Following my previous post featuring my visit to the Shanghai Disneyland, I went on to stay at the Toy Story Hotel in the Shanghai Disney Resort.
I was knackered after the spree I had at the park, but excitement followed by energy came back to me as soon as I stepped into the hotel. A bunch of friendly staff greeted us passionately as we alighted from the shuttle bus. Every staff will wave at guest whenever they encounter one. Furthermore, many fluffy Lotso will be smiling at you from the Disney store by the hotel entrance.
Upon checked in, we received our very cute room key and we were surprised by the lift recordings!
Think Green Aliens saying, "Wooooo, level fiveeee" or "Woooo, the Loobyyyy" and Jessie yodelling, "Fifth floor! Yeee-ha!" The next morning I stood in front of the lift like a goof to listen to these recordings.
The corridors are divided into two themes, one side guarded by Sheriff Woody and the other, Buzz Lightyear.
We stayed at a garden view room and the room was again, full of surprises. I don't want to disclose every amazing detail, so only a few are selected.
The hotel's recreation & dining areas are designed to keep you in the middle of magic. In addition, the playroom hold lots of activities that are suitable for toddlers and children.
Meet the Toy Story pals, they come out regularly!
It was my first time staying at a Disney hotel and the whole experience was truly magnificent.
Thank you so much for having us, especially Daniel for arranging everything.
Please visit www.shanghaidisneyresort.com/en/hotels/toy-story-hotel/ for more information.
Photography: Mum & I
To infinity and beyond,
Jenny
Shanghai Disney Resort (SHDR)'s Grand Opening (16 June 2016) is happening in a week and I was very lucky to have the opportunity to enter this magical place in early May during the trial operation.
As I walked into SHDR, I have to admit I was slightly worried that I will see rubbish on the floor, doodling on the lamp post or other chaotic scenes which I've seen on some news before heading to Shanghai, but at the same time I was pretty excited to experience this brand new world of wonder and to see the biggest Disney castle in the world.
My first impression was the park was indeed very big, and it was very clean! The paths were neat and spacious, I had a feeling that they're built wider than usual to accommodate the huge crowd of people in the future. Staff were beyond passionate and friendly! I guess they were as thrilled as we were, and absolutely wanted us to have the most marvelous experience. Last but not least, the Castle! It's huge and magnificent. There's a top-notch restaurant 'Royal Banquet Hall' in the castle. My family were blessed with good luck to be invited to have dinner there, and what is more, throughout the dinner Mickey, Minnie, Donald Duck and Daisy Duck came out in turn to take photos with us.
SHDR consists of the Disneyland, Disneytown, 2 resort hotels and Wishing Star Park.
There are many Disney shops and other commercial stores at Disneytown. Numerous kind of cuisine can be found there too, although not all the restaurant were opened during my visit my I can see there were Japanese, Singaporean, Western, Cantonese and Thai food available. The most significant building however is the Walt Disney Grand Theater, playing the famous musical Lion King. For the first time this Broadway hit will be played in Mandarin.
Going back to the park itself, Disneyland is divided 5 regions including the Adventure Isle, Fantasyland, Gardens of Imagination, Tomorrowland & Treasure Cove.
My journey begins with my favourite attraction, Soaring over the Horizon at Adventure Isle. I heard this is the most popular attraction among the staff. Yes, it was that good. The ride takes you to a 4D journey around the globe, fly over the world's iconic landmarks, cities and natural attractions. It was so real I couldn't help giggled out loud when it first began. I don't want to spoil too much of it's amazing features, so be sure to check this one out. (Fastpass available)
The other attraction not to be missed is the Tron Lightcycle Power Run at Tomorrowland. This exceptional roller coaster brings you one of the coolest and fastest indoor 'motorcycle' ride in Disney theme park history. You do not sit on the chair of the lightcycle, you almost prone onto the cycle and have your knees settle on the paddles. I was literally riding on a neon motorcycle in the coolest way as I lunged forward into the tunnel of flashing markers. If you have watched the movie 'Tron: Legacy' previously you will definitely feel like being in the Grid. It was an adrenaline-pumping ride and surely a kind of visual enjoyment. (Fastpass available)
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At the Treasure Cove, you will find the one and only Pirates of the Caribbean Battle for the Sunken Treasure. This attraction is unique to SHDR so even though in my humble opinion it wasn't as exhilarating as the other attractions, I still think it's an adventure worth going. However this one does not provide fastpass so I would suggest rush towards this one right before the Parade ends. Maybe you will meet Captain Jack sooner than the others. Ahoy!
*Insider tip: The Right queuing line seems to be a lot shorter and has fewer turns.*
For another thrilling and lovely experience, go for the Seven Dwarf's Mine Train at Fantasyland.
It has a fair amount of twists and turns but does not have as much centrifugal force as the other roller coasters, hence this is a more family friendly ride. There's also dwarfs and cute animals by the mine tracks, you will be as happy as Happy the Dwarf by the end of the rocking ride.
The enchanted adventure does not end here, head over to Alice in Wonderland Maze in the same district. The attraction starts with Wonderland Garden, and then take a leisurely meander down the little paths that will lead you to the Red Queen's Garden. Let your eyes linger over the view of this beautiful garden, and of cause take a lot of photos. Next, you will wander through the Hedge Maze and reach Mad Hatter's Tea Party! You will be overwhelmed by the lovely whistling teapots, spinning cakes and wacky stacked cups.
Hunny Pot Spin also stole my heart with its beautiful and delectable decorations.
We also saw the Disney Parade! It's a must see whenever you go to Disneyland isn't it.
Oh and I would like to show you the Disney shops' changing rooms! They are nicely designed and furnished.
Portraits of Disney Princesses in Mosaic!
More photos of the castle.
Plan your visit in advance and please note that ticket is not being sold on site.
For more information, please visit https://www.shanghaidisneyresort.com/en/
I will be posting about my stay at the Toy Story Hotel very soon, stay tune.
(Updated on 15/6/2016: Check out the Toy Story Hotel here!)
Photography: Myself and Daniel Lin
Have a magical journey,
Jenny
