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Recommended Reviews - Ashford Castle
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This review is for the Hawk Walk experience only. This is one of the coolest things I've ever done! We got to hold and fly Harris Hawks like a falconer! Our guide was Neve and she was so nice and knowledgeable! Excellent animal encounter! Beautiful friendly birds flying free on the beautiful grounds of Ashford Castles gardens and landing and taking off from your glove! I could do this everyday!!
This hotel is stunning and beautiful, but if you are an arachnophobic this place is NOT for you. They keep it as clean as humanly possible here but there are spiders here that cannot be avoided as it is an actual castle. Overall everything is amazing and the service is beyond. Rooms are very small though for the price you pay.
Really beautiful castle hotel with gorgeous grounds. We stayed here one night on our trip and loved walking through the gardens and woods, exploring the castle, and just gazing at the picture perfect view. Our room was nice with a beautiful bathroom and view of the lake. Room rates are quite pricey, but of all the castle hotels I looked at online, this one seemed truly the most beautiful. Check-in was easy, and we welcomed the complimentary warm beverage on arrival. We had tea scheduled the same day, and they were kind enough to push the reservation back upon request to give us more time to settle in. Afternoon tea with a view of the lake was great. Their gluten-free options were excellent, and we left perfectly stuffed. A lot of the hotel restaurants and extra amenities were still closed as we were there during the off season, but we did get to sneak into the steam room for a short time, though the pool requires advanced booking. The George V dining room where we had breakfast anddinner was nice with gf options, though none of the food was particularly special despite the glowing reviews and awards. Staff and service were all excellent, and it would probably be even more spectacular if they stayed in the summer months.
Wow! Ashford Castle offers an unparalleled experience. As soon as I entered the gates, my jaw dropped at the scenic splendor. And again, once I stepped foot inside the castle as the bagpipes played and a welcome drink was already in my hand. Our room was upgraded and had a note with chocolates to acknowledge the special occasion. Every staff member we encountered was delightful, delivering top notch service with a smile. They seem to anticipate any wants/needs before they even come up, very impressive! Highly recommend the falconry to fly hawks, the morning dog walk with the Irish wolfhounds, the cinema with complimentary popcorn and gummies, strolling the gardens and drinks at The Prince of Wales. There's two shops that sell Ashford goods, one in the castle itself with a smaller selection of mainly clothing and the other at Mrs. Teas across the bridge. I found that Mrs. Teas had a much better array of souvenirs such as hats and specialty food items. Yes it's a splurge but when else can you stay in a castle? Would not hesitate to come back again!
Just checked in here and we were welcomed with a piper playing a medley of tunes including When the Saints Come Marching In and When Irish Eyes Are Smiling. The place is beautiful and the grounds and history are wonderful. Normans landed ~1200AD and built the castle. Lots of history. Staff are everywhere. Rooms are nice bed was delightful we slept well. The town of Cong is a 5 minute walk from the castle the site of The Quiet Man. We strolled through. Food is absurdly delicious and prepared to order. Gourmet at every meal. We checked out the Billiards Room and I had a nice cigar. Lots of activities to do but be sure to book ahead. We stayed two nights during our tour. Another night would have been nice. The place has been owned by a South African fellow who has put millions into the place over the past few years. Previous owners the Guinness Family sold out years ago. Highly recommend. Mark & Nancy.
Having afternoon tea at Ashford Castle has been the highlight of our trip to Ireland! The grounds and the gardens on the property are absolutely beautiful, and all of the staff are professional and friendly. We were sat in the most stunning room for tea, and all of the sandwiches, desserts, and scones we had were fantastic. I especially loved the complimentary drink that was brought over, which was a raspberry hibiscus lemonade with a whipped foam on top. I'll be dreaming of that for ages! Such a memorable experience that I'll remember fondly, and I'll be recommending it to anyone I know visiting Ireland!
There are not enough stars for this breathtaking, iconic hotel! The castle is gorgeous, the grounds are impeccable, the rooms are luxurious, the food is delectable and every staff member makes you feel like royalty! I highly suggest partaking in the Afternoon Tea. It was an amazing experience, as was every minute spent here!
One of the absolute most amazing places I have ever had the luxury to experience. This place is pure magic. You feel like royalty when staying on their estate. Highly recommend the high tea in the tea room. The school of falconry and flying a hawk (most unique, special experience), and dining in George the v dining room.
My husband and I stayed here two nights as part of a Tauck tour. Our room was quite comfortable. This is a high end pricey hotel. The hotel rates 5. Our dinner meals were better at the George V fine dining restaurant than at the Dungeon. The service was slower in the Dungeon, and that room had no windows. The breakfasts in the George V room were fine. The dining rates 5 overall. I particularly enjoyed the photographic display in the downstairs bar. The bar was not open for service the nights we visited but it was open as a photo gallery. The bar displayed 200 of the lovely black and white photographs of Father Frank Browne. He took photos of the elite about to sail on the Titanic, and also ordinary people in Ireland. Ashford Castle has expansive well maintained landscaping. We enjoyed strolling along the large lake, where people in the distance were boating. There is a nice walking path surrounding the manicured lawn. The hotel also had some nice common areas. One pretty ground level room serves lunch and tea during the day, and as sitting room and an extension of the tiny Prince of Wales bar at night. I never spent any time in that room, but it looked pleasant partly due to large windows overlooking the grounds, and antique-style furniture. We walked to the Cottage but did not dine there. Some families were dining there. When our tour bus arrived, a costumed man playing the bagpipes escorted our bus across the bridge. It was festive. I was reminded that bagpipes figure in to both Scottish and Irish history. Our tour guide arranged for a local historian to give us a tour of Ashford Castle. He pointed out features of the castle I would not have noticed. The castle started out as a hunting lodge, and had various additions. The Guinness Family did a lot of updating. The castle is rural. Some of our fellow tour members took the tour bus into the town of Cong. I believe you can walk there in about 15 minutes. Cong has the tiny Quiet Man museum focused on the John Wayne -Maureen O'Hara movie. After our two week bus tour, a couple of our fellow travelers said they would have liked to spend an extra day at Ashford Castle, just to enjoy the castle. Our tour group used the hotel as a base from which to explore sites such as Galway.
Probably one of the more expensive stays I have had but they thought of every detail. Both of my children had welcome notes with small books and toys. They had had made chocolates with their names on them. Even small robes and small slippers with the turndown service. Our last name is Sherry and we had a complimentary bottle of Sherry in our room. The castle is stunning inside and out. We ate the Dungeon since we had kids along and they have lovely activity books that kept the children entertained for the whole meal. Excellent dinner. Drinks in the lounge that evening were enjoyable by the fire. Bar is gorgeous. We walked with the Irish Wolfhounds in the morning which was great to enjoy the grounds, fresh air, and scenery. Wouldn't miss it! The breakfast was lovely and wish I had a bit more time as they even had whiskey for the porridge. My salon and husband went to archery while my daughter and I went for a trail ride. Both excellent choices and well worth the splurge. Finally we had afternoon tea. Again absolutely tremendous.
Ashford Castle is the most magical place on this planet! The staff is so incredibly kind, thoughtful, and helpful. There is a lot to do on the state, whether it's clay shooting, fishing, taking a little boat out on the lake for a small tour, going on a hawk walk or horse ride, and more. The food is incredible across the board from breakfast, afternoon tea, dinner (both more formal and pub-style). I've stayed in a few different rooms at this point, and they have all been elegantly and luxuriously appointed, with every detail already thought out. I cannot say enough about how amazing this castle hotel is! Loved it so much during previous stays that I even had my wedding there! Hope to stay again soon read more
16 days ago
Amazing stay at a beautiful castle In Ireland. Everything was fantastic! The Falconry experience was awesome, so much fun. Morning walks with the wolfhounds !!! Great time will be back for sure . Beautiful. read more
This review is for the Hawk Walk experience only. This is one of the coolest things I've ever done! We got to hold and fly Harris Hawks like a falconer! Our guide was Neve and she was so nice and knowledgeable! Excellent animal encounter! Beautiful friendly birds flying free on the beautiful grounds of Ashford Castles gardens and landing and taking off from your glove! I could do this everyday!! read more
1 month ago
11 months ago
This hotel is stunning and beautiful, but if you are an arachnophobic this place is NOT for you. They keep it as clean as humanly possible here but there are spiders here that cannot be avoided as it is an actual castle. Overall everything is amazing and the service is beyond. Rooms are very small though for the price you pay. read more
3 years ago
Really beautiful castle hotel with gorgeous grounds. We stayed here one night on our trip and loved walking through the gardens and woods, exploring the castle, and just gazing at the picture perfect view. Our room was nice with a beautiful bathroom and view of the lake. Room rates are quite pricey, but of all the castle hotels I looked at online, this one seemed truly the most beautiful. Check-in was easy, and we welcomed the complimentary warm beverage on arrival. We had tea scheduled the same day, and they were kind enough to push the reservation back upon request to give us more time to settle in. Afternoon tea with a view of the lake was great. Their gluten-free options were excellent, and we left perfectly stuffed. A lot of the hotel restaurants and extra amenities were still closed as we were there during the off season, but we did get to sneak into the steam room for a short time, though the pool requires advanced booking. The George V dining room where we had breakfast anddinner was nice with gf options, though none of the food was particularly special despite the glowing reviews and awards. Staff and service were all excellent, and it would probably be even more spectacular if they stayed in the summer months. read more
Wow! Ashford Castle offers an unparalleled experience. As soon as I entered the gates, my jaw dropped at the scenic splendor. And again, once I stepped foot inside the castle as the bagpipes played and a welcome drink was already in my hand. Our room was upgraded and had a note with chocolates to acknowledge the special occasion. Every staff member we encountered was delightful, delivering top notch service with a smile. They seem to anticipate any wants/needs before they even come up, very impressive! Highly recommend the falconry to fly hawks, the morning dog walk with the Irish wolfhounds, the cinema with complimentary popcorn and gummies, strolling the gardens and drinks at The Prince of Wales. There's two shops that sell Ashford goods, one in the castle itself with a smaller selection of mainly clothing and the other at Mrs. Teas across the bridge. I found that Mrs. Teas had a much better array of souvenirs such as hats and specialty food items. Yes it's a splurge but when else can you stay in a castle? Would not hesitate to come back again! read more
2 years ago
The most lovely dining experience, with the most lovely staff. Everyone here works hard to make this an unforgettable experience. It was the perfect addition to my Ireland trip and would HIGHLY recommend it to anyone considering it!! read more
Just checked in here and we were welcomed with a piper playing a medley of tunes including When the Saints Come Marching In and When Irish Eyes Are Smiling. The place is beautiful and the grounds and history are wonderful. Normans landed ~1200AD and built the castle. Lots of history. Staff are everywhere. Rooms are nice bed was delightful we slept well. The town of Cong is a 5 minute walk from the castle the site of The Quiet Man. We strolled through. Food is absurdly delicious and prepared to order. Gourmet at every meal. We checked out the Billiards Room and I had a nice cigar. Lots of activities to do but be sure to book ahead. We stayed two nights during our tour. Another night would have been nice. The place has been owned by a South African fellow who has put millions into the place over the past few years. Previous owners the Guinness Family sold out years ago. Highly recommend. Mark & Nancy. read more
3 years ago
Having afternoon tea at Ashford Castle has been the highlight of our trip to Ireland! The grounds and the gardens on the property are absolutely beautiful, and all of the staff are professional and friendly. We were sat in the most stunning room for tea, and all of the sandwiches, desserts, and scones we had were fantastic. I especially loved the complimentary drink that was brought over, which was a raspberry hibiscus lemonade with a whipped foam on top. I'll be dreaming of that for ages! Such a memorable experience that I'll remember fondly, and I'll be recommending it to anyone I know visiting Ireland! read more
2 years ago
Unless your last name is Rockefeller or Hilton, this is a once in a lifetime experience. I've stayed in some nice, upscale places but this beats them all. They truly treat you like royalty. If you can afford it, it's an experience you'll never regret!!! read more
2 years ago
3 years ago
There are not enough stars for this breathtaking, iconic hotel! The castle is gorgeous, the grounds are impeccable, the rooms are luxurious, the food is delectable and every staff member makes you feel like royalty! I highly suggest partaking in the Afternoon Tea. It was an amazing experience, as was every minute spent here! read more
3 years ago
One of the absolute most amazing places I have ever had the luxury to experience. This place is pure magic. You feel like royalty when staying on their estate. Highly recommend the high tea in the tea room. The school of falconry and flying a hawk (most unique, special experience), and dining in George the v dining room. read more
3 years ago
My husband and I stayed here two nights as part of a Tauck tour. Our room was quite comfortable. This is a high end pricey hotel. The hotel rates 5. Our dinner meals were better at the George V fine dining restaurant than at the Dungeon. The service was slower in the Dungeon, and that room had no windows. The breakfasts in the George V room were fine. The dining rates 5 overall. I particularly enjoyed the photographic display in the downstairs bar. The bar was not open for service the nights we visited but it was open as a photo gallery. The bar displayed 200 of the lovely black and white photographs of Father Frank Browne. He took photos of the elite about to sail on the Titanic, and also ordinary people in Ireland. Ashford Castle has expansive well maintained landscaping. We enjoyed strolling along the large lake, where people in the distance were boating. There is a nice walking path surrounding the manicured lawn. The hotel also had some nice common areas. One pretty ground level room serves lunch and tea during the day, and as sitting room and an extension of the tiny Prince of Wales bar at night. I never spent any time in that room, but it looked pleasant partly due to large windows overlooking the grounds, and antique-style furniture. We walked to the Cottage but did not dine there. Some families were dining there. When our tour bus arrived, a costumed man playing the bagpipes escorted our bus across the bridge. It was festive. I was reminded that bagpipes figure in to both Scottish and Irish history. Our tour guide arranged for a local historian to give us a tour of Ashford Castle. He pointed out features of the castle I would not have noticed. The castle started out as a hunting lodge, and had various additions. The Guinness Family did a lot of updating. The castle is rural. Some of our fellow tour members took the tour bus into the town of Cong. I believe you can walk there in about 15 minutes. Cong has the tiny Quiet Man museum focused on the John Wayne -Maureen O'Hara movie. After our two week bus tour, a couple of our fellow travelers said they would have liked to spend an extra day at Ashford Castle, just to enjoy the castle. Our tour group used the hotel as a base from which to explore sites such as Galway. read more
7 years ago
Probably one of the more expensive stays I have had but they thought of every detail. Both of my children had welcome notes with small books and toys. They had had made chocolates with their names on them. Even small robes and small slippers with the turndown service. Our last name is Sherry and we had a complimentary bottle of Sherry in our room. The castle is stunning inside and out. We ate the Dungeon since we had kids along and they have lovely activity books that kept the children entertained for the whole meal. Excellent dinner. Drinks in the lounge that evening were enjoyable by the fire. Bar is gorgeous. We walked with the Irish Wolfhounds in the morning which was great to enjoy the grounds, fresh air, and scenery. Wouldn't miss it! The breakfast was lovely and wish I had a bit more time as they even had whiskey for the porridge. My salon and husband went to archery while my daughter and I went for a trail ride. Both excellent choices and well worth the splurge. Finally we had afternoon tea. Again absolutely tremendous. read more
1 year ago
4 years ago
We came here to tour the grounds and eat lunch. I wish we booked a stay. The property is gorgeous and lunch was lovely. Highly recommend read more
The Castle and grounds are spectacularly gorgeous and stunning. The rooms are nice, although peace and quiet are a bit hard to come by as the building is quite old. We tried to sleep in to combat jet lag and were excited by the thick curtains, window shade, and AC. But the clanking and notices throughout were constant. We stayed the night of the Mayweather v McGregor fight. The hotel awesomely showed the fight in its Cinema for free and provided popcorn, candy, and drinks. They also made the fight available in rooms so that guests didn't have to get up at 4am and get dressed to watch in the Cinema. This was a very nice touch. The piano player in the lounge is a wonderful addition for after dinner drinks. Great voice, takes requests, and humors older drunk folks who probably shouldn't be sharing the mic with him. If you're looking for a one of a kind place to spend some away time and some serious money, this is the place for you. There is no shortage of things to do (for a cost), from wine tasting to boating to zip lining and falconry. It's about a 45 minute drive from Galway and once you're here, it's easy to relax and count your lucky stars. read more
Ashford Castle is absolutely stunning!! The whole entire property is just breath taking! We wished we had stayed more nights here! Staff was all so friendly and welcoming! They have three restaurants. We ate in the dungeon and shared the steak for two. Steak was cooked just right and was so tender. While sitting at the bar they serve light snacks of nuts, veggie chips, and olives with pit. They have tons of activities on site (for a few) which we ended up not doing as we only stayed one night. They turn down your room at night, we came into a room with our jackets hanging, chocolates, slippers ect. The room also has top of the line technology! Ashford is on the pricey side but totally worth it! The only thing I was not crazy about was breakfast but everything was just exceptional! read more
We couldn't get enough of this place!! I've always wanted to experience a castle stay and that is what brought us to Ireland (seemed fitting for a trip to the Irish countryside). The grounds are absolutely perfectly manicured and stunning. Afternoon tea was such a delight. Our room was not ready upon arrival (arrived 2 hour early) so this was disappointing as we had arranged it in advance however we grabbed lunch in the saloon and all was well. The spa was incredible. The Dungeon for dinner was good. Breakfast was grand each day and included in the price. Each room is different and ours faced the lake (ask for this view if possible). Turn down service was great and looked forward to it every night (I like fresh towels!). They even have a movie theatre room which plays different movies (not that we watched any). Probably the priciest but best money I've ever spent staying at a luxury hotel. Tip: apparently it is haunted. You can convince yourself either way, but I don't believe it is. 13th century and all... read more
5 years ago
The most magnificent resort on our honeymoon trip! You must stay at the castle! The staff is wonderful and meets every need without even an ask! They get to know you and what you like. The falconry tour was unbelievable!! The spa is beautiful and take the boat ride to see the castle and surrounding islands from the water! What a view! There are countless activities to do on site so be sure to stay a few days. Enjoy! read more
3 years ago
This place was fantastic and I loved all of it!! The staff was so nice and I loved the food there!! Me and the girls in my family went to tea and we loved it!! The food was great and the tea was really flavorful!! I would recommend this place to anyone who has lots of money to spend and loves a fancy hotel!!! Thank you Ashford Castle!!! read more
2 years ago
To only give a Five Star rating is unfair. This place is incredible! The castle and its amenities are one of a kind and honestly this is the best place I have ever stayed. The staff is unbelievable in its proficiency and even more on their friendly personalities. From the door man Tommy to the reception crew Nathaniel, and Estevanto the bartenders (the absolute best, see Ivan, Simon, Michael, Shane, Paul, and more!) absolutely do not miss flying Harris Hawks at the Falconry it is the best thing I have done on vacation ever! This was the second time we did it. Take a walk with the Irish Wolfhounds and other pups in the mornings with their very funny and knowledgeable owner. Food was incredible at The George another don't miss. Boat rides, archery, horses are there as well couldn't fit them in we were so busy. Last night we headed into Cong to the Crows Nest to make new friends and in the Irish tradition it took all of about 5 minutes lol. The Castle The People, from all over the world mind you, is what makes this place so highly rated. If you go to Ireland you have to come! We will be back! read more
4 years ago
This is by far the most luxurious and fabulous hotel to me. You get the medieval flare on the outside and the inside but the rooms are equipped with hi-tech modern gadgets. The heating is embedded under the floor and behind the walls. The bedside has charging for USB and US plugs, no need for adapters. the light controls are all light touch controls by the bed. The bed is cozy king size with a very kingsly headboard. Each room has a wide bath tub and rain shower, separate toilet bowl and bidet bowl with mood lighting in the bathroom too. After dinner they place a candle in your bathroom and set your slippers by your bedside on a clean white cloth. And they replenish your bottle of water too. The fine dinner was marvelous and delicious, fit for a king. The service of all staff is superb. It is super expensive but I think it's worth it. The views are picturesque. It's one for the bucket list. read more
6 years ago
3 years ago
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9 years ago
If you ever have the chance to stay here, DO IT! Hands down, most impressive castle with the absolute most incredible staff! It's pricey but swear it is worth every penny! Staff: they went above and beyond to accommodate. The most notable was how they made my 5 yr old truly feel like a princess. Special room gifts just for her. Incredible! Property: beautiful! Walk the grounds, its worth the time. Take the boat tour! Great experience. Make sure you see the Irish Wolfhounds that visit the guests daily at 10am. Super impressive! Food: breakfast is amazing and don't worry if you have any strange allergy, they have a section of food planned just for you. Dined at the Cottage. Food was great but service was a little slow. Entertainment: make sure you catch a little of Annette's nightly singing in the Drawing Room. You will not be disappointed. I promise! read more
6 years ago
Once in a lifetime isn't enough! That's my original quote and it started here. I was fortunate enough to stumble across this fantastic piece of unique real estate that caters to those of us that seek out the finer pleasures in life. I'm not an author, so I'll keep this condensed into a few words.. A Quite Man can find this place very relaxing. read more
7 years ago
Ashford Castle. A true fairytale setting. Especially for a girl who lives for fairytale-anything, this castle is the ultimate fairytale experience. (Not to mention I absolutely love Ireland!). ... I fell in love with this castle for so many reasons. We stayed in two castles but this one was just beyond amazing. The hospitality, the atmosphere, the two sweet castle dogs..all of it. This has been here since the 13th century and is true castle form (whereas the other felt more like a hotel). The Guinness family at one time owned this as well, so there's a lot of history within these walls. Each piece, every moment, every hour spent there was magical. The close attention to non-obvious detail is what truly makes you FEEL like you're staying in an actual castle. This particular little city ranks in my top 3 favorites. We also learned about falconry, where we went on a hawk walk - another experience that's once in a lifetime (with photos to come). They truly make you feel like royalty here and I cannot say enough good things We also did the Falconry hawk walk and that was an experience in itself. I absolutely recommend this place wholeheartedly.) Thank you for such an amazing time!! read more
Ashford Castle probably does not need a letter of appreciation from me as they received multiple, numerous letters from far more distinguished people. *cough* Prince of Wales. *cough* President Reagan. I can keep coughing but I'm sure you get the idea. Nonetheless I am going to present my letter anyway. . . Because I can and because they really deserve my deepest gratitude. So without further adieu. . . Dear Staff at Ashford Castle, I am writing on behalf of myself and guest who stayed in room 430 over our birthdays holiday. My guest and I agree that our stay at Ashford was nothing short of the highlight of our trip to your beautiful country. We were greeted warmly and professionally upon arrival and received exemplarily service that far exceeds my high standards. Words cannot describe our beautiful and elegant room nor the breathtaking view of the castle grounds. A special thanks is warranted to the lady who checked us in and escorted us on a tour of the castle and the gentlemen who brought us our luggage. He provided us with our personal wifi router after we inquired about internet access within the castle. The activities offered at the castle offered such unique experiences that we altered our travel plans to spend an entire day on castle grounds. Despite late notification, we were accommodated to all activities of interest - horseback riding, archery, facial and massage and falconry. Thank you once again for a memorable birthday and stay at the castle. A visit to Ashford will certainly be highly recommended to all who are visiting Ireland. Truly, TG and CK read more
It is with great pleasure that I write a review of my stay at the Ashford Castle; the time I spent there was the highlight of a recent trip to Ireland. From the moment we arrived at the castle, we were welcomed with excellent and friendly service. Our car was parked and we were whisked away to our room. Upon entering, I discovered the wine, chocolates, and biscuits my boyfriend had pre-ordered (excellent and romantic touch!). Moments later, still caught up in the magnificence of the castle, we received champagne "compliments of Ashford". We partook in the fine dining available at Ashford and had an excellent four course dinner. The staff was incredibly attentive, and the food was decadent as well as delicious. The complimentary breakfast served in the morning was also fantastic. You can either choose from a wide array of foods at the buffet, or select a breakfast item to be custom made from the menu. We spent lots of time wandering through the castle, which was originally built in the 13th century and has been added onto several times since. There is a nice bar and a great sitting room where you can also order food and drinks. In the evening, the sitting room also had live music (piano/singer). Although the castle itself was incredible, exploring the grounds in the early morning was definitely my favorite part. There is a beautifully pristine lake, and acres of trails to roam. Fantastic! We also payed a small price to take an hour long boat ride out on the lake. This castle definitely lives up to its name! read more
8 years ago
This is by far the most lavish hotel I have ever stayed in. It was like being in a fairytale. The castle is magnificent and the entire staff makes you feel like royalty. We had dinner and breakfast in the Henry V dining room. The food was outstanding and the service impeccable. My wife and I both had the same thought that we were waiting for the dishes to start singing, "Be Our Guest." What an amazing and unforgettable experience! read more
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