rollin_n_coastin

Hey , better late than never! Eric, great to see your pics again! Hope you and Candace/ Mommy to be are doing well. All the best and ttyl, J

A little late to the game but I downloaded this after receiving the second email yesterday. I thought I missed my chance last week so thank you for sending out the second email. Most importantly, thank you for putting this together, just an awesome surprise! I just downloaded it before work this morning so I'm definitely looking forward to checking it out soon! Have a great weekend! Jason

Brent, awesome to see an East Coast TR this high up in the forum again! Whacky Shack...fun times! Never tried Pirate's Cove so thanks to you and Adam for the vid!

Scott, awesome TR so far! That ICE thing looks awesome! Reminds me a bit of an indoor version of the ice hotel they build up here. I guess that turkey really didn't know what it had coming (bread or rice stuffing?).. lol Glad you all had a good time, can't wait to see the rest. Cheers, J

Hey Hanno, once again, awesome pics! Thanks for the updates! Definitely two rides that made my stomach turn just looking at the pics...the drop tower and sky coaster lol

^^^I'm so glad to hear that other people really liked Miss Saigon. I thought the music was fantastic and it gave me goose bumps quite a few times. It was over-hyped here and they even built a new theatre specifically to house it for an open-ended run. People thought it would be more than it was and it closed within the first year of its run. Really sad. I do hope it plays again. It was in Buffalo a few years ago and I haven't heard of it being performed again. ^^haha ok I'm glad I didn't waste my money in Springer, those tickets were so expensive.

Robb, that's awesome! I totally understand about the walking part. I think I may have been one of the only ones to gain weight on the trip in August, even with all the walking...go fig. I mean, I can see my weight gain progress in the series of pics that span the trip lol I can't even imagine the result if we didn't walk at all. The funniest thing, I'm sitting here thinking of a good excuse not to go to the gym tonight and I think I came up with a doozy. I had my flu shot today so my arm isn't ready. I don't know fi that's good enough though lol So kudos and keep it up!

Wow, so is this a safe place to secretly discuss a secret interest in theatre and musicals? Nice! I guess as a band and piano geek a long time ago, as a change and break from the oft’ challenging classical pieces, my piano teacher gave me musical scores to play. The first was Phantom. I have to admit that the one thing I did that was as challenging as learning a classical piece was learning the piano section for South Pacific in high school for the pit band. I was sweating by the end of those three hours. We even had a string section for that sucker. Playing tenor sax for Grease was a lot of fun too. The interest in actually seeing a musical professionally done was huge after that so the folks took my sister and I to our first, Phantom of the Opera. I remember being amazed at the sensory overload. Concerts are awesome, theatre is fantastic but a musical I found was just in-your-face for anyone who enjoys something a bit more mainstream than classical opera. Oh, since most were seen with the family, a great way to hang out with them in silence for 3 hours! I think even if panned or not that exciting, musicals deserve some sort of respect so here are two categories: ‘Worth Seeing Again’ and ‘Not So Sure about These but Here’s a Scratch N’ Sniff Sticker for the Effort’. It’s cool hearing thoughts on the ones we’ve all seen. Worth Seeing Again: Professional: Les Mis with Colm Wilkinson (Toronto, 3 times I think) Phantom of the Opera with Colm Wilkinson (Toronto, about 4 times I think since it was here for 10 years and they even had a “Phantom Educational Program” for elementary students so it was part of the field trip circuit). Jersey Boys (In Toronto, just amazing!) A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum with Whoopi Goldberg (In NYC) Miss Saigon (In Toronto) In the Heights (In NYC) Beauty and the Beast (In Toronto and NYC) Anything Goes (In London, although I was torn between this and Jerry Springer the Musical…) High School or Community Theatre South Pacific Seven Brides for Seven Brothers Pirates of Penzance Leader of the Pack: The Ellie Grenwich Musical Anything Goes Hello Dolly Grease (didn’t everyone do/ see this in high school?) Pippin (very bizarre..) Not So Sure about These but Here’s a Scratch N’ Sniff Sticker for the Effort: Lord of the Rings, Worldwide Premiere (In Toronto, I’m still trying to figure out where those 3.5 hours and the $30 million CAD production cost went) The Lion King (In Toronto) We Will Rock You (In Toronto) Mamma Mia (In Toronto)

Robb, sounds like you're pumped! Can't wait to hear all about how the Wii Fit helped out. Wishing you only the best of luck. I'm sure, like many of us on here, know that you'll meet your goals, both short and long term! Best, J

Heya Adam, thanks for the pics! Can't wait to visit Universal again.

Hey congrats Stormfreak! Wait until you get to see you prize(s)! ^haha I never knew how versatile the bag-o-crap was..and it's even mobile!

^ hahah I couldn't find what you were talking about, but then I found it in the two captions. I must have been really excited during my typing! Thanks Bas! Looking forward to seeing the rest of yours as well. Cheers, J

Some good news! I managed to recover my Philadelphia pics that I accidentally deleted during the trip! These will be posted as Day -1 in the near future. Cheers, J

Hey Sam, thanks for keeping up with the PTR! Great pics again! Cheers, J

Ghostercoaster at Canada's Wonderland for me. My dad forced me on that one.

So, here we are at the last day. It was definitely a day that tugged at the heartstrings, both in terms in how awesome Knoebels was but also in knowing that the trip would be over after ERT and that we’d all be parting ways for the foreseeable future. Now, we were lucky on the past few bus trips to have Robb join us along with his trivia, bag of ‘not all that mysterious’ mystery items and some of the craziest stories ever. That was of course in addition to how awesome Studio 54 bus was already! Robb described how different and crazy Knoebels is and that there really is no easy way to describe the park. He was right and it didn’t disappoint! The park was one of the most memorable atmospheres around and certainly a park that I would categorize as a “must return”. You can not go into it expecting a corporate atmosphere whatsoever. They clearly do things differently and their philosophy seems to work. The parking lot was packed by mid-day after all! I have no idea how to describe the place other than it’s simple and works so well on so many levels. It’s like the camping atmosphere was extended right into the park. You can relax, ride on your own terms/ spend what you want, enjoy the setting, enjoy the spontaneous entertainment and enjoy the great home-style food. The park employed a lot of retirees and I thought that it gave it quite a charm. The lunch line reminded me of the high school cafeteria lunch ladies, but serving better food. Ok, you got me, it’s quite often about the food for me. You’d be surprised at how much there is to do and a full day is definitely a recommend. Also, there are some classic rides there that I’ve never seen anywhere else. Highlights of the day: -Twister and Phoenix ERT!! Especially Phoenix, I’ve never landed half on the lap of the person sitting beside me on any ride before.. -Losing but then finding my camera -The awesome Haunted Mansion -Ring grab/ toss on the carousel. BTW, Kim actually bought the Wurlitzer sound track! I would never have known that such a thing existed. -‘Hamster wheel ride’ and other crazy flats! -Insane bumper cars and chatting with Mr. Dick Knoebel about the park while waiting for them! -The Flyers – TPR takeover styles, no need to say more except maybe..snap! -TPR takeover of the Cosmotron. -An amazing opportunity to not only tour the Flying Turns site but also walk the track! -GCII field trip -Cora and Scott’s 1st annual TPR trip awards. Thanks for all the work you two put into it, it was a lot of fun. -Birch bark beer, waffle ice cream (Jake/ Texas, thanks for going on that food walk/ hunt with me…what was it that we were looking for again…just popcorn??) haha -Did I mention Phoenix? Enjoy the pics and if you’ve made it this far following this TR, thank you! Looking forward to your posts! Robb and Elissa, thanks again for all that you both do! If anyone out there is looking for a truly unique and fun experience, definitely consider one of the trips. It goes without saying that it was a pleasure meeting everyone that I had the opportunity to meet. I hope that we all run into each other again on a future trip or in our areas. Yah I know..finally...the pics Here we are at the top of the lift hill. Definitely a one-of-a-kind experience! That also tops off my pics! I spent the rest of the day on crazy rides with friends and even TPRers that I hadn't gotten to know yet. Funny how that happens on the last day but I'm glad that it did. GCII tour was great and then there was Phoenix ERT! A perfect ending to a fantastic trip! Almost at the top of the lift hill. Among her many talents, Kerry is analysing the structural integrity. Yah, I had to ride it somehow The build quality and workmanship is incredible. On our way up. Now, where else would you be able to do this? Yes, we actually get to climb in! One of our guides waiting for us on top. No word yet on when it will open. They're trying to get the train technology just right or at least successfully replicated from the past. After lunch, it was our flying turns tour! I can't wait to try it out one day. Mr. Dick Knoebel, owner. He is extremely proud of his park/ family business. It's not hard to see why. Mr. Knoebel hung out with us for a bit at the bumper cars later in the day. OH, we also met Jill Knoebel.. Given that it was TPR, the rules for nominating and voting vary signifcantly. It was a lot of fun, great job! Meanwhile, Scott and Cora were prepping for the awards show. Perogies and bbq chicken! It was mostly about Jenn and Trent Lunch time! We had some entertainment but it wasn't all about the band that showed up. The only pic I got of the Huanted mansion. I thought I had more. A great example of traditional concepts done exceptionally well. Not too wet on this one. A bit of flume action, a tradition at every park This park just has this old-world charm to it and does a great job of blending in their newer attractions. Awesome choice of moving it to Knoebels! A bit difficult to get good pics of Phoenix since it's hidden behind the trees for the most part. This ride is relentless and is everything you'd think a classic coaster would be. You rarely sit on the seat. On the way to check out...Phoenix! After ERT, it was free time to explore the park with our tickets ready to go. These next few pics were in the camping area adjacent to the park. Here is the Trading Post, purveyor of all things food and camp-ground related, including glow sticks... Fly by How was that? Kerry, were you stapled?? Definitely an impressive looking ride especially the stacked lifts. The start of ERT. A great way to wake up all the campers.. Mr. Knoebel (Jr.) introduces us to the park and Twister. Here it is, Twister. As with Flying Turns, this project was all done in-house to make it as authentic to the original ride style that it is based on as possible. The Flying Turns site, more on that later. Heading over to Twister, just a random turkey on the way. Just a beautiful day, very fitting. So, here we are at Knoebels! Oh, yes it's true, the 'k' is not silent. It took me a long time to get that Just to give you a sense of how big this thing is. Scott is planning the next bite aimed at where no bite has gone before.. Who said bus rides can't be crazy? From what I remember, the attack was swift, quick and smooth. The bar never knew what was coming. Never interfere with a chocolate lover and their bar... Needless to say, we were hungry and someone had their big a$$ Hershey bar available from Hershey Park.

^^ How could you even comment on trying the patience of the DL But you're right; I think given that queue, only deep meditation and instantaneous self-enlightenment would get anyone through while maintaining moderate blood pressure. Yah, I skipped it lol ^Hey Scott! So I guess a Dorney trip is definitely in your future plans then? At least over Thanksgiving you're going to be close to some awesome places.

^Hanno, I'm finally taking a look at your entire collection, it's a bit overwhelming in a great way! A lot of fantastic shots! ^^I'm sure it was mentioned in an earlier post but as long as a spot on the trip is open, you can technically sign up and pay for all fees due up to the day that you sign up (deposits to the full price) right up to the start of the trip. I'm sure there is a cut off point of a week to a month before the start day but I'm not sure what the policy on that this. I'm sure that Elissa can provide answers on future posts or during the trip Q&A session. Of course, if there is a lottery, your best chance of not being waitlisted if it comes down to that, is to get your refundable deposit in asap. Send one in for both trips!

Idlewild seems like a a great place to check out, I never would have thought. How awesome is Waldameer though? Great TR so far Brent! Cheers, J

I should mention that today was a bit of hangover day from…DRINKING NIGHT 2!! For those of you who were there…an awesome night and man, that bar/ pub/ restaurant was totally happening! Whoever has those pics…they must be destroyed! Ok, so on to Dorney, another classic park with a proud history but of course done up the CF way. Four favourites were at this park: -Hydra: I loved this ride! It was running crazy smooth with awesome floater during almost private ERT while everyone was at Talon -Talon:Another amazing ride!! It’s tied with Montu for favorite invert -Laser:Well, it’s Laser, what more needs to be said? Funny, after Superman at SFGA, this is the second ride that I’ve grayed out on. -Voodoo:I love these rides, especially Wicked Twister. Anyway, the day at Dorney was a bit sad given that only one more day was left. It was a great park and one of the major highlights was of course the water park with Robb, Elissa and crew! How awesome is a water park that has slides that are “Dark and Dynamic”? I mean, what can touch that? Thanks to all of you for letting me tag along, it was awesome, I’ve never laughed so much! Plus, you really haven’t experienced enthusiasm until you’ve heard Robb go down a waterslide, especially the covered ones! Overall, another great day and a fantastic ERT, especially on great coasters like Hydra (debatable I know..) and Talon. Honestly, it was so hard to believe that only one day was left. Fellow food lovers, you’ll understand this. Following almost ten days of similar food each day (fried chicken, hamburgers, assorted pulled pork sandwiches, mac & cheese, etc) I have to take a moment to talk about a memorable culinary experience. After the waterpark and before ERT, we were all lucky enough to be across the street from the hotel. After resting up a bit, I ran into Scott and Jenn who invited me to tag along to Carrabbas to pick up Robb and Elissa’s gift. Until discovering TPR, I had never heard of the place. I think Olive Garden was in Canada for all of a year or two but that’s as close as we had to Carrabbas, and Olive Garden doesn’t even come close. Speaking as someone who knows that nothing can come close to Mamma and Nonna’s cooking…..the place was just awesome and yes, was as close as a restaurant can get…(but shhh..don’t tell the family). Scott and Jenn, thanks again for the great company and hanging out for some great food…and wine… There is no doubt that the food on the trip was very generous and of good quality but Carrabbas was definitely a special treat! So, now that I’m hungry this late, I’ll just stop rambling and get to the pics. Enjoy! Oh no...another hamburger meal! That's it from Dorney, stay tuned for the one and only Knoebels! A Li'll Hydra from outside of Club Blood. A bit more Voodoo. Cool view along the way to tour Club Blood, I think a common concept between Cedar Fair parks for Huant. One of the hearses. The drivable hearse (not pictured here) was totally pimped up by Best Buy! Outside the shop, sorry, no pictures of inside! You'll have to attend the Haunt at Dorney to see what they prepare throughout the summer. I see you Laser! It's unfortunate that this view may be a bit different now. Some great views from the staff parking lot. We had a guided back area tour or the shop and other 'backstage' areas. The highlight of course was seeing all the work that goes into preparing Halloween Haunt...it's definitely no small task. Nature shot...with coasters of course. Yes, Voodoo will possess you in 3, 2, 1... .. .... ... etc etc Across the way, the new to Dorney, Voodoo. Did I mention how much I love these things? Some said this was like a mini Steel Dragon? It sure looks cool. In line for some Steel Force ERT! An impressive looking coaster but it was kind of like a scenic railway. It was relaxing and fun nevertheless.

A little side question here, but based on this mess, any predictions on the success of Decades (if it ends up launching on schedule or delayed?) I have no idea if Arizona will be that much better for a park as it just seems like the wrong location given who typically vacations there and when. Based on people’s reviews on HRP and the proposed Decades park, it seems that what people ‘thought’ HRP was supposed to be and seemed to be severely lacking is similar in concept to the proposed Decades park. I think they have approval to receive taxpayer funded bonds for the project but I think we can all assume that it’ll be delayed and that they’re reviewing their assumptions and management choices. Do you think they have a chance at success if 1) They have a management team that knows what they’re doing and 2) They’re correct about any positive assumptions toward the location’s potential for success? Maybe HRP execs will jump on that ship for a do-over? lol

David, the plan was originally to not do a trip this year but I’ll admit it.…I’m addicted. Although I originally signed up for Deep South as a short but sweet trip to feed the addiction, it is now Scandi for my big b-day year! The family is willing to gift some ‘help’ for a trip along with saving discipline on my end. Before I discovered TPR and heard about Scandi, I was looking at a week or two of skiing in Whistler but let’s face it, that trip would be just as if not more expensive, the mountains aren’t going anywhere and Scandi may not happen again for a while. I never figured that I would see those countries and cities with TPR so that works out to be a huge bonus! Plus, I think I may have outgrown Contiki and I don’t think I’m at the average age of Trafalgar Tour participants just yet. ^^^^Kerry is right, it is summer camp and you can show up alone and make of it what you will. There will always be people to make you feel comfortable, welcome and at home. I have to speak to the trip boards. They are amazing! If you make the most of it, you can really get to know some people before the trip even starts that are in the same situation or have done at least one or two trips before. In my case, I was so lucky to have been able to meet some TPR members before it started – all amazing people that really made me feel welcome and glad that I signed up for the trip (Somewhat in order: Jay, Adam, Matt, Matt, Matt, Tony, Brent, Olivier, Nick, Christiana, Cora, Scott, Jenn, Taylor, Sam and Drew). A small sample but it turned out to be 100% representative of how fun and great everyone on the trip was!

Terry, you’re right, being creative within 300 characters on Paypal is a bit of a challenge. For those that did it up with the registrations and deposit, kudos! I guess I’ll have to make up for it in the later payments, be livelier than usual, or hey, even organize a ‘talent portion’ of the trip complete with TPR style rules and judging. hahah yah, I can imagine the look on Robb and Elissa’s face. Dave, if the envelope is too small you must present your cat ala Aunt Bethany/ Uncle Lewis styles from Christmas Vacation! ^^Totally understand and I thought the same way at first. Little did I expect that many of people that I became close with on the trip would range anywhere between 10+ to 10- years in age. Honestly, I think that we are all college age at heart and you’ll find that many of us still act that way on a mostly permanent basis! The company, from my experience anyway, was incredible and I’m sure it’ll still be that way regardless of trip.

haha, Christiana, why is it that I never notice the interesting contortions your arms or hands do before you tell me? I think you were just feeding the birds? haha Kerry, I have no particular rules so not to worry! That pic is too funny! Just don't show my boat video and/ or pics though, you can forward that stuff to me privately when you get a copy haha

I hear ya! Glad I could deliver! I love all music so it doesn't really matter to me as long as it fits. Personally, I always have a goal of finding music that is somewhat awkward and unique but still fits in. I'm thinking that it can be just as hard as picking the clips and pics for it.