Tuesday, July 27, 2010

There's 999 Happy Haunts Here, But There's Room For 1000...Any Volunteers?


How awesome is THIS picture??! I love it! I am posting this to lead into my blog topic today...scary things at Walt Disney World. There aren't too many, but if you have kids that scare easily there are a few attractions that are best left skipped.

Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party boasts the "not so scary" part in it's name, and it's really not scary in my opinon. The parade is fantastic and worth the price of the admission ticket in itself. There have been zombies and mummies marching down Main Street, USA but in a non-threatening kind of way. :) There also is the pirate themed float and all the adorable characters dressed in their Halloween costumes as well. All in all, it's as kid friendly as you can get in my opinion...it is Halloweeen, after all.

As for attractions; of course the first one that comes to mind is the Haunted Mansion in the Magic Kingdom... and yes, I have seen my fair share of children (and adults for that matter) hovering in the corner or shoulder of their fellow passenger in their doom buggy. Located at the intersection of Frontierland and Liberty Square, you can't miss the foreboding entrance and ghost carriage sitting in front. I personally don't think it's that bad, it has an air of "fun" about it...where else can you go on a haunted mansion and really not want to shut your eyes except at Walt Disney World? (Click on the link below to see more information and pictures about these attractions from disneyworld.com.)


The one that is missed by most people though is in Fantasyland. That's right, I said Fantasyland. Snow White's Scary Adventures. Note the word scary in the name of the attraction. And they ain't kiddin'! I hadn't been on it in years, and back in 2001 I took my best friends' son who was about 3 years old on it one day when we were at the Magic Kingdom, just me and him. What a mistake! Man, did I learn the hard way! He was crying and trying to bury himself into my side the whole time in the dark, twisting attraction. And I couldn't really console him because I thought it was pretty scary for kids too!! It felt like the longest 4 minutes of my life!


Lastly, I'm going to go out on a limb here and list two of my least favorite attractions. Everyone has them, as do I, a true Disney fanatic. One is Stitch's Great Escape at the Magic Kingdom and the other is It's Tough to be a Bug! at Disney's Animal Kingdom. I think what makes them scary for me is the one thing that both of these attractions have in common: the pitch black dark. I'm not the biggest fan of enclosed spaces, so when you strap me into a chair, like in Stitch's Great Escape and put me in the pitch black dark and have what feels like things moving around me, that't SO not for me.


Similarly with It's Tough to be a Bug! in the Tree of Life at Disney's Animal Kingdom. Sit in a theater in the dark with 3D glasses for a 4D experience and I feel bugs moving behind me? Ummmm....no. No thank you, never again. I've been on them both once, no need for me ever to go on them again. If you want to go on either of these attractions and you're with me, I will happily go on the "sit on the bench and wait" ride and be very content. :)

Sunday, July 25, 2010

Events That Make Your Trip All The More "Special"!!


How delicious does this S'mores cheesecake from the Whispering Canyon Cafe look? Do you think that it look even better knowing that you can get it FREE?? I know I've been pushing the Free Dining Deal a lot since it was released, and now we are in the final stretch. The last day to book this yummy deal is August 14th. So if you're planning on visiting the Walt Disney World Resort this Fall, it really would be a smart move to price your vacation during a set of dates when you can take advantage of this promotion.

Stay at least 5-nights at a Walt Disney World resort and get the dining plan FREE during the 2010 dates of:

August 15th-October 7th
October 22nd-October 28th
November 12th-November 18th
November 22nd-December 2nd
December 10th-December 21st

And to get the MOST bang for you buck, plan ahead, get the free dining plan, and visit Walt Disney World during one of the many spectacular special events that are happening this Fall/Winter 2010!! This is my favorite time of year and you will be getting (finally) some trip reports from me personally because I wouldn't miss it! (Click on the links below to be taken to the official page on Disneyworld.com to see details and more pictures!)

If you visit anytime between September 14th and November 1st, on select nights you can purchase a ticket for Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party at the Magic Kingdom!


Visit select nights between November 8th and December 19th, and purchase tickets for Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party at the Magic Kingdom!


Visit on either September 10th or/and September 11th, you can go to the Night of Joy at the Magic Kingdom! (with separate ticket purchase)


Everyday between October 1st and November 14th, you can take advantage of the International Food and Wine Festival at EPCOT!


Also in the late fall/winter of this year, be sure not to miss the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights at The Disney Hollywood Studios! (Dates TBA)


Everyday between November 26th and December 30th and you see the fabulous Candlelight Processional at EPCOT!


And last but not least, taking place at Downtown Disney November 12th-November 14th is the Festival of the Masters for all you fellow art-lovers out there!!


There are so many things going on in the remainder of 2010 that it almost requires 2 vacations!! And the free dining is the icing on the cake!! :)

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

Hot Fun in the Summertime!


**International Food and Wine Festival at EPCOT now booking reservations for special events! Hurry before they're all sold out!

Good Afternoon! A lot of people are aware that there are several promotions going on at the moment to visit Walt Disney World during the summer months. Most include the month of August, and there's a reason. I'm not going to lie, during August in Orlando, it's HOT and humid. But each month of the year in Orlando is hot, and it's true that there are some months that are more comfortable to visit than others. But as everyone well knows, the one thing we can't control is the weather. There is no crystal ball to see what it's going to do while you're on your Walt Disney World vacation, and the best thing you can do is stay up to date on the weather trends in the past years and consult www.weather.com before your trip.

It also helps that before you make your plans to perhaps check this site. It is a different kind of hot going in January versus August. But August may be the only time you can go. Granted, June, July, and August are some of the hottest months of the year in O-town, but also the months when the kids are out of school and summer vacations are in full blast. If you are willing to take your children out of school during the school year, pick a month where you'll get a great deal and you'll have the best chance of the weather cooperating.

What's my recommendation?? January. Crowds are at a minimum, the weather is cooler, and lines are usually short. But keep in mind that Walt Disney World usually does have something going on during each month to entice people to visit their parks...the first week of January is a little busier due to the holiday crowds still lingering, and and also the Walt Disney World Marathon weekend is happening January 6th-9th, 2011. So as it may not be the extreme crowds in the parks that you're expecting, but the resorts will be full. If you're taking your own vehicle, be prepared for some detours and traffic. So in closing, just do your homework when it comes to the weather and pick the date that works best for you, but all we can do in the "longrun" is hope that Mother Nature is nice to you!

Saturday, July 17, 2010

Top 5 Quick Service Locations


Good Morning all! I have been trying to avoid making all of my "top 5" entries this week about food, but what can I say? I am a closet foodie, and as I visit Walt Disney World more and more over the years it becomes more and more about...the food. So today I am giving you my picks for the:

Top 5 Quick Service Locations

5. Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe

Location: Magic Kingdom; Frontierland

This restaurant is located at the corner of Frontierland across the street from Splash Mountain. I bet some people are wondering why I chose this location as my number 5 pick; but I love a good taco salad, and that's what they have there! Burgers, sandwiches, salads, most with a southwestern theme and yummy! I also like the location of this restaurant; because if you plan your meal just right, you can have a little bit of a later lunch around 1:30 or so and then stake out your spot for the 3 o'clock Share A Dream Come True parade! The parade route begins just outside.

4. Toluca Legs Turkey Co.

Location: Disney's Hollywood Studios; Sunset Boulevard

Guess what you can dine on at this location?? You got it! Turkey legs! The famed Walt Disney World treat that has mouths watering when from the point you start smelling them to after you eat them (or maybe that's just me-- turkey legs make me sooo thirsty!). You can also purchase beer at this location (with a valid ID). The picture above always makes me laugh when I see it; it's two of my closest friends "goofing" around at Toluca Legs Turkey Co. one day when we were playing in the parks. So if turkey legs and beer sound like an ideal lunch for you after walking around Disney's Hollywood Studios for several hours, head down Sunset boulevard towards the Tower of Terror and look to your left--you can't miss it!

3. The Earl of Sandwich

Location: Downtown Disney Marketplace

I often suggest that my clients spend an afternoon or evening at Downtown Disney when they have a day where they just don't want to go to the theme parks. It can be relaxing; shopping, restaurants, maybe a performance of Cirque du Soleil or a visit to DisneyQuest. And if you're down there on the marketplace side deciding where to eat, there's no doubt in my mind where I would suggest: The Earl of Sandwich. They actually do breakfast, lunch, or dinner there and you can take the food to go if you'd like to have it in your room instead! The sandwiches are fantastic and filling by themselves and you also get a drink and a side on the dining plan too! I've had many a great meal with best friends and family at this restaurant...if it's a nice day, grab a table outside and people-watch!

2. Yorkshire County Fish Shop

Location: EPCOT; United Kingdom

If you haven't already noticed I want to point out that almost none of my quick service location picks are traditional burgers and fries which is a common misconception to the public when they hear quick service dining. Everyone tends to immediately think "the Mc-word". But my number 2 and 1 spots on this list today do not conclude my favorite quick service locations. They are simply great food and for me, happy memories. Don't you sometimes crave bad-for-you fried food? Well, you're on vacation...go ahead, splurge! Maybe on, say, a couple of fillets of fried cod and a pile of chips (or french fries as we Yanks call 'em)? The food is outstanding at this location and you can have them anyway you like them, maybe perhaps like my husband who enjoys them (traditionally) drenched in vinegar, or like me, I'm more a tartar sauce kinda-girl. And one of my favorite aspects of this restaurant is its location. Order your food, get your condiments, and them pick a nice bench overlooking the World Showcase Lagoon and take a minute to relax.

1. Lotus Blossom Cafe

Location: EPCOT; China

This (believe it or not) was a very difficult decision for me. I would like to give honorable mention to each of the quick service locations is EPCOT, as all of them have yummy food from their country's cuisine. But the memories attached to the Lotus Blossom Cafe seal the deal for me. My family and I have always been big on Chinese food. It was a treat while we were growing up, and all I have to add to this is THANK GOODNESS my husband loves it too. And then to add to it...so do our kids! YAY! This dining location is a favorite with my family (we also have been going to the table service location- Nine Dragons for about twenty years as well), and don't get me wrong, if you don't like Chinese food you're not going to agree with me. They have a delicious cold green tea there, and the orange chicken is fantastic! I highly recommend this location and hope that you taste it for yourself!




Thursday, July 15, 2010

Top 5 Places to Take A "Magical" Photo



Good afternoon!! I have recently been browsing different people's blogs about Walt Disney World and the Disney product and I have to say...I'm impressed!! I hope some of these people think the same of me! Today's "Top 5" is about something that every person who visits Walt Disney World does...takes pictures! Isn't it so nice nowadays that you can see the picture right away when you take it to ensure that it's come out nice? Well, here is my list of the:

Top 5 Places To Take A "Magical" Photo

5. Next to the "Bronze Goofy"

Location: Magic Kingdom

This statue of Goofy is often overlooked by people while walking into the Magic Kingdom park who are in awe of Main Street USA. And of course there are all the "big" places there at the front of the park...in front of the Partners statue, in front of Cinderella's castle, or in front of Cinderella's carousel. But I think this Goofy statue is so cute, and can make for a great picture. He's sitting on a bench in his suit welcoming the guests to the park by tipping his top hat to you.
:)

4. In front of Spaceship Earth

Location: EPCOT

Yes, this is one of those "touristy" pictures that everyone takes when they visit EPCOT, but I have so many (the picture above included). This one takes me back to the day we went, as all good pictures should, and there's just something about having a photo with the monsterous Spaceship Earth behind you that makes you think..."yea, I was there." :)

3. Bridge Overlooking Expedition Everest in Asia

Location: Asia, Disney's Animal Kingdom

There is a bridge with no name that overlooks the Expedition Everest thrill ride at Disney's Animal Kingdom where if you look from it, you'd swear you're standing in front of the real Mt. Everest. it's that humbling. And a picture from this point whether it be a "cheese!" sort of shot or you pretending to be hoofing to the top will be as memorable as the first time you ride the attraction itself. :)

2. Next to Snow White's Wishing Well

Location: Magic Kingdom

If you're behind the castle facing it, looking at the beautiful stained glass windows on the second level of Cinderella's Royal Table, take a glance to your left and you'll notice a little winding path. Look past the smokers (the top of the path is one of the designated smoking areas of the park) and take a stroll down it. Cinderella's castle in all her glory is on your right and towards the end of it you will come upon Snow White's wishing well. Can you imagine this picture and the possibilities? With the castle in the background? Couldn't you just be Snow White while someone snaps a shot of you wishing for your Prince to find you? Maybe it is your Prince Charming taking the picture, but hey, you're not supposed to tell your wish anyway.... :)

1. Any photo anywhere on Walt Disney World property that is taken from behind people walking in the scenery and taking it all in

Location: Anywhere

Some may call this a cop-out, but not I. If this picture is taken correctly, candid, without the person(s) knowledge, it can be a very memorable shot. I actually have a couple of these, one I have already shared, but have reposted for this entry. To me, there's just something about snapping a picture of a dad, mom, grandparent, etc. holding a child's hand and enjoying that moment. It's what Disney World is all about. Creating the "magical moments" that last in ours and our children's memories forever and if you happen to get a picture of it, that makes it all the better. :)

Tuesday, July 13, 2010

Top 5 Places To Get Ice Cream


Good Afternoon! I scream, you scream, we all scream for ICE CREAM!! Alright, alright, alright, I know that was cheesy, but I couldn't resist. Can you guess what the "Top 5" is today?? That yummy, delicious, perfect treat on a hot day in Florida after you've been walking the parks all day... you guessed it!

My favorite "Top 5 Place To Get Ice Cream At Walt Disney World"!!

5. Ice Cream Carts:

Location: Anywhere in the parks, really

Dining Plan: Snack Credit

Both times so far the #5 spot has been held for an honorable mention. And here's mine for todays. Although technically not an "ice cream shop" per say, I personally can't help but walk by the ice cream carts in any of the four major theme parks and not want a Nestle Cookie Ice Cream Sandwich. Do I regret it halfway through it? Yes. DO I keep going back for more? You betcha. :) And how could I leave out the infamous Mickey-shaped ice cream bars? It's a no-brainer to me, they had to be included on this list.

4. The Plaza Restaurant

Location: End of Main Street, USA, Magic Kingdom

Dining Plan: One Table Service Meal

The Plaza Restaurant is a quaint little lunch/dinner place that oftentimes gets overlooked by people making their dining reservations. Yes, reservations are suggested for this location; but without all the bells and whistles of many other of the restaurants at Walt Disney World, it tends to go un-noticed. But don't discount this cute place at the end of Main Street, USA (on the right if you're facing Cinderella's Castle). They have fantastic hand-dipped sundaes, and if you're with a group where everyone's not craving the frosty treat, they can order from the menu of sandwiches, salads, and wraps.


3. The Dole Whip Stand

Location: Adventureland, The Magic Kingdom

Dining Plan: One Snack Credit

What is a Dole Whip?! What is a Dole Whip?!?! If you are planning a trip to Walt Disney World in the near future and are going to the Magic Kingdom (or staying at the Polynesian Resort) and don't try a Dole Whip you are doing your vacation a disservice. Okay, maybe that's a little dramatic. But man, are they GOOD! It's pineapple-flavored soft serve, and I can't walk by this stand and not want one. Coconut I don't go for so much, but pineapple... pineapple, bring it on!

2. Beaches & Cream Soda Shop

Location: Disney's Beach Club Resort

Dining Plan: One Table Service Meal

**I think people who read this blog and know Walt Disney World are going to have opinions about my #2 and #1 spots. Remember, these are simply my opinions, but I can completely see how these next 2 could be inverted. They were neck-n-neck on my list too.

Another one of the perks of staying at Disney's Yacht and Beach Clubs besides the fantastic Stormalong Bay (the pool the two resorts share) is just outside the entrance of the pool, Beaches & Cream Soda Shop. I have been wondering for years why this dining location does not take reservations, but they don't... it's strictly walk up. It's open for lunch and dinner and while it has the feel of a traditional soda fountain with the juke box playing and all..the ice cream there is magnificent. Can we say the "Kitchen Sink"?? No, I'm serious... there's a dish (and I use the word dish lightly) on the menu called The Kitchen Sink. A scoop of every flavor of ice cream, almost a whole can of whipped cream, cherries, oreos, sprinkles, coconut, chocolate chips, hot fudge, etc, etc, etc..... all served to you in a dish that's shaped like, you got it, a kitchen sink! I'm not kidding...look it up on youtube, and about ten different videos will appear of people ordering this monsterous sundae and attempting to eat it!! I would at least bring 4 or 5 people!

1. Ghiradelli's Soda Fountain

Location: Downtown Disney Marketplace

Dining Plan: Not Included

This is my #1. I cannot even imagine how many calories I have taken in during my visits to Downtown Disney Marketplace. And believe me, when you're a local, that can be a lot of visits!! I always get the same thing. Although I have tasted other items on the menu here, my heart holds true to the Ghiradelli's chocolate milkshake. It sounds simple, but sometimes simple is the best. And this is the case of this chocolately, creamy, wonderful old-time favorite at Ghiradelli's Soda Fountain. The picture above is my aunt and my grandmother, after they've finished their sundaes. But I think what works in my favor is that I usually get my milkshake to go...so I can walk while slurping it, and therefore burn the calories while I drink. LOL. It works, really!!! Until tomorrow... :)


Monday, July 12, 2010

Top 5 Seafood Restaurants at Walt Disney World


Good Afternoon! I hope everyone who reads this blog is doing well today!

Walt Disney World Travel Tip of the Day:

At the Disney Hollywood Studios, make sure you have a plan for the day. Most of the attractions are shows with specific showtimes. Whether there are 1-2 shows per hour, or maybe only 5 shows per day, make sure you know which ones you and your family definitely would like to see so when you check the times guide at the park you can map out a "plan" for the day!

I'm going to be doing my "Top 5's" this week. Each day a different one, and today:

Top 5 Seafood Restaurants at Walt Disney World!

5. California Grill:

Location: Disney's Contemporary Resort

Dining Plan: 2 Table Service Meals

This is a FANTASTIC restaurant! I wanted to include it even though it is not exclusively seafood, which is why I made it "#5". They do serve delicious steaks, poultry, pork, and vegetarian dishes as well; but it is one of the best places on property to get some high-end sushi! They also have great seafood dishes, and it's located on the top floor of Disney's Contemporary Resort. Go there for great food, service, atmosphere, views, and sushi!

4. Captain Jack's:

Location: Downtown Disney Marketplace

Dining Plan: 1 table service meal

Do you like New England clam chowder? I do, and if you do as well, this is the place to go. It has a more casual atmosphere for a seafood restaurant, but is right on the lake at Downtown Disney and the food is served hot and delicious. The clam chowder is something I don't miss here and I look forward to it each time I know I'm going to dine there. I do enjoy this restaurant, but do recommend it more for a lunch location.

3. The Cape May Cafe:

Location: Disney's Beach Club

Dining Plan: 1 table service meal

I've blogged about this restaurant before, I can't say enough good things about it. I am admittedly a fan of buffets, especially the ones at Walt Disney World. They have one side of the buffet set up with a New England-style clambake, and the other side is for "land lovers" with ribs, chicken, etc. There's a shorter buffet so the kids can go up and get their own, and a separate salad bar as well! Go as many times as you like, have some iced tea, and the kids can color on the paper table coverings too!!

2. Narcoossee's:

Location: Disney's Grand Floridian Resort and Spa

Dining Plan: 2 table service meals

This is a more fine dining location much like the California Grill, but the main cuisine here is seafood. It's more high-end, and the food is delicious. I throughly enjoyed my dining experience at Narcoosee's, even from the time I was waiting to be seated. Outside the main entrance to the restaurant on either side of the walkway are the plants where the chefs get their fresh herbs for the dishes, so make sure you take a minute to sniff the basil by the sidewalk. And much like the California Grill, if you get a dining reservation around fireworks time, the lights of the restaurant will dim and it will fill with the musuc from the show. You can leave your table and walk out on the patio and watch Magic Kingdom's Wishes over Bay Lake. The makings of a very romantic evening!

1. Fulton's Crab House

Location: Downtown Disney Marketplace

Dining Plan: Not included

My brother-in-law would be very proud of me for not only including his favorite restaurant on Disney property in my top 5 list, but also for giving it the number 1 spot! Can we say crab legs the size of your forearm?!?! With sweet, delicious crabmeat inside that will set any seafood lovers mouth to watering (get it? seafood? mouth-watering?? lol)! Do I really need the sides of corn on the cob and new potatoes? As good as they are... bring on the crab! You can't miss this restaurant that's a high riverboat at the Downtown Disney Marketplace; while Captain Jacks' down the sidewalk a bit is a great lunch location, this is the place to go for dinner. No, it's not on the dining plan, and it's a little pricey, but when you're celebrating a special occasion and have a hunger for seafood, Fulton's Crab House is the place to go . One of my favorite things to recommend to clients who are celebrating a special occasion like maybe an anniversary is to have dinner at Fulton's and then walk a little of it off to Downtown Disney West Side and catch a performance of La Nouba, the Cirque du Soleil show exclusive to Walt Disney World. It's a great date night~!





Tuesday, July 6, 2010

FANTASTIC, FABULOUS, FREE FOOD!!


Good morning and I hope everyone had a fantastic and safe 4th of July!
Before I start blogging about my favorite subject this morning I have an announcement to make. I have put a lot of thought into this and am hoping that I am making the right decision; but I know that right now, this is definitely the right decision for me. As most of you know, I am a travel agent. Well, I've decided that I am going to be exclusive to the Disney product from now on. If any of you who read this blog happen to need help booking anywhere else in the world, you can still contact me and I can point you in the right direction as to finding a travel agent...I have plenty of friends. But for me, I feel it will make me happier in my job and my life to put 110% into what I know best. I will be specializing in Walt Disney World of course, but I am not limiting myself to it. I will also book Disneyland in California, the DisneyCruiseline, Disneyland Paris, and Adventures by Disney. I am happy with my decision and look forward to the future and creating your magic... :)

Walt Disney World Savings Update!!

YIPEE!! THE FREE DINING PLAN HAS BEEN EXTENDED!!! You still need to contact me and book by August 14th, 2010; but the FREE DINING has been extended for this last month to include the dates:

August 15th - October 7th
October 22nd-28th
November 12th-18th
November 27th - December 2nd
December 10th-21st

This means you can check in on any of these dates and have to stay a minimum of five (5) nights on a package (with theme park tickets) at a Walt Disney World Resort and you can get the dining plan...FREE!!

If you stay at a value resort (Pop Century, All Star Movies, All Star Music, All Star Sports Resorts) the quick service dining plan is FREE!

If you stay at a moderate (Disney's Port Orleans French Quarter, Disney's Port Orleans Riverside, Disney's Caribbean Beach, Disney's Coronado Springs Resort), Deluxe (The Contemporary, The Grand Floridian, Disney's Polynesian, The Yacht Club, The Beach Club, Disney's Boardwalk, Disney Animal Kingdom Lodge, or The Wilderness Lodge), a deluxe villa (Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort, Disney's Old Key West Resort) or at Ft. Wilderness Resort and Campground, you can get the regular dining plan...FREE!

This really is a great deal and not to be missed! So if you're thinking about taking a trip to Walt Disney World this year or know anybody who is, send them my way to price out a package! It doesn't cost anything to find out and the savings are fantastic!

Friday, July 2, 2010

Smile and Say "Mickey Mouse"!!!


Good Morning! Every time I look at this picture I chuckle because my friend Greg's eyes are closed and it was taken back in the days before digital cameras where we didn't know until we got the pictures back from the developer. Remember those days?

It's funny that I used to recommend to people "don't forget to bring plenty of film..." and now I sometimes catch myself before I say it just out of habit. How many people really have cameras that still take film anymore? I had to use a disposable camera on my honeymoon because we left the camera in a bag with my parents after the wedding completely by accident and I nearly cried. The pictures were awful. A once in a lifetime and the pictures just don't do it justice.

I know this sort of thing rarely happens anymore, but don't let the same thing happen to your big vacation to Walt Disney World. There are many photo opportunities that Disney provides. One of the most widely used is an online service called Disney's Photopass. The most common way to take advantage of photopass is when you walk through the front entrance of any of the four major theme parks, there are Disney photographers waiting there to snap your picture, when your family is still fresh, ready and excited to start their day. "Say Mickey Mouse!", you're then given a ticket and shown where you can view your picture in a few hours or you can go online with the information on the ticket within the next thirty days, view, and buy them or make valuable keepsakes! What will they think of next?! It really is a nice service Disney provides. And those aren't the only places that photopass can be utilized. Pictures with characters, at the end of attractions, or dining locations can all be added to your online album!

Of course, nothing can take the place of your family's camera loaded with the fantastic and silly candid shots taken throughout your vacation; so I've said it before and I'll say it again... don't forget to pack your camera! :)