BACK AGAIN?? 10 NIGHTS SAPPHIRE FALLS.....MAY 18 TRIP REPORT

[schumigirl]

haha it's Rob he was the one who was so embarrassed that I was talking to someone from a forum but having now read your trip report from 2015 he knows you are no stranger

Our anniversary is the 22nd Sept which is a Saturday night which works well

Yes my trip report, I had such good intentions but never did get back to it Ooops

Lol......it is time consuming, maybe you can do one this time.......

I do remember he looked a little bemused by it all......... we definitely aren’t strangers now.........

 

[schumigirl]

Lol glad to hear you tend to get super surprises. I’m on .the other end of the spectrum as I’ve discovered surprises can go both ways

I have one friend who would run 10 miles naked rather than get a surprise......I think she may have had a bad experience once and it put her off........

We teased her mercilessly we were going to surprise her on her 50th! We had to stop as she was getting mad......lol......were we bad that we found that even funnier.......

 

[acndis]

Loving this report! Sapphire Falls looks fantastic.

I just love your (and Tom's) positive energy. It comes through so strongly in every report. I used you as an example in a conversation with my husband as someone who continually gets 'free' stuff everywhere she goes. I think it's because you are so genuinely kind to everyone you come into contact with. You remember names and are genuinely thankful for what they do. You are never looking for these 'gifts,' they just come to you because of your great attitude (vibe). Karma! Love that.

Keep up the good work! Can't wait to read more.

 

[schumigirl]

Loving this report! Sapphire Falls looks fantastic.

I just love your (and Tom's) positive energy. It comes through so strongly in every report. I used you as an example in a conversation with my husband as someone who continually gets 'free' stuff everywhere she goes. I think it's because you are so genuinely kind to everyone you come into contact with. You remember names and are genuinely thankful for what they do. You are never looking for these 'gifts,' they just come to you because of your great attitude (vibe). Karma! Love that.

Keep up the good work! Can't wait to read more.

A very warm along to acndis……….nice to see you on this report too...…

Well, Thank you so much for those lovely sentiments!!! That was very touching to read and I appreciate it a lot.

I think the word Blessed is sometimes over used today, but we really are in many ways. We both love people and have been so lucky with folks we have come into contact in many ways. And our vacations are truly wonderful and so many have become true friends over the years.

You are correct, we never ever look or expect anything, and it’s always a joy and a delight when someone does that something extra for us, we are incredibly grateful every time. And we always “pay it forward” in as many ways as we can.

So, thank you again, your post really did lighten my heart a little more than it already was this morning...……..

Hope you enjoy the rest of the report too...….hopefully more coming up soon...…...

 

[schumigirl]

SUNDAY 13TH MAY


Again, we slept really well last night, and no waking at 4am....we adjust fairly quickly on the way here...….it`s the return journey home that gets us!!

I got up early though, as we usually do and had been told the sun rose right over RPR and it was lovely...….so, I grabbed a glass of Snapple and sat at the window and did indeed watch the beautiful sunrise...….it was so lovely and so peaceful looking outside this early......there really didn't seem to be anyone around except the security officers who worked the boat dock. They were there very early!! But, this was so nice.

We still hadn't decided what to do today. As most folks who read this know, we never really plan......I never do a Pre Trip report as I like to have a vacation without planning anything...….I don't want to plan where we`ll eat and when, other than having a rough idea of the places we do enjoy......this of course includes laboriously studying numerous menu`s whether familiar or some new places we may want to try. So today once Tom was awake I would jump in the shower and then we`d decide over breakfast what to do. Rain wasn't forecast till later in the afternoon so we knew we wanted to be out reasonably early...….

Once we were showered and dressed I laid out some food on the table for us while Tom went down to the grab and go for two latte`s...…...we had some meats, cheeses of various kinds, fruit including the most gorgeous grapes I think I have ever tasted, dried fruit, crackers from the platters...….I had bought blueberry muffins and butter cake...…..this was quite the picnic breakfast...….It was all ready for Tom coming back with the coffees...…..and we did enjoy it, it was lovely and so nice to take advantage of this lovely big table we had, and what a view to be eating breakfast behind. I have to say the coffee from downstairs

Once we were cleared up we walked over to RP to see a couple of folks we know over there, a couple were in the Club Lounge so when we went in we got the biggest hugs from a few of our favourites……...it was so nice to see them and we were so appreciative to have been given access to it as it made it so easy to just go up on our own...….we had seen one in particular start working in the pool area and wondered how much longer he would be here......seeing some of them grow up in front of us was lovely...…..and of course a couple we had only met last year, but felt like we knew them forever. So we had a good catch up and had a coffee....I do like their coffee in there as it`s not too strong flavoured…….then we said we would see them later in our trip and we set off to walk back to SF...…..we did know this route so well...……

Samuel had told us when the weather was going to hit later today, so we did consider the parks this morning...….but, we were going to go to Gaylord Palms for a visit.

We had gone here years ago to see a friend who was staying there, but this was back in 2007 so it had been a while...….and we thought we might have lunch there in the Sports Bar, we had heard varying reports of how good it was, but it looked ok, so we would give it a try.

So, back up to the room as we didn't have hats with us and then back down and headed out to the parking garage for the car...….we did like this set up as opposed to the open parking lot elsewhere...…..the car was fairly cool.

It doesn't take long to get there and we did actually go the dreaded I4...….we usually avoid this where possible, but today it was fine and after we pass the Disney Springs area, we reach the exit for the hotel......you actually can`t miss it from the road......it is a huge hotel...….

You do pay for parking if you are just visiting the hotel as many do, but if you eat in any of the restaurants they will validate parking.

There are loads of parking spaces here and as we step out we can feel that wonderful heat again, albeit rather cloudy......but we`ll make the most of it.....

We head in the side door and go straight down towards the beautiful Atrium area...……

The hotel has rooms that face inwards to the Atrium and all have a little balcony, which I have to some are not the most private of balconies...….wouldn't like to be sitting in jammies with a glass of wine or a coffee......but it is very pretty...…..and very green, but a weird green light.

They have several restaurants and this one is The Old Hickory Steakhouse which is just beautiful...…..not many restaurant settings are like this

I detest reptiles of any kind. Don`t like snakes, spiders or bugs...…..but I have a real aversion to alligators and crocs which is why places like Gatorland will never appear in any of our trip reports...…....….so, when I first saw the next image I assumed they were ornamental......nope they were real...….

I had been looking at them for ages, not seeing the sign telling you about them...…..and they genuinely didn't move at all.....none of them, so I was convinced they weren't real...….then one of the turtle things moved and then on of the big ones moved its tail slightly...…...very disconcerting...…..

As I was feeling quite uncomfortable as I usually am among reptiles Tom turned the camera and said smile......this is the biggest get me out of here smiles ever...….

Yes, I could see they were nowhere near me and it is silly, but I hate them. Strangely my family think I am akin somehow to the lizard family......due to my love of heat and sunshine.....and as soon as it cools down I`m inside...….it`s almost like I sap the hat from the sun then disappear to enjoy what heat I`ve harvested...….lol......they do have some funny thoughts!!!!

But, we wandered further around and it was just lovely.....but the strangest light which I didn`t really like either...….

They have a lovely little shopping mall inside too which have a variety of little gift shops and coffee places. They have a handy little grab and go place too...…

They have the Wreckers Sports Bar in there too, and that's where we were planning to have lunch, but it was a little early yet, so we wandered some more.

It was Mother`s Day in the US so there were lots of ladies dressed for Villa De Flora...….they were having a Mother`s Day special lunch...…..we had already celebrated Mother`s Day earlier in the year in March, so it wasn't a special day for me.....but some women looked really lovely and had really dressed for the occasion...…..

And the little dessert counter was rather delicious looking...…..

The restaurant is huge and wraps itself around the whole area...….it was mobbed as you would imagine today, and lots of ladies walking around with yellow roses as a gift from the restaurant.

We carried on walking around the Atrium area which is also huge...….

We had missed this area previously, it`s like a Key West themed area and the restaurant they have in there is in the shape of a ship......very beautiful, but so quiet......and the menu did look lovely for the restaurant......I did wish we had gone here.

It was a very nice area and so quiet in comparison to Villa De Flora...….but we wandered back towards the central area and it`s almost Fort like in the back of the central area...……

Peek a Boo...…...

We wanted to go what looked like down a level and discovered there was a little shack that had some kind of reptile in it...….I stayed outside while Tom had a good look around...…..a manager came along and asked if I was alright as I must have looked a bit lost......I said I was waiting for my husband and wouldn`t go in looking for him...….he laughed and guesses I wasn't a fan of what was in the cabin...…..we chatted about the hotel briefly as Tom appeared the man offered to take a picture of us both...….nice man and he was glad we were impressed with the hotel.....despite the not so welcome reptiles...….

Tom did convince me to go closer to the little building...…..not the most comfortable of pictures...…..lol...….

We were getting hungry now, so we began to head back towards Wreckers Sports Bar.

 

[J'aime Paris]

I've never been to Gaylord Palms, but it looks absolutely massive!!

 

[pattyw]

So, back up to the room as we didn't have hats with us and then back down and headed out to the parking garage for the car...….we did like this set up as opposed to the open parking lot elsewhere...…..the car was fairly cool.

We didn't rent a car this past trip. How was the parking garage? Was it a long walk? plenty of parking?

We had missed this area previously, it`s like a Key West themed area and the restaurant they have in there is in the shape of a ship......very beautiful, but so quiet......and the menu did look lovely for the restaurant......I did wish we had gone here

We ate at this restaurant a few years ago when we stayed here. It was very good!! You just reminded me how beautiful this resort is- have to go back! They did validate your parking here?

Beautiful pictures of Gaylord Palms!! and I hate reptiles! well, I like turtles though! They are very cute and move slow- and don't look threatening!

 

[schumigirl]

Sun Cont...……..


This is a lovely hotel......no doubt about that. They have a splendid display around the holidays called ICE......it really looks spectacular but far too cold for me to venture too...….so I doubt we`ll ever visit to see it....but many friends have and the pictures are lovely.

But, for now we head back to Wreckers. I usually listen to my instinct but didn't today.

It`s set up downstairs and it does look like a great place to watch sports if that's your thing...….for us not so much...….but we did get a lovely welcome from the young lady who took us to our table...…….

It wasn't overly busy and she kind of struggled where to put us......anywhere will do us I assured her.....so she does eventually decide we can sit beside the family already seated...…..

Our waitress is not the usual style we come across, she wasn't overly happy but wasn't rude either, although she did seem disappointed when we weren't ordering any alcohol and just having diet pepsi……..but hey ho...…..the drinks came fairly quickly and she stood while we made our final choices for lunch, rather awkwardly if I`m honest......I opted for the Cuban sandwich and Tom went for the burger.....both with regular fries...….

I really wasn't getting a nice vibe from this place, which is unusual for me, but we had ordered so we would eat and leave.....I had already decided we wouldn't come back here...….and we waited some more for our food and then a little longer...…..we were just about to ask for the check for our drinks when she appeared with the food......no apology for the wait......the place was practically empty after all......but it looked good-ish

It wasn't. We always say we have one bad meal on a trip, or at least a meal that could have been better.....and this was it hopefully......the burger and sandwich were very average...….the pulled pork on mine was very dry and didn't taste of much......Tom`s burger was cooked as he asked, but again tasted of nothing......and was maybe a little incinerated on the outside...…..but the worst bit of the meal were the fries.....they were incredibly cool, almost cold...…. so we searched for the girl who was our waitress but couldn't see her, we ate the sandwich and burger, or most of it. We left the fries which were now stone cold. She came back from somewhere all of a sudden and incredibly sat the check down and said she`d get that when we were ready......really!!!!! No asking if everything was good or did we need anything. I stopped her before she removed the plates and said can I let you know, we had asked for someone to get you, as we couldn't find you...our fries were cold and now you can see we haven't touched them...….it`s not up to standard. She glanced at the plate and said she`d let the kitchen know...…...and that was the end of the conversation...…..she came back and asked if the check was ready.....we said yes it was. She then asked if we wanted some fries to go......….lol, no thanks...….We are excellent tippers...…..well beyond what it should be usually, but today it was minimal. Seriously minimal.

On the way out the girl asked if we had enjoyed it and we said no, she did look concerned and we told her everything. She asked if we wanted the check adjusted and we said no, but we wouldn't come back again.....she said she was so sorry and would look into it.

So, that was the worst meal of the trip...…..thankfully. It`s such a shame as it is a nice place but maybe she was having an off day......we all have them. But the food wasn't as expected.

So, we went back out and had a last wander around before heading out to the car...….it really is a lovely hotel, but would I want to stay there?? I think not.....

We drove out of the security gate and the guard asked if we were just visiting, we said we had eaten lunch....he just asked to see the receipt as we said we hadn't been given anything.....but, we didn't ask to be fair...….and the receipt was enough, he waived the parking fee for us......and off we went back to Sapphire.

We turned off again at LBV at I4 traffic heading towards Universal looked backed up, so a quick turn off and we were back to Turkey Lake Road.

We went up to the room and then decided we would head into the park and have some sangria at The Backwater Bar...….it`s attached to Confisco Grill and staff are a lot of fun there...…..so down to get the boat and the quick security check and we`re off...…this really is a lovely hotel...….particularly around the area where the boat comes and goes from...….it`s very picturesque and at night it is stunning.

We got off and for some reason headed towards the Studios......not quite sure why as we were heading to IOA...….but we stopped off as they had the big chair outside of Voodoo...….well, everyone was getting their picture taken...……so why not...….

We very rarely take a picture of the Universal Globe, but there was hardly anyone around today......so why not...……

At this point we realized we were heading for the wrong park......and that was without alcohol!!! So we turned down and walked past HRC and Toothsome......Toothsome is a place I just can`t get fond of...…..but maybe we`ll try it again one day. The chocolates they sell aren't as good as they look and we find Godiva selection to be much nicer......but it`s always busy enough.

So in to IOA and we wonder if we`ll make it to Backwater before the rain comes on...…..


I had left my sunglasses at home, so meant to buy a pair here, but kept forgetting.....although it was fairly dull, the sun was still glaringly bright

A group of suits walked past us and one asked if wanted a picture together......I think he had aspirations of being a photographer in another life as he was very instructive on where we should stand for the optimal picture...…..very kind of him though...…..

We thanked him very much and headed in to the park.....although we were just here for a quick visit, we decided despite the fact I was wearing a dress we would have a go on Hulk and Dr Doom. A few essential pictures of the lovely Port of Entry...……

We walked straight on to Hulk and I was sure they`d seen it all before and I`d try to be as ladylike as possible while getting strapped in.....so off we popped and had a few rides on both...……..the dress was fine on both.

We could feel spots of rain on both rides...….the Hulk felt incredibly fast today...….and we did this only once, same as Doom. We then wandered round to Seuss and rode the trolley train ………..there really is no ladylike way to get in and out of this ride...…..

Then headed down to Backwater Bar...…..at this point you can actually feel the weather in the air if that makes sense...….you can feel the upcoming downpour almost here...…..and it was hot and humid.

As soon as we walked in we saw Regina who has been there for what seems like years...…..and a new guy. He turned and saw Tom`s NY Yankees hat and immediately yelled he wasn't serving him...….we laughed of course, but this guy kept it going while we sat down...….he obviously wasn't a fan! I told him we were Scottish and it stood for New Year...…..he actually conceded he had no answer for that...….I then asked who the yankees were and did they play the volleyball...…..Regina was howling at this point that Nicholas was getting as good as he gave out...….he actually didn't serve us as Regina did, but she checked we knew he was joking......of course we did. He was actually a really nice guy who as some people do, he had a very interesting story...…

We ordered Sangrias and laughed as we saw the red wine being chucked into the big jar at the top...….it was out of a bag......lol.....classy stuff I don't think......but, it`s cheap and cheerful and with the added brandy, quite drinkable...….they stopped now doing Sangria by the carafes so we ordered by the glass...….it`s something ridiculously cheap like $7 a glass...…..

It was starting to rain heavier now...…..so we ordered another while having a great time with Regina and Nicholas who we were still teasing back and forward...….not a bad way to spend an afternoon...…..a few folks came in and had a drink and left......we were still there. We had 3 Sangrias and then decided to call it a day and face the rain...…...I had about half my sangria to drink when I inexplicably knocked it over myself...….I was laughing with Nicholas about something and gesticulated wildly obviously and pulled the rest over me...…...oh dear!!!! My first thought was thank goodness I had changed bags over and brought my park bag...…..can`t imagine getting red wine out of my LV bag!!!! As this one was leather it would just wipe clean...……

Regina got me some club soda, but strangely the sangria just kind of melded together with my dress......thankfully!!! I cleaned around where I had spilled it and she almost yelled at me in horror that she would get it...….well I had spilled it......but she took the cloth off of me and proceeded to finish although I had got most of it...….she filled up my glass and we sat back down and finished our chats...……

Eventually though we had to brave the rain and head back to the hotel...…..Nicholas assured us he had only been playing and we of course knew that but he said he still wouldn't serve him if we came back in with a slight wink...….lol...….so we paid the check and headed out in the rain.

If it had been RP we would have walked, but Sapphire is that bit further on....so we walked down to the boat and the Captain shouted did we want SF, we said yes sir....so he opened the gate closest to us and said we could go in the VIP gate today...….lol......it saved a few moments and was appreciated. Everyone on the boat was drenched...…..and the rain was just getting heavier...….

We very carefully got off the boat as my crocs were slippy so we got inside and got on the elevator to the 4th floor and then walked through the lobby and up to our room. We were drenched, but at least it was warm rain...….we had experienced cold rain in March and that definitely wasn't fun...….

Into the room and we both got showered and into a pair of jammies...….we poured ourselves a glass of chardonnay and turned on some lamps as it was extremely dark with the cloud and rain that was now blasting down. I did feel for anyone still in the parks at this time...….

We settle down on the sofa and actually turned the heat up...….and it warmed up nicely very quickly.....this was a first, turning the heat up in Florida...…..but we found Die Hard was just starting on one channel so we got our wine, prepared a couple of snacks as we were quite hungry with such a poor lunch and we watched the movie...….it was fun. Gotta love some Die Hard and Alan Rickman...…….this passed a couple of hours while we decided where we would eat tonight. We had now cleared the both trays we had been sent....and they were lovely......

After the movie we thought about where to eat tonight...….as the rain was on for the next 24 hours we wouldn't be going far...….we decided to eat in Amatista since it would save us actually going out anywhere, and we had enjoyed it on a previous visit. So, we got dressed and headed down and saw it wasn't too busy, so we sat at the bar and had a glass of wine there before eating...……

The bar is nice, and there`s a couple of sofa`s and chairs to choose from too...…..

We do like sitting at a bar and having a drink. The barman was friendly and asked if we were eating, told him just drinks for now we would be eating in the restaurant...…..so we got our wine and marveled at the torrential downpour that was so visible from outside......and you could see folks getting off the boat and everyone just looked drenched.

We finished this and walked back to ask for a table...….and were immediately taken over to the window beside the waterwheel...….it would have been a lovely view but it was dark and the rain was covering the windows.

As we had wine upstairs we didn't order a bottle but merely another glass each...…...and then decide what to eat...…...the menu is nice and there is a good variety for most folks...……

Our waiter is Leandro who was ever so nice, we definitely aren't rushed or felt pressured to order in here, very different from lunch...….

So, we eventually decided on rather strangely I thought Chicken noodle soup for Tom followed by meat lovers flatbread...…….I opted for the Caribbean wings and then the Island Fish sandwich with salad with no onions...….we had to return the salad for another as there was indeed onions.....but a minute later and I had another fresh one made...…..

The food was lovely...…..even Tom`s strange choice of soup was lovely.....although it lacked something...….but the wings were delicious, he brought me both sauces as I couldn't make up my mind between them, one was a mango base and the other spicy......mixing them together was delicious...……

It was nice just sat here tonight......we took our time, especially as we had nowhere to go really...….so we chatted and passed the time sharing the food between us and laughing. It was a nice evening...…….

We had no room for dessert but we knew we had butter cake in the room...….so we paid the check and went back upstairs...…Tom was feeling tired tonight so we went straight up to our room without visiting StrongWater Bar...…..rather unusual for us...….but back in the room we decided against any cake or any more wine and more or less went straight to bed.

We marveled at how tired we were considering we hadn't done much today.....but this was the point of this trip...….no mad rushing around and we so wanted to spend time in the resort itself...……

I had a look out the window and couldn't see much for the rain...…..but, there was something very cosy about it all tonight. I closed the drapes over and got into our very comfortable bed.

Tomorrow we wouldn't be doing much either as it was to be wall to wall monsoon weather all day...….but, we would find something to pass the day away I was sure.

 

[schumigirl]

I've never been to Gaylord Palms, but it looks absolutely massive!!

It is a huge hotel...….massive convention hotel too.

But, not somewhere I`d choose to stay funnily enough...…..

 

[schumigirl]

We didn't rent a car this past trip. How was the parking garage? Was it a long walk? plenty of parking?



We ate at this restaurant a few years ago when we stayed here. It was very good!! You just reminded me how beautiful this resort is- have to go back! They did validate your parking here?

Beautiful pictures of Gaylord Palms!! and I hate reptiles! well, I like turtles though! They are very cute and move slow- and don't look threatening!

It only takes a few minutes to get to the lobby from the garage...…..there is an elevator if you are up on the higher floors. Ideal and yep, plenty of spaces.

They do validate parking, but it`s not widely advertised.

 

[pattyw]

Thanks about the parking garage and validation at Gaylord Palms!

So sorry about that restaurant! Bad service and food!! I don't think I'll try it! We had good luck at the Key West restaurant. I do notice that when a restaurant isn't busy, we tend to get slow service! But rude (or lack of any) service along with mediocre food should never happen!

 

[schumigirl]

Thanks about the parking garage and validation at Gaylord Palms!

So sorry about that restaurant! Bad service and food!! I don't think I'll try it! We had good luck at the Key West restaurant. I do notice that when a restaurant isn't busy, we tend to get slow service! But rude (or lack of any) service along with mediocre food should never happen!

Yep, I think in all our visits since 2007 that is only the second time we have had poor service...…...yep, never really an excuse......but I wish we had gone to the other place...….

 

[disneyAndi14]

First, the suite is absolutely beautiful. I could get use to that! How nice of your friend to send the food gifts, so nice to snack on.

It looks like some fun days checking out the local places and Gaylord Palms. I have heard about the ice show there but never saw what the resort looked like. Wow it is a big place, sorry your lunch wasn’t good!

The dinner at SF looks really good and what nice atmosphere!

With that beautiful suite, I would not mind having a rain day!

 

[Cara]

So happy to see another report! Your suite is beautiful! We live near Nashville, Tenn., and have visited the Gaylord Opryland a number of times. It is also massive! So sorry you had such an awful meal. Yuck!

 

[schumigirl]

First, the suite is absolutely beautiful. I could get use to that! How nice of your friend to send the food gifts, so nice to snack on.

It looks like some fun days checking out the local places and Gaylord Palms. I have heard about the ice show there but never saw what the resort looked like. Wow it is a big place, sorry your lunch wasn’t good!

The dinner at SF looks really good and what nice atmosphere!

With that beautiful suite, I would not mind having a rain day!

It really was so beautiful, and very comfortable especially on the rainy times we had......it was a pleasant place to wait while we weren't in Strong Water Bar.....lol...…..

Yep, wouldn't rush back there anytime soon...……......so many other choices out there...….and yes, I think everything we ate at Sapphire this visit was excellent......

 

[schumigirl]

So happy to see another report! Your suite is beautiful! We live near Nashville, Tenn., and have visited the Gaylord Opryland a number of times. It is also massive! So sorry you had such an awful meal. Yuck!

Cara...…..Thank You........glad you`re along for this one too...…..hope it`s a fun read for you...….

Yes those hotels seem to all large complexes......it was beautiful but a bad meal is enough to put us off going back. Although the Old Hickory Steakhouse is beautiful...….maybe I`d go back there one day, the menu was nice.

 

[schumigirl]

MONDAY 14TH MAY...…….

Oh my goodness, did we sleep last night!! I don't think we moved a muscle all night...….as usual we were awake early. We don't really ever sleep late on vacation, I wish we could at times but it kinda suits us to do it that way. We aren't really late night party animals and prefer to be up and get the day started. Even on our HHN trips, we rarely stay beyond midnight. And one of the reasons we love the Rush of Fear ticket, it allows us to go many nights over our trip......we spend all day on the go so we prefer to be able to just spend a few hours or more if we feel like it. It`s one of the reasons we don't ever do a RIP tour, although they are fabulous if you only have one night or a few nights...….but it`s too long for us......don't we sound old!!!!

But, for today we were awake very early...…..and the forecast for today was dreadful. The rain had started around 5ish last night and was to keep going all day till around 7pm...….and when I pulled back the drapes we saw this...……it did look miserable...….but we would make the most of any time we had here and wouldn't let it bother us in any way.

Looked lovely didn't it!!!

So we took our time getting ready, and watched some TV, mainly the weather channel...….we did love this channel and Kyle loved watching it when he was younger...….it really wasn't a good listen this morning. But, we were going to take advantage and head to the Florida Mall this morning...….I generally don't like this Mall at all, I find it has too many tourists...….lol......I know how crazy that sounds!! We much prefer the Mall at Millenia.

But first breakfast. We had thought we would go to Keke`s this morning, but with the rain we decided to go to Amatista. We didn't feel like the full buffet this morning, we would keep that for another day as we also still felt quite full from last night...…...so down we went and got a table and were looked after by Natasha who was just lovely.

We got coffee and Tom said he just wanted a couple of pastries, Natasha told him to just go to the buffet and help himself and really he could take what he wanted...…..I opted for the pancakes with maple syrup and cinnamon butter...…..so Tom went up and didn't choose much at all......they were quite small but he really didn't feel like a lot......which was unusual for him as he does enjoy a breakfast.

The pancakes were beautiful...….unbelievably light and so fresh. And I do love maple syrup. Tom didn't even finish the pastries he chose and left one, I was a little concerned at this point that he might be feeling a little under the weather, but I think he was really still full from the night before and a little tired this morning, which is strange when you feel as if you`ve had such a good sleep. And I couldn't finish the pancakes either as it was a large portion........but so delicious. The coffee was good and Natasha was excellent at keeping us refilled.

I was glad we hadn't got the buffet this morning, but it did look good and we planned to do it another day for sure.

We went back upstairs to get bag and stuff, then walked in the dry to the car...….this was excellent not having to get wet walking to the car. They were however having issues with the gates...….sometimes your room key registered and sometimes it didn't. We had reported it on the Saturday and now they had someone standing at the gate all day helping folks who were having trouble......our card didn't want to let us out today, other days it opened automatically. But, took a few seconds to get out.

The rain was solid. Roads aren't great in Orlando at the best of times, but with rain it`s not fun...…..and of course some drivers don't seem to adjust their driving and that's probably more scary than the weather. But, we made it to the mall and it was surprisingly quiet. We had wondered if the bad weather would drive everyone shopping, but so far so good and I suppose it was fairly early yet.

Tom dropped me off at the door as the rain was still bouncing down and everyone else had the same idea.

They have made massive improvements to this mall over the last few years...….the food court is now light and airy as opposed the dark and depressing area it used to be

We proceeded to wander around and remarked there was a jewelers who was still in business after all these years. Kyle had nicknamed him Dodgy watch guy...….he was buying his first Bulova watch and saw it in their store, but it looked second hand...….the man tried to convince us it wasn't second hand, but we all felt he was a little dodgy......he also tried to put pressure on for him to buy, that's when we walked and I did make a comment to him I didn't like his sales technique. Anyway, we ended up getting the watch at The Mall at Millenia and it was genuinely new. But, we did laugh when we saw the place. Don't think the same man is still there now.

The stores are alright here, but not great. And the nice thing was it really was quiet. We did wander into a few stores and picked up a few little things like an eye mask for me for the way home on the plane. I had spilled Argon Oil on my purple one and ruined it...….so picked one up here. Went into Brookstones and bought me a little alarm clock that when you press to see the time it shines up on the ceiling too...….little things amuse at times...….

We did mean to go into Godiva, but we didn't for some reason....we do like their chocolate.

We did also find a nice Christmas shop we didn't remember seeing before, I was sure it had to be new since we were last there, as I`m sure I would have remembered a Christmas shop as I adore all things Christmas!!

We head back out after a walk around Macy where we didn't actually see anything we wanted in there either...…..we drove to Bed Bath and Beyond...….love this store!!!!! We always pick up little gadgets and gizmo`s here, and over the years have bought many sheets and towels among many other things.....they have a huge array of little things and I suppose just "stuff"......I can pick up the strangest thing and decide I really need it. I did get a lovely make up mirror that had the magnifying side also, and was better than the one I had...….although that might be an age thing with the eyesight!!!!

By now it was still raining and we began to think about lunch...…...Tom was thankfully feeling a little hungry now, always a good sign. But, where to go......we thought of many places, but eventually decided on Bubbalous Boadacious Barbeque. We hadn't gone for a while and thought we could go some ribs.....so we very slowly made the journey back towards Kirkman and drove into the car park to see it was just a puddle.....and I had sandals on...…..so again Tom dropped me as close as he could and went back to park the car.

The woman on the counter wasn't as friendly as the ones before, but very efficient. We stood for a few minutes trying to decide what to have and I guess we weren't being quick enough...….there was no line behind us though......she asked if she could help......I said no thanks we were still deciding...…..there really is a huge choice here...….but we decided on chicken and ribs for Tom and chicken and brisket for me........and some cornbread and coleslaw as sides...…...we said we didn`t want another side and she actually insisted we get it a sit was included...…lol...so we just asked for another cornbread and she was happy......odd….

Anyway, we got our drinks and went and sat down. They give you a number and then bring your food over to you. The tables are all family style and benches, but it wasn't busy so we had a table to ourselves.

When we first came here Kyle was a lot younger, he took one look at the place and asked what Todd (Metro West) had said about this place....he was eyeing it rather suspiciously....I suppose it does look a little rough and ready.....when I told Kyle it was Todd that told us about it he was then quite happy to go in...….lol......as if we would take him somewhere bad!!!

The drinks are huge and you could share one if desired, but we are always thirsty and have one each...……

We both ended up with the same meal. And with the woman on the counter not being the friendliest, I decided to just eat it......lol......I`m not very brave at times...…..but it did look nice.

The sauces are very nice, but don't be afraid of the very descriptive Killer sauce......it really isn't. It gave you a slight tingle and no more......but they are all tasty, just not hot.

The food was really nice, the cornbread was a little dry however. But it did answer a question someone on here (cant remember who) asked me which was better Bubbalous or 4Rivers...…..well, I have to say 4Rivers wins hands down, on all counts. 4Rivers cornbread is so moist and incredibly tasty and had added jalapeno which adds extra points...….but the meat is so much better overall. Don't get me wrong the chicken and ribs we had today was lovely, but I`d choose 4Rivers over this place every time now.

We headed back out in the rain and went back to the hotel. We were supposed to be meeting a friend at O `Charleys tonight around 5pm when she finished work. We had known her a good few years from RP. She didn't work for them any longer, but we always kept in touch after she left. But, when we got back to the hotel I checked my emails and she had sent me an email that she`d have to cancel as she`d had some very bad news. So, I sent her an email saying how sorry we were and we would see her next time as there was no way she could now meet up this trip. We were so sad for her and wished we could do something other than be there for her. But, we would keep in touch as always and would definitely see her in July if work allowed.

So, we now had no plans for tonight...…...it was still raining but looked to be easing off a little...…..so we headed to do a little bit of shopping for silly little things like the shampoo I like to take back and the argon oil that is ridiculously cheap over here and so many other little bits.

We could of course have gone to the park. But, walking around the parks in rain is not my idea of fun......I know many do it and enjoy how quiet the parks can be, but I won`t wander about in the rain if I don't have to. So, off we popped back to the car and out to WalMart which is a few minutes away. We pick up some bits and bobs and why is it I never spend less than $100 in here every visit...….I do get silly things like thick black ankle type socks that I can wear with boots......and other equally ridiculous purchases we could get in the UK, but take great pleasure in shopping for over here. We then head to Target and pop back into Total Wine. We can spend an inordinate amount of time in Total Wine..…..it may be a little embarrassing however when the manager recognizes us when we walk in...….oops!!!!

We take our purchases back to the hotel and we are glad to be in. It seemed to get heavier before it began easing off later.

But, back to the room and we put everything away and then Skype Kyle...…...we get through immediately and he`s doing great...….we show him the miserable weather outside, although it does actually clear up while we are chatting today......we share each others news and have a good old catch up...….he asks our plans for this evening and we tell him honestly we don't know...….hadn't decided yet. We chat some more and then say our goodbyes for now and arrange when our next Skype session will be...….as always though we will message him on Skype if things change.

It does look like the rain has finally stopped or at least having a long break...…..

The one good thing about the weather is we are not covered in sunscreen as we usually are...….so we feel no need to shower and change before heading out again......it`s not a hassle putting it on at all, but it is nice not having to for a change. Although even if it`s cloudy we still usually put it on. Our very pale and pasty white West Of Scotland skin doesn't do well with such warm sunshine......we just don't get anywhere near that kind of blistering heat where we live.

But, it`s fairly early and too early to go eat, so we do what we do best...…..go and have a cocktail...….and Strongwater Bar is the closest...…..and nicest.....

I had gone for the Rum Mule and Tom had chosen the Tempest runner, which was a beer with a rum chaser......he did like it, and my rum was very strong but very nice...…..this was the first time we had met Jason......he was fairly new and we recognized where he was from on LI, it was quite near my family there.....so we had a lovely chat about the places we knew and were familiar with.....he said hardly anyone could pronounce it correctly......nice guy who knows his stuff. Actually they all do in here, very well informed on all things rum and beyond.

We were enjoying our time sitting here, the rain came back on and went off a few times...….Maggie, one of the longest serving staff members here came over to chat...….we had known her a while. But, it was fairly busy today as you would expect with the weather but it wasn't overly loud...….Maggie had asked where we were eating tonight and we still hadn't decided, however it would be somewhere that didn't involve driving now as we had both had a cocktail...….

So we thought we could walk to RP and have sushi or just go to Citywalk……..we decided on Citywalk. And we thought Cowfish since we hadn't been for a while.

We like the burgers from Cowfish a lot. The sushi we find is much better at Orchids at RP, so we don't opt for sushi in Cowfish it`s just not as good...….but we already know what we are having...…..

We wait for a break in the rain, but it does look like it`s stopped for the night now, and we head down for the boat. It looks so dull, so you forget just how hot it is outside and there is a welcome blast of familiar heat as we exit the building.

It is so pretty here........I never tire of seeing the front of the hotel......or the back technically I suppose........The boat is fairly busy and then we realize The Studios closes at 7 tonight, so wonder if we`ll have a wait to eat tonight as it`s just after 7 now...….well, if it busy we`ll just go somewhere else...….we are fairly easy to please.

It is strange having the sky so bleak but yet so warm. We are definitely used to bright blue skies so this was different, but didn't affect our mood in any way......we`re in Orlando!!!! Can`t get much better than that...….

Citywalk doesn't look too busy tonight, although the queue for Voodoo Donuts is huge apparently...…..I`m glad we aren't looking for one tonight...….so we head towards CowFish and the lady on the Podium tells us to go straight up...….fabulous!!!

We walk up the stairs which is quite uniquely decorated and we do indeed get a table straight away. And it`s the same table we had the last time we were here...….

Grace is looking after us tonight and she is fabulous!!! She is exactly the type of person you want looking after you in a restaurant. Tom orders a Sam Adams and I ask for a Mango Ginger which is usually made with Tequila. I do like Tequila a lot, but like this drink made with rum......she says of course they can do that so she goes to get the drinks while we pretend we don't know what we`re each having...….we are so predictable at times...….but we were going to share an appetizer tonight...……

So she came back with the drinks and said that was the first time the barman had been asked for that cocktail with rum......I was sure it would be lovely...…there are tiny pieces of fresh ginger through it, so Tom won`t touch it.....but I love it!!!

Grace asks if we are ready to order, so I tell her about my allergies and we have a conversation about what is going to be ok, I had the burger many times before so knew I was ok with that, and said they could just not add the onion or scallion to the shrimp...….all good. She did go and check with the chef which is always appreciated. My allergies are just an inconvenience more than debilitating like some allergies can be, but it`s always reassuring when they take the time to check in case of changes to menu`s or recipes.

So we ordered the Togarashi Shrimp to share, and Tom does indeed opt for the Rise n Swine Burger with fries and I opt for the Jalapeno Popper Show Stopper again...…..with sweet potato fries which are very good here...……

We like this place...…..it can be loud when its full and a bit later in the evening, but not tonight...….I`ve heard it described as an over priced Burger King, well I think it`s anything but that....although as I haven't eaten in a Burger King type place for more than 30 years I couldn't be sure, however I`d guess the standard here would win on quality and taste. I know where I`d prefer to eat...…..

The shrimp arrives and she said they put the sauce on the side as it has some onion seasoning in it, I was ok with that, but I appreciated them being extra cautious...…..and it did look nice and quite a large portion so I was glad we were sharing.

The shrimp was surprisingly light and so tasty......we adore shrimp cooked any way, as long as it`s cooked well......and this was delicious...….this was a "I really want to lick the plate clean" moment...…..sauce wasn't as spicy as we`d have liked, but it was really, really nice......

We had a decent break till our entrees arrived which was just fine with us...…..we don't like to rush out of restaurants and much prefer to take our time......so this was ideal.

When they did appear they were fabulous.

I had asked for a little extra jalapeno in there......and at first I couldn't see any and thought, oh well...….but as I removed the top of the bun as I don't eat much of the bun usually I saw the extra spicy little jalapenos nestled altogether under there...….I love jalapenos. You may have noticed.

The food is so good...…..burgers are well cooked and fries are sizzling hot...….Grace comes to check on us and we tell her it`s all lovely.....she notices I haven't eaten the bun and asks if it`s alright......I tell her I don't usually eat the bun with burgers, it`s just too much...….she was glad there was nothing wrong with it...absolutely not. These are good burgers. Tom had more or less demolished his as well, and again only ate half the bun......it is very filling food but we enjoy every morsel.

We are so full. You know that feeling of you just want to go and lay down...…...that was us tonight, I wish we had a sofa we could stretch out on...…..but, so worth it.

We asked for the check and got that paid and headed out to walk around a little...…..the rain was finally off so we wandered around Citywalk for a while......it was nice to be out...…..and it was only around 8.45 and still fairly light tonight...…..we even debated wandering over to IOA which was open till 10pm tonight.

And then the rain came very lightly back on...……so decision made, although our full tummies may not have appreciated going on any rides tonight.....

So, we got the boat back to the hotel and caught some more snaps of this very pretty hotel...…..I think it photographs well and I always think it is very welcoming.

We are bone dry thankfully, and I can`t remember if the rain came back on really heavy or not but we were home for the evening...…..it was still early so we headed back into StrongWater and had another drink...…..Tom got a Bud and I had another Rum Mule.....this one wasn't as strong, which may have been a good thing.

We pass an hour or so in here and it is so lovely...….very relaxing. This has got to be our favourite bar in all the resorts...….very friendly and drinks are fabulous......haven't met one yet I didn't like.

So, we left there and Tom wanted a coffee.....so we wandered round to the Dutch Trading place and he got a large coffee we would probably share and I fancied a strawberry gelato...….I`m not overly keen on gelato, I prefer ice cream, but it`s very nice...….and I`m not sure where I found the room for it after such a huge meal......but I did!!!

Then we head back up to the room and enjoy the coffee and gelato...…..we put on some tv and according to the weather tomorrow is looking ok......so we think we may go into the parks for the morning...…..but for now, we didn't last long after the coffee, so it was into bed and hopefully a fabulous sleep again.

 

[pattyw]

Even a rainy day in Orlando is a good day!! We loved the buffet at Amatista!- very good selection. Our server told us that if we wanted something not on the buffet, like waffles, to please ask and she will get them!

Heard so much about Cowfish- will have to try it! Food looks great!

 

[schumigirl]

Even a rainy day in Orlando is a good day!! We loved the buffet at Amatista!- very good selection. Our server told us that if we wanted something not on the buffet, like waffles, to please ask and she will get them!

Heard so much about Cowfish- will have to try it! Food looks great!

Yes they`re very accommodating all round and will get you almost anything you can think of......

We did the buffet twice during this trip and yes, it was lovely...…

Cowfish is so good!! But, I`d tell anyone to get the burgers and not sushi. The sushi isn't bad, it`s just not great and there`s much better places out there for that......Orchids being one of them.

 

[Cara]

A rainy day in Orlando is far better than a sunny day at work! We just returned from 10 days at the beach, where we met up with Tropical Storm Alberto. The three days of rain didn't bother us -- we slept late, relaxed, wandered around, took in a movie. It was lovely! Glad you made the best of your rainy day!