Last Day (6) at DLP with the Baloos

[davewasbaloo]

Overall we had an awesome time. There were somethings that need improving, and other things that are almost as good as opening day. The resort was so busy, and yet pleasant, and it fills me with hope for the future.

On our last morning, we got up early, packed and went to breakfast. We enjoyed an extramagic hour and basically said our good byes. Due to timings we couldn't fit everything in we wanted (missing the Tram Tour, Rock n Roller Coaster, Armageddon, the Lion King, and the Nautilus). I really wish they had EMH at the WDSP and that the Lion King did not have dark days (also why is the Nuatilus running such short hours, makes me nervous for it's future). We decided not to do the Labrynth, prefering to see it post refurb (though the leapfrog fountains were working).

We had some lucky moments meeting Cinderella with no queue, same for Goofy, and also enjoying a band concert before going to lunch.
We had an enjoyable meal with the uKFAN posse (cannot wait to read their trip report of the last days of the summer season). And headed off home. a quick stop off at the Hypermarket, and some good deals on cases of wine at the terminal, 8 hours later, we arrived home wanting to book our next advenutre to DLP.

Overall we were very impressed as DLP was the closest to Disneyland standards in years, and reconfirmed we will not be heading back to WDW for a while.

I just would like to see a return to greatness for the HNY, and the shopping, a standardisation of hours, and a continuation of live non character entertainment and I will be happy. But the resort is doing very well, the new additions are great quality, and I am cautiously optimistic.
Now, must find a way to get there for the Halloween and Christmas celebrations.

Pics:

http://www.kodakgallery.co.uk/I.jsp?...localeid=en_GB

[fizzog]

Nice to see such optimism. It'll never be like opening day, Discoveryland's theme is broken, Woody's Roundup brings toons to Frontierland and Disney Village is a bit of a mess (though with its own unique charm I must say), but it still is a sensational place and one that's on the up and will hopefully stay there.

[davewasbaloo]

True. I am trying not to be too grumpy an old man (my wife accused me of this when I was spouting about the good ole days). But in many ways I am seeing some great returns to form.

[Zarniwoop]

Originally Posted by davewasbaloo

True. I am trying not to be too grumpy an old man (my wife accused me of this when I was spouting about the good ole days). But in many ways I am seeing some great returns to form.

New CEO started today at Euro Disney and here's his vision for future:

Question: What are your priorities in the next years?
Philippe Gas: It is a particularly exciting time for Disneyland Resort Paris, optimistic and dynamic. I am grateful to join such a great international team. Together, we are committed to the company's long-term strategy and growth as Europe's top tourist destination. We will keep working on driving results towards profitability, providing a high-quality guest experience, and investing in the personal and professional development of our Cast Members. I have had the chance to grow within this company and I hope this will inspire others.


Question: What are your future projects?
Philippe Gas: Imagining, creating, developing and growing is, and always will be, top of mind for us. We have already served, entertained and touched the hearts of more than 200 million visitors. We intend to continue exceeding expectations to remain Europe's most-visited tourist destination. We would like to welcome more and more families, by continuing to grow and provide the quality and creativity that only Disney can create. That's why we are always innovating and working on future development. We are studying a variety of projects - some would enhance exciting assets, while others are on a grander scale. For example, we are interested in increasing the Resort's hotel capacity, adding to our convention facilities, or enhancing the Disney® Village. We work and plan all the time - today, tomorrow, and for the years to come. "

Source:
Disneyland Resort Paris

[fizzog]

Sounds pretty good to me, let's hope a return to the old-style entertainment is firmly on the agenda.

[lou_mom]

Loved the pictures. I also have aKodak Share camara and love how easy it is to use. It looks like you all had a great vacation. I am envious. i haven't been to DLR since arch and never to DLP. Thanks for sharing.

[davewasbaloo]

Glad you enjoyed....I love DLP for a reason.

[All4dISNEY]

Gr8 pics! Tho' I didn't expect to see such crowds. Is there a slow season for DLP?

[davewasbaloo]

Originally Posted by All4dISNEY

Gr8 pics! Tho' I didn't expect to see such crowds. Is there a slow season for DLP?

Usually the thick of winter is slow (Jan-March) but then they do kids go free at that time of year which picks up the crowds. But sometimes 30c, ice, rain and snow is not always fun at DLP.

[TDLFAN]

Baloo, thanks for the trip report and the photos.. nice read all throughout. Sad you will be skipping WDW again.. but trust me.. nothing to see there as of now so move along... to TOKYO next time.
If you do plan to return to DLP for Halloween or Xmas... drop me an email and I will try to catch up with you and share a few drinks and Disney gossip, or maybe help plan that long overdue visit to TDR.

[davewasbaloo]

Thanks TDLFAN, would love to. We'll see what we can do. I am saving towards Toyko, but we are not likely to go until the kids are old enough to appreciate it (and lug their own gear). It's really annoying because more of the hotels in Japan do not seem to cater to families of 4.

If I start hearing good reports about the offerings in Florida (Aquatica is not enough), the main reason to go would be to see our floridian friends :-)

[TDLFAN]

I have no idea what you mean that hotels do not cater to families in Japan. That is not quite correct. Many hotels DO have enough space to accomodate families of 4 or 5. Depends on how much you are willing to spend. Only business hotels are geared towards single or couple travelers.

[seenoevil]

Well, that was a wonderful report. I've totally ignored the work on my desk, but now, with a similar disappointment you must feel once the trip is over, I must get back to it! I hope you can make it for Halloween. I always love seeing DLP decorations. Remember the year that big phantom-thingy was pulling the Molley Brown? That blew me away!

[davewasbaloo]

Originally Posted by TDLFAN

I have no idea what you mean that hotels do not cater to families in Japan. That is not quite correct. Many hotels DO have enough space to accomodate families of 4 or 5. Depends on how much you are willing to spend. Only business hotels are geared towards single or couple travelers.

Happy to hear some recomendations. My research was not very fruitful.

[davewasbaloo]

Originally Posted by seenoevil

Well, that was a wonderful report. I've totally ignored the work on my desk, but now, with a similar disappointment you must feel once the trip is over, I must get back to it! I hope you can make it for Halloween. I always love seeing DLP decorations. Remember the year that big phantom-thingy was pulling the Molley Brown? That blew me away!

Indeed it is pretty awesome, I am trying to see what I can do.