day 3 (part 3) continued...
The ride to Grand Canyon was pleasant. There was water and snacks, and the Adventure Guides put a Disney movie on to play for us. It was a pleasant interlude. Because we made good time, we got to sneak a quick 'pre-visit' to canyon before checking into our hotel... er, motel, actually. Yep. I'm not sure why, but Disney had us booked into the 2 star motel, Thunderbird, right next to the 4 star hotel, El Tovar. I'm pretty sure the promise for these tours is 4 star or better accomodations, and - on all the other tours we've experienced - even the less elaborate accommodations had indoor hallways. Accommodations: -1
We had a half hour or so to figure where to fit our luggage into small rooms, and then we met in the one of the banquet rooms for buffet meal and entertainment. It was a barbecue buffet, and - according to Alan - more limited than we used to on Adventures by Disney tour. Judging by the amount of food left on peoples' plates and Alan's comments, it wasn't a meal to write home about, but the restaurant did make me a vegetarian pasta meal, and they did have a sugar free dessert for us. Unfortunately, not everyone was given a coffee service after dinner, either, so the final tilt.. Food: -1
The entertainment was wonderful. We were given a show by some members of the Navajo Nation, and our hearts were touched. If anything, I would have liked to see them given a stage or some kind of ambiance to enhance their performance.
Here is a short clip to give you an idea: myvideos/NavajoDance
Saying goodbye to Sedona from the Mesa vortex where we stopped as group on the way out. I will be back:)

Our first view of the Grand Canyon. And I am thinking, "This place might be big enough to hold all my feelings."

Alan is thinking, "This place might a good place to practice my favorite pose."

Our room at the Thunderbird

Adequate bathroom

Nice wood

OLP Travel with our new friends from the Navajo Nation.

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