Michael Myers returns..and so do we....19 Fabulous nights of HHN, RP & SF Sept/Oct 2018

So once we had enjoyed our pizza and sat to cool down for a while we were ready to go back out into the interminable heat outside...…..everyone who came in for food or a cool down looked like they were melting...…

This area was so much fun....I keep repeating this but it really was a lot of fun......Madonna, Cyndi Lauper among others who`s music was playing, really vamped up the atmosphere of the 80`s theme...….and there were more than an adequate amount of SA roaming around and most were happy to take pictures....others were moving around too quickly......but it was a good zone to roam around and we spent quite a bit of time here tonight.

We are always so impressed with the quality of the SA make up and costume design.....every year it seems to get better and better...….and the quality of SA has just got better every year it seems...….



i-XgvcDDW-XL.jpg




I was overjoyed to say the least to see one of my icons wandering around, albeit dead. He was so cool...…..and I was blown away when I asked if we could get a picture and he replied "of course darling" exactly like Freddie sounded...…..it was uncanny...….and he chatted as Freddie for a few minutes then he was gone...but he was fabulous and I told everyone to look out for this guy......the other Freddie was good, but just didn't quite have the gentle tone of FM.....I was very happy!!!




i-ngKFrJ4-XL.jpg




This guy below was kind of the main man of this zone...….he was very good at his character though and I managed to give him an unintentional jump....I said Thank you as Tom took this picture......lol......he had no idea I was there...….he did laugh a little though...….



i-4gNh5D4-XL.jpg




The guy below photobombing earned a high five from Tom after this picture...….he rather strangely had photobombed us earlier, but the picture was very fuzzy......he was funny....I love photobombs and I know several people who enjoy them too...……..



i-Vb2QLVV-XL.jpg




Then of course the second coolest guy there tonight...…..he didn't do an awful lot and didn't talk but he was always happy to pose for pictures which tonight was more than could be said for Prince...….he wandered around at high speed with his purple coat flashing past you.....getting a picture was nigh on impossible tonight.....I`m patient, I`d catch him another night...…..



i-nwfbJz8-XL.jpg





i-5jk4RFk-XL.jpg




We spent a little longer here as the music was fabulous...…..groups of people were randomly dancing around and a girl suddenly took my hand and got me to join a group of folks all dancing along to Cyndi Lauper......hey, I love to dance...….can`t dance well but it wont stop me......it was fun and Tom was nowhere to be seen...….he had disappeared on a task to find Prince!!!!!

At that point Michael Jackson, Prince and for a brief moment Freddie Mercury all joined in...…..and Tom was off somewhere else...…...I was screeching for him to come back...…..by the time he did the SA were gone...…..but it was one of the highlights of my night...…….Tom was gutted he had missed such a photo opportunity...…….

Rather reluctantly we left this enthusiastic little group having their own party...…..we headed to the Harvest zone again and had a few pictures there......but the smoke effects were quit strong tonight...…..I think this may have eased off on other nights but for tonight it was hard to see anything at this point...…





i-V759mCj-XL.jpg




We wandered around to Twisted Tradition scare zone......it is always pretty there...…..but walked through Chucky again...….still not impressed, although there was a soldier walking around who was quite fun when he hissed in your ear!!!




i-V5KxBTZ-XL.jpg




This guy below was trying his hardest to spook me...….but, no....he was quite funny though......I wasn't quite sure he wasn't a guest at one point......just dressed a little odd. This zone just didn't have it in any way shape or form...…..maybe if you are a Chucky fan it might work...….but not for us.



i-3jQqr3g-XL.jpg




Loved the deserted and haunted building...…….they always seem to have quite a decent prop around this area...….and of course listening closely is always good...….although Tom said he never heard a thing...…...maybe it was just me!!




i-kVJPhhw-XL.jpg





i-hf8VD8J-XL.jpg




This zone to me, should have been called The Harvest...….it seemed to make more sense with all the pumpkins around...…..but, what do I know...…..it is visually an amazing zone though...…..it always has been with the pumpkins in the trees and it is very atmospheric...….but this year, not scary enough....we had some years where this zone had been excellent......and this was fun, but just not enough scares...…..I do like a good fright!!!!

We did stop off to buy some water at this point as we hadn't had any since Louie`s...…..it was very welcome and so cold.....we had no desire for any alcohol as it was blazing hot!!! So water was good right now...…..




i-wxTQkDv-XL.jpg





i-hCVmnB4-XL.jpg






i-vvkGrTr-XL.jpg





i-wVTXCF3-XL.jpg





i-SvJwvQZ-XL.jpg





i-b5tbrGh-XL.jpg




This little SA did give me a little scare somehow...….not sure how she managed it as I was looking at her at the time...…..I do scare easily at times...…



i-JPqdrZB-XL.jpg





i-JLHLjNc-XL.jpg




We got a few more pictures here and then decided to head back and give Stranger Things a try...…..we said we would stay as long as we felt awake tonight......it does take us two nights to get into this time zone......we could push it, but there was no point in us doing that...….so, we headed back and took one of our favourite pictures of the night we take every year...……it`s cute.



i-g7D7wgH-XL.jpg




Stranger Things was showing something ridiculous and the EP line we could actually see the end of the line from the entrance, so we decided not to bother even waiting as it was still boiling hot, unbelievably busy and we were indeed getting a little tired...…..ST would wait till Sunday. Although long as it was I`d rather be in any EP line than the regular line any night….it was massive!!!

So we very slowly made our way out of the park...….not through choice, there were just throngs of people heading in as we were trying to exit......so it took us a little longer......we took a detour through the store and met this mask...……




i-KNsCMmn-XL.jpg




At that I decided if I didn't get to bed soon I would sleep on the ground...….I had hit that wall, and felt incredibly groggy between the heat and tiredness it wasn't a pleasant feeling...…..

I sat down on the wall before you exit and a TM stopped and asked if I was alright.....Tom said yes, it was the heat and tiredness...….we were heading home now......she wandered off and came back with a bottle of water...…..that was so nice of her......I really appreciated it as soon as I started drinking it I realized I was incredibly thirsty...…..I did feel better after I drank that......…

So, straight to the boat and Tom stopped to take a picture of Citywalk at night, which is incredibly beautiful...……



i-VtJrcxT-XL.jpg




But, I was done for the night...….and this picture he took of me wondering where he was as I was almost in line for the boat. I didn't complain as he does take an amazing amount of pictures without complaining once...…..




i-QtPF7d2-XL.jpg



There was a boat waiting, and we just got on it before he set off for home.

I almost dropped off on the boat and just kept imagining my comfortable bed waiting for me in my head...….I do like a shower though when you`ve been this hot......so regardless of how tired I was I knew I`d be doing that...……

The walk along the corridor felt like it was taking forever, but we went in and saw Turndown service had been and the room was cosy and welcoming......how I loved this hotel...…….

Quick shower and I swear I was asleep before I even got in to bed...……..we had loved our day!!!
 
Following along and loving it ..... and waiting for our trip in February. It will be our first time going during Mardi Gras.

Glad you`re still here...….:)

I hope you love Mardi Gras.....last year was our first time there at that time......we did enjoy it a lot...….so much so we`re going back in March next year for the event...…..it was fun.

Understated though, but the parade was good and we did get a lot of beads!!!!
 
WOW! That crowd at HHN was enormous! Thank goodness for the resort line! The night we were there the regular line also stretched over the bridge! I can't imagine having to sweat that line!:scared:

Love the Vamp 85 scare zone! It was so fun!! The 80s brings back fond memories of high school & college!:)

That was the biggest crowd we had ever seen for HHN......we usually go in a little later so miss the crowds at the entrance, but the crowds in the park itself were surprising...…..

That Vamp area was the best thing about the zones...…..yep, musical memories......or as Kyle says just our regular every day music we listen to......lol.....we do play a lot of 80`s music :D
 
Yes - we have HHN tickets for two nights so far!

I cannot believe how crowded your 1st HHN night was?!?!? I am both excited and terrified to do the Halloween house lol!

I thought so!!

Oh you`ll love it......you really will......as I said it`s not the best house of this years offerings, but it`s my personal favourite because he is the boogy man after all...…...always will be!!!

Yes, it was unbelievably crowded......the line for the bathrooms was awful......even the mens!!
 
Last edited:


SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 15TH...……………..


We slept like logs last night. I have had some good sleeps at RP, but I think a mixture of being so over the top tired and a comfy bed made for the perfect nights sleep...….although sometimes when you sleep so soundly, it makes you feel worse...….….and to be honest, I did feel like something that had been dug up this morning...…

Rather surprisingly, Tom was already up and had showered......never heard a thing, which is so unusual for me...…..this was the opposite of our usual morning routine...….I was the ray of morning sunshine while Tom languished in bed for as long as he could get away with. But this morning he was niggling me to get up...……






I was so comfortable, cosy and warm, so I mumbled rather grumpily for me that I was still sleeping........I really and truly could have gone back to sleep for three hours...…..but we don't do that on vacation...….we do like to get up early and get the day started...…..although when I looked at the time...…….it wasn't even 7am. Too early. But, I got up all the same.....slowly. Tom turned the shower on for me and I did take a long shower and finally felt a little more human.....although I did avoid looking in the mirror right now!!!

Finally, we were ready to go downstairs to the lounge and we did feel a little more human now...……

The lounge was quiet. Very quiet for a Saturday...….we did our usual, chatted and ate breakfast...…..Tom had his usual croissants, but did have some more scrambled eggs...….he liked them a lot. Not for me.....I had white toast with cream cheese and grape jelly......weird??? Someone lese thought so too......it`s delicious together...…..nd coffee. Lots and lots of coffee...……

The staff were keen to hear what we had thought of HHN....some had gone to the TM preview and some had missed it...….so we chatted about that and what we had thought of the event so far, albeit only one night...….so far it was better than last years event......which we thought was the weakest one for a while......it wasn't the best HHN year we had ever been to, but still so much fun!!

We went back up and got some sunscreen on ready for the day......well, the morning. We didn't plan to be at the parks for long today...….maybe till lunchtime, decide where to have lunch then chill out for a while...….sunscreen on we headed back down ready to walk to IOA.

It really is a short walk. Folks talk about how close the HRH is to Studios, but its not a long walk at all from RP to IOA...….and it is such a pretty walk. We spoke about how we remembered some of the beautiful flowers and plants when they were first put in...….they were tiny and now most are fully grown plants and shrubs...….which does make for a very pretty walk among such lush plantation. And there is plenty of shade for the short walk...…and it is hot!!!

IOA is usually our first park we visit for rides...…..so today that's where we were headed...….we love many of the rides in this park, even the ones we aren't as keen on we like Cat in the Hat we tend to do, just not as frequently as the others, but we do have a go on them some days.

There is a bit of a line as we go forward to the gates, so many folks with unsigned cards and those full A4 sized paper tickets, which cause such delays at times...….but we are in fairly quickly and ready to go......although it is fairly quiet at the entrance, so we get a couple of pictures...….

We adore the entrance to IOA.....the sounds, the iconic music that I hope they never change...…..and the colours…….it is so beautiful and has a plethora of designs and styles on the buildings themselves...…..so much to see and worth taking some extra time to spend there and take in some of the sights and sounds...….especially the sounds if you listen carefully under some of the buildings...……



i-wQ7Cv9j-XL.jpg




I look like my great aunt Betty in the picture above!!!! When did that happen!!!! I`m going to blame the slightly different shaped sunglasses I had bought in Publix the other day!!!



i-2ZBKXhF-XL.jpg




This is one of my favourite buildings below...…...and one you have to stop and listen to!!!



i-dVKT7KC-XL.jpg





i-dBLPds9-XL.jpg




This area is always so quiet at this time of the morning. So many head in and just go straight for the rides of course, but it is peaceful and so pretty......although even at this early in the morning I am seeking some shade...……we talk to a TM down here and he swears he has never felt it this hot at this time of year before...….I can believe him. I`m not sure of the temperature at this point, but it was sizzling!!! But so beautiful...….and we were so happy we were here......



i-wgscFPF-XL.jpg





i-5v74kg5-XL.jpg





i-zqj343c-XL.jpg





i-tMVXJgb-XL.jpg





i-2bKrHBp-XL.jpg




We decide not to do the Hulk this morning, just don't feel like it, which is a shame as there is no one there...….the cars were going round half full, except for the occasional full set. Instead we go straight for Doom...….and yep, we use EP even though the line was 5 minutes......lol.....yep, really...….although when we go up there are a fair amount of people in the regular line...…..

Love this ride!!! And we are on with two newbies...…..they are scared!!! Always fun to see someone do this for the first time...….the doors open and I go straight to put my bag in the tray area...….the TM comments this isn't my first time...….he has been having to tell folks all morning to put things in there.....the two ladies with us at this point look so scared!!! Tom tells them they`ll be fine and it`s a lot of fun...…….as the TM fastens the safety belt one is almost asking to get off...….oh dear...…..

And then we are waiting to go...….and the guy does the fake countdown!!! love this...…...and then we are being propelled into the empty space above us...….we are whooping and yelling in fun all the way...….this is such a short thrill, but so much fun!!! I turn as we start the slow descent and one of the women looks like she has enjoyed it......the other hasn't opened her eyes yet...…..and she doesn't till we are down and fully stopped.

She hated it. She got off and stomped off barely waiting for her friend...…..she walked out with us saying now she was going to get grief.....lol.....least she had enjoyed it!!! Folks are so different...……

We do this a few times......using the sneaky short cut...….no one minds when it`s so quiet...…..we rode Doom four times before deciding it was time for Spiderman...….another old favourite………

We go in the EP and they are using the facial recognition in here again...…. takes seconds...….and when we get through there is barely a soul here.....we get on the front row and a man appears at our back and she tells him the second row, he asks if he can join us on the first...….she says ok as we are the only two in it......he sits right up against Tom...….I see the TM comment about it before we set off...….if it had been me I would have taken the end seat......but he had his reasons.

Love this ride...….it`s still fun and exciting after all these years...…..and a ride we never miss when we are in the park...…...as we get off, Tom remarks the man taped the whole ride on his phone......I hadn't noticed, but that was why he wanted the front. He also wasn't the freshest.

We go round and get back on and we have the car and front row all to ourselves...….the TM points and says she noticed the guy all cramped up against us.....she said she commented to the other TM why did he do that and said Tom looked so uncomfortable jammed up against him......lol.....still a car to ourselves was just fine this time...…

Two rides and we were heading out into the blazing sunshine...…..we went straight over to the stall opposite and bought some water...….you can get a cup free here, but we wanted a lot of water, so bought two bottles and went over to the shade to devour them...……..there`s a handy little bench over there and we sit for a few minutes till the bottles are empty and watch the world go by for a bit...……



i-2GHxgDh-XL.jpg





i-6MhXGRd-XL.jpg





i-vVgvDhX-XL.jpg




Once we have absorbed the cool water, we head round to Toon Lagoon...…...this is a lovely little area and so bright and colourful….if you were ever feeling a little dull this is the place to come...…….but today, we go via the stores just to cool down a little...….we were at this point getting a little used to the heat, but wondered what it would be like in a couple of hours...……



i-K6nnbKn-XL.jpg




We both really enjoyed getting splashed under this today......usually I hate getting soaked, but this was cool water......we would definitely be going on JP today...…..today I didn't care how my hair looked!! I had already just scrunched it up and had no plans to look in a mirror for a while!!



i-PCphQfb-XL.jpg





i-2Qq7xkG-XL.jpg





i-zH8bXpR-XL.jpg




This has got to be my favourite sign in the parks...…...it seems so apt for how we feel about the parks here...…....…….



i-QfN6Rdh-XL.jpg




We have no intention of getting on Bluto`s barges today...….we don't want to get that wet!!!! It is such a fun ride though and there`s no doubt you do get drenched...….even your feet despite sitting them on the centre of the barge as the water comes in from above you too on occasions...…..this ride is the epitome of a water ride!!!



i-nqRvRjJ-XL.jpg




While Tom took some pictures, this lizard headed for the shade......usually unheard of now as I adore the sun and love being out in it......but wow......did I have the red face or what!!!!

It was lovely here as the parks were very quiet today......although I was sure it would get busier as the day went on.




i-4Nwmpcz-XL.jpg





i-ZVsHdZ7-XL.jpg





i-xX4Tn98-XL.jpg





i-35td5gD-XL.jpg




Next up is Kong, JP and Potter and Seuss before lunch...……





 
I like cream cheese and jelly on toast, too!::yes::

Lol.....glad to hear it’s not so unusual........

I didn’t think it was in the least bit odd, but the ladies face as I first spread cream cheese, then added jelly,.....she looked at me so strangely as I was doing it.......good job I know her so well :rotfl: I could eat some of that grape jelly now.......you can get it over here, it’s just not very common.

That might be breakfast tomorrow morning........::yes::
 


Another great trip report. Your pre-trip information is great. I have to chime in and say that I too love cream cheese and jelly on toast but I favor strawberry over grape.

Love all the pics. Makes me "home" sick. Just booked my birthday trip for November but we are staying at Sapphire Falls this time. Looking forward to a relaxing long weekend before the Thanksgiving holidays. A couple firsts for this trip, our first stay at SF and this will be our first time seeing the Christmas decorations. Yay! Can't wait for your next post.
 
I'm headed your way in November. We're going to tour the Warner Brothers Studios - The Making of Harry Potter. We are beside ourselves with excitement. I've never been to London before.
 
Another great trip report. Your pre-trip information is great. I have to chime in and say that I too love cream cheese and jelly on toast but I favor strawberry over grape.

Love all the pics. Makes me "home" sick. Just booked my birthday trip for November but we are staying at Sapphire Falls this time. Looking forward to a relaxing long weekend before the Thanksgiving holidays. A couple firsts for this trip, our first stay at SF and this will be our first time seeing the Christmas decorations. Yay! Can't wait for your next post.

:welcome: back cam757..........lovely to see you again.........

Another cream cheese and jelly fan! I knew it wasn’t odd..........

You will love Sapphire!!! Honestly, it is the friendliest hotel and has such a warm welcoming feel.......and what a prefect time to go!!! And of course StrongWater tavern!!! I can absolutely recommend that fabulous place!

We visited at Christmas for the first time last year and loved it! We liked that the Christmas stuff is more laid back, but it definitely felt like Christmas everywhere!! I’m sure you’ll love it..........or should that be “Yule” love it...........lol.....:duck:

Glad you’re enjoying this one too........and of course can’t wait to hear what you think of Sapphire and the Christmas decorations........:wave2:
 
I'm headed your way in November. We're going to tour the Warner Brothers Studios - The Making of Harry Potter. We are beside ourselves with excitement. I've never been to London before.

Oh how lovely!!!

For some reason we’ve never done that tour and really doesn’t take that long for us to get there we are not that far away.......I’ve only heard good things about it from anyone that’s gone to see it. And most people absolutely rave about it....even those few non Potter fans!

London is lovely........have you made many plans to see lots of different things there?? There is so much to see and do, we love London but again, don’t really go in to town that often.

London Eye we liked a lot........:thumbsup2
 
Another great trip report. Your pre-trip information is great. I have to chime in and say that I too love cream cheese and jelly on toast but I favor strawberry over grape.

Love all the pics. Makes me "home" sick. Just booked my birthday trip for November but we are staying at Sapphire Falls this time. Looking forward to a relaxing long weekend before the Thanksgiving holidays. A couple firsts for this trip, our first stay at SF and this will be our first time seeing the Christmas decorations. Yay! Can't wait for your next post.

Jelly and Cream cheese toast!!!

That’s at least 3 of us!!!

:thumbsup2 Yuuummmmmy
 
except for that one lady, there`s always one...….she looked immaculate and very beautiful...….but we couldn't help but wonder how she looked so good when everyone else looked disheveled already

It was so incredibly hot! I've noticed that :rotfl: I'll occasionally see someone in that kind of heat with perfect hair or an outfit it would be impossible not to sweat in and wonder how they've stayed so immaculate looking!

the highlight of this zone was Chucky basically throwing insults at the audience while giving a cheap Vegas style, stand up comedic routine like Leonard Barr of old...…...this was poor.

We walked through this zone at least 4-5 in 3 days and he was never out once! Very disappointing.

I almost dropped off on the boat and just kept imagining my comfortable bed waiting for me in my head...….I do like a shower though when you`ve been this hot......so regardless of how tired I was I knew I`d be doing that...……

I had to shower after HHN every night too :rotfl: I just felt too sticky and gross.
 
Jelly and Cream cheese toast!!!

That’s at least 3 of us!!!

:thumbsup2 Yuuummmmmy

lol.....we need to start a fan club!!!!

Had friends over for breakfast this morning and I was unanimously outvoted on this one...….they all thought it odd!!! But, thought nothing of Turkey, brie and cranberry together on a grilled sandwich...…..they didn't argue that one...….:)
 
It was so incredibly hot! I've noticed that :rotfl: I'll occasionally see someone in that kind of heat with perfect hair or an outfit it would be impossible not to sweat in and wonder how they've stayed so immaculate looking!



We walked through this zone at least 4-5 in 3 days and he was never out once! Very disappointing.



I had to shower after HHN every night too :rotfl: I just felt too sticky and gross.


I did look rather enviously at some women who really did look fabulous and wondered what their secret was!! It was definitely shower time every night this year...….especially after horror nights......it was so hot this year!!

We saw Chucky a couple of times...….he was a bit naff!!! I did feel for the SA who were doing this though...….
 

Our next stop was Kong...….we like this ride, but it`s not a ride we would ever wait any length of time for. The regular line is quite fun if it`s not too long a wait...….


But, again, it is an impressive view from outside and the entrance is very eye catching...……



i-3b59NTD-XL.jpg




And we wouldn't be riding this one today.....it was down with an issue. They didn't know how long it would be, just that it wasn't coming back on within the next hour....we were more upset that we weren't going to be walking in to that very cold line than the fact the ride was down...….so we did what we do best.....or Tom does, he took some pictures...……



i-cBHN4g6-XL.jpg




Today we were not going to miss JPRA...….and we wanted to get soaked! We hoped we would get a boat that was heavy loaded so we would...….we turned in and the guy who checked the EP was busy talking to someone so we did just walk in knowing they would scan it further round. I had seen this man usher his son past the guy too...…..never gave him a thought...…..we got to the scan and the man was telling the TM an elaborate story of how he didn`t know how he ended up in this line with his son as he was "ushered" this way by the first TM...……….the TM had a look of patience on his face...……






Us and the couple behind us had both seen him sneak in......lol.....the weird thing was the regular line was non existant!!!! What benefit he hoped to get I have no clue...…..he asked he be allowed to continue in the EP line as there wasn't really a line anyway...……………?????






We did gesture to the TM he was talking nonsense...….the couple behind had heard him say to his kid.....watch this...…..:sad2: So he was sent back to the non existant regular line...…...odd. The TM had a look of knowing about him...….he didn't have to say anything...…..

We went on the first boat and it was literally a walk on.....then the gates closed and we were off...…..this is such a calm ride at the beginning...….so pretty and very familiar......then of course it changes slightly and then it gets really good!!!

We love the drop at the end of this ride......and wish it were even higher!!! But, this time, we don`t get wet....not even a drip.....how did that happen......so we go around again......get on the boat a second time and this time we got soaked...…..second row from the front...…..but, we thought we were wet, we might as well go again...…….so another go around and again sitting in second from back row...….we got wet again...….

It did help to cool us down a little......having a soaked tee shirt and hair can cool you down...….although wouldn't be many pictures now!!!!

We went into Burger Digs for a bathroom break and then headed for Potter...…….always a favourite area of the parks.




i-M8zPTWg-XL.jpg





i-CNNRWzZ-XL.jpg




FJ was quiet right now. We dropped my bag off in the lockers, which were very civilized at this early hour...….then went in the EP line and were on the ride in no time at all...…...I always ask for the end seat just to be comfortable. For comparison I do fit in the regular seat but just like the end one.....unless someone really needs it then I`ll take a regular seat. The TM are very good as being discreet about anyone who does need the end seat...….

I can usually only do this ride once, maybe twice occasionally......and today it`s a one!! Did feel a little woozy after it today, so we headed back out and into Hogsmeade for a wander...…...so pretty and although it was busy it was very manageable today.




i-7prMrdS-XL.jpg





i-vwk6XZr-XL.jpg




We headed into The 3B`s for a drink to cool down...…..it was cool!!!

I asked for a pumpkin fizz and Tom as we weren't driving today, was convinced to try the Firewater whisky again...…...it was a little early I grant you, but we were on vacation .…...so I asked for a double...….lol...…..I`m so bad!!!!

I did like the fizz, but have to say I wasn`t keen on the whiskey...…..although we did mix it with the fizz once I had drank some...….still not a fan.....but it was a welcome break from the heat for a short time...…..actually we sat a little longer as it wasn't busy so no one was waiting on tables and although I`m not a fan of the food here, the aroma is delicious!!!! And as lunch service was well under way there was a lot of food going around...……




i-RV47c5r-XL.jpg





i-KkHqmsd-XL.jpg




Yes, not a good look with the wet hair from Jurassic Park ride...….



i-SscTrND-XL.jpg




Heading back outside we had a quick look at the new ride area...….it is certainly coming along...…..the cranes are very large and it is a bit of an eyesore as we heard several people comment on them, but they are a necessity for continued improvements...……

We would take further pics of the tracks on a day we would take the HE over to the other park...…...you can really see things fairly clearly from the pathway to the HE...…



i-dBJTQcc-XL.jpg




We asked a couple if they wanted a picture together as they were doing the usual.....I`ll take one of you then you take one of me...…..they were happy to have a couple of them together, so naturally offered to take some of us too...….I didn't refuse as it was so nice of them, but I felt such a mess between the heat and the clamped down hair!! But, heyho……….



i-xbjD8RB-XL.jpg




This new ride was going to be amazing!!!!! Although we still moaned about the long gone Duelling Dragons, this looked to be nothing but a lot of fun...…




i-MBprjMF-XL.jpg





i-xtB4qBn-XL.jpg




We left this area and headed for the Talking Fountain...…...we adored this guy.....he was so funny and you can pass a long time just listening to his interactions with members of the public...…..he soaks the kids, not just a sprinkling but drenches them at times......and of course they love it.....the best interactions are when he is a little more adult when he has older victims......nothing offensive, just subtle. But very funny.

There`s no one there today though so we head on out to Seuss area...……although we do take a picture of Sindbad`s sign as this was I believe closing the next day...……so, we were sure the sign would be down as soon as it closed for good. We weren't fans of this at all, and hope when they announce it`s replacement it won`t disappoint......although I`m sure it won`t...……



i-ct4GcZ9-XL.jpg




Mythos is a place we give a pass for now...….after a few negative experiences, will wait a while before we go back...….it still does get excellent reviews, but sadly for us not so much.



i-TrsXV5W-XL.jpg




Into Seuss and we do go on the trolley train...….it is a lovely little ride and worth the few minutes it takes as you do get some lovely views over the parks......the story doesn't thrill us, but have to say we aren't Seuss fans anyway, except of course The Grinch, but that's about it...…..

However, the store as you exit the ride does have some very colourful little delights to tempt you...…..Tom did mean to try some of them, but never got around to it...….we were either never hungry or it wasn't convenient to carry them around...…..but they do look good!!!



i-htRcK8N-XL.jpg





i-ZR2pxqL-XL.jpg





i-q6fmRMK-XL.jpg





i-pM58MGK-XL.jpg




We don't do CitH today...….it is an odd little ride, so we head out to Port of Entry where as is our habit, we exit the park through the Christmas store...….we love this shop, and the scent is rather unsurprisingly fully reminiscent of Christmas...…..it is beautiful...….and the items for purchase as so pretty......every year we buy several items and always buy the decoration with the Universal logo and the year...….but don't buy them till December. Of course when it was once a year we would buy our decorations in September...……




i-9JFzvb2-XL.jpg





i-TPQ3H2S-XL.jpg





i-D7Gg4pt-XL.jpg






i-gfvs4dN-XL.jpg





i-9wqL5GW-XL.jpg





i-6mcsZsK-XL.jpg



I loved this view...….it really was so pretty...…….



i-DbWBtmz-XL.jpg




We had decided this morning we would eat lunch in Margaritaville...….we had a notion to eat their nachos which are huge!!! Genuinely huge......I had planned we would sit at the bar and enjoy my favourite blackberry margarita and share the nachos...…..but, the best laid plans...…..

It was closed for a private event...…..we could sit outside if we liked, but it was far too hot for that...…….so we had a quick discussion as to where to eat...….we were having dinner in The Palm tonight, so didn't want too much...….but eventually decided to go to NBC as I was sure they did an app of nachos......it wouldn't be as visually impressive as M`ville, but would fill the hunger pangs we were now getting...……

It was fairly quiet today and we got seated straight away...……….I ordered water and a berry cocktail...….Tom ordered a beer...….

We checked out the menu and when she came back we said we were going to share the nachos...….we made it clear that was what we were having and nothing else.....she stood for a minute and asked what we were having as a meal...….I told her we were sharing the nachos......I think she may have been a little annoyed it wasn't a bigger order......never had that happen before...…..but that was all we wanted...…..

She brought the drinks over and I have to say the cocktail was very nice and fruity...…..and Tom enjoyed his beer...…….



i-bj4L4Rr-XL.jpg




The nachos were good!!! They were fresh and not soggy as some can be...…..although I always feel they never give you enough sour cream or guacamole......of course that might just be me!!!! But, they were very good...…..and just enough for us today...…..although we did ask for an extra side of jalapenos...….that wasn't a problem...….

She asked us several times if we wanted another drink, we didn't......then she asked twice if we wanted dessert......we didn't...…..she was very pleasant and friendly, but I felt she was definitely pushing the alcohol sales today.



i-bb6FWjK-XL.jpg




We left after paying our check and I asked Tom if he wanted to get some voodoo donuts...….that was a definite yes!!!! We do like these donuts.....are they life changing? No. But they`re nice and always fresh...…..and plenty to choose from...…….

There was no line today......last time we were here in July they were still lining up outside...….but today it was straight in and then we had to decide what to order...……..



i-vFWngCP-XL.jpg





i-fQmf4nn-XL.jpg




We ended up choosing the maple bacon and mangotastic for me, and Tom went for the HHN special and the voodoo doll......he had liked that one when he first got it earlier in the year...……these donuts are so cheap...…..we had expected them to be more expensive when it opened...….but they were a bargain and are so nice.

We got on the boat and resisted eating them on the boat itself...…..once we got back to the room though we did indulge...….Tom went back down to the Club Lounge and grabbed two coffees for us...…..and we had a lovely little afternoon snack.



i-srP8tzf-XL.jpg





i-W35KbGB-XL.jpg





i-3X6vWnf-XL.jpg




Tom did enjoy the HHN special...….and I loved the maple bacon......sweet and salty...….classic!!!!!

Then to be totally honest, we decided to go for a nap...…..our plan was to go to The Palm tonight, then venture into HHN even for an hour....so a nap was called for...……
 
I should add we didn't have the usual nachos...….we substituted chicken for the chilli as we don't like chilli…….and it was very nice with chicken...….I think the upcharge was small, maybe around $3???

Didn't keep this receipt for some reason...…….
 
We did nap a little bit...….I couldn't really fall over although Tom napped a little bit more than me we didn't get the real good nap we craved today...….

But, nevertheless we got up and got ready quite early as we planned to go sit in the Club Lounge for a while before our dinner reservation...…..we like it there.....and we know them all so well, it`s nice to just sit and pass the time away. We are lucky we can do that. Some folks plan to spend all their time in the parks if perhaps they have a shorter trip, but we can go, have a couple of hours then chill out for as long as we like......it won`t suit everyone the way we vacation, but it sure suits us!!

Tom had gone to concierge desk and front desk, so I said I`d meet him in the Club Lounge I`d go straight down when I was ready...….I wouldn't be long......so I headed down and wandered in and he wasn't there...….lol.....I know Tom......he would be talking to someone...….one of the girls said one of the supervisors was up there so I guessed he`d be chatting to her...……

So, time for wine...…..I got my glass and sat at the table nearest the staff.....and we chatted away...…..I didn't notice time was passing as we always have such a nice time talking, when he did indeed walk in and brought our very good friend with him.....I bounced up for a hug immediately as we just love seeing him and chatting...…..I was so glad he had came down with Tom as Tom always jokes this is my favourite guy in the whole world (he really is) Tom says he is number three after our friend and Kyle...….but he is the nicest man!!!

We have a good old chat and eventually he has to leave to go home...….but I was so pleased to have seen him...….at that Tom has a glass of wine and we have a brief catch up of the staff together...……

We set off upstairs and go outside for an ODC over to The Palm. It`s always easy to get a car at RP but we always have to wait when coming back from HRH.....not sure why, but it`s everytime……...these cars are ideal for going between the hotels, except Cabana Bay....not sure about Aventura......they are complimentary for all registered hotel guests, they just ask your name and room number and hand it to the driver......then all you do is tip the driver.

They are always friendly and quite chatty......and in a few moments we are at the HR. This really isn't my favourite hotel...…..of the deluxes it`s bottom of my list...….I`m not quite sure what it is......I think it doesn't feel as much a resort feeling as the others. And I find it quite cold...….but staff are as always very nice......but it does have one of my favourite restaurants here...….The Palm.



i-KDHqw67-XL.jpg



We did like this little car that was just parked outside...…..it was a Lamborghini Huracan Spyder.....I believe the entry level one, but still nice all the same......not very practical of course...…...can`t imagine getting the weeks groceries in that one!!!!

But nice to look at...….



i-NLKmKf7-XL.jpg




The lobby is dark but has a very beautiful shiny floor...….with heels it`s not the most practical, especially if you don't wear heels a lot like me...….it really is like watching Bambi learning to walk at times...…….









i-R85dSMs-XL.jpg




The ladies bathroom is one of the nicest bathrooms though...….it is quite stark but it does go with the feel of the rest of the hotel...……and yes, I suppose it is quite weird to take pictures of bathrooms!!!



i-BHpGZ8f-XL.jpg





i-bZGTJwq-XL.jpg





i-HcwjdSf-XL.jpg





i-HWbswkp-XL.jpg




Once we had visited the bathroom, we were in nice time for our reservation...…...we went in and Lauren gave us a wave as she was on the phone...she is the manager here and she remembers everyone and everything...….and she always remembers we like to be called by our first names instead of Mr and Mrs......she is top of her game.

The other lady asks if we would like to have Joyce or Gabe look after us tonight......we ask for Joyce as she has always taken care of us here......she is lovely and we always like to see her...…….

We get seated in what has become our booth again...…..it is nice in here and the booths are a little more private than the open floor tables.…..it can get quite noisy in that area, but the booths remain slightly more sedate...….

As we are seated we see a card on the table with birthday wishes on it...…….now, this was my birthday albeit belated birthday dinner, but I hadn't put that on the reservation...…..but they had noted it from last year and kept the details...…..now I was impressed...….it`s touches like that that make The Palm so special...….and another reason we eat here so often.



i-rQCNS7t-XL.jpg




We are served water and the young man brings bread over.....we will try not to eat too much of that!!! But it is nice...…..



i-C4BWfNb-XL.jpg




Joyce comes over at this point and we are so pleased to see her...….we do like familiarity and like to have the same person if we can in certain places...….we had decided tonight not to have wine.....that was a surprise to her as she knows we love wine...…..we had decided to have a few rum, ginger beers and limes.....and we asked for a whole load of extra lime wedges as I do love it with a very strong lime flavor...…...she absolutely did bring loads of limes...…

We now planned to take our time and peruse the rather nice menu at our leisure...….you are never rushed here and it does make a difference to feel that way in nicer restaurants...…...although we do usually know what we are having if I`m honest...…..

Although we never plan much for our trips, we do love to study menu`s while we are at home waiting to come back again...…...so we always have an idea of what we are going to enjoy...…



i-XwnjJ9Q-XL.jpg





i-WKQnVJL-XL.jpg




We decided we would like dessert tonight, so missed out on the appetizers so we would have room...….but later I did wish I had enjoyed the amazing shrimp cocktail they do here...…..they are massive!!

But, we eventually decided would have the 9oz filet which is the smaller of the two available...….Tom rather unusually went for the rather large 18oz NY strip...….and we shared the delicious three cheese au gratin...…...we get the smaller size between us as it really is enough because it is so rich, but beautiful......and sizzling hot!!!




i-FmCmRSL-XL.jpg





i-TRjrVQt-XL.jpg




You can still see the cheese bubbling on this one...….it really does come straight from the hottest oven in the world!!!



i-DFb6W2L-XL.jpg




Oh my goodness were these steaks good!!!! Mine was medium rare and perfectly so, Tom had asked for medium despite me telling him he should order medium rare...….I know, everyone has their own preference...….but he does like it less than medium at home...….however, it did come again more medium rare and it was just perfect...…...tasty, juicy and just the perfect steak...…….the potatoes were darn good too...……

After this we asked Joyce for a little break till we had dessert...…..of course, no problem...…..and we just sat and chatted the time away and discussed what we had done so far versus what was still to come. We love and value our trips immensely...….and appreciate how lucky we are......so this was just a lovely evening...…..

Joyce came back and we opted to have the crème brulee for me (lush) and Tom went for the blueberry cheesecake.....with sauce on the side......but before we got them...…...yep, it was my birthday dinner...……………..

Gabe at this point appeared and asked Tom if he could serenade his Carole...…...Tom of course said he`d be delighted...…..so, I did get the full rendition of Happy Birthday, Gabe style...…...he is a lovely, lovely man and it`s always a pleasure to have him sing so beautifully for a birthday...……



i-QR5nzCp-XL.jpg




And of course I did get the special birthday dessert complete with little candle to blow out......it is very nice, but very filling...…..
so we don't eat much of it.....




i-zbpcJfS-XL.jpg




Our real desserts were sublime...….the crème brulee is one of the best I have ever tasted......closely followed by Ocean prime...…...but this one is always perfect and the "crack" of the hard sugar is just right...……

Tom`s cheesecake is delightful...…..I wasn't keen on the blueberry sauce, but the cheesecake was nice.



i-BH8Jz9H-XL.jpg





i-PWB4SKG-XL.jpg




We were full to bursting now...….we had loved this dinner tonight as always...…..the quality of produce is top notch and service and presentation are hard to beat. If I had to choose to eat in only one between The Palm and Ocean Prime I would struggle to pick just one. Both are stellar.

We got the check and thanked Joyce again for taking such good care of us, told her we`d see her in December again with Kyle and we would ask for her again for sure...…...we gave Gabe a wave and off we set.

Quick bathroom visit and we set off outside to ask for an ODC...…...the valet guys looked a little unsure as there were no cars to be seen...….they said they`d make a call and one would be here as quick as possible...…..

20 minutes later we are still waiting...….and they are avoiding making eye contact.....so I wander over and ask where the car is...….he says it won`t be long......we tell them to just call us a regular cab as it would be quicker at this point. They say they`ll do that just as a cab the size of a minibus arrives...….it wasn't the dining shuttle as we won`t use that as it goes round all the hotels and takes too long.

We thank them and get in the cab/minibus...…...and we are back home in a few moments......always nice to get back to RP...…..

Our original plan was to go get changed and head out to HHN...…..that wasn't going to happen tonight now...…..we were too full and too tired...….and it was too darn hot!!!! I wasn't allowed to complain about the heat of course, because this is my thing!!!! heat......but sheesh...….this was like walking and breathing on the sun!!!!

We walked downstairs and had a drink in Jake`s ……….we sat at the bar and I had a Royal Pacific Sunset and Tom had a beer...…..the chatter was fun tonight even though we didn't know any of the two bar staff tonight...…..but they are always good at chatting and making you feel at home...….it is a nice friendly bar and somewhere you can spend an evening easily...…..

Eventually after two drinks we pay the check and head upstairs...…..I want to walk to the elevators as my feet now hurt......but to get to the elevators I need to go outside...…..I decide to climb the stairs and then walk round to the elevators...…….it felt a long walk tonight and really it takes seconds...….and these shoes were so comfortable......I think the heat had made my feet swell a little...….

Once in our room we turned on the tv and put the water from Turndown service into the fridge.....I again jumped in the shower......I think their water costs must have doubled while we were there!!! Three showers a day...……

But, we had some water and I had some Snapple that was ice cold in the fridge...…..

Wasn't long till we opened the drapes slightly, turndown always closes them tight, I do like to see the lights of the park as I fall asleep...…..and tonight I`d bet it wouldn't take us long as we really were both shattered again.

But, as always we had enjoyed a wonderful day in our favourite place.
 

GET A DISNEY VACATION QUOTE

Dreams Unlimited Travel is committed to providing you with the very best vacation planning experience possible. Our Vacation Planners are experts and will share their honest advice to help you have a magical vacation.

Let us help you with your next Disney Vacation!






Top