Our kids have never been to Disneyland or Disney World, so for them, Sea World is the ultimate in fantastic. For as long as possible, I plan to keep it that way. Not because I have anything against Disney, but because for me, Sea World is big enough to navigate, thank you very much. We have spent the past two days there, and will go back again. What can I say? Olivia and Mateo love it. For anyone who is planning a trip, two words: Season pass and free parking. Invest in both of those things, and you may break even.
Remember to wear a hat. Even when it’s overcast, the San Diego sun is strong. Bring lots of water. And raise the white sugar flag, because cotton candy is just part of the deal. (I’m sorry.)
Our favorite show is Pets Rule, which is exactly what you imagine it might be. Running around and banging on things is also fun.
Mateo on percussion.
The new spectacular, Blue Horizons, features singing, diving, dolphins, and trapeze artists. This show has it all, even birds.
Our family reflected in a fun house mirror.
On to Day 3!
Tags: adoptive family travel, Disney World, Disneyland, family vacation, international adoption, Sea World San Diego
Glad you’re having fun! How much longer are you in town? Would love to see you. 🙂
We leave Sunday. Just sent you and S and J an email. Maybe Friday night? The days fly, sorry didn’t do this sooner!
With all of the love in my heart…..I am urging you to reconsider your position on Disney. BUT, I also acknowledge that you know your kids better than anyone. I live in Florida, so I’ve been to the Disney’s theme parks, Seaworld, Universal, and Busch Gardens more times than I can count.
I am referring to my own children when I say that Disney held something different for them than any of the other parks when they were age 10(ish). It was still magical for them. Disney has a way to create that like no other park. I am guessing it’s because everything is so exaggerated.
Yes, it’s alot of work and so worth it to stay overnight in a Disney hotel on the premises. We have the “budget hotels” here that are as low as $69 a night out of season. That makes staying at Disney very doable. Note: just because you’re staying at the “budget” hotel doesn’t mean you can’t hang around the pools at the expensive hotels (where they have the good stuff!).
I know I sound like a Disney cheerleader, but I’m not. My daughter, Jessica, and I went back when she was 18. Disney had definitely lost it’s luster. She squawked at paying $12 for a crummy cheeseburger (like she was actually paying!), and protested by eating only an ice cream sandwich and popcorn. (That explains the drop in stock prices that day!) The things that were so mysterious to her as a little girl were now easy to figure out. We still enjoyed riding our favorite rides, but it wasn’t the same for her.
I’m waiting for a grandchild to again see the wonder of Disney through a child’s eyes.
Don’t forget the wave to Ryan!
Love,
Lynn
We did Legoland today. P. loves Sea World and wants to go there tomorrow. But I think I’m all theme-parked out for this trip. She spent most of our time at Legoland riding the same two rides over and over and over..but she made a friend and had a blast, so I guess that’s all that matters.
I LOVE Seaworld! So glad you are having fun! I can’t believe you are only here until Sunday. Let’s at least get a phone call in.
xx
Lynn, you almost have me convinced! Actually not almost, but completely won over. You make a good point: We live in California, so Disneyland is inevitable someday. Why not when the kids are young, and can truly appreciate the magic. I can imagine the scene with Jess, her 18-year-old disappointment. The question is, will Sea World then lose its luster? I hope it will hold its own. Thanks for sharing your insight.
You must be so proud of your son Ryan. We always wave to him and his fellow Marines as we pass Pendleton. The least we can do to say thanks. xo
Bug’s Mom: We took a break with a day at the beach. But I’m packing snacks for another round at Sea World today. Like P, our kids also love to see the same shows, see the same penguins, ride the same rides–that predictability. Glad P found a friend. Maybe we’ll run into you today!
Pen: Will call–from Sea World!! xoxo
Sea World is only one and a half miles away from The Catamaran Resort Hotel. The next time you plan to visit, consider staying with us! We are conveniently located right on Mission Bay, just a half block from the beautiful Pacific Ocean. Please visit our website at the link below. We look forward to hearing from you!