HO-HO-HOLY GRINCHMAS...10 JOLLY HOLIDAY NIGHTS AT RPR..NOV/DEC 2018

Christmas season is the one I have never been to at the darkside

So I am thrilled to see all those pictures you share with us

Tom and you have a great eye in photography
And all your readers get to see how great the parks and hotels are decorated
 
Christmas season is the one I have never been to at the darkside

So I am thrilled to see all those pictures you share with us

Tom and you have a great eye in photography
And all your readers get to see how great the parks and hotels are decorated

Well you know we loved it in 2017 when we visited in December for the first time.......we knew we had to go back.

Thanks.....we do enjoy taking pictures.......always something to photograph. And yes,the parks and hotels are beautifully decorated it’s hard for them not to look good.......:thumbsup2
 
So excited for you, Carole! Sounds like you're off to a great start, and of course, to have your lovely son with you must have just been the most wonderful early Christmas gift. So wonderful to spend time together as a family! Can't wait to read more!
 
So excited for you, Carole! Sounds like you're off to a great start, and of course, to have your lovely son with you must have just been the most wonderful early Christmas gift. So wonderful to spend time together as a family! Can't wait to read more!

WELCOME to you again April...……:)

So, lovely to see you here on this one too.....always nice to see you post.....

It really was fabulous having him with us......it`s funny but even though he lives at home, he has his own thing going on so sometimes we may just see him at breakfast then dinner......but of course as it should be.....we`re very lucky we have him all the time at home!!!! So, it`s lovely having a full 12 days together with the days before and after...….yep, I agree family time is worth more than anything else...…

But, I`m babbling again..….I hope you enjoy this one too...…..::yes::
 


When we were done in the New York area we wandered around to Potter......and thankfully it was another hot day again even though it was early.....we were loving it!!! And could put up with this all day every day......we had even forgotten about the suppressive heat of September.

We pass by Louie`s pizza and Kyle comments how much he enjoys their pizzas too......we would try to get back to that one day......they are lovely, plain and simple and now they are huge slices.....so much bigger than before.


Beat Builders hadn't quite set up yet so we missed that again today...….but it is a high energy show that people always enjoy watching......there is audience participation so you can get chosen to join them......and it`s usually a lady.

We buy some water from the cart outside Richter Burger store...….and stand in the shade while we drink them...….then Diagon Alley was beckoning us.

Yesterday the line for the conductor and shrunken head was extremely long so we never wait if it`s too long....but today it wasn't too bad...…..so we had a wander round the outside area while the line went down a bit...….and had a nosey in the rear of the bus which is scarily identical to the movie...….

The exterior is beautiful. And the fake London hotel is rather lovely and somewhere I`d certainly consider staying if it was real......the fountain doesn't have an awful lot of water in it....but again, it`s somewhere nice to sit for a few minutes. They do have a lot of seating places around the parks...we like that....you can sit more or less anywhere you feel like, especially in the Studios....and in Diagon and Knockturn Alley`s too, there are quite a lot of seating areas.




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We do like the back of the Knight Bus.....when you look in to where the beds are laid out as I said, it is identical to the view in the movies.....and I`m amazed to hear a family say they didn't know it was here....again, always amazed by how little research folks do before such a fabulous trip!!! Usually I`m more than happy to help anyone out....but when they know so little as to what ride is even in this park......nope.....not enough time for that amount of educating...…

We hopped on the bus as they tried to decide where the Castle was...….lol......ok that didn't happen...…. but it could have with how little they seemed to know......





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Another family appeared as the bemused family left...….and they said they`d take a picture of us all together.....and of course Tom returned the compliment...….




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Maybe not as glamorous as what I imagine the fake Wyndhams hotel to look like inside...….




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So, we go round to the Conductor who has no one at all waiting to see him......this is always a fabulous meet and greet....the conductor is incredibly funny and very quick witted to everyone he talks to.....and then there is the shrunken head who is very interactive...….and extremely funny...….

We got loads of pictures of this, but most are the same....just the conductors face that changes......but the Shrunken Head calls you by your name, finds out where you are from and all sorts of conversation pieces.....and of course as there was no one else waiting we were there for quite a while....all down to the Shrunken head more than the conductor this time...……

As we were nearly done he had one last comment mainly to the conductor......he said he was surprised that he didn't smell alcohol off of us as we were from Scotland...…….now we howled with laughter at this.....as of course Scots are supposed to be heavy drinkers...….well.....some......lol...….the conductor of course feigned shock and horror at such a comment......but it was funny...….it really was a good interaction...….

I do have to say I did tell him my favourite words to hear were...…..







I can`t post his reply on a family site!!!! Although I will say there was no one around to hear......lol...…




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Then of course it`s into the beautiful and wonderous Diagon Alley...…..it`s funny we never do this park first....so we never experience what was Harry`s first glimpse of the Wizarding World he was about to embrace...…..I guess we`ve seen it so often we don't need to follow that path as many do. I personally don't think it matters and funnily enough would suggest seeing Hogsmeade and the Castle first......but no real reason and at the end of the day....both places are spectacular...….





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Seeing this area is always a treat......and today I decide to wait for the dragon to expel it`s flame......and for some reason it doesn't......it`s usually every 10 minutes or so, but today there was an issue as it didn't breathe fire for over an hour. These things happen of course, but you can see folks disappointed it doesn't go off...….and you can see some hear the rumble of the train and confuse that with the errant rumblings of the dragon before it exhales.




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The detail is precise and exactly as it should be in all things Potter......whatever thoughts anyone has for JK Rowling....she certainly created an amazing place and between her vision and the creators design it has turned into one amazing experience...….everyone knows she had a hand and opinion in everything you see, and it shows...….the intricacies of every detail can be clearly seen as the scissors below for the sign outside Madam Malkins…….

This is a store you have to go into...….apart from the robes and other accessories you have the wonderous mirror that will either compliment or insult you as you stand in front and glance into it......some of the insults are very funny. But, it`s a lovely store...……




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We go up and look to go on Gringotts right now......and we do go on just the once. We leave everything in the lockers and head into the EP line......it was a walk through and we only waited once we got to the stairs.....and even then not for long.

We got the middle of the carriage and it was as decent as always...….it is fun. We always comment how the initial drop, if you can call it that, but we wish it was deeper or longer.....or both!!! But, it`s a ride we never miss.

And as we walk down the stairs to exit the ride we overhear a family behind us gripe how poor it was compared to the Pandora ride and Disney would have done Potter so much better...…..







We kinda laugh to ourselves and wonder if they can actually hear themselves...…..

We get off and retrieve our items from a surprisingly quiet set of lockers. Maybe as we always go to the rear of the lockers instead of to the front. And we are back out in the sunshine...….beautiful day.




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I have a notion for ice cream......I`m not the biggest fan of Florean Fortescues Ice cream, but I know Kyle would like the chocolate hard pack......and I had wanted to try the marmalade soft serve. I would have got it in September as Tom and I shared one....but he hates marmalade and didn't want to try it.....as if it would really taste like marmalade...….but anyway, I asked the guys if they wanted one and they rather surprisingly and enthusiastically agreed that they would love an ice cream...….we`re very rarely hungry mid morning.....

Kyle adores ice cream......as long as it`s chocolate...…...I have seen him demolish a dessert the size of a dinner plate...…..and not even stop for a break...….we always smile when we see this and think of Kyle and his occasional massive desserts...…….








There is a small line waiting and some of the kids faces are shining with delight as they enter the parlour and glance at the options they have before them…..

And there is a fair choice.……..

I do love clotted cream ice cream in the UK......but when I first tasted their option the lady warned me it didn't taste like UK clotted cream......but more like key lime pie.....which is exactly what it does taste like......but still nice.




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Kyle does of course opt for the hard pack chocolate, Tom chooses vanilla and clotted cream and I finally get my orange marmalade soft serve to try...……




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And it was nice. Not marmalade flavoured as I know it, but nice enough......I wouldn't get it again but it was just nice. Kyle really enjoyed his, but declared it not as good as Ben & Jerry`s...….and Tom said there`s just something missing from them.....but we did all empty our cups...…..

We placed our cups in the trash and Tom asks Kyle if he wants to go back on Gringotts.....of course he does.....I tell them I`ll wander around out her and take in the Celestina Warbeck show which should be on soon...…..so they head back into the ride and I have a wander around this area too...…

It`s not the best picture of the teapot...but you can usually see a whole load of steam spewing out of it......very cute.....as are most things around here...……




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I loved this individual broomstick just hanging......I hadn't noticed it before, but looking at older pictures it`s always been there...…..I guess I`m not always as observant as other times.




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As I go further round the Celestina Warbeck show has already begun...….it is excellent.....and with the added Christmas effects it is lovely to watch. This woman can really sing!!! Well, they`re all good......and the watching audience are loving the whole show.......




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As the show finishes it begins to snow...….and it is so pretty and unexpected to me as I didn't know it happened....although I should have guessed...…..and it has delighted everyone around especially the littler ones who appeared to be so excited and begin to try and catch some. Lovely.




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I loved this display...……



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I wander back under the dragon which is still not blowing out flames to the disappointment of everyone around...…..and I watch folks trying to make the umbrella spell work...….that is funny.....a grown lady cannot get the spell to work and then a small child of around 5 gets it first time...….she doesn't look thrilled.....lol.....

The Fountain of Fair Fortune is another place you can get Butterbeer and real ales too. We have never seen it overly busy, except one time when it was heaving....you couldn't get in the door, but that was back when it first opened. Now, it`s usually fairly quiet...…





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Flimflams Lanterns is another spell you can make work with an interactive wand...….you can make the whole window light up......it`s a little bit more spectacular when it`s darker...….but it is a nice little spell if you can do it......and of course the whole place looks amazing all lit up at night......so beautiful.




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I must admit to being a little confused as to some of the adverts painted on the walls.....Fungal Budge!!!







I don't even want to imagine!!!! But, they certainly are unique and quite descriptive...…





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And the entrance to the ladies bathrooms is of course shown as...... a witch...…..cool.





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As I exit the bathroom the dragon is now back to normal......much to the delight of everyone waiting...…



Knockturn Alley coming up...………..


 
This should be a fairly short entry...……

Knockturn Alley is an area we like a lot......although today we really didn't spend a lot of time in here...….in previous trip reports I have loads more pictures of this area, and we just didn't take too many today...…

It`s nice to just wander around and enjoy......and we did today.

Of course we do have "tradition" pictures we take around the park....and between these doors is one of them.....



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The ceiling has a fake night sky that is very realistic with moving clouds and views of the full moon.....of course trying to capture that has been something Tom kept missing, so he was determined to get it this time...…simple things of course...…..




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It was fairly quiet still and we did manage to get a few pictures with almost no one around.....it`s nice when it`s like this and we have been fairly fortunate that most of our visits have been like that, but, we have seen it busy......not so much fun then!!!



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Again, it`s the detail that so takes us aback at times......looking at old style London in black and white films, they captured everything that would be so true to the times......we just love it and genuinely spend a lot of time just wandering and taking it all in.



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We didn't go in the shop today and instead we headed back out into the beautiful sunshine...…..and it really was beautiful...….the heat was lovely, but the forecast was predicting a short downpour in a little while.....although right now it didn't look like it. But of course this was Florida...….wait five minutes...….




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We walked out of Diagon Alley and headed round to the left to head out of the park......they decided to do the Simpsons first so I wandered again a little...…..and took some images, but to be honest I ended up sitting outside the Simpson`s store on one of the benches and again, watched the world go by...….it`s something I do enjoy doing and Tom and I often just sit having a drink and watch the other guests wander and sometimes race around the park to get to where they are going...….




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They go on Simpsons ride once...….I think that`s enough for them....it`s not a ride I ever go on since it knocked me bad.....will never ride it again. And although Transformers does make me feel a little bad, this one was full blown dreadful. Apart from that ride I can go on anything in the parks with no side effects...….

They appear fairly quickly and we set off towards the exit...…..stopping for one photograph...…..




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And at that the rain starts...…..the sky had looked ominous for a little while behind us...….but it just came down so quickly...….we took a little shelter along the pathway...…




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I have to say much as we love the Blues Brothers and their unique car......it stinks to high heavens when it passes you...….but they do give us a massive wave..... and we now try to avoid the rain that was now teaming down.....




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We take shelter in the Universal store for maybe 5 minutes or so...….and then it goes off and we head for the boats as we are going to Portofino Bay for lunch...…

Of course this is the day there is a boat sitting for RP and we have to wait for the PB one......I think we waited 10 minutes, which is quite long. We passed by a couple who were stood at the gate that folks who are coming off the boat....so we walked past to wait where the proper gate was......and folks lined up behind us...…

The couple hadn't realised and tried to tell us they were at the right bit and I think they were quite annoyed they weren't first anymore......I`d have happily let them go first.....but they grouched about folks jumping the line...….then the boat captain told them they were in the wrong place...….lol...…

It`s a nice ride to PB and although it is a little further than the RP or HR it`s not exactly a ten mile hike....and we sat on the right side of the boat......we sat on the wrong side of the boat as the rain was coming in and hitting us.....so we sat right at the end so as to avoid it...….but it was fairly heavy.

By the time we got to PB it had stopped.

Sal`s is a nice place...….very small and has several options for lunch including sandwiches, salads, subs, and pizza.....there are some ready made options in the chillers.

But, we are here for pizza...…..and today I made a mistake. Usually we order a cheese pizza for Kyle with bbq sauce base, but for some reason I ordered a Margerita…….doh!!! Tom and I are going to share a BBQ chicken with no scallions, add pineapple and jalapenos...….it is lush!!!!

So when the pizza`s are ready I see my mistake......the lady offers to redo it but Kyle says he`ll just pick the tomato slices off....and it is fine.....but have no idea why I ordered that one...….




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I have to say they were both delicious. We always enjoy their food whether it be sandwiches or pizza. It`s the only place we like to eat in PB as we have tried the restaurants, but found them too processed and when we asked for omissions in sauces they told us it wasn't possible as they had already been made up. Considering this was an allergy and not just being difficult or fussy, we decided not to go back.

Once we had finished we headed up to the lobby which is beautiful......and of course they do have a lovely Christmas tree...…I have a real love of Christmas Trees especially when they are beautifully decorated...….and folks often comment on it...….









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You can go outside onto one of their small balconies from the lobby.....and the view is lovely, and you can see the rain had really cleared up now...….and the heat was building up nicely again...….





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Back inside we wander around and enjoy seeing the sights and the lovely aroma that is prevalent in the lobby......very fresh.



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It is a beautiful and probably for us, the second nicest of the hotels that offer EP...….although we are not so keen on Italy the theme is still very nice. We have been to the real Portofino and the hotel does have a similar look to an area there.....the good thing is it doesn't smell like the real Portofino Bay did when we went...….they had problems with drains and that is our outstanding memory of the place.....not a good one!!!








This place however, did smell beautiful...….

It is so quiet during the day.....almost deserted in many ways......there are many folks around and there are people in their business area too.....but it seems quiet.




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Once we are done wandering around, we nip down to the bathrooms which are nice too. It was a quick visit and so quick, I realised later I had left my sunhat on the back of the stall door......few years ago I was notorious for losing hats and having to replace them......but, hadn't done that for a while......hey ho...…

We go out and ask for an ODC to take us back to RP, and there isn't any available.....so one of the guys, I forget his name, offered to get one of their own cars to take us back.....we are very grateful to him for doing so...….and we are back home in a few minutes...…..

This service is excellent and a fabulous perk of staying onsite. It`s complimentary apart from a tip of course.

There had been a couple of additions to the gingerbread display since we last looked at it......so we spent a little time checking it out and admiring the amount of work the chef`s put into it...…




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And of course the impressive Christmas Tree...…..



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The aroma is very pleasant and not overdone......but, it is lovely to see the progression of the display as our stay went along...…

We went up to our room and had a chill out for an hour or so.....we were all feeling weirdly tired, and we hadn't really done that much so far...…..so we thought sleep for an hour and we`d all feel much better...…..

 
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Amazing photos.

Just wanted to say how much I have enjoyed reading this trip report and some of your others. We are heading to Universal and RPR in August for the first time in 17 years and will be a first visit for my daughters (they have only done Disney) and reading your reports and all the lovely things you have to say about Royal Pacific has made us all even more excited for our Universal trip.
 


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And it was nice. Not marmalade flavoured as I know it, but nice enough......I wouldn't get it again but it was just nice. Kyle really enjoyed his, but declared it not as good as Ben & Jerry`s...….and Tom said there`s just something missing from them.....but we did all empty our cups...…..



Kara likes the marmalade flavor and has ordered it both times. It's really more like a creamsicle, but I'm not sure they even have those on your side of the pond.
 
Amazing photos.

Just wanted to say how much I have enjoyed reading this trip report and some of your others. We are heading to Universal and RPR in August for the first time in 17 years and will be a first visit for my daughters (they have only done Disney) and reading your reports and all the lovely things you have to say about Royal Pacific has made us all even more excited for our Universal trip.

WELCOME.........Marie72.......

Lovely to have you join us!!

Thank you so much, I’m so glad you have enjoyed reading them.........I’m so happy to read that!

Oh my, 17 years!!! You’ll see a massive difference in the parks......huge!! And of course RP is just beautiful........

Unfortunately the lobby is going through a massive refurb beginning March. So there will be some upheaval while you’re there, as I believe it has been delayed slightly and will now go on till October.

But you’ll see the new grab and go area for breakfast and where it’s being moved to and maybe the new sushi bar......it sounds beautiful....but even with that going on I’m sure you’ll still have an amazing trip with your family.......

Nice to have you post here..........:)
 
Kara likes the marmalade flavor and has ordered it both times. It's really more like a creamsicle, but I'm not sure they even have those on your side of the pond.

Yes! We do have an iced lolly over here as we call them and that’s what it tastes like......I couldn’t place where I had the taste before......

I wouldn’t get it again, but it was alright........not too sweet which was nice........
 
Thanks for the welcome,did see that about the lobby will keep my fingers crossed for the sushi bar as we all do love sushi. We are staying club so will have somewhere peaceful to escape any upheaval going on.

Can't wait to see how different Universal looks, my eldest daughter is desperate to see the Harry Potter areas she loved going to the HP studio tour so I think she will be completely overwhelmed with seeing it at Universal.
 
Thanks for the welcome,did see that about the lobby will keep my fingers crossed for the sushi bar as we all do love sushi. We are staying club so will have somewhere peaceful to escape any upheaval going on.

Can't wait to see how different Universal looks, my eldest daughter is desperate to see the Harry Potter areas she loved going to the HP studio tour so I think she will be completely overwhelmed with seeing it at Universal.

From what I’ve heard it sounds like it will be really beautiful........especially the Sushi area!! We always enjoy Orchids sushi and Chef Dan will still be there which is fab as he is a really good guy!!

Oh it is quite overwhelming when you visit......especially the first time.......we’ve seen many tears from people entering and seeing it through brand new eyes......and they are genuinely choked up at times......I’m sure she’ll love it as will you all.......

Club Level is lovely.....and of course the new Club Lounge is beautiful........staff will really look after you there......
 
Hi I am glad that I got caught up again. I am really enjoying your pictures especially today! I didn't eat at any of the restaurants at PBH due to club level but I think I would try Sal's next time if we are going to do a lunch. The pizza looks really good, the way we like it. It was nice to see pics of PBH I love that resort and find myself missing it.

It's interesting I find now that I have hit the big birthday :D I can't do the rides in succession anymore. I go on one time then find I need a little break. The only good thing is Liv gets motion sickness if she goes on to many at once so now that I need a break too it is easier.

I enjoyed your comment on how you and Tom can sit with a drink and just watch guests go by. Brian and I enjoy doing the same thing. 8-)

We don't miss Fleur's for ice cream, It is a one time on our trip. Liv and I just can't get away from the butter beer soft serve. Glad you got to try the Marmalade finally!!:thumbsup2

Look forward to more of your report!
 
Hi I am glad that I got caught up again. I am really enjoying your pictures especially today! I didn't eat at any of the restaurants at PBH due to club level but I think I would try Sal's next time if we are going to do a lunch. The pizza looks really good, the way we like it. It was nice to see pics of PBH I love that resort and find myself missing it.

It's interesting I find now that I have hit the big birthday :D I can't do the rides in succession anymore. I go on one time then find I need a little break. The only good thing is Liv gets motion sickness if she goes on to many at once so now that I need a break too it is easier.

I enjoyed your comment on how you and Tom can sit with a drink and just watch guests go by. Brian and I enjoy doing the same thing. 8-)

We don't miss Fleur's for ice cream, It is a one time on our trip. Liv and I just can't get away from the butter beer soft serve. Glad you got to try the Marmalade finally!!:thumbsup2

Look forward to more of your report!

Glad you’re caught up bobbie and glad you enjoyed the pictures!!

I do like the butter beer ice cream! It’s one of my favourites there........yes, we love sitting with a drink and passing the time.....very peaceful way to pass some time.......

Yes, PB is very pretty.......and Sal’s is the only food option we like over there........I think you’d like the pizzas......one of the best onsite.......

I’m lucky Tom can go on the rides again and again when Kyle is with us......no way could I do Hulk or RRR over and over again........yes, in 2007 I absolutely could and did, frequently........lol.......age doesn’t come on it’s own.......

Happy you’re still reading along........:)
 
And as we walk down the stairs to exit the ride we overhear a family behind us gripe how poor it was compared to the Pandora ride and Disney would have done Potter so much better...…..

Hey I'm a Disney fan, love going there but I tell my husband all the time that I'm soooo grateful WDW didn't get the HP licensing. I love the parks for nostalgic reasons, but imo, their leadership is a mess right now, price gouging and cost-cutting is way beyond control and I believe they truly would have shortchanged the franchise at best and ruined it at worst. I'm a disney fan, but still tell it like I see it. :rolleyes1
 
Seeing this area is always a treat......and today I decide to wait for the dragon to expel it`s flame......and for some reason it doesn't......it`s usually every 10 minutes or so, but today there was an issue as it didn't breathe fire for over an hour.

That happened when we went too which would've been a couple days later! I called it quits after waiting for quite some time.


Kyle looks good, I might have to try that next time! I got the soft serve last time, and it wasn't as chocolate-y as I'd hoped.

It`s the only place we like to eat in PB as we have tried the restaurants, but found them too processed and when we asked for omissions in sauces they told us it wasn't possible as they had already been made up. Considering this was an allergy and not just being difficult or fussy, we decided not to go back.

Yeah, aside from like Bice and Sal's we've had problems with them accommodating Josh's allergy at PB. We tried to get nachos at the pool bar since we were able to at RPR and figured they'd be similar and they said nope and then said nothing on their menu was GF and we should just go somewhere else. :sad2:
 
Hey I'm a Disney fan, love going there but I tell my husband all the time that I'm soooo grateful WDW didn't get the HP licensing. I love the parks for nostalgic reasons, but imo, their leadership is a mess right now, price gouging and cost-cutting is way beyond control and I believe they truly would have shortchanged the franchise at best and ruined it at worst. I'm a disney fan, but still tell it like I see it. :rolleyes1

Yep!!! I think even real die hard Disney fans recognise what a good job Universal have done with Potter.....it just makes me smile whenever I hear the "Disney can do no wrong and Universal sucks" brigade...…some are really funny to listen to.

We still have a lot of friends who still do Disney, and more and more are mentioning the things you`ve just wrote down......such a shame as Disney is an amazing place...

I do think there are more people like you who can appreciate both parks for what they are......thankfully!!!
 
That happened when we went too which would've been a couple days later! I called it quits after waiting for quite some time.



Kyle looks good, I might have to try that next time! I got the soft serve last time, and it wasn't as chocolate-y as I'd hoped.



Yeah, aside from like Bice and Sal's we've had problems with them accommodating Josh's allergy at PB. We tried to get nachos at the pool bar since we were able to at RPR and figured they'd be similar and they said nope and then said nothing on their menu was GF and we should just go somewhere else. :sad2:

Yes, Tom tried the chocolate soft serve and it didn't taste much of chocolate......I know Kyle liked this one....so I guessed it must be good!!!

It`s unusual for places not to be accommodating and usually we find the hotels to be fabulous with allergies....but to tell you to go somewhere else is awful!!! GF is hardly a rare thing to accommodate today.....but at least you have plenty of other options. I know yours and Josh`s food pics always look fabulous!!!
 
We went up to our room and we did indeed all go for a sleep......we don`t usually get as tired during the day, but of course we didn`t know we all had something underlying working on us and it would hit Kyle in a day or so......for now we all just felt like wimps.....it`s not as if the heat was something we weren`t used to.......

How long we slept, I can`t remember but it was maybe 2 hours or so at least......and to be fair, we did all feel better when we did wake up. The beds in RPR are fabulous.....I could have fallen asleep in a heartbeat even if I wasn`t tired to be honest if I laid down. And Kyle was so comfy in his rollaway.......it did look like a camp bed to be honest, but as long as he was comfortable we were happy.........

Our plans tonight were to go and see the Macy`s Parade.....but, to be honest it was cutting it fine time wise for us now and none of us could really be bothered going.....how bad does that sound!!! So, we thought we`d play it by ear and decide what to do once we were up in the Lounge. Although Tom only ever asks we tell him if he can have a drink or not....so if we want to go offsite, let him know.......but I think tonight we wouldn`t be going far. So, we first showered and changed, and headed up to the lounge.

This really is one of our favourite parts of our day......as soon as you walk in you are made to feel so welcome.....they make everyone so at home who come into the lounge.....and rather annoyingly I noticed tonight a few folks they welcomed, didn`t answer them back with a hello or similar......how rude!!!

We get our usual seat and it is fairly busy tonight......we of course pass the time easily and we tell Tom we are staying onsite tonight.......we can`t be bothered to go far at all. So, wine it is for Tom and I and Kyle has some water........I don`t remember what the food option was tonight....but it was popular......if it`s something we really like we may be tempted to have a little taste of it.....and if it`s chicken mac n cheese....Kyle would certainly enjoy a taste of that!!!

Between chatting to the staff and each other, we come to a decision of what we are going to do tonight. Kyle had a small list of things he wanted to do on this trip.....and one of them was mini golf in Citywalk, so, he suggested we do this tonight......it had been a few years since we had done it with all three of us together......so we thought why not.......it`s not far to walk to Citywalk and then we thought we`d come back and eat in Jake`s......again Kyle`s choice......I think he`d eat there almost every night if he could.

We bid goodnight to everyone and went down to drop off the ipad and then headed to Citywalk.......we decided to get the boat for some reason so as we passed the pool we saw the tree all lit up and I realised I hadn`t got a picture of it yet.......so, in I went as they wandered on chatting........






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There is still something weird about a Christmas tree beside a swimming pool in this heat.......

We didn`t have long to wait for a boat and the boat was rammed full when it arrived......I guessed a lot were coming back from seeing the parade......but we got on with only a few others tonight and in a few minutes we were in Citywalk.......

It was busy. We headed straight round to the mini golf which is located under the bridge you walk out of Citywalk from. There are two courses....one is Alien themed and the one we were doing was a Haunted theme.

This had been our favourite side from the very beginning and definitely much more fun at night when it`s all lit up.......

We paid and went in......there was only one family in front of us.....and they were moving pretty quickly.

I do have to say, my guys take this fairly seriously......so I opted to not play and said I`d take score......which was silly really as we had paid for three of us to play......but as soon as I got in there and they began discussing the game.....I had flashbacks of previous games and how competitive they are.....a trait both spuriously deny in themselves!!!!







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Of course there is a lot of purple around this side......not the reason I enjoy so much........but it is a fun little course.





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I get the pencil and my little notebook and prepare for the friendly battle that will ensue........it`s almost like two gladiators lining up for battle as they begin......I have to decide who goes first......it`s started already!!!!





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It goes well, for the most part.......and the look of concentration on Kyle`s face as his dad takes a shot is so funny.......they watch each others every move.....and to be honest, I`m a bit of a dolly day dreamer......so my mind is already elsewhere.......I`m looking around and taking pictures and wondering a million other things rather than focus on the game being fought out so carefully.





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So, when I`m suddenly asked......who took the most shots in this hole.........they both look at me intently and expect an answer.........





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I really do need to watch..........but there`s quite a lot around me to distract me.........

This is a cool fake house.......it was like something the Munsters would live in........






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Someone was sure he was going to win, and he was really enjoying doing this. It`s something he has always loved doing since he was very little.......again, so easy to please.....





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The smiles belie the true competitive atmosphere right now!!! But, we were having fun..........and we always do when we are altogether.....we really do enjoy each other`s company and enjoy every second.........





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There are tombstones all around the course and all fairly amusing........





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And on this one Kyle got a hole in one..........he was pleased with that!!!





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We were getting through the course now....and I was paying attention.......there is music playing too all around the course, but I didn`t really notice it much......until we got to this area.......when my most favourite and scariest movie theme song started playing all around us..........







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Yep, the Halloween soundtrack was circling around us a we encountered the next few holes........wasn`t expecting to hear that.......Kyle laughs at how uncomfortable I look as it seems to get louder as we move on...........







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And again, a full view of the front of the fake house that looks so pretty with the slight hint of Christmas draped around it..........

At this point though I think I feel rain beginning to start ever so slightly.........I hope not.







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There really is a lot more to see on the course.....including a water based one where your legs will get sprayed with water as you cross over a bridge......not soaked but a little sprinkle.......and by strange coincidence it does start to rain as we cross the bridge to the final 3 holes...........


And after the final hole......I tally up, and supposed non competitive person 1.......aka Kyle beat his supposed non competitive person 2.....aka Dad..........

But, they are the best of friends!!!!!






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It does look Christmassy with the trees and surroundings all lit up.......but the rain is now beginning to get heavy..........





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By the time we drop off our clubs the rain is heavy......so we make a run for the Fossil store........and meet hundreds of people all trying to get out of Citywalk.......of course we did......

The Fossil shop was surprisingly empty.....and they had huge big dehumidifiers in the store as they had suffered a leaky roof and a bit of a flood.......they were unsightly, but didn`t affect us looking around. Kyle looked at watches and I went over to see the purses.......well, wallet or pocketbook as most Americans seem to call them......for me......I keep my purse with money and cards in my handbag.......again, slight difference in our language.......

I see one immediately I like.....and Tom says he`ll get it as part of my Christmas......done!!!! It`s a kind of burgundy colour and very me!!! So we do make a purchase and don`t feel as guilty sheltering in their store from I can say the now pounding down rain.......

There are folks trying to shelter under the store signs and most have the same idea......wait and see if it eases off.......of course we had tried that last year at Mardi Gras when the parade was cancelled due to a huge downpour that lasted for ages.......and it didn`t ease off any.......so after we made our purchase we just decided to walk back to the hotel.....the boats had been cancelled as there was lightning so no point in going down there........

And walk we did.

I don`t think it eased once while we very quickly walked back home ......and me trying to keep my new purchase dry..although it was in a bag...the bags from Fossil are paper.....well thick paper.......but would absorb this deluge of water that was hitting us........although we did laugh all the way home all the same......well, you`ve got to really........

By time we got in the room........

This was me.................






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There was no way we could go and sit in a chilly restaurant while we were all drenched......and it wasn`t as warm as it had been, so we all felt cool. One by one we jumped in the shower, Tom turned the room heat up as Turndown had left it as it was tonight....they usually turn the temp up in winter when they come in at night. But, soon we were all warm and in dry clothes.....I did plan to do a load of laundry tomorrow........

Now we headed down to Jake`s.....and for the first time we had to wait just under 10 minutes for a table........it was busy as I think the weather had made folks stay around the hotel more than usual.....and they were doing a roaring trade in take out going by the folks that were waiting for food to take away......I like that about Jake`s.....if you don`t feel like sitting in the restaurant, you can get food to go and enjoy in your room......

Our table was ready and we were through the back in what is used for private events on occasion........it is slightly quieter and we like it through here.........

Kyle already know he wants a non alcoholic strawberry daiquiri.......he`s so easy to please.......Tom opts for a beer and I choose a Royal Pacific Sunset......one of my favourites.....although to be fair, I do have a lot of favourites!!!!







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We take our time and think about what we want for dinner........well, Kyle is going for his second pizza of the day and orders a plain and simple cheese pizza......honestly, so easy to please......


And we each order a crawfish chowder and decide to share the Charcuterie board......we hadn`t tried that before as we usually opt for the spicy chicken wings.....but we thought we`d try something different......



Pizza looks huge!!!!!





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Everything was lovely......the pizza and crawfish chowder especially.......the charcuterie board was nice enough, but we wouldn`t order it again......it wasn`t bad, we just preferred the chicken wings as a choice. Now they are gorgeous!!!! You cannot eat them without making a slight mess of your face.....





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But, they are gorgeous..........:D

Tom and I are done now.....we don`t even want another drink tonight.......but, my extra tummied son wanted another daiquiri and we asked if they could do the flourless chocolate cake.......it`s still not on Jake`s menu, but it is on room service menu........and of course there`s no problem they`ll happily do him one.......I did wonder again where he was putting it.......but as he reminded me......he is only here once a year now, so wants to make the most of it.........quite right too son.


He forgets to say no fruit or fruit coulis.....he just likes chocolate and lots of it.........and this was almost as rich as The Palm dessert.....not quite though....but he devours it with relish and it is lovely to see him tuck in.......we do help with the fruit a little........





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We were done.

Once Kyle finished his dessert we asked for the check and paid it before heading upstairs......Tom asked if I wanted to go to Orchids for a nightcap, but to be honest I just wanted to go to bed, and Kyle said the same thing. He did look tired now.

So, off we went feeling like we were aged around 95 and heading to bed around 10.45pm.

Although we met a family going in the elevator who looked like they were ready to drop......they told us briefly they had been in the park most of the last two days as they only had two days at universal and were truly shattered. They looked it.........

Our rooms were lovely and cosy when we went back in as we had left the heat turned up fairly high........we didn`t even turn the tv`s on tonight.....we got Kyle`s bed out and then we went into our room and we didn`t hear a peep from each other the rest of the night.

We did plan to see the parade tomorrow night as this was another of Kyle`s choices to see........
 
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they could do the flourless chocolate cake.
One of these days you are going to have to explain the difference between in flourless and regular chocolate cake. I didnt word that correctly as of course one does not have flour. Just never heard of one before I started reading your reports.
 

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