The family has just enjoyed a few days at the Walt Disney World theme parks. Unfortunately, the park tickets have expired with one day of vacation left. Many guests faced with that situation opt for a relaxing day on the beach or near a pool. Some guests will crack open the wallet and pay a premium for a one day park pass (been there done that!). Others may embark on an end of trip shopping spree (been there done that too!). Of course, there is always a golf course to tee up on or an air-conditioned digital movie theater to catch the latest flick in.
But another option...one that can be every bit as relaxing as a day sunning on the beach...and one that costs cero dinero—as in zero, zilch, zippo—is resort hopping. Resort hopping is a simple, gratifying way to spend a magical morning, afternoon, or whole day inside the Walt Disney World resort free of charge. Of course, if you wish to spend some dough on a nice meal or a grand souvenir, nobody will fault you.
Though I love staying at the Pop Century because of the family friendly room rate (I also love the theming), I can’t help but feel like I’m missing out on something big by not staying at one of the moderate or deluxe resorts. A day of resort hopping takes care of that void. With bus transportation to anywhere on property, each resort and its unique theming is only minutes away.
Climb aboard a bus to the Magic Kingdom. From there, journey over to the monorail station and board the monorail resort loop. Take a ride to the ultra-modern Contemporary Resort and explore it’s A-framed architecture, a 90 foot floor-to-ceiling ceramic mural, and the stunning views of Space Mountain and Cinderella Castle. If you’re in the mood to eat, venture up to the 15th floor and enjoy the exquisite Pacific Coast cuisine of the California Grill. Head back down to the fourth floor and pick up the monorail over to the Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC).
Exit the monorail at the TTC and enjoy a short stroll over to the tropical paradise known as the Polynesian resort. Stop by the Nanea Volcano pool and hear the kiddies scream with delight as they plunge down a 40 foot volcano tubular waterslide and emerge victorious at the foot of a shimmering pool. Relax along the sandy beach line for a breath taking view of a distant Cinderella’s castle. If you need a snack, visit Captain Cook’s for pizzas, burgers, salads, pastries, sandwiches, fresh fruit, and ice cream .
Time to walk off all those delicious calories with a leisurely walk along the Seven Seas Lagoon pathway. Your next visit, the Grand Floridian Resort and Spa. Don’t forget to check out the wedding pavillion on the way. The magnificent Victorian-style architecture of the Grand Floridian resort is a delight to the eyes. Tour the resorts bright and beautiful courtyards and its stunning white sand beach and beach pool. If you haven’t eaten already, you’ll enjoy dining at your choice of six different restaurants including Citricos, Narcoosee’s, and Victoria and Albert’s.
When finished touring the Grand Floridian, Downtown Disney is only a bus ride away. Find the connecting bus to your home resort and you’ve just spent a wonderful morning or afternoon touring three of Walt Disney World’s deluxe resorts at little or no cost. On your next visit, hit the Epcot resorts; Disney’s Boardwalk Inn, the Yacht and Beach club and the Swan and Dolphin.
Bring along a camera or camcorder and get some great shots of the family at each resort. The pictures make for an incredible scrapbook or slideshow. Years later, you may even convince yourself that you shelled out top dollar to stay at each of the resorts. Hey, a guy can dream can’t he?
Next time you have a free day at Walt Disney World, consider resort hopping. It’s the best way to explore and enjoy all of the resorts Walt Disney World has to offer.
No comments:
Post a Comment