WDW Vet going to Disneyland - Help Please!

[FoxC63]

That really blows about the cancer. I’m sorry to hear that. You have an awesome trip planned though! Dining at DLR tends to have some better healthier options than WDW, so hopefully you have a wonderful dining experience on your trip too.

In general, the park smells themselves don’t bother me. Scent can contribute to sensory overload for me when they’re unfamiliar, but I love the churro smells, water smells, Main Street smells, etc at DL. I go often enough that they’re strongly associated with some amazing memories, so I think that helps me a lot. However, I must say, the other guest smells can get to me LOL. If I’m stuck in a crowded area with a lot of visual chaos, no where to move, loud sounds, and someone smells bad, it’s basically time to go home for me because I’ll be done and melting down at that point. Strange people touching me is what I am most sensitive too. I cannot tolerate it and a stranger bumping into my skin can cause me to instantly hit my sensory max. That is the greatest challenge in the parks for me, so most of the strategies I’ve developed are to avoid that.

At DL, the most prominent park smells tend to be the water smells (they’re more intense to me than WDW), food carts if you get near them (they don’t really carry too bad and are fairly easy to avoid if they’re a problem for your son), and Bengal BBQ in Adventureland (that one is hard to avoid in that area).

Edit: I should clarify for me a bad smell is anything that is too potent from body odor, to hair product, to perfume, or cologne.

DS is fine with people but last year at WDW something weird happened. I was sick during that trip but when DH & DS returned in the afternoon, he was wiped out. Slept from noon until the next day. Not sure if it was just a migraine or a new development. I'll make sure to see his doctor before we leave as migraines have been plaguing him this year.

Your EDIT is what nails me right in the sinus cavity!

 

[areno79]

DS is fine with people but last year at WDW something weird happened. I was sick during that trip but when DH & DS returned in the afternoon, he was wiped out. Slept from noon until the next day. Not sure if it was just a migraine or a new development. I'll make sure to see his doctor before we leave as migraines have been plaguing him this year.

Your EDIT is what nails me right in the sinus cavity!

I have a problem with perfume/cologne too in that I get an almost instant headache. DH starts sneezing because he's allergic to everything, but especially strong smells set him off.
I don't recall having that issue at DL, though. The smell of churros and corn dogs is basically what I noticed (unfortunately for my behind!)

 

[FoxC63]

And you've also skipped BTMRR - that's in Frontierland and could easily be done that day, as well.

BTMRR will be refurbished between 7/16/18 - 07/26/18

Now what's on the refurbishment list at DL with no end date include:
Matterhorn Bobsleds 7/30/18 - Unknown
Pinocchio's Daring Journey 7/30/18 - Unknown

 

[areno79]

Oh, and one other thing. You may run into celebrities at DL. I literally almost walked into Kurt Russell in DCA because I wasn't paying attention and he was there promoting his wine. I got pretty star struck but had the sense to say "Excuse me" and then go geek out to my husband. "They" say that if you see a celebrity you shouldn't ask for a pic or autograph. That was the only experience I had there though. I wish someone had warned me about it...I honestly didn't really think about it but makes sense given the proximity to LA.

 

[FoxC63]

Oh, and one other thing. You may run into celebrities at DL. I literally almost walked into Kurt Russell in DCA because I wasn't paying attention and he was there promoting his wine. I got pretty star struck but had the sense to say "Excuse me" and then go geek out to my husband. "They" say that if you see a celebrity you shouldn't ask for a pic or autograph. That was the only experience I had there though. I wish someone had warned me about it...I honestly didn't really think about it but makes sense given the proximity to LA.

If my hubby saw me geeking over a male celebrity I'd never hear the end of it! But Kurt Russell would be worth it!

 

[FoxC63]

If my hubby saw me geeking over a male celebrity I'd never hear the end of it! But Kurt Russell would be worth it!

Oh, did I say that out loud?!

 

[areno79]

Oh, did I say that out loud?!

I now tell people "I know Kurt Russell!"
DH gets a huge kick out of it!

 

[FoxC63]

Of course! FYI if you get off the monorail in DtD you can walk through all of DtD on your way back to the park gates. 10 min walk if you take it leisurely and you can poke into anything of interest that way.

Wow, you are allowed to ride in the front with the monorail driver? This article was updated 01/10/18, I'm surprised considering what happened at WDW.

Monorail Link: https://www.tripsavvy.com/riding-the-disneyland-monorail-4092439

 

[gottalovepluto]

Wow, you are allowed to ride in the front with the monorail driver? This article was updated 01/10/18, I'm surprised considering what happened at WDW.

Monorail Link: https://www.tripsavvy.com/riding-the-disneyland-monorail-4092439

Our monorails basically only run in a circle out here. They stopped the process for a while due to the WDW accident but it was deemed unnecessary at the CA parks. Just let the monorail CMs know you’d like to ride up front. Usually they have a group or two waiting, max 4 people I believe. You can also request to ride in the back! Great views there too and not quite as popular as being up front. They don’t always allow people in back but usually they do. They don’t open the back unless you specifically ask them and then they’re usually happy to let you in.

 

[theluckyrabbit]

The food options at Hungry Bear is what's preventing me from booking this package... does the smells of the parks bother you? You know the popcorn, food cooking and whatever else Disney puts out there, do you get sensory overload or is it mainly your space being invaded?..

One good thing about the HB F! Dining Package is that you are allowed to order off the regular menu as well as off the Dining Package menu. You will pay the Dining Package price no matter what you order, but at least you have the option to order regular food if the special menu doesn't appeal or work for you. Even at BB, things can be customized. DLR is very good about working with guests with dietary needs. Just make sure to note any special requests or needs on your reservations, at check in, with your server, etc. ahead of time. Clear communication is key and will help things go more smoothly. I have lots of allergies and sensitivities, and we've had very good experiences at DLR at CS and TS restaurants.
As for smells in the parks -- I have migraines, allergies, and sensory issues, and there are good days and bad days, so I have to be proactive in knowing what to avoid and how to protect myself. DH is really good at knowing what can set me off, too, so he helps with steering me in various directions or shielding me from guests who are reeking from perfume or hair products. On bad days, we steer clear of the churro carts, ice cream parlors, candy kitchens, or any place that is heavily scented. Having a small towel or something handy in a bag or backpack can help -- I can grab it to cover my nose quickly in an emergency. Having essential oils handy can help calm and soothe when I get a moment in a quiet place. You might want to avoid the perfume shop in NOS. It's pretty, but not I place I visit often. If I notice that guests in line near us are wearing a lot of perfume, I'll ask the CMs at boarding if we can sit away from them or sit alone on the ride. CMs are very helpful and understanding when DH or I explain why this is necessary. Again, don't be afraid to communicate your needs clearly and early (before trouble starts) -- CMs are really willing to help.

 

[FoxC63]

Our monorails basically only run in a circle out here. They stopped the process for a while due to the WDW accident but it was deemed unnecessary at the CA parks. Just let the monorail CMs know you’d like to ride up front. Usually they have a group or two waiting, max 4 people I believe. You can also request to ride in the back! Great views there too and not quite as popular as being up front. They don’t always allow people in back but usually they do. They don’t open the back unless you specifically ask them and then they’re usually happy to let you in.

Do they pass out collecting cards like at WDW? DS has been collecting them for years. He always finds someone to give his extras to. That's my boy!

 

[FoxC63]

1. One good thing about the HB F! Dining Package is that you are allowed to order off the regular menu.
2. DLR is very good about working with guests with dietary needs.
3. Having a small towel or something handy in a bag or backpack can help
4. Having essential oils handy can help calm and soothe when I get a moment in a quiet place.
5. You might want to avoid the perfume shop in NOS.
6. If I notice that guests in line near us are wearing a lot of perfume, I'll ask the CMs at boarding if we can sit away from them or sit alone on the ride.

Wow, this is so positive, thank you!

1. Unfortunately The Hungry Bear menu just doesn't do it for me. I cannot fathom paying $29.99 for a hamburger let alone a salad with almonds as an entree. I did check out the menus and have read many reviews. If I'm willing to spend money on a decent meal, I'd rather it be inside that establishment where it's air conditioned, close to restrooms, our meal and our server. I'm thinking it's going to be hot in August and should last into the evening when we plan to dine so eating outside or having a picnic is not going to happen.
2. I agree, Disney is amazing when it comes to dealing with dietary needs! They always go above and beyond in my experience.
3. I carry a finger towel too! The worse is passing by a nail salon at our local mall!
4. I've never tried using essential oils the way you've mentioned. I do make my own hand & body soap, lotions & body butter so I get what you're saying 100%! I cannot use chemically laden products at all. I have a few roller ball bottles so that should work, thanks for this neat tip! I'm sure we could all use a lavender bath after a long night too!
5. Perfume stores, perfume counters, candle shops omg, I'm getting a headache already! I avoid those at all cost! Have you ever been to a craft store during the holidays? I cannot step foot in there either with all those bags of cinnamon and faux pine fragrances.
6. Asking a CM to place us away from someone due to heavy perfume or odor is another great tip that I've never done! Now that's clever! I'll definitely be doing this from now on too!

Thanks so much @theluckyrabbit , your attention to detail is amazing and your tips spot on!

 

[theluckyrabbit]

...

1. I've never tried using essential oils the way you've mentioned. I do make my own hand & body soap, lotions & body butter so I get what you're saying 100%! I cannot use chemically laden products at all. I have a few roller ball bottles so that should work, thanks for this neat tip! I'm sure we could all use a lavender bath after a long night too!...

If you bring in any roller ball bottles, be careful about glass containers. Bag check/security will confiscate glass containers (usually, not always -- depends on the size and the CM). My Aveda roller ball applicators have not caused any problems so far, but I would hesistate about bringing in anything significantly larger.

 

[FoxC63]

If you bring in any roller ball bottles, be careful about glass containers. Bag check/security will confiscate glass containers (usually, not always -- depends on the size and the CM). My Aveda roller ball applicators have not caused any problems so far, but I would hesistate about anything significantly larger.

Oh, I didn't realize! I have to dig though my stash to see what I have on hand. I know I have glass vials aka perfume samplers like these...


I have all three but do you think they would confiscate the smaller one? It measures 8 x 35 mm, it's very small. Capacity .74 ml - .025 Oz.

 

[theluckyrabbit]

... I have all three but do you think they would confiscate the smaller one? It measures 8 x 35 mm, it's very small. Capacity .74 ml - .025 Oz.

I think the smaller one should be fine. My Aveda roller ball bottle says it is .24 oz. There are two different ones in my bag, and the CMs at bag check haven't had any issues with them so far. But, as always with CMs, YMMV.

 

[FoxC63]

I think the smaller one should be fine. My Aveda roller ball bottle says it is .24 oz. There are two different ones in my bag, and the CMs at bag check haven't had any issues with them so far. But, as always with CMs, YMMV.

I think I'll take one to the park and leave two at the hotel. We're actually staying in S. Calif for two weeks. I'll pack my larger bottles and a mini funnel too in my luggage. Yeah, I got stuff!

 

[FoxC63]

On July 20, 2017 Disney Photopass Service launched a Magic Shot Facebook page for WDW unfortunately, they didn't create one for Disneyland Resort. While planning this trip I came across a few sites that embraced The Walls at DLR which in my opinion celebrates the true spirit of a Disney fan. It's wholesome, fun and family friendly. I hope this helps you or those planning their trip.

THE WALLS AT DISNEYLAND RESORT​

DISNEYLAND PARK


It’s a Small World Wall
If you’re looking directly at It’s A Small World, the wall is to the left.


Star Wars Wall “May the force be with you”
Either look for it as you’re exiting Launch Bay (you can’t miss it) or walk directly to it to the left of the Launch Bay entrance on the outside, near the path to the Autopia queue.


Toontown Wall
Walk towards the back left of Toontown, you’ll find the doors to the right of Minnie’s house.


DISNEY CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE


Buzz Lightyear Wing Wall
Hollywood backlot area near the Studio Catering Co. truck.


The Blue Wall
Located on the outside of the old Muppets theater in the Hollywood Backlot area.


Sunset Wall
Next to the restrooms in the back of the Hollywood Backlot area, across from the Marvel meet and greet spot. Best taken at sunset!


“Once Upon a Time”, “Happily Ever After” and Pixie Dust Walls
Walk in the entrance to the Animation Building and you’ll see “Once Upon a Time” and exit the building for “Happily Ever After.” (You can also access the “Happily Ever After” wall by walking through the Off the Page gift shop.)


Paradise Billboard Wall
Across from Cove Bar, on the pathway towards Incredicoaster.

If you would like to post your favorite and current (still available) wall photos, please feel free as I'd love to see them. I would also ask you to include the title and location.

PLEASE CONFIRM
I came across this photo of a brick wall which is located on Main Street at DL towards Sleeping Beauty Castle. Turn right at the fruit carts towards the locker entrance, it's should be right there. There is some history behind it and it looks like a pretty sweet spot. Can anyone confirm it's still there? TIA!

 

[adelaster]

The Hungry Bear package can also be a good option if you were only eating at B.B. for the package. I almost never see Fantasmic because I cannot handle the crowded seating, and I was sat on once so I have very bad associations with that show. However, the Hungry Bear package ends up working particularly well for me because it is toward the front and you stay seated. I’m able to typically find a spot near the rope and a trash can to give myself a buffer from people crowding in on my personal space. The new Fantasmic is super loud. I have to wear ear plugs and hold my hands over my ears to not have a total meltdown.

Can you compare it to the Fantasmic! seating/show at WDW? We got FP for that but it was still a nightmare. Bleacher seating, children with flashy lights the whole time, the volume if the show and the never ceasing volume/touching of the crowd. Then being trapped because most of the sections emptied before ours, and there is only one exit. I've heard F! is better in California, and was considering the HB package.... just don't know if it's worth it for stressing out. I would have gladly stood at the back with less of a view, but that didn't seem to be an option in Florida.

 

[LadyD]

Can you compare it to the Fantasmic! seating/show at WDW? We got FP for that but it was still a nightmare. Bleacher seating, children with flashy lights the whole time, the volume if the show and the never ceasing volume/touching of the crowd. Then being trapped because most of the sections emptied before ours, and there is only one exit. I've heard F! is better in California, and was considering the HB package.... just don't know if it's worth it for stressing out. I would have gladly stood at the back with less of a view, but that didn't seem to be an option in Florida.

The Fantasmic show at DL is done along the Rivers of America, so there is no formal seating situation. Sections are roped off, and once you enter your section, you’re basically trapped. Within those sections, it can be a total mess of people cramming together. I’ve had someone sit on me before trying to cram in. I do feel like trying to get out is a little better because you can just hang back and wait, or head toward critter country/haunted mansion while the crowds clear out and then make your exit. Trying to exit the park right after the show is generally worse though because you’re also trying to exit with the fireworks crowds and it is a total nightmare.

Standing at the back for Fantasmic at DL is not really an option. Unless you’re in one of the roped off areas, a CM will tell you to keep moving. I do find sitting at the back of the roped off areas to be less stressful, but you could end up having a family plop down right next to you with kids who have zero sense of personal space and walk on you/kick you. However, the nice thing about the packages is the number of people allowed within a certain area is limited so you can move to find space if necessary more easily. If I remember correctly, the section for the hungry bear package requires you to stay seated on the ground for the duration of the show, so you cannot stand in the back.

The volume of the crowd at DL is less, but I feel like the show itself is louder. Like feel it through your whole body loud at times, which is unfortunate because I like the show better minus the sound. Well. I liked the old DL Fantasmic better. The new one is just so loud for me, it is truly impacting my perception of the show in a negative way that I’m not sure I would say it is better at this point. The visuals are wonderful and it is nice that they updated it (minus them taking out Peter Pan since that was one of my favorite parts), plus being able to see the fireworks there right after is wonderful too. My wife would disagree with me and say the WDW show is hands down better, so it is really personal taste. To me, the DL show feels more personal and magical.

I would do the hungry bear package over a FP for the show, but if personal space and sound are a concern, you’d probably be better off with the river belle terrace package where you can sit in one of those seats and watch the show. The sound situation is probably better for that package too because you’re a little further back vs the hungry bear seating where you’re right up front.

 

[theluckyrabbit]

For the OP: add Boo's Door to your wall photo ops! You'll find it outside the Monsters, Inc. ride in DCA.