{"id":125,"date":"2009-03-30T18:00:33","date_gmt":"2009-03-30T18:00:33","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/wordpress.test\/2009\/03\/30\/august-2007-tikifest-part-1\/"},"modified":"2019-10-13T18:52:57","modified_gmt":"2019-10-13T18:52:57","slug":"august-2007-tikifest-part-1","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/papersuasion.com\/tiki\/august-2007-tikifest-part-1\/","title":{"rendered":"2007 July &#8211; Tikifest I"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/DSC02295.jpg\" title=\"Tikifest 2007 group\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"148\" width=\"220\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/DSC02295.jpg\" alt=\"DSC02295\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>Well this was my first time I had been to Disney World 3 times in 10 months. Each of the trips were a new experience. The December trip was my first time there with the Christmas stuff up, first time going to Mousefest and the first time I froze while in Florida. My trip in May was my first time being part of the guys golf trip to Disney World called Mancation.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p> <!--more--> <\/p>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"150\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/lisaw.jpg\" alt=\"lisaw\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/>Before either of these trips was something <strong>Lisa Wagner<\/strong> (from <a href=\"http:\/\/www.magicalvacationstravel.com\/mv\/index.php\">Magical Vacations<\/a>) and I started to plan called Tikifest. For a while we had talked about having a gathering of people that I had helped with my site and she had booked because so many of these people start to become friends but we never get to see them in person. I finally gave in and said it would be fun to not only all meet up (like most Disney meets) but have a party to say thank you to these people. Well that is how Tikifest started and it took from November 2006 to just before the Tikifest party to put it all together. More on that later. <\/p>\n<p>So we left California on July 20th to make a stop in Michigan to visit Tara\u2019s family before getting to Florida. After a fun visit and some great golf we got to Florida on July 25th.<\/p>\n<p>We rented our car from Dollar (that just barely fit all our stuff and my golf clubs). We have tried a few different rental companies but Dollar usually gives us the best deal and a nice vehicle. Disney Transportation is great but we never go without a rental car to get us around Disney Property.<\/p>\n<p>That afternoon we checked into the Swan. This was our second time staying at the Swan and used our Starwood Points from owning our Westin Maui Villa. We usually try a different resort before going to the Polynesian. This was the first time we tried something else twice. We had done the Dolphin, Animal Kingdom Lodge (I have been there twice) and Yacht Club. I have also stayed at Pop Century and the Boardwalk as you can see from my <a href=\"http:\/\/wordpress.test\/2010\/01\/24\/aloha-chef-dick\/\">Mancation <\/a>trip report. I would like to try the Contemporary next time.<\/p>\n<p>I am not a huge fan of the Swan and Dolphin or the location. If I am going to be over in the Epcot resorts I would rather the Yacht Club or Beach Club. The Swan is nicer to me than the Dolphin but every trip I start to hate that boat more and more and the bus is just as bad.<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1921.jpg\" title=\"View from our Swan room\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"150\" width=\"200\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1921.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_1921\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>Check in at the Swan went great and the staff was very friendly. Because of being Starwood Preferred Guests they said we were upgraded in our room (room 398). I was hoping this time we would get a room with a balcony but again our room was one with just a window that does not even open. At least at the Polynesian the rooms with no balcony still have the same sliding glass door that opens to enjoy the outside. Also our upgraded view was looking at the roof of the lobby with a slight view of Epcot in the distance. Wonder what the non-upgraded views look like.<\/p>\n<p>I really try and love these resorts and there are many great things about them but the Swan and Dolphin are really at the bottom of my list. This does not mean that people that like these resorts are crazy because they are great resorts. I just can\u2019t get past a few things that really bug me about them.<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1898.jpg\" title=\"Kai at Spoodle's\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"75\" width=\"100\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1898.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_1898\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1899.jpg\" title=\"Darby and Steve's first of many foofy drinks\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"90\" width=\"120\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1899.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_1899\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: right; margin-left: 5px;\" \/><\/a>After getting to the room we headed off to our reservations at Spoodles. It was our first time trying it. The service was good and the atmosphere was nice (I am big on atmosphere when eating). The food was all good but nothing I would get a craving to return to. Some places in WDW I just need to go back to but this was not one.<\/p>\n<p>We headed off to MGM (soon to be called Disney\u2019s Hollywood Studios). We got on the boat (that I hate) to MGM and it took 26 minutes to go from there to MGM. We could have walked faster.<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1903b.jpg\" title=\"Kai at Extra Magic Hour\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"150\" width=\"119\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1903b.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_1903b\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: right; margin-left: 5px;\" \/><\/a>It was extra magic hour that night so we stayed late and got on a few things. We were going to watch Fantasmic but we did not want to fight the crowds leaving on the boat so we headed over to the dock to head back.<br \/>As we got to the dock the boat just left. We were second in line for the next one though. Well standing in line we heard Fantasmic start. We could see some of the fireworks from the line. Well the next boat took a while\u2026.well lets just say that we heard the start of Fantasmic and the next boat touched the dock when Fantasmic finished. That was how long we waited for a boat. Did I mention I hate that boat? Don\u2019t worry I am going to therapy so I should be over it soon.<\/p>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p> <!--nextpage--> <\/p>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><strong><span style=\"font-family: arial black,avant garde;\">JULY 26<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>I was fighting some kind of flu since Michigan and this day I was very sick. I slept in and we headed to the Swan buffet down stairs at Garden Grove. The atmosphere was great but the food was your typical overcooked or cold stuff with little flavor. After we paid $62 for 3 of us to eat an unsatisfying breakfast I was glad we would soon be saving that money each day eating in the concierge lounge of the Polynesian.<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1907b.jpg\" title=\"Kai playing\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"111\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1907b.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_1907b\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>We headed off to MGM again and since I had a fever already the heat was not helping. We watched the Stunt <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1915b.jpg\" title=\"Kai and June\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"100\" width=\"81\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1915b.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_1915b\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: right; margin-left: 5px;\" \/><\/a>show since we had not seen it during any of the other visits. I thought it was good but I could have done a better job on the Jet Ski. Think they will hire me? Kai had some fun in the H.I.S.T.K. playground and was excited to take his picture with June from the Little Einsteins and Jo Jo. <\/p>\n<p>On our way back a few people were discussing how slow the boat was and so I had to laugh.<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1922b.jpg\" title=\"Kai and Steve in the pool\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"140\" width=\"300\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1922b.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_1922b\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>We went over to the Grotto Pool that the Swan and Dolphin share and it is a great pool but talk about a walk. I could walk to the Grand Floridian pool from our room at the Polynesian in the distance it takes to get to the Grotto Pool. We got back from the pool about 5:00 and they were just coming to clean our room that we had been out of all day. We had to go back down to the lobby and sit in wet clothes waiting for them to do our room. We also needed to get ready for a reservation at Alfredo\u2019s in Italy.<\/p>\n<p>We had dinner at Alfredo\u2019s since it was going to close and it was great as always. We will miss it. After dinner we went to Mexico to ride on the new ride. I like what they did with it. They did a nice job adding new stuff and using some of the old things.<\/p>\n<p>After that we headed to ride Nemo and Friends. Seeing the Living Seas made me realize how much I still needed to do to get ready for the party and I was so nervous about it being fun for everyone.<\/p>\n<p>It was extra magic hour at Epcot that night. After stopping at England for a beer it was back to the room for me to go to bed. I was hungry by then but there was no place to eat late at night except Picabu over at the Dolphin. I am so used to having Captain Cook\u2019s all night but as we discovered the only places in WDW that has all night dining are the Polynesian and the Wilderness Lodge. Tara and Darby went out to look for something for me to eat but they only found the Muffin Man and he was not sharing his muffins but we won&#8217;t get into that story!!!<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1930b.jpg\" title=\"Movies on the beach\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"112\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1930b.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_1930b\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>On the walk back I saw the inflatable screen used for movies on the beach at the Beach Club. This is the same thing they do at the Polynesian on special nights. There was a schedule for the movies at the Polynesian at concierge but it had expired a few days before and the new one was not out yet. I am trying to get a copy and I will post it in the updates if I do. This is run by the recreation department and is some what random.<\/p>\n<p>This night they were playing the Finding Nemo DVD.<\/p>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p> <!--nextpage--> <\/p>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><strong><span style=\"font-family: arial black,avant garde;\">JULY 27<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>We got up and went to the Dolphin Picabu Buffiteria for breakfast. I ate nothing after seeing how dirty the place was.<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1934b.jpg\" title=\"Mai Tiki bench\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"65\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1934b.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_1934b\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1943.jpg\" title=\"Tikis in Mai Tiki\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"120\" width=\"90\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1943.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_1943\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: right; margin-left: 5px;\" \/><\/a>We checked out and drove to Coco Beach to go to <a href=\"http:\/\/www.maitiki.com\/index.html\"><strong>Mai Tiki<\/strong> <\/a>to pick up the tiki Wayne carved for us for Tikifest. It took us about an hour to drive there. We did pass the ports where the Disney ships are docked so now I know how far it is. On the way into Coco Beach there was a Mai Tiki with the welcome to Coco Beach sign and even the bus stops had Mai Tiki ads on them. <\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1938b.jpg\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"87\" width=\"300\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1938b.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_1938b\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>We got to the gallery and we got to talk with Wayne. He showed us his new paintings and we also checked <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1945.jpg\" title=\"Mai Tiki workshop\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"75\" width=\"100\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1945.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_1945\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: right; margin-left: 5px;\" \/><\/a>out the carvings. We also went into the room next door where they were carving.There were so many I wanted to take home. I have to order another one when I get home. I <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1946.jpg\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"90\" width=\"120\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1946.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_1946\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>saw the exact one I want. If you ever want a great quality&nbsp;tiki and not some cheap, less detailed version from someone who has not done <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1940b.jpg\" title=\"Kai with the Tikifest Tiki\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"150\" width=\"113\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1940b.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_1940b\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: right; margin-left: 5px;\" \/><\/a>it very long than get one from Mai Tiki. They have been carving them for over 30 years in that location for places like Disney, Sea World, Hard Rock, etc. I was glad I had the tiki done here because I wanted it to be a good tiki done with detail and care and Wayne is such a great guy that all my tikis will be coming from there for my home or another Tikifest.<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1947.jpg\" title=\"Kai at Ron Jon\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"90\" width=\"120\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1947.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_1947\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>We stopped at the Ron Jon\u2019s there in Coco Beach on the way out since it had been many years since I had been in a Ron Jon&#8217;s and I think this was the original. It had to be the largest. The place is huge and open 24 hours. It had everything you could ever need for the home or to go surfing. I got split up from the group and it took me a while to find them again.<\/p>\n<p>We got to the Polynesian about 3:00 and things were a little different. The valet is now an offsite company and it shows. They were very nice but did not know how things run at the Polynesian. We told them we were staying concierge but they unloaded our bags on a cart and put them aside. They said our room was not ready (when it actually was) and than they said you can sit here (out in front) and they could store our stuff and we could go off to the parks.<\/p>\n<p>Usually when staying concierge you are still taken over to the Hawaii Longhouse so you can relax and enjoy the lounge until your room is ready but they had no clue as what to do. We sat on the bench up front for about 25 minutes until someone (who was a Disney employee) came over and offered to take us by cart to Hawaii. His name was Jim and he was very helpful and friendly. I hope they do not decide to replace the bellmen with offsite companies. <\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1956b.jpg\" title=\"Amanda and Kristina\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"110\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1956b.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_1956b\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>We got to Hawaii and there were a few new faces. I recognized Wes from before but Amanda and Kristina were new but great additions to the concierge staff. We checked in with Wes and than relaxed in the lounge. The lounge is nice to have if you check in and your room is not <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1952.jpg\" title=\"Wes at the Concierge desk\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"113\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1952.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_1952\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: right; margin-left: 5px;\" \/><\/a>ready. You have a place to go relax if you do not want to head off to the parks right away.<br \/>I want to say a special thank you to Wes, Amanda, Kristina and all of the concierge staff that was there with making our trip even better. I saw some guests being abusive to the staff and they were very friendly and professional where I might have snapped and sacrificed them to Pele (the goddess of fire)<\/p>\n<p>We were excited to have our same room (1505) and so far it is the only room Tara has stayed in at the Polynesian.<\/p>\n<p>Up in the lounge we saw Terry and John Brown who I have emailed for years about the Polynesian and Terry has her own great site (<a href=\"http:\/\/www.brownfamilyvacations.com\">http:\/\/www.brownfamilyvacations.com<\/a>)<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1954b.jpg\" title=\"Nicholas and Kai in the concierge lounge looking at the Volcano pool\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"238\" width=\"350\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1954b.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_1954b\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>Sean got there after flying in from California. He was told at the bell desk that he had the room next to us (1506) and by the time he got from the front of the Polynesian to the Hawaii Longhouse a manager up at the front desk bumped his room for someone getting upgraded and put him on the second floor (no balcony) at the far end. I won\u2019t even comment on this but I think who ever is doing something like this up front could at least communicate it with the concierge staff. It is one thing to happen to someone with out them knowing but it is bad practice to do it when the guest had already been informed of their room number. The concierge desk staff was so helpful and told Sean they would move his stuff from 2516 to 1504 the next day. They also gave him and his family a huge basket full of goodies for the problem, even if they had no control over it. <\/p>\n<p>We spent even more time up in the lounge just taking in the fact that we were all there and together ready to enjoy all the Polynesian and Disney World has to offer.<\/p>\n<p>Sean had come with Becki his wife, Megan and Nicholas his kids with their cousin Kyle and Becki&#8217;s mom Brenda who would be visiting for the first time. While in the lounge I also saw Ann and her husband. They brought their daughter also but I never got to meet her. I kept on seeing people with the orange bracelets around the resort. I even met a few that got in on the group rates we had for Tikifest but were not going to the party.<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/tok0107.jpg\" title=\"Photos thanks to Dan Summy\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"89\" width=\"120\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/tok0107.jpg\" alt=\"tok0107\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/tok0207.jpg\" title=\"Photos thanks to Dan Summy\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"90\" width=\"120\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/tok0207.jpg\" alt=\"tok0207\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>One of the guests staying with the group rates was a guy named Dan and I think this was his first time trying the Polynesian. He tried it because of the great rate through Magical Vacations and later he emailed me photos of his great garden view room in Tokelau with a nice view of the lagoon. You could even see the castle since it was the room on the corner. <\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/000_0012.jpg\" title=\"Jennie, John and Nancy Pacey, and Stephanie Dart\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"273\" width=\"300\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/000_0012.jpg\" alt=\"000_0012\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>I was even coming out of Captain Cook&#8217;s and a nice lady opened the door for me since my hands were full and later I found out it was Nancy that I had seen on the message boards for years. I later got to meet her family and they were all very nice. They seem like the type you could hang out with and have a great time.<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/Jennie_s_Tatoo.jpg\" title=\"Jennie's tattoo\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"116\" width=\"100\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/Jennie_s_Tatoo.jpg\" alt=\"Jennie_s_Tatoo\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: right; margin-left: 5px;\" \/><\/a>By the way Jennie has the coolest tattoo ever!!!<\/p>\n<p>Everyone I met that was there for TIkifest or that was staying with the Tikifest group rates were all great. It would have been nice to spend another week with everyone. I was lucky enough to run into some of them at the resort at the pool or lounge where we could relax and talk.<\/p>\n<p>Even concierge said that all the people checking in that were Tikifest people were so nice to them.<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1948b.jpg\" title=\"Welcome from concierge\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"113\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1948b.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_1948b\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>I had asked if Lisa Wagner had checked in yet and they asked me if I meant the Wegners. I asked if the Wegners were there also. I was surprised to hear the name. Every year during 4th of July week the Wegners were always our neighbors in 1504. They would go for 2 weeks every year at 4th of July and were so well known that an article about them use to be framed up in the concierge lounge. Later that day I ran into Ken Wegner and we <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1961.jpg\" title=\"The kids in the wet play area (use to be the playground)\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"150\" width=\"200\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1961.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_1961\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: right; margin-left: 5px;\" \/><\/a>were so surprised and happy to see them. It had been a few years since we were there the same time.<\/p>\n<p>We headed to the room to check out things and there were a few issues. There was a light out in the bathroom and the DVD player did not work. I told concierge and it was fixed before we were back in the room. We decided to let the kids cool off in the wet play area.<\/p>\n<p>We finally got to meet Lisa Wagner and her husband Chris and daughters Alyssa and Kristen at the Tambu Lounge before our \u2018Ohana dinner. All of them were like old friends. <\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1970.jpg\" title=\"Kyle doing the coconut race.\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"150\" width=\"113\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1970.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_1970\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>\u2018Ohana was good as always and the entertainment was a great addition to the awesome food. This is always one of our favorites. <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1973b.jpg\" title=\"Kai pushing his coconut\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"150\" width=\"112\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1973b.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_1973b\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: right; margin-left: 5px;\" \/><\/a>Lipoa was entertaining that night (she is Sean\u2019s favorite). This is the third time eating the new menu and we still enjoy it more than the old menu. There was some word of another menu change but nothing drastic. It was mentioned that the shrimp will go back to the skewers but they will cook them on a different grill so that there is no cross contamination with the meats for those with shellfish allergies. I sort of like the shrimp the way they <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1975b.jpg\" title=\"Sean is so excited to see Lipoa....and on his phone...shocker!!\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"150\" width=\"200\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1975b.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_1975b\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>are personally. We shall see what some of the other changes might be.<\/p>\n<p>The kids enjoyed the activities that \u2018Ohana is famous <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1978b.jpg\" title=\"Megan and Kai at 'Ohana\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"120\" width=\"81\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1978b.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_1978b\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: right; margin-left: 5px;\" \/><\/a>for. They were up doing the coconut race and the kids march around with the shakers and even the hula lesson.<\/p>\n<p>Megan helped Kai around for his march. After he was done Kai needed another Lapu Lapu so he could <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1985.jpg\" title=\"Hey kid!!! get away from that Lapu Lapu!!\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"90\" width=\"120\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1985.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_1985\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>keep partying and get back out to learn the hula even if he learned how in December.<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1983.jpg\" title=\"Tara likes those shrimp\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"113\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1983.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_1983\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: right; margin-left: 5px;\" \/><\/a>Tara made sure no shrimp got left behind and when out to dance with Kai. Another good dinner and fun evening at &#8216;Ohana. Now it was back to the lounge to hang out, relax and get some goodies.<\/p>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1989b.jpg\" title=\"Sean, Brenda, Becki, Nicholas, Tara, Megan, Kyle, Kai, Steve and Darby\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"232\" width=\"500\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1989b.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_1989b\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a><br \/>The lounge always offers up some nice things in the evening. You can see more about that on my <a href=\"planning-quick\/quick-club-level-concierge\">concierge page<br \/><\/a><br \/><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1990b.jpg\" title=\"Kai relaxing in the concierge lounge\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"75\" width=\"100\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1990b.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_1990b\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: right; margin-left: 5px;\" \/><\/a>The room was all turned down when we got back and we watched fireworks from the patio while enjoying some of the treats from the lounge.<\/p>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p> <!--nextpage--> <\/p>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><strong><span style=\"font-family: arial black,avant garde;\">JULY 28<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1991.jpg\" title=\"Rabbits on property\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"100\" width=\"75\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1991.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_1991\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1993.jpg\" title=\"Ducks at the resort\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"100\" width=\"75\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1993.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_1993\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>The next day I did my resort walk to check out things. I like to walk the resort in the morning when it is calm and quiet and the weather always seems so nice. The wildlife was waking up and making their way around the resort also.<\/p>\n<p>I noticed that the exterior wood and stairs were finally replaced at Rapa Nui (which was the last to have this done) but I hear not all the new items are in the Tahiti rooms yet. There are still things to be ordered and installed but the resort has been running at capacity with the closure of the rooms at Animal Kingdom Lodge.<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1992b.jpg\" title=\"Polynesian marina in the morning\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"271\" width=\"500\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1992b.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_1992b\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;I walked over to the Grand Floridian Spa to see how long the walk took. The fitness center at <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1994b.jpg\" title=\"Spa for use by Polynesian guests\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"113\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1994b.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_1994b\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: right; margin-left: 5px;\" \/><\/a>the Spa is open to Polynesian guests at no charge and there are hot tubs to use there if you want to use one. The walk was actually much closer to most of the rooms at the Polynesian than many of the rooms at the Grand Floridian.<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1998b.jpg\" title=\"Smoking areas\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"124\" width=\"100\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1998b.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_1998b\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>As I suspected by the new smoking locations on the map they are using many of the longhouse sitting areas as the designated smoking area. When I say sitting areas there are areas at a few of the longhouses that have outdoor sitting areas on upper floors (look <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1997.jpg\" title=\"Aotearoa smoking area\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"113\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1997.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_1997\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: right; margin-left: 5px;\" \/><\/a>for them on my longhouse pages). They have added signs that designate them as the smoking areas. Some still ignore this new policy but I would say most were respectful and did not smoke outside the areas. I did see some people a few rooms down smoking at the sliding glass door to the room which is against policy and they could have been fined.<\/p>\n<p>The buildings with external sitting areas are Tuvalu (3rd floor) Fiji (2nd Floor) Aotearoa (2nd floor) Samoa (2nd floor) and Niue and Rarotonga (share one on the 2nd floor connecting walkway). The sitting areas in Rapa Nui, Tahiti and Tokelau are internal so they are not designated smoking areas. I noticed that the exterior wood and stairs were finally replaced at Rapa Nui (which was the last to have this done) but I hear not all the new items are in the Tahiti rooms yet. There are still things to be ordered and installed but the resort has been running at capacity with the closure of the rooms at Animal Kingdom Lodge.<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1995b.jpg\" title=\"Tuvalu and Fiji \" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"196\" width=\"500\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1995b.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_1995b\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Other observations when walking the grounds was there seemed to be more wildlife (rabbits, ducks, etc.). Also they have done a lot of work on the landscaping. I have never seen such a drastic change since the time the hurricane took out a few of the trees. For one the Hibiscus <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2001b.jpg\" title=\"The tall bushes were trimmed at Hawaii lagoon side\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"122\" width=\"200\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2001b.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_2001b\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>bushes that were blocking some of the lagoon view rooms in the Hawaii (concierge) building were not just trimmed but chopped to the ground to clear the view. Also a tree was removed and relocated to help with a few rooms it was blocking. There was never many rooms with blocked views of the castle in Hawaii (which might be why they never felt the need to designate a Magic Kingdom view and a Lagoon View in Hawaii <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2010.jpg\" title=\"New Captain Cook's sign\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"113\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2010.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_2010\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: right; margin-left: 5px;\" \/><\/a>longhouse) but now there are one a handful where trees out at the beach might block the castle. Also all over the grounds they have cleaned up, added new exotic plants and sculpted the landscaping to make the resort look better than ever. Trust me I am not just making the place sound great. If it looked bad I would say so. Also there were no signs of the reported overflowing garbage anywhere. There was even a new sign outside Captain Cook\u2019s since I was there in May. <\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2169b.jpg\" title=\"Tim, mixing drinks at the Barefoot Bar\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"113\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2169b.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_2169b\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>The Barefoot bar now remains open until the fireworks or even through fireworks if they are busy enough. They also have servers out at the pool deck that will continue as long as the guests are using them. <\/p>\n<p>The pool did not seem <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"150\" width=\"200\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2006.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_2006\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: right; margin-left: 5px;\" \/>to crowded to enjoy but it is well used. There was always places to lay out even when it was crowded.<\/p>\n<p>I actually spent some time in the quiet pool and the was great when it got cooler when a storm would be coming in. The water was very warm and there was two other people in the whole pool. The quiet pool is a great place to sit and relax if you don\u2019t need the slide or the beach.<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2003b.jpg\" title=\"Keep your kids out of the water!\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"144\" width=\"200\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2003b.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_2003b\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>I saw a few families swimming in the lagoon and even a few adults with their small kids. <strong>BAD IDEA<\/strong>, and can I ask one thing\u2026can people read signs!!! The info is that there is bacteria in the lagoon bottom so it is not a problem in the deeper water but it is at the shore. I am on the fence as to if I believe that but lets just keep in mind that it could be true. If you want to ignore that than lets remember that alligators do find there way into the lagoon. I have a photo somewhere I need to scan in of <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2002b.jpg\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"181\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2002b.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_2002b\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: right; margin-left: 5px;\" \/><\/a>an alligator swimming in the waters near the Magic Kingdom. Also I have seen a vacation photo from a family of a rather large gator on the beach of the Polynesian. When we golf across the street at Magnolia we are always warned to not go near trees, bushes and all water even if the ball is inches from the edge. There are poisonous snakes, spiders and yes gators. The gators will have your arm or a small child in seconds before you even see them. If you want to risk your legs or arms than go play in the edge of the lagoon, but <strong>KEEP YOUR LITTLE KIDS AWAY FROM THE SHORE.<\/strong> Not trying to freak anyone out but there is a chance and I don\u2019t take those chances with my kid.<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2011b.jpg\" title=\"Hannah at the Hawaii Longhouse\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"115\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2011b.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_2011b\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>After checking everything out and meeting a few Tikifesters around the resort. I also ran into Len Testa (of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.wdwtoday.com\/\"><strong>WDWtoday.com<\/strong> <\/a>podcast, Unofficial Guide and <a href=\"http:\/\/www.touringplans.com\/tp2\/UG2_index.php?PageID=0\"><strong>Touringplans.com<\/strong><\/a>) and his daughter Hannah. It was great to meet Hannah and to see Len again. With everyone we know <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2013b.jpg\" title=\"Kai in the rain\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"111\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2013b.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_2013b\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: right; margin-left: 5px;\" \/><\/a>being at the Polynesian and many of them in the Hawaii longhouse it really seemed like home. <br \/>As Len and Hannah got settled into their room the kids were playing in the grass between the beach and our room. This is a favorite spot for the kids and is one of the reasons it is nice to have the open patio. Kai was enjoying running with Hannah and even a quick rain storm did not keep Kai from playing.<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2021b.jpg\" title=\"Darby and Sean\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"109\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2021b.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_2021b\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: right; margin-left: 5px;\" \/><\/a><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2022b.jpg\" title=\"Tara and Sean\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"114\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2022b.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_2022b\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: right; margin-left: 5px;\" \/><\/a>Our dinner that night was at the Rose and Crown so we could watch Illuminations. We had outside seating and a great view of the show after a great meal.<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2025b.jpg\" title=\"Epcot SE\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"301\" width=\"500\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2025b.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_2025b\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>We took our time getting out of Epcot. It was good to see the wand coming down from Space Ship Earth. Now if they take the Leave a Legacy out it will be back to its original glory.<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/DSC01855b.jpg\" title=\"Lucas, Michele and Terry sharing Disney stories\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"133\" width=\"200\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/DSC01855b.jpg\" alt=\"DSC01855b\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>After Dinner Lisa wanted to meet us at the Pool but I don\u2019t think she thought we would be there so late. She had contacted many of the Tikifest people to be at the pool to have a pre-party gathering and to watch fireworks. I got to meet many of the people I have been emailing for years now. I only wish I got to talk to everyone that was there but everyone was enjoying the evening and meeting each other as well as Lisa and her family. After the crowd thinned out we got in the pool and Kevin, Chris, Alyssa and Kristen all hung out in the zero entry part of the pool sharing stories and watching the castle turn colors as the girls swam around.<\/p>\n<p>This is the first half of the trip report. The next half will start with TIKIFEST!!!<\/p>\n<p> <!--nextpage--> <\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-family: arial black,avant garde;\">July 29<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/tikifestlogo5.jpg\" title=\"Tikifest 2007 logo\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"150\" width=\"148\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/tikifestlogo5.jpg\" alt=\"tikifestlogo5\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>Well today was the day that Lisa (from <a href=\"http:\/\/www.magicalvacationstravel.com\/mv\/index.php\">Magical Vacations<\/a>) and I had started planning for 9 months ago. With the help of many people (friends, family, Disney and CMs from different parts of Disney World) it was finally time to do this.<\/p>\n<p>I decided to hang out at the resort most of the day and make sure things were ready.<\/p>\n<p>The first announcment of the event was done using the Tikifest page. Things grew as the year went by and we all added our ideas to the mix. Lisa got a great group rate for anyone who wanted to go during Tikifest and some even got the deal without going to the party (which was fine). The deal was so good that many went that would not usually go. Also some that never tried the Polynesian because of the price would now try it. The whole point was to celebrate our love for the Polynesian Resort and those who work there so it was good to give others the opportunity to stay at the resort. All year <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2372b.jpg\" title=\"Tikifest braclet\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"145\" width=\"200\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2372b.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_2372b\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: right; margin-left: 5px;\" \/><\/a>we were working on the prizes we would give away at the party and items for the gift bags. Also we got some special Tikifest bracelets so that we could identify others around the resort who were going to the party. Those going to the party got orange Tikifest bracelets and CMs attending the party got maroon bracelets. I had quite a few CMs contacting me right up to the trip that wanted to go and it was great to have them there to enjoy the party and to share their stories with the guests.<\/p>\n<p>Guests were also given tickets for the event with the Tikifest logo.<\/p>\n<p>Before heading over that evening to Epcot, I loaded up the tiki in my backpack and a bag of some of the give aways and headed over to the Contemporary with Sean to check out Len Testa\u2019s 14th floor Magic Kingdom view concierge room.<\/p>\n<p>I have wanted to try the Contemporary since the first time I visited Disney World and I usually make a visit or two over to the Contemporary when I am staying at the Polynesian. I know many think it is too sterile or plain but I like the feel of the place. It is very different than the Polynesian but I like different resorts for different reasons.<\/p>\n<p>The concierge lounge was simple but comfortable with a nice view.<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2045b.jpg\" title=\"View from Contemporary room\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"117\" width=\"200\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2045b.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_2045b\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>The room Len had was partly the new design and partly the old design. I guess the Contemporary is having the same issues with finishing the new design completely in all the rooms like the rooms in Tahiti at the Polynesian. I guess there are still some rooms that never got all the new design items and they are still waiting for the stuff to come in and be put in the rooms. The rooms look larger than the Polynesian but the strange part is that the original documentation I have from US Steel when they made the rooms for both resorts has them at the same dimensions as each other. The bathrooms are definitely larger than the Polynesian rooms and the balconies are huge.<\/p>\n<p>Len, Hanna, Sean and I all headed over to Epcot. It was interesting trying to go through Security with a big wooden tiki in my backpack and Sean carrying a bag full of shirts and things but we got through with no problems.<\/p>\n<p>Len got a little stuck at the gate and had to go renew Hanna\u2019s pass at Guest services. He later messaged me saying he hopped the gate and was running from security (just a joke).<\/p>\n<p>Sean met up with the family that were trying to get in a few rides before Tikifest. I decided to go over to an air conditioned area to hang out with all the stuff.<\/p>\n<p>One of the CMs that contacted me before the trip was Jerry Applegate. He is a Technical Event Planner, Audio Engineer and Pyrotechnician for Disney. We had talked a few times before I got to Florida and he helped with the sound setup for the party. He was interested in attending with some other CM friends. I went to meet up with Jerry before the party along with his friend Darlene who was on the Dream Squad at the time (I think it is the only time I ever saw one) and she also is a coordinator for World Showcase Attractions. They were with two other CMs David (Crew Chief of Global Tech Training) and his wife Donna (Systems Admin of EISS).<\/p>\n<p>There were so many interesting CMs at the party that I wish I had hours to talk with and hear their stories. Hopefully the next Tikifest will be longer and they will attend again. I also got to meet Duane and his wife and baby. We did not get to talk much at the party but we had some time to talk hanging out at the Polynesian pool another day. I wish I had time to have those types of conversations with all the Tikifest guests. Friendships I have made at Disney have been some of the best.<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/1_Anna__Ariana.jpg\" title=\"Anna and Ariana outside the Coral Reef\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"122\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/1_Anna__Ariana.jpg\" alt=\"1_Anna__Ariana\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: right; margin-left: 5px;\" \/><\/a>I got to the Coral Reef with my bag of goodies and met Lisa, Chris and the girls up in the VIP Salon of the Living Seas. The entrance was just before the Coral Reef restaurant and there was either stairs to get up there or this very nice elevator with illuminated glass walls. Once on the upper level there was a long inclined ramp with a large illuminated white wall at the end that was where you entered the room.<\/p>\n<p>This room is not seen by many. They have wedding receptions and events there but even many of the long time CMs had never been inside this room before. The room was much larger and longer than I expected. There was plenty of room for people to mingle and a few large windows into the tank that were a hit with the kids.&nbsp; The food was getting ready to come out and Lisa and family were putting together the gift bags for everyone.<\/p>\n<p>We were working hard to get the room together since people were starting to arrive outside.<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/Live-CD-2-Cover-Pic.jpg\" title=\"The Barefoot Warrior CD II\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"79\" width=\"100\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/Live-CD-2-Cover-Pic.jpg\" alt=\"Live-CD-2-Cover-Pic\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>Each Gift bag had an Adventures by Disney commemorative pin, a Hand made coconut soap from Hawaii, a CD from Ernest Puaa (The Barefoot Warrior). I want to say a special thank you to Lisa and Ernest Puaa for sending the CDs for the party. We are sorry they were not able to attend and visit Disney World with the family for the first time but they had to be home in Maui during the party. If you are ever in Maui make sure to try and see Ernest at the Barefoot Bar in Lahaina&#8217;s Whalers Village or check out his site and order his CDs. No Hawaiian music has made as much an impact on me as his does. <a href=\"http:\/\/www.dabarefootwarrior.com\">www.dabarefootwarrior.com<\/a>. Maybe we will see him and the family at Tikifest in Maui.<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/4_Piano.jpg\" title=\"Piano in the VIP room. Photo thanks to Lori Philben\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"208\" width=\"300\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/4_Piano.jpg\" alt=\"4_Piano\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: right; margin-left: 5px;\" \/><\/a>After they finished the gift bags and I put the give away stuff out along with decorating the room with leis given to us from the Polynesian they were getting the bar and food ready to come out. Everyone at Disney involved in setting up this event did such a good job that I would not have any worries when planning things through Disney again.<\/p>\n<p>We got started a little late but it was time to let people in.<\/p>\n<p>They went down and escorted them all up as Lisa and I met them at the top of the ramp with the check list.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"150\" width=\"139\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/5_VIP_room.jpg\" alt=\"5_VIP_room\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/>For me the rest is a blur but I just wanted everyone to have a nice evening. The food all looked very good and people said it was all prepared very well. Some comments were even that it was not like <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"101\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/DSC02156.jpg\" alt=\"DSC02156\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: right; margin-left: 5px;\" \/>buffet food since it was not cold or too hot and it was cooked perfectly. Everything they had out looked great and even the kid friendly stuff was good enough that many adults enjoyed it. I finally grabbed a plate but unfortunately all I got to eat with all that was going on was a few bites of the mac-n-cheese and one beer. I had some of the great <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/DSC02166.jpg\" title=\"Photo thanks to Terry Brown\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"100\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/DSC02166.jpg\" alt=\"DSC02166\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>looking beef on my plate but never got to have it. I heard it was very good. Well I guess I did not get my $70 worth of the food but it was still all worth it to me.<\/p>\n<p>Price will be to go to Tikifest was something we worked hard on so it would not be to expensive that people would not go and Disney did their best to keep the cost down.<\/p>\n<p>Adults were $70, kids (3-9) were $35 and kids under 3 FREE. There was a max of 150 people and a minimum of 100.<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/DSC02155.jpg\" title=\"Photo thanks to Terry Brown\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"100\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/DSC02155.jpg\" alt=\"DSC02155\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: right; margin-left: 5px;\" \/><\/a>The Menu was Mixed Field Greens, Plum Tomatoes, Cucumber and Shredded Carrots Served with Assorted Dressing, Tri-Color Cole Slaw with Sweet Cream Dressing, Beef Flank Steak with Tomatoes, Peppers, Onions, Roasted Corn, Black Beans and Jalapeno Havarti Cheese Served with Flat Bread, Marinated Boneless Chicken Breast <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"100\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/DSC02153.jpg\" alt=\"DSC02153\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/>with Mint and Caramelized Onions, Macaroni &amp; Cheese and Chicken Fingers (kid friendly stuff), Herb Roasted New Potatoes Fresh Green Beans with Crisp Bacon and Button Mushrooms Assorted Dinner Rolls and Whipped Butter<\/p>\n<p>Desserts were Chef&#8217;s Selection<\/p>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"75\" width=\"100\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/P1010282.jpg\" alt=\"P1010282\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/DSC02161.jpg\" title=\"Photo thanks to Terry Brown\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"67\" width=\"100\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/DSC02161.jpg\" alt=\"DSC02161\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>Drinks were Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, Orange Juice, Cranberry Juice, Pineapple Juice, Dasani Purified Water, Perrier Mineral Water, Bud Light, Michelob Ultra, O\u2019Doul\u2019s, Corona, Heineken, Columbia Crest Chardonnay, Penfold\u2019s Rawsons Retreat Merlot, Santori Pinot Grigio, Beringer White Zinfandel, Coffee,<br \/>Decaffeinated Coffee, Selection of Teas<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/DSC02170.jpg\" title=\"kids enjoying the tank\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"134\" width=\"200\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/DSC02170.jpg\" alt=\"DSC02170\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>The Kids and adults were drawn to the tank. One of the main reasons we wanted this room was for the view. <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2046.jpg\" title=\"Kai watching the fish\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"102\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2046.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_2046\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: right; margin-left: 5px;\" \/><\/a>There were sharks, sea turtles, divers and plenty of fish to watch in this 5.7 million gallon aquarium.<\/p>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>I was than notified that some CMs arrived and it was Kuulei, Auntie Kau&#8217;i and Sefa who all work at the Polynesian. <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2066.jpg\" title=\"Auntie Kau\u2019i and Kai making Leis\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"150\" width=\"200\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2066.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_2066\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: right; margin-left: 5px;\" \/><\/a>Kuulei worked very hard to set this up for us and they entertained on their own time. In fact they had been at a hula competition for a few days and came to the event right from being at the competition all day.<\/p>\n<p>They had lei making and hula dancing for the kids and even some lesions for the adults. They also entertained for much of the evening. It was such a great addition to the party. For me it was the highlight of the evening.<\/p>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2050.jpg\" title=\"Ku'ulei and Sefa\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"113\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2050.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_2050\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2052.jpg\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"113\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2052.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_2052\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2055.jpg\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"113\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2055.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_2055\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;The kids loved the dancing and looks like some adults were enjoying it also, or was that just the open bar.<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2057.jpg\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"113\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2057.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_2057\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2061.jpg\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"113\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2061.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_2061\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2060.jpg\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"113\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2060.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_2060\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2063.jpg\" title=\"Ku'ulei, Kai and I\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"150\" width=\"200\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2063.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_2063\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>Kuulei can be seen singing and dancing on Disney\u2019s Sing along songs video (or DVD) Beach Party.<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2058.jpg\" title=\"I think Len is doing a sobriety test\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"150\" width=\"115\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2058.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_2058\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: right; margin-left: 5px;\" \/><\/a>Some of the kids recognized her from watching the video a million times so it was fun for them to meet her. I tried to walk around and talk to as many people as I could.<\/p>\n<p>I can&#8217;t thank the three of them enough for making our event even more special. It all started because of our love for the Polynesian so it seemed fitting to have them all there to celebrate with us.<\/p>\n<p>I <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/DSC02162.jpg\" title=\"Chris, Lisa and Lucas\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"100\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/DSC02162.jpg\" alt=\"DSC02162\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: right; margin-left: 5px;\" \/><\/a>met Aaron who\u2019s wife Kim I met earlier in the pool.After talking a while I invited Aaron to go golfing with us the next day. We were excited and we though he was the perfect addition to our group that was Sean, Chris (Lisa\u2019s husband) and I.<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/DSC02260.jpg\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"100\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/DSC02260.jpg\" alt=\"DSC02260\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>With all my running around time was running out to do the raffle for the stuff so we got everyone\u2019s attention and Lisa made an announcement and thanked everyone. I did my best at saying thank you to not only all that attended but the CMs that were part of the party, those at Disney that put it on and everyone who contributed to the evening.<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/tikipen.jpg\" title=\"Tiki Steve pen\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"150\" width=\"122\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/tikipen.jpg\" alt=\"tikipen\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: right; margin-left: 5px;\" \/><\/a>We were running out of time so we started the raffle for the gifts. I think everyone enjoyed the raffle even if they did not win something but I am sure even more if they did. There were quite a few items I wanted myself but I also enjoy knowing that someone will enjoy them and remember this event.<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/7_tiki_2.jpg\" title=\"The hand carved tiki for the event\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"200\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/7_tiki_2.jpg\" alt=\"7_tiki_2\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>Items in the raffle were the Tiki carved by Mai Tiki who carved tikis for the Polynesian and many other locations, Pens and shirts from Tiki Steve, signed books and items from Lou Mongello of Disney World Trivia, Lunch with an Imagineer and me at Kona Cafe, a gift basket from 4 Ono Hawaiian <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1386th2.jpg\" title=\"Tikiroom drummer\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"150\" width=\"112\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_1386th2.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_1386th2\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: right; margin-left: 5px;\" \/><\/a>Gift Baskets, and a limited edition Tikiroom Drummer from Disney Imagineering.<\/p>\n<p>There were so many nice things to win that if you got some of them it would have been more then it cost to get into the party. I am still not sure how people got some of these things home but I only had to worry about how I was going to get them there. At least the tiki I picked up in Coco Beach.<\/p>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/DSC02262.jpg\" title=\"Chris and Auntie drawing names\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"161\" width=\"240\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/DSC02262.jpg\" alt=\"DSC02262\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/DSC02278.jpg\" title=\"Nancy winning a Tiki Steve shirt\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"161\" width=\"240\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/DSC02278.jpg\" alt=\"DSC02278\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>I wish we did not need to rush the end of the event but time was running out. Everyone was having such a good time that they said they wished it lasted longer.<a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/DSC02280.jpg\" title=\"Tara handing out gifts\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"99\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/DSC02280.jpg\" alt=\"DSC02280\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/DSC02282.jpg\" title=\"Lucas won the big Hawaiian basket of goodies\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"100\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/DSC02282.jpg\" alt=\"DSC02282\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/DSC02284.jpg\" title=\"Terry not only got a Tiki Steve shirt but she got the Tikiroom Drummer\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"101\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/DSC02284.jpg\" alt=\"DSC02284\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>I do want to thank again the guys at WDWtoday (Matt, Mike S. Mike N. and Len) for talking about Tikifest on their podcast.<\/p>\n<p>Lou Mongello for the items he sent to give away at the event including signed copies of his book and mentioning the party on his podcast at WDW Trivia.<\/p>\n<p>Fairytale Dreams &amp; Destinations, MousePlanet, The Dibb,&nbsp;Mousevine, Mousecents, Mousebuzz, WDWMagic, for mentioning or letting us mention Tikifest on their discussion forums without censoring my posts or banning me.<\/p>\n<p>Wayno at Mai Tiki for carving up a great tiki for us.<\/p>\n<p>Sean Robb at Imagineering for getting us the Tikiroom and doing the lunch with an Imagninner.<\/p>\n<p>Tiki Steve at Tiki Steve for sending shirts and tiki pens.<\/p>\n<p>Another thanks to Mike Scopa for putting together an article at MousePlanet about Tikifest and leaving some Dole Whip still in the machine at the Polynesian.<\/p>\n<p>Len and Hannah for having faith I would try and put on a good party to come down to (I trust you will put on a good Van Halen show when I come out).<\/p>\n<p>I also had to give a big Mahalo to Ku&#8217;ulei, Auntie Kau&#8217;i and Sefa for bringing the Aloha Spirit to the party. I cannot thank them enough for what they did.<\/p>\n<p>Marilyn Turner for working hard to help us put this together even after leaving the Polynesian.<\/p>\n<p>Allison Adams for working after hours on all the concierge Tikifest guests to make sure everything they needed was taken care of.<\/p>\n<p>4 Ono Hawaiian Gift Baskets for donating their largest hand made gift basket.<\/p>\n<p>All the CMs that showed up to share stories with the guests.<\/p>\n<p>John &amp; Nancy Pacey, Jennie Goddard, Jakki Cooper, Steven Cooper, Aodhan Cooper, Niamh Cooper, Jerry Applegate &amp; Darlene, Donna, Krystal &amp; Sadie Barlow, Lucas Ginn, Mike, Stephanie, Morgan &amp; Ryan Boucher, Kevin Scarlett, Nancy, Erik, &amp; Alexandra Gorham, Darby Davy, Aaron, Kim &amp; Anna DelPrince, Ed, Maryann, Sam &amp; Dean Byers, Lori Philben, Ariana Mattoon, Sharon Hurst, Jana Davies, Paul &amp; Michele Spera &amp; Family, Ann, Thomas &amp; Claire Price, Theresa &amp; John Brown, Duane, Jennifer &amp; Tess Lingle, Reid, Jen, Kayla &amp; Gaby Shelton, John, Deb &amp; Steven Kusiak, Sean, Becki, Nicholas &amp; Megan Robb &amp; Kyle Blankenshain.<\/p>\n<p>The biggest thanks goes to my family for putting up with me and helping me through every step of bringing this party together and to Lisa Wagner and her family for making all this possible and doing the best job of helping people with travel to Disney World. We all made a great team!!!<\/p>\n<p>An additional Special Thanks to my wife Tara for running all the way back to the Polynesian, from Epcot, in the heat for the CD to play at the event, and for correcting my spelling on my pages.<\/p>\n<p>I am sure I forgot someone so I might be editing this again.<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/DSC02313.jpg\" title=\"Our private viewing of Illuminations\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"133\" width=\"200\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/DSC02313.jpg\" alt=\"DSC02313\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>The evening was wrapping up but Disney had one more surprise for us. Lisa was told by one of the event coordinators that they were giving us (at no <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/DSC02324.jpg\" title=\"Illuminations\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"101\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/DSC02324.jpg\" alt=\"DSC02324\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: right; margin-left: 5px;\" \/><\/a>extra cost) a VIP viewing of Illuminations. This is something we could have added to the event but it was going to be quite a bit of cost added to each ticket so it was extremely nice of them to do.<\/p>\n<p>We were to be escorted through Epcot to a special viewing area at the United Kingdom. We all took a few group photos and than were escorted over to the VIP viewing area. This was a great location to view and I never even knew it was there. You could not get much closer. I think if we do this again we will have to find a way to add this!!!<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2074.jpg\" title=\"Lori having a little fun before the fireworks\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"113\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2074.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_2074\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>Just before the show a few wondered into the bar at the Rose and Crown and things got a little crazy!!!<\/p>\n<p>Before and after fireworks started I got to talk with many of the Tikifest guests but if I had one regret it was not having much more time to talk with every single person that was there. We had to limit the event to the time it was because of cost but I would have loved another hour to just get to know everyone as well as I did a few of the guests. I want everyone that was there to know how much I appreciated them trusting Lisa and I enough to spend the money to come to our event and I hope that they all felt the event was one of those magical experiences that often happens on a Disney vacation. I know that was what Lisa and I intended this to be.<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/DSC02361.jpg\" title=\"Ann, Terry, Sean, David, Lucas, Aaron and Steve\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"101\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/DSC02361.jpg\" alt=\"DSC02361\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: right; margin-left: 5px;\" \/><\/a>I know some people said they saw me around the resort but did not want to disturb me but I would have been thrilled to spend time during the week with anyone that was there for the event or even quite a few that stayed using the Tikifest rates but did not go to the party.<\/p>\n<p>I want to thank Disney again for finishing off a great evening with a perfect spot to view Illuminations and for our group to hang out and talk.<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/DSC02353.jpg\" title=\"Our group at the private viewing\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"100\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/DSC02353.jpg\" alt=\"DSC02353\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>Things were better than I could have hoped for and did make us want to do this again. If we get enough interest way ahead of time we will shoot for a Tikifest 2009. If we don&#8217;t do this again I hope it is a great memory that we all will add to our great memories of Disney World trips.<\/p>\n<p>I know many of the people I finally got to meet have shared their trip stories with me before. It was nice for us to all experience a trip together. Hopefully we can all do it again.<\/p>\n<hr id=\"system-readmore\" \/>\n<p><span style=\"font-family: arial black,avant garde;\"><strong>JULY 30 (Tikifest recovery)<\/strong> <\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"116\" width=\"148\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/Magnolia_logo.jpg\" alt=\"Magnolia_logo\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/>I got up early and headed to the Lounge for a Mocha to take with me to golf. One of the other nice things about having a concierge lounge as part of your vacation. I relaxed with my mocha and paper for a while before heading over to the GCH.<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/maggolf9.jpg\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"145\" width=\"200\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/maggolf9.jpg\" alt=\"maggolf9\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: right; margin-left: 5px;\" \/><\/a>We all met at the front of the Great Ceremonial House and as part of the golfing at Disney World they bring you to the course. We could have walked since it was a cross the street but we got a ride over. Chris, Aaron, Sean and I were golfing at Magnolia. This is one of the places we golfed for the guys trip in May (Magnolia course). <\/p>\n<p>That morning the kids and the girls went to \u2018Ohana for Character breakfast. The kids always enjoy this. The adults seemed to enjoy it also. I was not a big fan of it when I went before but I thought the food was just alright and I was not too happy when the watress spilled coffee on my new camera and did not say sorry.<\/p>\n<p>It was a nice morning and not too hot yet. When we got started they warned us as always to stay away from bushes and water. There was even a reminder of the 10 foot 700 lb gator that wanders between Magnolia and Palm courses. <\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/maggolf4.jpg\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"230\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/maggolf4.jpg\" alt=\"maggolf4\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>We all got along great and I can&#8217;t think of a better group to be with and relieve the stress of the week before. We were going to try and play Palm course since I had not tried it yet but it was closed that day. I do enjoy Magnolia because I can play with the Polynesian in the background.<\/p>\n<p>We all had a great time and than headed back to the Polynesian. When we walked in with our clubs a manager was greeting people coming in the entrance of the resort. The manager asked us if we were going to play any more golf. When we told her we were thinking about doing Eagle Pines she told us that the next day was the last day it would be open. Eagle Pines was going to be removed and replaced by the new Four Seasons to go in. Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts will build a luxury hotel and 18-hole championship golf course along the northeast border of Walt Disney World. It is part of two expansion plans that will take eight to 10 years to fully develop and will include single- and multifamily vacation homes, fractional ownership homes and a 450-acre retail, dining and lodging district<\/p>\n<p>Sean called to get a tee time for the next day and we were booked to play the last day we could. <\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2083.jpg\" title=\"'Ohana character breakfast\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"150\" width=\"200\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2083.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_2083\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>That morning the kids and the girls went to \u2018Ohana for Character breakfast. The kids always enjoy this. The adults seemed to enjoy it also. I was not a big fan of it when I went before but I <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2089.jpg\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"113\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2089.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_2089\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: right; margin-left: 5px;\" \/><\/a>thought the food was just alright and I was not too happy when the watress spilled coffee on my new camera and did not say sorry. This time they said they had a good time and the food was very good. Even the eggs were so good they all asked for more.<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/July07245.jpg\" title=\"Sean, Anna, Aaron, Kim and I outside Kona Cafe\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"150\" width=\"200\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/July07245.jpg\" alt=\"July07245\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>Later that day we were taking Aaron along with his wife Kim and daughter Anna to lunch at Kona. It was one of the prizes at Tikifest to have lunch for you and your family paid for and you could talk with an Imagineer (Sean who works for Imagineering in California).<\/p>\n<p>They not only got to order what ever he wanted but he could ask Sean things about Disney and get a few secrets. We know Aaron won&#8217;t give away the secrets.<\/p>\n<p>We all had a great lunch and I even got to try the new Plate Lunch, They are trying to be like the typical Hawaiian plate lunch but it was a little different but very good.<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2109.jpg\" title=\"My shirts\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"200\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2109.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_2109\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>Later that night we had dinner at Kona. The food has always been good to me but our service was not as good at night as it was for lunch. After dinner we did a little shopping at Boutiki.<\/p>\n<p>Some people asked me about my TIkifest shirt and if I was ever going to sell shirts. Well I finally can sell my designs. <a href=\"http:\/\/www.cafepress.com\/polytikiman\">Click here<\/a> and see my new page for selling shirts.<\/p>\n<p>I will have many more designs up but this is what I have for now. If there is something different or a different front or back design than email me and let me know.<\/p>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p> <!--nextpage--> <\/p>\n<p><strong>JULY 31<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"98\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/logo_golf_eagle_pines.jpg\" alt=\"logo_golf_eagle_pines\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/>Sean and I were taken to Eagle Pines the next morning and we took Megan and Kyle to ride along in the carts. They had an additional player go with us. His name was John and we called him Big John. He was from Louisiana and he was the perfect <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/eaglegolf7.jpg\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"136\" width=\"200\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/eaglegolf7.jpg\" alt=\"eaglegolf7\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: right; margin-left: 5px;\" \/><\/a>person to be matched up with us. John was a very friendly guy and we had a lot of fun playing with him.<\/p>\n<p>It was nice to get to play Eagle Pines the last day it would be open. Just before we finished some very dark clouds were coming in. It did not rain on us but I guess it did on the rest of our group who was over at Down Town Disney. <\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2112.jpg\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"200\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2112.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_2112\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>The rest of the group went over to Down Town Disney for the morning and afternoon. They hit up all the good stores and just spent a nice day walking around down there.<\/p>\n<p>After golf we went in the pool (seemed to be what we did every day). I spent more of my time on this trip around the resort than I did in the parks and I must say that it is one of the things I love about the Polynesian. The Polynesian is an attraction of its own. You would think the more time I sepnd there I would get bored but it just makes me want to not go anywhere else. I have tried to hang out most of the day at other resorts (Animal Kingdom Lodge, Boardwalk, Yacht Club) and I was not as relaxed and did not find as many things to do. The Polynesian not only had two great pools to hang out at and relax but just watching the lagoon and the activity on the water was nice to do. <\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/FL2007_-195.jpg\" title=\"photo thanks to Jen Shelton\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"202\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/FL2007_-195.jpg\" alt=\"FL2007_-195\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: right; margin-left: 5px;\" \/><\/a>Sometimes just laying on the lounge chair and listening to the train whistle at the Magic Kingdom is all I need. Also walking around the resort is fun and relaxing for me. For kids there is so much to do. They had activities all day long and different activities every day. The did things like Giant Jenga , rubber duck races, noodle games, water basket ball at the pool and tissue paper flower crafts, make your own ALOHA picture, Hula marshmallow at the GCH and paint your own Tiki Mask. There are also the boat rentals if you want to get out on the water.<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2119.jpg\" title=\"Construction at the Animal Kingdom Lodge\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"113\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2119.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_2119\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>That night we headed over to the Animal Kingdom Lodge to eat at Boma. This is another of our favorite resorts but it is a little to isolated for us to go there very often. Along with the Polynesian I feel that the Animal Kingdom Lodge has some of the best food of any Disney Resort. <\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"200\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2120.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_2120\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: right; margin-left: 5px;\" \/>I checked out some of the construction going on from the lobby. This was why many of the Deluxe resorts were full and will remain full most of this year. People were moved from the AKL to other deluxe resorts because of the rooms being closed. Before dinner we walked around and looked at the animals and tried some of the African Beer at the bar above Boma. We also saw Jen, Reid, Kayla and Gaby who were at Tikifest.<\/p>\n<p><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2127.jpg\" title=\"Kai getting ready for bed\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"113\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2127.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_2127\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: left; margin-right: 5px;\" \/><\/a>That night Sean and I were starting to get into our Mancation mode and decided to take the group over to Raglan Road.<br \/><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"tikifest1 noopener noreferrer\" href=\"images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2130.jpg\" title=\"Electrical Water Pageant from the Polynesian\" class=\"jcepopup\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"113\" width=\"150\" src=\"..\/images\/stories\/tikifest1\/IMG_2130.jpg\" alt=\"IMG_2130\" class=\"img-border\" style=\"float: right; margin-left: 5px;\" \/><\/a><br \/>We let the kids watch the fireworks and Electrical Water Pageant (since at the Polynesian they are one after the other) and than put them to bed over in Sean&#8217;s room for Brenda to watch the kids.<\/p>\n<p>We went over and talked to Daniele about getting a seat near the stage. She said she would take care of us if we hung out for a while. We waited a little while and then were seated right next to it. We enjoyed some appetizers and beer and enjoyed the entertainment. The fried sausages with dips were a hit. This is always a fun place.<\/p>\n<p>This is always a favorite place for us to go and we usually close down the place. The food and entertainment is some of the best in Disney World.<\/p>\n<p>We got back and Kai was asleep in the other room. We just picked up his whole bed and brought him back over to our room.<\/p>\n<p>It was a nice day full of activities and relaxation. This is what Disney World is all about.<\/p>\n<p> <!--nextpage--> <\/p>\n<p><strong>AUGUST 1<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The girls got their day to enjoy and went to the Spa at Saratoga Springs.<\/p>\n<p>Sean and I watched the kids. We played around the resort and went over to the Magic Kingdom for a while. The line for Splash Mtn. said 30 minutes but it looked much longer than that so we tried getting in line while Darby watched the two little ones. It was much longer than 30 minutes so we got out of line and the kids were asleep. Kai has some interesting ways of sleeping.<\/p>\n<p>Later that night we went over to Futon\u2019s for dinner and I got the huge lobster again. We have really enjoyed our visits to Fulton&#8217;s and it has become a regular stop for us when we go to Disney World. I think we might try it for Mancation 2008.<\/p>\n<p>It was raining very hard (the hardest since we had been there). Dinner was good as always. We drove over and Sean and family took Disney Transportation. After trying to get home for ever from Downtown Disney I think Sean is done with Disney transportation other than the monorail.<\/p>\n<p> <!--nextpage--> <\/p>\n<p><strong>AUGUST 2<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Well this was our last full day. I still never made it over to Animal Kingdom (first time ever visiting and not going in that park).<\/p>\n<p>Sean and I took Megan and Kyle over to Blizzard Beach that morning. We were one family away from being the first family. It rained so the crowds were lower but it was nice out and we were going to be wet anyway. We got on everything we wanted to and headed back.<\/p>\n<p>The rest of the group went over to MGM that morning and ate at 50\u2019s Primetime Caf\u00e9.<\/p>\n<p>Sean and I took the two boys over to the Contemporary to eat lunch at the Concourse Steakhouse. I hung out at the resort finishing my report and enjoying my last full day there.<\/p>\n<p>I spent quite a bit of time at the resort and I enjoyed every minute of it. It is such a nice resort to hang out at all day and either do nothing or do the some of the many thigns that go on all day.<\/p>\n<p>Years ago when we were out early to the parks and back late we never realized all that goes on around the resort all day long, especially for kids.<\/p>\n<p>We got to spend some time in the lounge with Chef Dick and Kuulei. The kids love the lounge as much as we do. I always thought the concierge was worth it for us when we were just a couple but now with kids I think it is even more worth it. There is nothing like having access to the great staff or the goodies of the lounge all day long. The lounge is even nice to have when you just want to go relax somewhere.<\/p>\n<p>We all walked out to the beach from our room to enjoy the time we had left there. The Polynesian has 3 beaches that are longer when combined than any of the other Deluxe resort beaches. The kids loved running up and down the beach.<\/p>\n<p>We took a few group photos around the resort before heading out to eat.<\/p>\n<p>Some of the group photos we took were in the GCH and we spent some time just relaxing in there also. I always hear people talk about how loud and busy the Great Ceremonial House is and it is not relaxing but they must just hit it at the wrong time. Only a few times was it loud and crowded but it was not a crowded feeling like a mall at Christmas, it was like a fun atmosphere with the guy playing guitar in the lounge and people enjoying themselves.<\/p>\n<p>This was later in the afternoon and it was nice to hang out in the sitting area of the lobby.<\/p>\n<p> <!--nextpage--> <\/p>\n<p><strong>AUGUST 3<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>We got up and Tara had her traditional Tonga Toast but this time from Captain Cook&#8217;s.<\/p>\n<p>Well it will be nice to get back home after being gone 14 days but it will be sad to leave the Polynesian especially knowing we will be traveling the other direction next summer.<\/p>\n<p>We do have some new memories. There were some great moments on this Disney World trip and from Tikifest, that was a something I won\u2019t ever forget. It is always hard to say goodbye to the Polynesian and those who work there but we will be back.<\/p>\n<p>Aloha to all who were part of this trip.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Well this was my first time I had been to Disney World 3 times in 10 months. Each of the trips were a new experience. The December trip was my first time there with the Christmas stuff up, first time going to Mousefest and the first time I froze while in Florida. My trip in [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_genesis_hide_title":false,"_genesis_hide_breadcrumbs":false,"_genesis_hide_singular_image":false,"_genesis_hide_footer_widgets":false,"_genesis_custom_body_class":"","_genesis_custom_post_class":"","_genesis_layout":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[26],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-125","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","category-trip-reports","entry"],"featured_image_src":null,"featured_image_src_square":null,"author_info":{"display_name":"turkmandu","author_link":"https:\/\/papersuasion.com\/tiki\/author\/turkmandu\/"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/papersuasion.com\/tiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/125","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/papersuasion.com\/tiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/papersuasion.com\/tiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/papersuasion.com\/tiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/papersuasion.com\/tiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=125"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/papersuasion.com\/tiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/125\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2114,"href":"https:\/\/papersuasion.com\/tiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/125\/revisions\/2114"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/papersuasion.com\/tiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=125"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/papersuasion.com\/tiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=125"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/papersuasion.com\/tiki\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=125"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}