large, was comparable to a DVC studio at the Boardwalk Inn. I really like the sliding door to the bathroom area. Overall though I really loved the room I was staying and loved how close the Casitas was to the bus stop.

Like other big resorts, there are bus stops around the resort and it is a bit of a walk to the lobby area, but not as far of a walk as some rooms at Old Key West or Saratoga Springs.


5. Disney's Boardwalk Inn and Villas

Some of the best places to stay are in the Epcot Resort Area. One of those places is the Boardwalk Inn and Villas. Not only does the Boardwalk have incredible restaurants and nightlife, it is also the closest resort to Disney's Hollywood Studios and second closest to Epcot. This also has a Friendship Boat stop which services: Disney's Hollywood Studios, the Swan and Dolphin, the Boardwalk, the Yacht and Beach Club, and Epcot.

You have many food and drink options at the Boardwalk, but some of the best are: the Flying Fish Cafe, Boardwalk Bakery and Abracadabar.

The rooms are very nice and are rather spacious.Some of the rooms have a great view like this:

But you'll more than likely end up with views like this:

(Photo credit: Touring Plans)

They have a very nice pool area, but its the slide that makes this pool standout. When you ride the slide you come out of a clowns mouth and into the pool. It's actually a really cool slide, but at night the eyes of the clown glow and is one of the most unnerving sights at Walt Disney World. We had a room overlooking the clown and I kept the shades constantly closed.

Below: The terrifying clown slide.

If you stay in the Villas, they have a full kitchen like the rest, but have been renovated and look very nice. Love the update to the bathroom, including the shower. One of the biggest draws when staying at the Villas, you have an exit near the walkway to Disney's Hollywood Studios which is by far the fastest way to get there (way faster than the boat).


4. Bay Lake Tower at Disney's Contemporary Resort

(Photo credit: Disney Park Blog) 

While I have never stayed at the Contemporary itself (my dream resort stay!), I was lucky enough to stay in one of the 3 bedroom grand villas (theme park view) at Bay Lake Tower and it was one of the most magical places to stay in all of Walt Disney World. The 3 bedroom grand villas here are all located at the top of the building both back and front. If you look at the building they are the penthouse looking two floor rooms at the top.

Just thinking back to it, I get teary eyed having been able to sit on the balcony eating cereal and looking over Tomorrowland. It is truly special.

The 3 bedroom itself is two stories and has two entry points, one on the master bedroom floor and the two bedrooms up top has a dedicated entry.

Only downside (which isn't that much of a downside because the Contemporary is awesome) but you need to head by elevator to the 4th floor to the walkway to the contemporary for anything. There is no food, no merchandise location, no refillable mug locations (priorities) at Bay Lake Tower. BLT does have the Top of the World lounge which has good appetizers and drinks in the evening but no regular food service.

(Top of the World Lounge; Photo credit: Disney Park Blog)

The bus location is at the Contemporary as well which can be annoying because you have to walk from the BLT lobby to the Contemporary which is not covered. But it is the closest in walking distance to the Magic Kingdom (takes 6 minutes) or you can use the contemporary to hop on the Monorail.

PRO TIP (For Disney Vacation Club Members): If you get to Walt Disney World on your travel day and want to watch the fireworks at the Magic Kingdom but don't want to use a park admission, go to the Top of the World Lounge and watch them there. They pump in the synchronized soundtrack and you get an amazing view of the fireworks. If you are staying at the resort you can use your magic band to get you to the top floor. If you are not staying at Bay Lake Tower and want to get to the Top of the World Lounge you will need to check in at the podium on the north side elevators. They will need to see a valid photo I.D. as well as your Disney Vacation Club card. The best way to get there would be to take the bus to the Magic Kingdom and take the walkway to the Contemporary.


3. Disney's Polynesian Village Resort

(Photo credit: Disney Park Blog)

The spirit of aloha is truly alive with this resort. If you have ever gotten the chance to visit Hawaii, you'll feel as though you've never left at the resort. As soon as you walk in you are greeted with a lei and treated to a updated lobby. Gone is the huge fountain and in its place, just seating, but there is a statue of Maui, the original Maui used in the 1970's. This is one of the 2 original hotels (not including the Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground) and holds a very special place in many WDW fans hearts.

The Polynesian has the best resort restaurants, food court and bars on property with Ohana, Capt. Cooks, and Trader Sam's Grog Grotto. Ohana has the best character breakfast meal which includes Mickey, Pluto, Lilo and Stitch, as well as the best resort dinner which is an all you care to enjoy Hawaiian churrascaria (think fogo) with amazing P.O.G. (Passion Fruit/Orange/Guava) juice, which is the nectar of the gods, so good!

My beloved Tonga Toast (at Captain Cooks)

Captain Cooks has great fare during the day and a great option for a quick bite, but the star hear is the Tonga Toast. Yes friends, I've gone on about the tonga toast before so all I will say is that it's not to be missed. And the pretty well hidden Trader Sam's Grog Grotto is hands down the best lounge and bar at Walt Disney World.

The drinks are amazing and there are small plates offered, but the thing that makes this location one of a kind is the theming and atmosphere. Trader Sam is of course the head-salesman at the end of the Jungle Cruise in the Magic Kingdom, and skipper-like servers and bartenders will serve you and make lighthearted conversation, while the bar comes alive around you. I could make a post just on this alone, but make sure you make time for Trader Sam's as it can fill up fast!

(Photo credit: someone on flickr; let me know and I'll credit you!) 

Seriously, LIT is the only word to describe my time at Trader Sam's

The rooms are not adjacent to the lobby and are linked by uncovered pathways to your perspective building or "longhouse". Some of these are quite a bit of a walk to the lobby, which can be a real drag if you are heading out in the rain.

The rooms are standard and there are DVC options at the resort, but not many. The deluxe studio is one of the biggest on property (second to be exact) and has one full bathroom and a half bath, as well as a queen bed, pull-out queen sofa, and the really adorable child size sleeper for one.

The bungalows look to be amazing, but are hugely expensive. They are two bedrooms (one queen, one king) two full bathroom, one queen sofa bed, full kitchen and on the deck, two lounge chairs, an outside table and a small four person POOL. Not to mention the best view to watch Happily Ever After.

Hallowishes 2018 from the Polynesia beach/bungalows

PRO TIP: If you get to Walt Disney World on your travel day and want to watch the fireworks at the Magic Kingdom but don't want to use a park admission, go to the Polynesian Beach and watch them there. They pump in the synchronized soundtrack and you get an amazing view of the fireworks. I actually enjoy this spot more than watching them at both Bay Lake Tower or the Contemporary as it's much more relaxed. YOU DON'T NEED TO BUY ANYTHING, OR MAKE A RESERVATION IT'S ABSOLUTELY FREE. Might need an Uber or Lyft from your resort though.



2. Disney's Beach Club Resort and Villas

Now we get to my sentimental top two resorts, starting with the Beach Club. Disney's Yacht and Beach Club Resort are two different resorts, but they are connected. They share the same main pool, Stormalong Bay, but have different restaurants and shopping. The Beach Club is Blue in color and is the closest resort to Epcot; In fact I timed one of my walks and it took me five minutes to make it to the back entrance of Epcot. The Beach Club is also home to the Beach Club Villas.

The rooms and the whole resort is, well, beach themed. It conveys a seaside retreat in the summer, and takes itself a little more laid back. The Villas are not that far away from the lobby and offer it's own quite pool. The shop at the Beach Club is paired with the market place which serves quick service food, which has very similar options and feel to Artist's Pallet at Saratoga Springs. There is also Cape May Cafe which offers a character breakfast in the morning with some seafood options and an all you can eat seafood buffet in the evening.

Unfortunately at the time of writing, Beaches and Cream is closed for a major refurbishment until November, but it is a not to be missed soda fountain/diner. I will regularly go out of my way to get a some ice cream sundaes and their hot food is just as good. While it may seem simple, the grilled cheese and tomato soup is so tasty, and to pear it with a oreo shake, what could be better? This is the home of the famous "Kitchen Sink" which includes: scoops of all flavors of ice cream, all the toppings in house, an ENTIRE CAN OF WHIPPED CREAM (this is emphatically shouted) and some cherries on top!

Stormalong Bay is the best pool on Disney property, and at this point I'm comfortable in saying that this is a fact. The main pools are interconnected, there is a mini-lazy river and three hot tubs. For the Kiddos there is a zero depth entry that is also sand bottom and really fun for smaller ones. I remember spending a good amount of time here as a child. The slide is the largest pool slide on property and accessed across the pathway in the wrecked pirate ship on Crescent Lake. Climb the spiral staircase up about two and a half stories and there you will find the entrance to the slide. The big slide will empty out into the main pools back across the pathways.The kiddie slides are located on the ship as well.

All of this, plus the Friendship Boats!

1. Disney's Old Key West Resort

If you've ever visited WDW with me, or talked about Disney with me, You'll know how much I love this resort, and how many memories I have here.

Old Key West, like Saratoga Springs, is a Disney Vacation Club resort, in fact it was the first one. It has some of the largest rooms on property, with the largest being the massive two story 2,022 sq. ft. three bedroom grand villa. The lobby is known as the Hospitality House, and serves as the main resort area at Old Key West. It also includes a water shuttle to Disney Springs and 5 bus stops.

The bus service is very spotty at Old Key West. I've had continuous buses regularly and I've had to wait 35 minutes for a bus. Since the resort is so large there is a great chance that your bus might be pulling up as you are in sight, but you might have to run. This is not ideal, especially if you've got a family in tow, but there is bus wait times/estimated arrivals so you can check it from your room which makes this a whole lot more manageable. This is the shortest bus ride to Epcot though. I timed it from leaving the Hospitality House to Epcot and it was a 5 minute bus ride!

The rooms are overlooking the Lake Buena Vista golf course. In fact if you have a tee time set, Disney will actually give you a lift over to the clubhouse (by Saratoga Springs) for free. The golf course makes for some spectacular sunrise and sunsets at Old Key West and, for the most part every room has a great view of the golf course.

The guest room buildings are all pastel and stairs to the guest rooms. Again, all the rooms have a unique layout, but the most unique being the three bedroom grand villa. This villa has one king bed, five queen beds (one is a pull out) and three bathrooms. All Villas include a washer/dryer and full kitchens.

Since the resort is so large, it has four pools scattered around, with the main pool being by the lobby. Old Key West is recognizable by the lighthouse next to the pool area that serves as the only sauna on property open to resort guests. This pool is not huge by most standards, but very nice and usually quite unless the pool games are going on. There is a pool slide here and it is shaped in the form of a sandcastle. There are so many activities here like shuffle board, foosball, a four person surrey bike.

There are two lesser known about events here that happen weekly.

A resort tour "Legends of Conch Flats". "This complimentary, 45-60-minute walking tour for Members and guests of all ages explores resort’s Hospitality House, revealing how Walt Disney Imagineers blended historical fact and charming fiction to create this tropical oasis. The tour departs Papa’s Den (adjacent to the lobby) on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 10 a.m. No advance registration necessary. Participants receive an exclusive pin (pictured above) celebrating Conch Flats, the imagined setting of the resort that put Disney Vacation Club on the map."

And the southernmost point 3K occurs on most Wednesdays at 7:30am. Inquire at the front desk. Registration is $15 per person (kids under 3 are free).

Olivia's Cafe is the most underrated table service restaurant in Walt Disney World. Even when staying at other resorts, I try to make the time to eat at Olivia's. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner all do not disappoint. The brunch served on Saturday and Sunday is awesome. My favorites are the Banana Bread French Toast with banana-rum syrup and coconut whipped cream and the Southernmost Buttermilk Fried Chicken with mash potatoes and gravy!

In my opinion, the best resort on property, and a great resort for some extra space!


Hopefully this gives you some better insight in choosing or visiting one of these resorts!