VWL Groupies & Lovers Thread (Special Collectors Edition 2.0) updated 21 June 2023

[Dizny Dad]

We will be taking our son in law to WL/VWL twice in a few days to check the place out, etc. For his own good(to keep his opinion on the upswing)we will avoid the construction side of VWL as much as possible, though we will be riding boat to the groupie meet so Im sure we can't avoid seeing some cabins, but for his own good, we will shield him from the construction as much as possible

Gee, that old parental question . . .should we protect our children from the realities of life that they will inevitably face in their own time? Easy to answer when they are little, not so easy as they grow older. But in this case, Jimmy, I'm on your side. Just can't imagine someone in a Groupie Family having a less than enthusiastic opinion toward Our Lodge! As you walk with the family toward the boats, maybe you should use the blindfold on your SIL that you always to use on him before the wedding . . . . . just sayin' . . . . . . . . . . . . see you in two weeks. You can tell us all how it worked out.

 

[Granny]

We will be taking our son in law to WL/VWL twice in a few days to check the place out, etc. For his own good(to keep his opinion on the upswing)we will avoid the construction side of VWL as much as possible, though we will be riding boat to the groupie meet so Im sure we can't avoid seeing some cabins, but for his own good, we will shield him from the construction as much as possible

Jimmy...I agree with DDad...this is probably a good idea. After all, this will probably be your son in law's only trip while the construction is going on. I'm sure that if he sees the area once it's complete he will be impressed. Even though we may not like the new look, it will still be an impressive resort!

Now if we can just do something about the goofy cabin colors. I'm sure the Imagineers will come up with some bogus backstory to explain that!


And our countdown is moving right along....

 

[KAT4DISNEY]

MDE tells me it's 15 days to go!

 

[Friendlyadvice2]

I'm certainly not disputing anybodies description of the cabin colors, but I can confirm that the colors are definitely a finish coat and, as long as the the Groupie Meet doesn't stage a coup, are intended to be final.

However, after just seeing them two days ago, I would describe the cabins I saw as being a deep maroon, a medium/dark brown, and a light beige/tan. I'm looking at them now in my photos. It's quite possible there are others that are different. I'd post my picture verifying my description, but the Dis is telling me it's too large

 

[KAT4DISNEY]

I'm certainly not disputing anybodies description of the cabin colors, but I can confirm that the colors are definitely a finish coat and, as long as the the Groupie Meet doesn't stage a coup, are intended to be final.

However, after just seeing them two days ago, I would describe the cabins I saw as being a deep maroon, a medium/dark brown, and a light beige/tan. I'm looking at them now in my photos. It's quite possible there are others that are different. I'd post my picture verifying my description, but the Dis is telling me it's too large

You can upload them to a hosting site (like photobucket) and then post them here.

 

[jimmytammy]

Dad and Granny, thanks for backing me and confirming my thoughts on what he does/doesn't see. I think even Kristian would say the same. She remembers it as a child, and still sees it today through the way she remembers, not what it is becoming. Looking forward to reuniting with you folks soon!

I'm certainly not disputing anybodies description of the cabin colors, but I can confirm that the colors are definitely a finish coat and, as long as the the Groupie Meet doesn't stage a coup, are intended to be final.

Friendly, you may have just planted an idea. It will be dark, we have lots of folks, it can be done. Our coup shall consist of paintbrushes, colors more closely related to our more current browns and greens, and a bunch of groupies with a purpose

 

[jimmytammy]

Hey all! Got a question totally unrelated to WL/VWL(no great surprise, right)
What are your favorite(s) QS in parks and what food(s) draws you in?
Our DSIL is a guy who needs 3 meals a day, so even though we have ADRs at some TS places, he needs to eat more than we tend too at WDW.

 

[bobbiwoz]

Viewing the cabins from the monorail gave me an unexpected heart jolt. From Wilderness to congestion!

 

[DiznyDi]

Hey all! Got a question totally unrelated to WL/VWL(no great surprise, right)
What are your favorite(s) QS in parks and what food(s) draws you in?
Our DSIL is a guy who needs 3 meals a day, so even though we have ADRs at some TS places, he needs to eat more than we tend too at WDW.

In MK we like Caseys, at AK it would be Pizzafari, Studios is Starring Rolls, and Epcot would be the new and improved La Patissere (?) in France

Today marks single digits for us! Yay!

 

[Dizny Dad]

So my mind drifts back to the days when you could enjoy a nice brunch at Starring Rolls in HS, where for a decent price, you could buy a generous Smoked Salmon (Lox) plate served with onions, capers, and a cream cheese bagel. Mmmmmmmmm. But they discontinued the offering; so sad. I registered my disappointment at Guest services a number of times, right along with commenting that we missed the corned seats in the Writer’s Stop. As you all might suspect, both were graciously noted but ignored.

As a side note, I have recently discovered that Einstein Brothers has a WONDERFUL Nova Lox specialty bagel that is to die for!!

 

[Dizny Dad]

But speaking of Guest Services, DiznyDi can relate the story of asking the First Aid Nurse what type of liquid soap they used in the restrooms at HS. Both she and our DD would break out in an instant rash after washing their hands. The First Aid person took the question as a personal insult and refused to answer such a question. Needless to say, both DiznyDi & DD now carry their own soap pads & anti-bacterial stuff.

I must add though, we have always had a wonderful experience with any Guest Service experience. This was the one time we were somewhat surprised and felt awkward as we walked away.

 

[bobbiwoz]

I would get my lox fix in Disney at breakfast with the characters in Cape May Cafe.

Glad you found what you like, too!

 

[sleepydog25]

Hey all! Got a question totally unrelated to WL/VWL(no great surprise, right)
What are your favorite(s) QS in parks and what food(s) draws you in?
Our DSIL is a guy who needs 3 meals a day, so even though we have ADRs at some TS places, he needs to eat more than we tend too at WDW.

Columbia Harbor House is a nice spot to stop, and we enjoy going upstairs where it's less crowded and offers tables overlooking MK. In AK, we enjoy Yak & Yeti for a change of pace, though if it's something small in the morning you seek, the Mickey-shaped cinnamon roll at the Starbucks there is quite good. We've not eaten anything in DHS in quite some time as it's currently only a half-day park for us, though we usually get there early and stop at Starbucks there, as well. Epcot, of course, has numerous spots. While not a true QS, Tutto Gusto Wine Cellar has wonderful antipasto plates, cheeses, olives, etc., and can even get you small plates of pasta. While we're big fans of Italian reds (okay, really any wine, but that's another story), obviously one doesn't have to order wine there.

 

[Granny]

Dad and Granny, thanks for backing me and confirming my thoughts on what he does/doesn't see. I think even Kristian would say the same. She remembers it as a child, and still sees it today through the way she remembers, not what it is becoming. Looking forward to reuniting with you folks soon!


Friendly, you may have just planted an idea. It will be dark, we have lots of folks, it can be done. Our coup shall consist of paintbrushes, colors more closely related to our more current browns and greens, and a bunch of groupies with a purpose

Jimmy...great idea! And don't forget the tree saplings we'll be carrying!

 

[Granny]

Hey all! Got a question totally unrelated to WL/VWL(no great surprise, right)
What are your favorite(s) QS in parks and what food(s) draws you in?
Our DSIL is a guy who needs 3 meals a day, so even though we have ADRs at some TS places, he needs to eat more than we tend too at WDW.

Lots of good suggestions here. We tend to like Casey's and Columbia Harbour House at MK, and Flame Tree BBQ at DAK. EPCOT has The Land food court and HS has several serviceable CS locations...quite a few for such a small park.

 

[twinklebug]

But speaking of Guest Services, DiznyDi can relate the story of asking the First Aid Nurse what type of liquid soap they used in the restrooms at HS. Both she and our DD would break out in an instant rash after washing their hands. The First Aid person took the question as a personal insult and refused to answer such a question. Needless to say, both DiznyDi & DD now carry their own soap pads & anti-bacterial stuff.

I must add though, we have always had a wonderful experience with any Guest Service experience. This was the one time we were somewhat surprised and felt awkward as we walked away.

The park soap is very cheap. I learned that painful lesson one February and now pack appropriately.

I realize Disney trains their employees never to admit guilt on the part of the company, but she should have offered sympathy and given Di some simple hydrocortisone creme as first aid to battle the rash. It bothers me when trained staff ignore the basics. At least the good staff far outnumbers the bad.

 

[KAT4DISNEY]

Friendly, you may have just planted an idea. It will be dark, we have lots of folks, it can be done. Our coup shall consist of paintbrushes, colors more closely related to our more current browns and greens, and a bunch of groupies with a purpose

Go get 'em Jimmy!

 

[KAT4DISNEY]

Hey all! Got a question totally unrelated to WL/VWL(no great surprise, right)
What are your favorite(s) QS in parks and what food(s) draws you in?
Our DSIL is a guy who needs 3 meals a day, so even though we have ADRs at some TS places, he needs to eat more than we tend too at WDW.

For DH - his in between meal snack is usually the same at all the parks. The Turkey Leg.

The rest depends on a lot on what everyone likes.

My Top QS in each park:
1) Sunshine Seasons, Tangierine Cafe (Epcot)
2) Flame Tree BBQ (AK)
3)Scratch Fairfax Fare - might have to check on ABC Commissary as it seems like the chicken and ribs has now moved over there from Fairfax Fare which changes the answer.
4) Columbia Harbour House (upstairs is the place to sit and eat)

In MK we like Columbia Harbour House or Cosmic Ray's (nice because of the variety). Sometimes throw in Peco's Bills with the new menu they have. Gason's has had some good stew but they keep changing their menu (used to be a smoked ham hock that DH liked).

AK - Flame Tree or Yak and Yeti and nothing else for years but we've now enjoyed eating at the new Harambe Market a couple of times. You know the Bibo soda that has been at Club Cool forever? They serve it at Harambe as an option. Sweetness overload!

DHS - The choices down by ToT have been our go to's for awhile as everyone can find something - Fairfax Fare, Rosies All American and Catalina Eddie's. Pizza, salad, chicken, ribs, turkey legs...... But I also like Backlot Express and Pizza Planet (now has a new muppet theme - PizzeRizzo). I never had the patience for the line at Starring Rolls.

Epcot - they are going to have a few food booths that we'll be trying this trip. http://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2016/...e-coming-to-epcots-holidays-around-the-world/ Unlike Food and Wine these portions are reported to be meal size.
Otherwise we go to Sunshine Seasons in the land (best QS in Disney IMO) or Tangierine Cafe in Morocco with an occasional stop in China for potstickers. I don't think we've done any of the other locations in years. Except for the Turkey leg for DH (see a trend?!?!?)

 

[horselover]

Friendly, you may have just planted an idea. It will be dark, we have lots of folks, it can be done. Our coup shall consist of paintbrushes, colors more closely related to our more current browns and greens, and a bunch of groupies with a purpose

Count me in!

Hey all! Got a question totally unrelated to WL/VWL(no great surprise, right)
What are your favorite(s) QS in parks and what food(s) draws you in?
Our DSIL is a guy who needs 3 meals a day, so even though we have ADRs at some TS places, he needs to eat more than we tend too at WDW.

I tend to not eat much QS but I'm in agreement with others. MK I like Columbia Harbor House & Pinocchio's. I tend to stick with chicken nuggets or flatbreads though which are pretty much the same wherever you go. Epcot I like Sunshine Seasons & Les Halles. Never get QS at DHS. In & out in the morning or I'm headed to 50s for dinner. AK haven't eaten there in years.

While not a true QS, Tutto Gusto Wine Cellar has wonderful antipasto plates, cheeses, olives, etc., and can even get you small plates of pasta. While we're big fans of Italian reds (okay, really any wine, but that's another story), obviously one doesn't have to order wine there.

I love Tutto Gusto! I think you already know we share the same taste in wine. But I do like to eat there too. I like their meatball sliders. Took DS16 there once & they made him a really nice GF pasta dish. He loved it. Their antipasti always looks good too. They do take TIW & also offer a DVC discount. It's a great spot to just hang out & relax for a bit. I love the little alcoves with the couches. It's just a great place.

19 days to go for us & big news. We're going back to New Zealand next summer! Got another great sale Cyber Monday at Air New Zealand & just couldn't pass it up. So excited to be returning to my happy place.

 

[jade1]

Here's a few from the weekend if interested.