Day 209. Polynesian Village Resort

Walt Disney World’s Polynesian Village Resort is my happy place. From our first family vacation there in 2008 to my last pit stop after a business trip in 2020, it is my favorite escape. I never tire of the South Seas vibe here. I’ve never been to an actual Polynesian island (yet), so this oasis in central Florida is the closest I’ve come. I don’t know when I’ll get the chance to go back, but when I do, I’ll remember my son Ryan’s words from the last time we were there together: “this place feels like home.” Aloha.

 

[andypanda]

Bonus: I just published my diary from our Polynesian Village vacation in 2014. I hope you’ll check it out: https://apandatikiblog.wordpress.com/polynesian-village-diary-2014/

 

[Chicago Jake]

The only time I ever stayed there was as a teenager with my parents and siblings, back in the Seventies. It was pretty new then. Definitely a magical place.

 

[kanaloa]

Fun read. Thanks for sharing. We were lucky to stay there a decade ago and it was magical. Even though we "own" DVC points at the Floridian, I think we always end up hanging out at the Polynesian more when we're down there. It still has that Disney World magic despite the unfortunate removal of a lot of the classic decor.

FWIW, I think the bartenders upstairs at the Tambu Lounge tend to be better cocksmiths than the ones in Trader Sam's and are usually able to mix off-menu classic tiki drinks if you ask nicely. Trader Sam's is pretty outstanding though. If you get to go again, you'll have a blast there.

 

[andypanda]

Fun read. Thanks for sharing. We were lucky to stay there a decade ago and it was magical. Even though we "own" DVC points at the Floridian, I think we always end up hanging out at the Polynesian more when we're down there. It still has that Disney World magic despite the unfortunate removal of a lot of the classic decor.

FWIW, I think the bartenders upstairs at the Tambu Lounge tend to be better cocksmiths than the ones in Trader Sam's and are usually able to mix off-menu classic tiki drinks if you ask nicely. Trader Sam's is pretty outstanding though. If you get to go again, you'll have a blast there.

Kanaloa absolutely agree on the bartenders at Tambu Lounge. Walter is the best! We have been back a few times and I’ve spent my share of time ar Grog Grotto. It’s a fun vibe, kinda like the ETR and Jungle Cruise had a boozy love child. The skippers are a lot of fun!