Thirteen years ago The Carousel Inn and Suites on Harbor Boulevard in Anaheim, California became our home. It was our home for the time we were on our yearly Disney vacation. The Carousel was not just a hotel to us, it was home. When we entered the parking lot we felt like we were where we belonged. Actually it felt more comfortable and like the placer we were supposed to be than the place we live the rest of the year. Yes the Carousel was special to us, it was a place we loved.
Never in a million years did we think there would come a day it would be gone. I mean really, such a beautiful building, just gone. But, in April of 2017 the Carousel is being destroyed for a parking walk way. Disney is putting in a parking lot behind the property and the beautiful building we called home will be gone.
We felt the magic at The Carousel, the magic we feel in the parks lived there. The atmosphere was relaxing and well...magical. After a day at the park it was always nice to go home.
The staff was wonderful, many of them became wonderful friends and while we were there they felt like our family. We were welcomed with open arms!
We started out staying on the 5th floor and eventually moved to a Club room on floor 2 where we had a balcony and larger room to live in for our time in California.
When we first started staying at The Carousel they had a continental breakfast in the fifth floor room. It was a nice breakfast and a beautiful room.Up until two years ago the same room also served as a firework viewing area. Viewing the fireworks from the fifth floor was a tradition for us. We made sure that we watched from the viewing area once or twice during our visit. It was peaceful and memorable.
Sadly we have to find a new home in California. Yes a home, the Carousel was that for us and we are sad. Sad to know our home will no longer exist. I imagine many others feel the same way we do. The Carousel was not just a building for us, the walls hold so many wonderful and magical memories we will forever hold in our hearts.
I am so glad I took a lot of pictures while we were there. I hope those who read this blog will also enjoy the picture tribute I created from my shots of The Carousel. Just looking at them make me sad to think the beautiful building that many call home will no longer exist.
Farewell Carousel, more than just a place to stay, you were home.
Farewell Carousel Inn and Suites Video Tribute
+Anaheim
+Carousel Inn and Suites
+Disney Resort
Actually, it took several years for us to give the Maliboomer a chance. It looked so very dramatic, going up, up, up and then dropping. Nothing around you, just a clear view of the park as you dropped. Was it scary? Yes. Was it fun? Yes it was. But what prompted us to finally take the "dive" and ride it?
Well for me it was getting over my fear of Tower of Terror. I finally realized that Maliboomer was nothing more than Tower without the theme, and without the walls surrounding me as I fell. While riding it I could see what was going on around me. Yes that was terrifying but I tried it a few times, I loved it. Finally however I couldn't make myself ride it any longer.
