June 16, 2007 MedHead Cruisers

[PURTYPAT1]

ok Jodie, it's empty. You can email purtypat1@aol.com ;)

[PrincessJasmine08]

Hello, MedHeads! :grouphug: How is everyone doing? Getting ready for summer??

I finally made a job decision. I ended up kind of torn between three schools: one in Louisville, one in Charlotte, and one in Cleveland. After a lot of thinking and praying I chose the school in Louisville. There were 2 positions at this particular school and a good friend of mine who went through the whole 4 years of the Montessori program with me took the other position. I'm glad there's going to be someone there I know. Also, two of the other teachers at the school graduated from Xavier within the past 5 years, so I'm sure they'll be good resources.

Right now I'm trying to finalize my summer plans. My friends and I are going down to my parents' condo at the beach for 4 nights. Amanda is meeting us there, driving up from Orlando. Then, we're all going to drive back to Orlando and spend 4 nights at Pop Century and do the Pirate and Princess Party. It should be a great graduation trip!!! We're all really excited! I'm not sure if I'm going to be able to stay in Orlando for the summer to work at Chef Mickey's after that since I need to be house hunting and getting things ready to move.

Hope everyone's doing well.

[Skallywag]

Hi Everyone,

Don't believe it is nearly one year since we all met up on the Med cruise last June. Often look at the pictures and really enjoyed it and it appears most people who went did.

Just getting sorted out in my mind for the Panama in August but unfortunately getting some bad reports from the Eastbound for some of the excursions. Wanted to see the cliff div ers in Acapulco but people are cancelling because of the problems others have had and as we are in port for such a short time it is difficult. Just wonder if anyone has been to Acapulco and seen the divers and know how we can do this trip on our own.

Both daughters were here last weekend so it was a bit hectic and it has done nothing but rain it seems for ages.

We, together with our daughters are on the Western on the 13th December and then spending time at our timeshhare - anyone else likely to be there?

Where is Jack these days told him we would look him up when we were next in Florida and he is probably regretting that and hiding.
Bren

[pillow]

Hi Everyone,

Don't believe it is nearly one year since we all met up on the Med cruise last June. Often look at the pictures and really enjoyed it and it appears most people who went did.

Just getting sorted out in my mind for the Panama in August but unfortunately getting some bad reports from the Eastbound for some of the excursions. Wanted to see the cliff div ers in Acapulco but people are cancelling because of the problems others have had and as we are in port for such a short time it is difficult. Just wonder if anyone has been to Acapulco and seen the divers and know how we can do this trip on our own.

Both daughters were here last weekend so it was a bit hectic and it has done nothing but rain it seems for ages.

We, together with our daughters are on the Western on the 13th December and then spending time at our timeshhare - anyone else likely to be there?

Where is Jack these days told him we would look him up when we were next in Florida and he is probably regretting that and hiding.
Bren

Taysmom was just on the Westbound panama - bet she has heard about your excurion. You should PM her. Sounds wonderful. I wish we were joining you!! Have fun!

Jodie

[mickeyteachers]

I thought I was the only one who has not finished scrapbooking all of my pictures from the med cruise. Now I am planning my cruise for June 29th. I have in the last month of packing. Crazy. But, I am so excited.

[taysmom]

HI everyone...
I blogged about the trip. Brenda, I will try to find out the answer for you.Pm'd you back. Lauren, we didn't get a chance to see amanda in our whirlwind trip through the parks...it's too bad too.

The trip was fabulous and I'd do it again and again. So nice to enjoy the ship. Hope all is well with everyone. Our next disney cruise is....not planned yet. I have every hope that they come back to california and I can do another panama or they take the ship to japan and I'll be all over that one. Otherwise, it's break time for us.

Cya
S

[vtiffany]

Hi Everyone,

Don't believe it is nearly one year since we all met up on the Med cruise last June. Often look at the pictures and really enjoyed it and it appears most people who went did.

Just getting sorted out in my mind for the Panama in August but unfortunately getting some bad reports from the Eastbound for some of the excursions. Wanted to see the cliff div ers in Acapulco but people are cancelling because of the problems others have had and as we are in port for such a short time it is difficult. Just wonder if anyone has been to Acapulco and seen the divers and know how we can do this trip on our own.

Both daughters were here last weekend so it was a bit hectic and it has done nothing but rain it seems for ages.

We, together with our daughters are on the Western on the 13th December and then spending time at our timeshhare - anyone else likely to be there?

Where is Jack these days told him we would look him up when we were next in Florida and he is probably regretting that and hiding.
Bren


Hi Brenda,
We were on the westbound and just took a taxi to see the cliff divers. It was $15US for the two of us. If you plan ahead, maybe you can get some others together to share the taxi. When we were there, they dived at 1 PM and again at night. It will cost you $7US to see them dive. Your ticket entitles you to a free bottle of soda or water. Get it immediately when you start down the stairs to the viewing platform. It took maybe 15 minutes to get there from the port. Also, walk out past all the taxi drivers in the vans (they are trying to sell you a city tour). There are regular 'car' type taxis out away from the dock area. I hope this info helps in your planning. Any other questions? I'm here to answer them.

We had an awesome cruise and I still can't believe we were on the Magic for 15 nights! Man I LOVE that ship!!!!!:love:

Vicki:flower3:

[taysmom]

Hi Vicki!!!

Thanks again for everything. Flubber was fun. I miss the ship and vacation.

Steph

[vtiffany]

Hey Steph,

I miss the ship too. What a blast! It was great traveling with you and Taylor again. I've just started reading your blog. I love reliving the whole trip. By the way, I came down with your 'bug' the day after we came home. It wiped me out. I don't know how you managed participating in everything feeling that way. I should have picked up a z-pack or two in Mexico, too. If I'd have only known you were infecting all of us, ah, hindsight;) Anyhow, see ya 'round the boards, K?

Vicki:flower3:

[taysmom]

Just for the record..there was another disser who posted she'd had it since the canal...I didn't start coming down until acapulco! I keep getting sick on these cruises...you think it's telling me something?

[vtiffany]

I'd try it one more time. Third time's the charm, they say:)

Vicki

[PrincessJasmine08]

Hey, MedHeads! :wave2: Just checking in. I keep saying things to my family like "last year at this time we were...." Especially on father's day I was thinking about how we all got to spend the day together at sea. :goodvibes Good memories. I'm down in Orlando now, working at Chef Mickey's for the summer. I enjoyed hearing about the trips through the canal! Hope everyone's having a lovely summer!

[pillow]

Check this out. Steph just told me about this . . .

Disney among those seeking Glacier Bay contracts

22/8/2008

Disney Cruise Line is among six operators submitting proposals for 10-year Glacier Bay contracts, Seatrade Insider has learned. The term of the contracts is from 2010 through 2019.
Disney has never offered Alaska cruises, although Disney Magic has sailed from the U.S. West Coast for two seasons of Mexican Riviera cruises out of Los Angeles -- this year and in 2005.

In submitting its proposal to the National Park Service, Disney joined Compagnie des Iles du Ponant, Cruise West, Holland America Line, NCL Corp. and Princess Cruises.

French operator Ponant has not sought a Glacier Bay contract before. However, one of its ships, Le Diamant, used to sail in Alaska years ago as Song of Flower under a previous owner.

The contracts will include the initial allocation of a limited number of vessel use days in the peak Glacier Bay season, June through August, of each year of the contract term.

Princess and Holland America legally qualify as ‘historical operators’ in Glacier Bay, giving them the ability to lock up their existing historical permits, which number 71 of the total 153 available permits annually for the next 10-year contract period. Additionally, Princess holds 13 ‘preferential' entry permits.

All told, HAL and Princess have the potential to maintain 84 of the peak season entries of the total of 153 available.

Dave Nemeth, chief of concessions management for Glacier Bay National Park, said the National Park Service hopes to allocate the permits by year’s end.


B

[PURTYPAT1]

Jodi,

I'm game anyone else???:thumbsup2

[smillingjack]

Check this out. Steph just told me about this . . .

Disney among those seeking Glacier Bay contracts

22/8/2008

Disney Cruise Line is among six operators submitting proposals for 10-year Glacier Bay contracts, Seatrade Insider has learned. The term of the contracts is from 2010 through 2019.
Disney has never offered Alaska cruises, although Disney Magic has sailed from the U.S. West Coast for two seasons of Mexican Riviera cruises out of Los Angeles -- this year and in 2005.

In submitting its proposal to the National Park Service, Disney joined Compagnie des Iles du Ponant, Cruise West, Holland America Line, NCL Corp. and Princess Cruises.


French operator Ponant has not sought a Glacier Bay contract before. However, one of its ships, Le Diamant, used to sail in Alaska years ago as Song of Flower under a previous owner.

The contracts will include the initial allocation of a limited number of vessel use days in the peak Glacier Bay season, June through August, of each year of the contract term.

Princess and Holland America legally qualify as ‘historical operators’ in Glacier Bay, giving them the ability to lock up their existing historical permits, which number 71 of the total 153 available permits annually for the next 10-year contract period. Additionally, Princess holds 13 ‘preferential' entry permits.

All told, HAL and Princess have the potential to maintain 84 of the peak season entries of the total of 153 available.

Dave Nemeth, chief of concessions management for Glacier Bay National Park, said the National Park Service hopes to allocate the permits by year’s end.


B

We have not been watching this thread - it sure is nice to see the regulars.
We are getting ready for the DVCMember cruise in three weeks.
Hope all is well! We will be interested to see what plans are made for next year.
:cool1:
Smillingjack

[smillingjack]

Hello Brenda,
I am guilty as charged! I have not been watching this thread, shame, O'shame on me.

If you were in Florida and missed us I am sorry.

You can always send a private message which I will get in my email

Hope all is well. We are going on the Members Cruise on Sept 21, my DW just returned from a 3 Day with son and oldest daughter in mid July.

Smillingjack

[smillingjack]

Hello Patricia,
It is so nice that most of the Med group has stayed connected. I have not been watching Disboards for some time. DW and I sure enjoyed meeting you and hearing your neat stories.

We are open for 2009. Our son who was with us on the Med cruise is now a Sophmore at Florida Tech/Melbourne.

Stay well and keep up your normal ways.

Smillingjack

[taysmom]

You know I'm in for something. They are supposedly bringing a ship out to the west permanently when they new ships arrive, so I'm hoping for many happy reunions with you all!

We had a great time on our panama canal cruise and I would totally do that again if I can. I highly recommend it to you all.

Cya
S

[WVMD]

Frances (DW) is currently on the Magic and they say that the rumor on board is Alaska in 2010.... We'll see.....

Virgil
pirate:

[pillow]

Frances (DW) is currently on the Magic and they say that the rumor on board is Alaska in 2010.... We'll see.....

Virgil
pirate:

Disney applied for the Glacier Bay permits during the past week so it looks pretty good I think. The official news is supposed to come in October.

Virgil, where are your London/Paris pics? Would love to see them? Did you enjoy ABD? Would you do it again or travel independently?

Jodie

[WVMD]

Haven't had time to get the pics up - hopefully this weekend....

We loved ABD - would definitely do new areas with them again. Lauren wants to got to South Africa. The extra touches made ABD very nice indeed.

Virgil
pirate:

[pillow]

Haven't had time to get the pics up - hopefully this weekend....

We loved ABD - would definitely do new areas with them again. Lauren wants to got to South Africa. The extra touches made ABD very nice indeed.

Virgil
pirate:

I would love to do Africa as well, but I'm more interested in Tanzania so that we can safari on the Serengeti and then go to Zanzibar. Tauck has some nice trips too.

I'm looking forward to hearing about the Alaska itinerary - hoping the prices aren't outrageous.

Hope Frances is enjoying her trip!!

Jodie

[vtiffany]

Has everyone heard? The Magic is headed back to the Med and up to the Baltic in 2010. Looks like Alaska will have to wait until 2011.

Is anyone still here?

[PrincessJasmine08]

Hi, Vicki! I was just getting ready to post on here! Just got home from work and the first thing I did was log onto the DIS to see the cruise updates! :rotfl2: Seems a little pricey if you ask me. What are the rest of you thinking? I know we paid a lot for the Med, but did we really pay that much? :eek: I just looked at Royal Caribbean and Celebrity to get an idea of what a comparable cruise would cost us with them. Their dates aren't quite released, but I'm thinking we could save AT LEAST $5,000 AND get a better category stateroom. I love Disney, and we would of course be thrilled to take one of the Baltic cruises, but at this point I'm leaning toward no. The savings with another cruise line would probably pay for our airfare...

[pillow]

Hi, Vicki! I was just getting ready to post on here! Just got home from work and the first thing I did was log onto the DIS to see the cruise updates! :rotfl2: Seems a little pricey if you ask me. What are the rest of you thinking? I know we paid a lot for the Med, but did we really pay that much? :eek: I just looked at Royal Caribbean and Celebrity to get an idea of what a comparable cruise would cost us with them. Their dates aren't quite released, but I'm thinking we could save AT LEAST $5,000 AND get a better category stateroom. I love Disney, and we would of course be thrilled to take one of the Baltic cruises, but at this point I'm leaning toward no. The savings with another cruise line would probably pay for our airfare...

You know, the Baltic prices are just a little higher than the 2007 Med prices. I guess I'm not surprised. The only way we'll be doing the 2010 Baltic is if the cat 12 discount is offered - and it would have to be a REALLY good discount in order to offset the airfare. Guess we'll wait and see. Plus, I really want to see Alaska - think I should probably save up for that trip.

Jodie

[Skallywag]

The Baltic prices are more expensive and I am not surprised as they are very expensive countries and the best way to visit is on a cruise as the food prices are unbelievable. Med sounds good but not from Barceona again and also repeat ports although am tempted too.
Bren

[carolmb]

My DH, Ryan, has be dying to a Baltic cruise. He has told me to book it. So we will see what happens.

[Worktoplay]

Hi Everyone!

I was hoping for Alaska rather than the Baltic. It's too early for me to decide what we will do. I had promised my son we would go on RCCL newest ship the Oasis is 2010. Hmmm....we'll have to see. This stock market is making me not want to spend any money.

Marie

[Janscruise]

Looking forward to visiting the Mediteranean again in 2010

[Skallywag]

Have wanted to do the Baltic for long time so have booked this one and honestly feel that the Med is overpriced and nearly the same itinerary to 2007 and was hoping for a big change there.

[Skallywag]

Just interested if any of the Meadheads are doing the Baltic tripand which one.

[taysmom]

Doing the wbta..too much for the baltic/med. Have fun!

[pillow]

I booked the 11 night holiday cruise + 2 Thanksgiving ones (a short and a long). We'll decide which as time gets closer. Will depend on our bank accounts! I will consider the Baltic trip if a cat 12 fare is added last minute and if we can find a reasonable air fare.

Jodie

[Janscruise]

We considered the Baltic but the lure of the Med was just too much

[carolmb]

We are booked on the June 12th Baltic cruise with Skallywag.

[Skallywag]

Will be great to sail with people we have met before and looking forward to it.
Bren

[WVMD]

We're there too!!!!

Virgil
pirate:

[pillow]

We're there too!!!!

Virgil
pirate:

So it doesn't sound like it was that hard to convince Frances!

I'll be checking for cat 12 cheapie fares. Who knows, maybe we'll get lucky!

Jodie

[Jeff Spencer]

Hi all! Susan and I were excited to see the Magic's return to the Med. We haven't booked anything yet but are leaning towards another 11 night Med cruise. We had so much fun on the last one and feel like there's plenty of new tours to do even if we go to many of the same ports.

[pillow]

Hi Jeff. We would love to do the Northern Europe trip, but with the high prices and high airfare, I think we will wait for the Alaska trip in 2011 (hoping that works out). We had booked the Christmas 2010 11 nighter, but its no cheapie either + my son likes to be home at Christmas time. I do love the long cruises. We went on a 3 nighter recently, and it just wasn't the same - went by way way way too quick! Hope everyone in your family is well.

Jodie

[Jeff Spencer]

We'll see what the prices do. We didn't book our 1st Med cruise until just a few months before departure and got a considerable discount. The same type of thing may happen again this time with the worldwide economic slump.

[pillow]

We'll see what the prices do. We didn't book our 1st Med cruise until just a few months before departure and got a considerable discount. The same type of thing may happen again this time with the worldwide economic slump.

I seem to remember you guys doing what we did and booking the cat 12 discounted price. We switched to cat 12 about 6 weeks before the cruise and only paid $4,000 for the 4 of us. If a cheap cat 12 fare is offered, I would definitely consider going if I could find a decent airfare price. I would opt for the Northern Europe trip though so that I could spend a few days in London beforehand. I would probably omit the shore excursions as well and do things on our own. We spent LOTS of money on those - not sure I would go that route again. My favorite day was when we shared the private driver with you guys in Marseilles!

Jodie

By the way, we're renting our Spring Break 1 bdrm at the Beach Club if anyone wants it - Sunday, April 5th - 5 nights - $2,000. The kids want to see the Grand Canyon so we're doing that instead. :goodvibes

[Jeff Spencer]

It's rare that we do cruise line shore excursions...we did one on our Mexican cruise this summer only because Disney had bought up all the slots on the tour we tried to book ourselves. We did one Disney tour on the Med cruise and it was the worst tour of the trip.

My wife would love to stay at the Beach Club! Unfortunately, we're doing our spring break trip in mid March.

Your kids should love the Grand Canyon. Are you staying at one of the lodges? We stayed in the Maswik Lodge a couple of years ago...hiked down the Bright Angel Trail, visited the other lodges and just gawked at the many lookouts around the south rim.

[pillow]

Your kids should love the Grand Canyon. Are you staying at one of the lodges? We stayed in the Maswik Lodge a couple of years ago...hiked down the Bright Angel Trail, visited the other lodges and just gawked at the many lookouts around the south rim.

Yes, we're staying at the Kachina lodge (sp) next door to El Tovar. We're staying 2 nights in Page near Lake Powell, 2 nights at the Grand Canyon, 2 nights in Sedona, 1 in Flagstaff and 1 in Phoenix. Mike and I have been to Sedona, but the kids haven't. We're really looking forward to it. I think we've decided to do WDW every other year since there are so many other places we'd like to go. I would take a trip a month if I could!

Jodie

[PURTYPAT1]

Yes, we're staying at the Kachina lodge (sp) next door to El Tovar. We're staying 2 nights in Page near Lake Powell, 2 nights at the Grand Canyon, 2 nights in Sedona, 1 in Flagstaff and 1 in Phoenix. Mike and I have been to Sedona, but the kids haven't. We're really looking forward to it. I think we've decided to do WDW every other year since there are so many other places we'd like to go. I would take a trip a month if I could!

Jodie

Hi Jodie & Jeff,

Jeff, we would love to go too, only if they have the Cat 12 special like last time ;) Would love if my DH joined us, but he doesn't fly well.

I have my fingers crossed for a last minute special

Happy & Healthy New Year to you all.

[taysmom]

Happy new year to everyone! I am booked on the sept. 10 repo, but if a cheap cat 12 opened up on the med, I'd do that cause they have new stops!

Hope everyones 2009 is great....can't be any worse than 2008!

[Worktoplay]

Hi Everyone...and Happy New Year!

At this point we are renting a house on Hilton Head Island this summer in late June and then going to the Grand Canyon in July. I will definitely be following the prices on the med cruise though....if it's cheap enough it would be wonderful to go back!

Marie

[pillow]

Hi Everyone...and Happy New Year!

At this point we are renting a house on Hilton Head Island this summer in late June and then going to the Grand Canyon in July. I will definitely be following the prices on the med cruise though....if it's cheap enough it would be wonderful to go back!

Marie

Hi Marie. We are doing the Grand Canyon in April. Can't wait to go!! Where are you staying?

Jodie

[Worktoplay]

Jodie,

We bought a condo in Scottsdale a year and a half ago. We live in PA so it is basically our vacation property for now. Whenever we go out there we explore around but have not yet been to the grand canyon. We are planning to go in late July because I'll be out there with both of my sons. I think its a trip neither one should miss. I have not yet booked a hotel, but it will be in the South Rim since that is where we will be driving to from the Phoenix area. I suppose it could be chilly when you go in April. Sedona should be beautiful probably in the low 70's. You said you've been there before, I highly recommend the Pink Jeep tours, my son loved it last April when we were there, he was 13 at the time.

Let me know what you think of the Kachina Lodge. I've read if you are on the second floor there are great views!

Marie

[pillow]

Jodie,

We bought a condo in Scottsdale a year and a half ago. We live in PA so it is basically our vacation property for now. Whenever we go out there we explore around but have not yet been to the grand canyon. We are planning to go in late July because I'll be out there with both of my sons. I think its a trip neither one should miss. I have not yet booked a hotel, but it will be in the South Rim since that is where we will be driving to from the Phoenix area. I suppose it could be chilly when you go in April. Sedona should be beautiful probably in the low 70's. You said you've been there before, I highly recommend the Pink Jeep tours, my son loved it last April when we were there, he was 13 at the time.

Let me know what you think of the Kachina Lodge. I've read if you are on the second floor there are great views!

Marie

I noticed that hotels on the south rim book FAST! We originally thought about going in June, but all rooms for 4 were booked during the time we wanted to go. You'd better book now. Good luck!

Do you ever rent your condo? We're planning on staying in the Phoenix area for a night or two. Let me know.

Jodie

[Worktoplay]

Thanks for warning me about how quickly they book up. I have rooms booked at El Tovar. Nothing at Kachina was available and I put in plenty of dates as we will be there in April, May and July. We don't have the largest of rooms but I don't think we'll be in the room except to sleep. I definitely think its worth staying in the park.

We don't rent our condo yet....right now my husband likes to know he can go out there when ever he can get away. I'm sure that will wear off some day.

In the past when we would visit we stayed at the Westin Kierland. It's a great family hotel, very centrally located and close to great shops and restaurants.

Have a great trip!

Marie

[pillow]

Thanks for warning me about how quickly they book up. I have rooms booked at El Tovar. Nothing at Kachina was available and I put in plenty of dates as we will be there in April, May and July. We don't have the largest of rooms but I don't think we'll be in the room except to sleep. I definitely think its worth staying in the park.

We don't rent our condo yet....right now my husband likes to know he can go out there when ever he can get away. I'm sure that will wear off some day.

In the past when we would visit we stayed at the Westin Kierland. It's a great family hotel, very centrally located and close to great shops and restaurants.

Have a great trip!

Marie

We wanted to stay at El Tovar, but it was booked. I'm sure you'll love it!

And thanks for the tip on the Phoenix lodging. Right now we're booked at the Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak resort (I read where they have a nice pool complex for the kids). I'm gonna go check out the Westin now.

Jodie

[Worktoplay]

Jodie,

I'm sure you'll be happy no matter where you stay. It's a great time of year to visit Arizona. Make sure you post and tell me what I can't miss at the Grand Canyon. We are only spending 1 night there this trip. My neighbors are traveling with us and they are going on to San Francisco as her husband works for the Phillies and they are traveling with the team that week.

Marie

[pillow]

Jodie,

I'm sure you'll be happy no matter where you stay. It's a great time of year to visit Arizona. Make sure you post and tell me what I can't miss at the Grand Canyon. We are only spending 1 night there this trip. My neighbors are traveling with us and they are going on to San Francisco as her husband works for the Phillies and they are traveling with the team that week.

Marie

I sure will. That Westin looks beautiful. We got a great rate at the Hilton - $160, so I think we'll give it a shot.

J

[carolmb]

Hi All,
I hope that everyone had a fantastic holiday. I have a question about some DVC points that will expire at the end of August. I posted to rent the points on the DVC thread. I was wondering if any of you have rented or transfered points and could give me some advice.

Our trip to WDW this past summer was great thanks to all of you that offered me your great advice. We are looking forward to our scheduled Baltic cruise in June 2010.

Thanks,
Carol

[pillow]

Hi All,
I hope that everyone had a fantastic holiday. I have a question about some DVC points that will expire at the end of August. I posted to rent the points on the DVC thread. I was wondering if any of you have rented or transfered points and could give me some advice.

Our trip to WDW this past summer was great thanks to all of you that offered me your great advice. We are looking forward to our scheduled Baltic cruise in June 2010.

Thanks,
Carol

Hi Carol. As a matter of fact, I just rented out some points. I also just got slapped on the wrist for posting something I shouldn't have, so I can pretty much tell you anything you want to know. If you go to the rent/trade board, just read all the instructions. They are pretty specific about what you can state and what you can't (hence the wrist slap). You can email me at jodie.pillow@comcast.net if you have questions.

Jodie

[PURTYPAT1]

Hi Everyone, I just want to thank you all for the cards, & the PMs and good cheer. It has meant a lot to me.

Below is my trip report form last week. We had a blast almost as good as the Medcruise, but not quite. LOL

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2102411

[Skallywag]

Hi Everyone, Sorry not posted or read much lately as while we were away at Christmas computer decided to stop working and took a while to get up and running again. Think it was having a sulk because we had gone to warmer climate.

Luckily have a neighbour who is a wizzard with all this technology so apart from losing my personal filing cabinet and contacts am back to near normal if ever I could be.

How is everyone, busy planning next trips by the sound of it. Think we will be staying in this country in 2009 as the exchange rate not in our favour at the moment.
Still we were very greedy haviing two trips in 2008 so cannot complain.

Bren:thumbsup2

[pillow]

Jodie,

I'm sure you'll be happy no matter where you stay. It's a great time of year to visit Arizona. Make sure you post and tell me what I can't miss at the Grand Canyon. We are only spending 1 night there this trip. My neighbors are traveling with us and they are going on to San Francisco as her husband works for the Phillies and they are traveling with the team that week.

Marie

Hi Marie,

We just got back yesterday from Arizona. We had a wonderful time! We only spent 1 night at the Grand Canyon too. You definitely want to take the bus up Hermit Road. We also hiked the Rim Trail in the opposite direction to Yavapai (sp?) point. It had snowed a couple inches the night before, so it was really beautiful. We wanted to hike the South Kaibab Trail into the canyon but were afraid of the snow and ice. My guidebook says that its one of the best hikes in terms of views, so you might want to consider it. Also, if you can enter through the East entrance, there are tons of beautiful overlooks since the road runs parallel to the canyon for quite some time. We also stayed in Page for a few nights so that we could do the boat tour to Rainbow Bridge as well as visit Antelope Canyon. We also took a still water float trip from there on the Colorado River.

If you get a chance and are in the area, I highly recommend a visit to Jerome. It sits high up on a mountain - beautiful views, great art galleries, neat town in general. Sedona was so crowded with people and construction, we wished we had stayed in Jerome instead!

Here are my pics -

http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=0AauGzVy1cuGLMAA

Jodie

[Worktoplay]

Jodie,

That's for your post. Your pictures are wonderful, I can't believe it snowed.
My plans changed and instead of going to GC in July, we're going in May. How was Kachina? I had El Tovar in July but it wasn't available in May so we got rooms at Kachina. Were you satisfied with the location?

My college son really wants to go to Antelope Canyon, he's a picture buff, but we only have 2 days. I am leaning to just doing GC? Would you agree that driving from Scottsdale to Antelope Canyon then driving to GC spending the night and leaving to go back to Scottsdale the next afternoon would be too much driving?

Also, my stepdaughter is joining us and she's be about 20 weeks pregnant. Is there any trails that she she can do at the GC that would be acceptable for a pregnant person or should we stick to the shuttle bus?

Do you need to make a reservation for dinner at the Grand Canyon?

Thanks for all your help.

Marie

[pillow]

Jodie,

That's for your post. Your pictures are wonderful, I can't believe it snowed.
My plans changed and instead of going to GC in July, we're going in May. How was Kachina? I had El Tovar in July but it wasn't available in May so we got rooms at Kachina. Were you satisfied with the location?

My college son really wants to go to Antelope Canyon, he's a picture buff, but we only have 2 days. I am leaning to just doing GC? Would you agree that driving from Scottsdale to Antelope Canyon then driving to GC spending the night and leaving to go back to Scottsdale the next afternoon would be too much driving?

Also, my stepdaughter is joining us and she's be about 20 weeks pregnant. Is there any trails that she she can do at the GC that would be acceptable for a pregnant person or should we stick to the shuttle bus?

Do you need to make a reservation for dinner at the Grand Canyon?

Thanks for all your help.

Marie

Kachina is right next to El Tovar, and some rooms have partial canyon views. The location was great, but theres nothing special about the rooms - just your average hotel room. See if you can request a room on the 2nd floor; the canyon view will be better.

I think you will need a reservation if you dine at El Tovar (think you can make it 30 days out). We ate at the Grand Hotel in Tuscayan. They have entertainment, and the food was pretty decent, although nothing super special (this was a budget trip for us).

The Rim Trail would be easy for your stepdaughter. Head East (if facing the rim to your right) from the hotel along the rim. The trail is paved and there are fabulous overlooks along the way. You can walk to Yavapai point which is about a 1.5-2 mile walk. The shuttle bus stops there, so you could catch it back to the hotel if you don't want to walk back.

As far as driving goes, Scottsdale to Page would be the tough part - over 4 hours, but honestly, I would be tempted!! Antelope Canyon was incredible (although I don't have a good enough camera - was disappointed with my pictures). Heres the problem with Page though - You just can't go without doing the Rainbow Bridge tour. I think the half day trips start in May (we had to do the full day due to water levels); it really was the highlight of our trip. You would want to do the 10:30 Antelope Canyon tour to get the best pictures with the sunbeams. You could possibly do that first, and then do the half day Rainbow Bridge tour in the afternoon. OR, you could drive to Page in time for the afternoon half day Rainbow Bridge and then do the 10:30 Antelope Canyon tour the next day. That would end around noon, and you could leave for the GC afterwards. One advantage of driving from Page to the GC is that you would enter the GC from the East. The road parallels the GC and there are some great overlooks. Page to the GC village is about 2.5 hours.

Good luck planning. Let me know if I can help further.

Jodie

[PURTYPAT1]

Hi Jodie,

How are you? I've never been to the GC, & loved your photos. They are simply magnificent. Your children are really growing up quickly. They are beautiful as well.

Looks like you guys really have wonderful memories on this trip. Thanks for sharing them with us.

Happy Spring

[pillow]

Hi Jodie,

How are you? I've never been to the GC, & loved your photos. They are simply magnificent. Your children are really growing up quickly. They are beautiful as well.

Looks like you guys really have wonderful memories on this trip. Thanks for sharing them with us.

Happy Spring

Hi Patricia,

Yes, we had a wonderful time! How are you feeling? Do you feel like your old self yet? How is your sis?

Jodie

[PURTYPAT1]

Hi Patricia,

Yes, we had a wonderful time! How are you feeling? Do you feel like your old self yet? How is your sis?

Jodie

Hi Jodie,

I am feeling great thank you. Not tired anymore. I am back to "my old self" just need to shed a few pounds that I put on.

DS Joann is doing great also. You would never know, that either of us were sick. She is going back to teaching weight watchers next week.

I really enjoyed your album. Your children are beautiful.

Where is your next trip planned?

[pillow]

Where is your next trip planned?

The kids are going to camp this summer near St. Louis, and Mike and I are planning to bike the Katy trail for a few days - should be interesting since neither of us are in the best shape right now!! Then we have the Thanksgiving Disney cruise to look forward to - that one is a bit iffy. Am hoping DH's company gets more business soon (consulting), otherwise, there is a chance of more layoffs. I'm keeping my fingers crossed.

Jodie

[PURTYPAT1]

The kids are going to camp this summer near St. Louis, and Mike and I are planning to bike the Katy trail for a few days - should be interesting since neither of us are in the best shape right now!! Then we have the Thanksgiving Disney cruise to look forward to - that one is a bit iffy. Am hoping DH's company gets more business soon (consulting), otherwise, there is a chance of more layoffs. I'm keeping my fingers crossed.

Jodie

Great sounds like fun Jodie. You sure are living life to the fullest!!

I had such a great time on Magic (President's week) that I rebooked for next year. It was very mellow, we were winded dined & phampered.;)

I have my fingers crossed for you guys. It's very scary with the layoffs.

Happy Spring

[pillow]

Anyone booking Alaska?

Jodie

[carolmb]

Anyone booking Alaska?

Jodie


I think we are going to book.

[pillow]

Steph (taysmom) and I (and possibly Patricia - purtypat1) are thinking about July 5. Would be fun to have a little reunion. :goodvibes

Jodie

[Jeff Spencer]

Hey Jodie,

Susan and I just might. We haven't cruised Alaska since out 10th anniversary (1993) and we don't need much of an excuse to do a Disney cruise. :)

[PURTYPAT1]

Just emailed Marie Worktoplay I'm hoping she can come

[pillow]

Hey Jodie,

Susan and I just might. We haven't cruised Alaska since out 10th anniversary (1993) and we don't need much of an excuse to do a Disney cruise. :)

The more the merrier! I just hope pricing isn't wacko!

J

[PrincessJasmine08]

I would love to go, but I can't seem to get anyone else excited about it! I'm a winter person. I love snow and cold weather. Alaska sounds great. I don't think it will work with my teacher salary though. :lmao:

Is anyone considering going back to the Med. or Northern Europe?

[PURTYPAT1]

Did you guys see this on the Disney website regarding price





The first-ever Disney cruise to Alaska will depart on May 3 with the last cruise of the season scheduled for Aug. 30. Rates for the seven-night Alaskan itinerary start at $939 per person for a standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy.

To prepare for the Alaska sailings, a brand-new venue called Outlook Café will be added to the Disney Wonder during dry dock in October. Located high atop deck 10, the 2,500-square-foot Outlook Café is a stylish retreat for guests to relax and enjoy a beverage or cocktail as they peer out through floor-to-ceiling, curved glass windows at breathtaking vistas. The design of Outlook Café is sophisticated with contemporary Art Deco inspiration. An elegant spiral staircase connects Outlook Café with the existing Cove Café one deck below. The 65-seat lounge has a granite-topped cocktail bar with comfortable seating throughout the space, all providing picture-perfect views of the surrounding landscapes.

Book-ending the 2011 summer season in Alaska, the Disney Wonder will sail seven-night itineraries to the Mexican Riviera. Rates for the seven-night Mexican Riviera itinerary start at $639 per person for a standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy.

Disney Wonder 2011 - Alaska and Mexican Riviera

Seven-Night Alaska

5/3 to 9/6
Seven-Night Mexican Riviera

1/23 to 4/17 and 9/25 to 12/18

Vancouver
Los Angeles

At Sea
At Sea

Tracy Arm
At Sea

Skagway
Puerto Vallarta

Juneau
Mazatlán

Ketchikan
Cabo San Lucas

At Sea
At Sea

Vancouver
Los Angeles

Disney Cruise Line Sets Sail for Alaska in 2011
Prior to repositioning to Alaska, the Disney Wonder will sail a special 10-night Mexican Riviera voyage, including a stop at Manzanillo.

[pillow]

Hey Patricia - Here is another discussion thread on the new trips -

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2281368&page=62

[pillow]

And here is a link to the Vancouver thread -

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2283011&page=3

J

[pillow]

I would love to go, but I can't seem to get anyone else excited about it! I'm a winter person. I love snow and cold weather. Alaska sounds great. I don't think it will work with my teacher salary though. :lmao:

Is anyone considering going back to the Med. or Northern Europe?

No on Europe for us - just too expensive!

Why don't you find 3 friends to share the Alaska cruise with. Then you could split it 4 ways!!

Jodie

[vtiffany]

Anyone booking Alaska?

Jodie

Hi Everyone!
Tom and I are going to book but we're thinking about late July or August. Anyone know if there is a difference in scenery between the summer months in Alaska? Really looking forward to this trip, but, again, so much time to wait:sad1:

[PURTYPAT1]

We're going!!!!


Alaskan Cruise 7/5/11
cat 11c 2 adults with insurance $2,827.26
cat 11c adults without insurance $2,609.26

We booked today!!!

[pillow]

That pricing looks pretty reasonable. How long did it take you to get through on the phones?

Jodie

[PURTYPAT1]

Hi Jodie

It took 1 hour. If you have any questions, you know my email, I will call & ask for you. ;)

[vtiffany]

I know it's not the date you all are booking but wanted to post the price for Cat. 7 Navigator's Verandah. 2 adults without insurance and 'dummy date' 10% discount is $4397.46. $300 deposit p/p and gold and platinum CC members can book three rooms.

[pillow]

Did anyone else book Alaska today? Patricia (purtypat1) and I are both booked on the 7/5 trip. Jeff, how about you guys?

Jodie

[PrincessJasmine08]

So what does everyone think of the Dream? Anyone booking or already booked? We are going to see what we can get tomorrow. We're looking to go on the 5 night that goes to Key West, Castaway, and Nassau on June 8. We've come to terms with the fact that we have to cancel the Northern European Capitals cruise. Just can't swing it financially. Hope everyone is doing well.
:grouphug:

[pillow]

So what does everyone think of the Dream? Anyone booking or already booked? We are going to see what we can get tomorrow. We're looking to go on the 5 night that goes to Key West, Castaway, and Nassau on June 8. We've come to terms with the fact that we have to cancel the Northern European Capitals cruise. Just can't swing it financially. Hope everyone is doing well.
:grouphug:

Hi there! We like the longer cruises, so I think we'll wait till 2012 for a cruise on one of the new ships. Too bad about Northern Europe. You should watch for those cat 12 discounts if they open up - can be great deals!

Jodie

[PURTYPAT1]

Hi there! We like the longer cruises, so I think we'll wait till 2012 for a cruise on one of the new ships. Too bad about Northern Europe. You should watch for those cat 12 discounts if they open up - can be great deals!

Jodie

How was you Turkey cruise. I read you had some excitment.

Did you eat Lobster for Thanksgiving????

[Jeff Spencer]

Hi all,

FYI, Disney has released Cat 12 fares for some, if not all, 2010 Euro cruises. I checked the mid May 11 night Med cruise I was interested in today and there it was! :cool1:

[Jeff Spencer]

Did anyone else book Alaska today? Patricia (purtypat1) and I are both booked on the 7/5 trip. Jeff, how about you guys?

Jodie

Jodie,

Haven't checked back on this thread for awhile. No we haven't booked anything in 2011 yet but we do plan to. We tend to wait versus booking way early. :)

[pillow]

Hi all. Turkey cruise was wonderful! They did serve lobster, but I'm not a fan. The tuna in Palo's was one of the best meals I've ever had.

Thanks for the heads up on the cat 12's Jeff. I'm going to check them out now . . .

Jodie

[PrincessJasmine08]

Thanks for the heads up on the cat 12's Jeff. I'm going to check them out now . . .

Jodie

How were they?

[pillow]

How were they?

We can't go in May, so I checked June and July - saw some cat 12's, but they weren't deep discounts like on our Med trip.

Jodie

[IrishCowboy]

:thumbsup2

[Jeff Spencer]

How were they?

We're booked on the May 15th cruise. Total for the 4 of us (me, wife, 2 adult children) for two cat 12 guarantee rooms, with insurance, port charges but no airfare was $4995. That's right in line per/person what we paid back in 2007.

I also noticed that kids cruise free. Doesn't help us as ours will be 20 & 22 but if they're 17 and under that's a big deal.

[carolmb]

Hi Everyone,
We are booked on June 12th Baltics cruise. We ended up using DVC points and cash to swing this cruise. We are also booked on the June 21st Alaska cruise. Looking forward to both of them. Now I need to start planning for the ports on the Baltic cruise. I think with are going to do an organized tour for Berlin and St. Petersburg and do the other on our own to save $$.

[Jeff Spencer]

Hey Carol,

Have a great time on the Baltics cruise! Susan and I plan to do the Alaskan cruise next year too but just haven't yet decided when.

[pillow]

Hey Carol,

Have a great time on the Baltics cruise! Susan and I plan to do the Alaskan cruise next year too but just haven't yet decided when.

Hi Jeff. July seems to be the best time in terms of weather. Check out temperatures and average rainfall. We're doing the July 5th trip. Good luck planning!

Jodie

[pillow]

Hi all. For those of you already booked or contemplating the June 12 or 24 Baltic cruise, I noticed today that there is a HUGE discount for category 12.

Wish we could go - just waaay to busy!

Jodie

[PrincessJasmine08]

Anybody home? :) We just booked a Dream cruise, so I was thinking about y'all. Haven't been on a cruise since the Med!

[pillow]

Anybody home? :) We just booked a Dream cruise, so I was thinking about y'all. Haven't been on a cruise since the Med!

Hi Lauren! We just can't seem to find a cruise we want to do right now. If there is one mildly interesting, then its too expensive. We got spoiled with the 11 night Med. I'm holding out for something looong!!

Hope you are doing well. How is teaching? Is your sister still working at Disney?

Jodie

[smillingjack]

Anybody home? :) We just booked a Dream cruise, so I was thinking about y'all. Haven't been on a cruise since the Med!

I'll try this, I just hit the wrong key and my reply disappeared. If you don't receive it please let me know.

Enjoy school!

Smillingjack :cool1:

[smillingjack]

Hello Laureen, Nice to hear from you. My DW is booked on the Dream in early Sept. 2010 and we are taking the DVC members cruise two weeks later.

Our DS who was on the Med cruise is graduating from college in May thus this is going to be an exciting year with many changes. He wants to go cruising but with so many uncertain avenues he may take it is not practical.

When are you going?

Do well in college!

Smillingjack

[Jeff Spencer]

Hey Lauren,

We did the Mexican Riviera cruise in 2008 and the 11 night Med cruise this past summer. We've been contemplating an Alaskan cruise on the Wonder or a Caribbean cruise on the Dream but haven't booked either.

[Jeff Spencer]

Hi Lauren! We just can't seem to find a cruise we want to do right now. If there is one mildly interesting, then its too expensive. We got spoiled with the 11 night Med. I'm holding out for something looong!!

Hope you are doing well. How is teaching? Is your sister still working at Disney?

Jodie

Susan really wants to do the 15 day Panama Canal cruise at some point. I do like the longer cruises too...3, 4, 5, 7 days just seems too short.

[PrincessJasmine08]

Hi Lauren! We just can't seem to find a cruise we want to do right now. If there is one mildly interesting, then its too expensive. We got spoiled with the 11 night Med. I'm holding out for something looong!!

Hope you are doing well. How is teaching? Is your sister still working at Disney?

Jodie
I still think about the Med cruise all the time. It was truly the vacation of a lifetime for us. So amazing. :)

I'm doing well. Still teaching, still loving it! Amanda is still working at Disney. We went down for 2 weeks over Christmas and New Year's to visit her. It was really nice. Can't wait to be back this summer!

Hello Laureen, Nice to hear from you. My DW is booked on the Dream in early Sept. 2010 and we are taking the DVC members cruise two weeks later.

Our DS who was on the Med cruise is graduating from college in May thus this is going to be an exciting year with many changes. He wants to go cruising but with so many uncertain avenues he may take it is not practical.

When are you going?

Do well in college!

Smillingjack
Oh my goodness, you're going on 2 Disney cruises within 2 weeks of each other?! Now that's something to be jealous of! Sounds great!!

We are going on the December 18 4 night. It's going to be me, sisters, parents, aunt, cousin, grandpa, and various friends. We've got 4 rooms booked so far. Should be a ball!

Hey Lauren,

We did the Mexican Riviera cruise in 2008 and the 11 night Med cruise this past summer. We've been contemplating an Alaskan cruise on the Wonder or a Caribbean cruise on the Dream but haven't booked either.
Wow, you got to do the Med cruise AGAIN?! Lucky! ;) I'm ready for Alaska, but can't seem to get anyone else in the family excited. Everyone but me is a warm weather lover.

[Skallywag]

Hi Everyone,

Nice to hear from you and hope all are well.

We did an NCL cruise to the Baltic last June. We had booked on Disney one from Dover but to be honest they were far too expensive even though we did not have to fly and only an hour drive away. We had a great time and every bit as good or in some ways better than Disney we found. We managed to get a large suite with separate bedroom and butler service and you should have see the size of our balcony. It was wonderful and has spoilt us. We did book on the cruise from LA to Alalska but again when doing research found this to be way too expensive. We changed to Regent Seven Seas from San Francisco to Alaska back to Vancouver. Sounded more expensive but includes most of the excursions, gratuities and even drinks on board so when you research that it was much better value unfortunately. Please don't get me wrong still love Disney but think they are outpricing themselves and not really offering anything different. Would love them to do a back to back from venice as NCL do as that is the next one we are looking at.

Happy new year to all of our friends and do hope we can meet up in the future.

Happy holidays.

Brenda:yay:

[PrincessJasmine08]

Hi Everyone,

Nice to hear from you and hope all are well.

We did an NCL cruise to the Baltic last June. We had booked on Disney one from Dover but to be honest they were far too expensive even though we did not have to fly and only an hour drive away. We had a great time and every bit as good or in some ways better than Disney we found. We managed to get a large suite with separate bedroom and butler service and you should have see the size of our balcony. It was wonderful and has spoilt us. We did book on the cruise from LA to Alalska but again when doing research found this to be way too expensive. We changed to Regent Seven Seas from San Francisco to Alaska back to Vancouver. Sounded more expensive but includes most of the excursions, gratuities and even drinks on board so when you research that it was much better value unfortunately. Please don't get me wrong still love Disney but think they are outpricing themselves and not really offering anything different. Would love them to do a back to back from venice as NCL do as that is the next one we are looking at.

Happy new year to all of our friends and do hope we can meet up in the future.

Happy holidays.

Brenda:yay:

When we were hoping to do the Baltic Disney Cruise last summer, we looked at other lines. Ultimately, none of it was in the budget, but it really gets you thinking. Guess we need to try another line to see if we would really miss the little Disney extras too much to make it not worth the $$ savings. Just emailed my travel agent to see about switching cabins on our December 18 on the Dream and everything we're looking at has only GTY status left, so I guess Disney's keeping the ships full!

[taysmom]

HI Everyone...

We are going on a mexican riviera cruise this april. Can't wait. I agree with all the comments about disney pricing themselves. I have noticed that next years mexico cruise prices are less than what I paid this year. Bummer! Alaska is too expensive on disney when I can go longer on princess right out of SF with no airfare and spend less.

I want to get to florida and do the dream but airfare is just too much. I can fly to cabo for less.

I hope you are all well. I had such a great time on our med cruise meeting everyone! It's been nice to stay in touch over the years.

Steph

[PURTYPAT1]

HI Everyone...

We are going on a mexican riviera cruise this april. Can't wait. I agree with all the comments about disney pricing themselves. I have noticed that next years mexico cruise prices are less than what I paid this year. Bummer! Alaska is too expensive on disney when I can go longer on princess right out of SF with no airfare and spend less.

I want to get to florida and do the dream but airfare is just too much. I can fly to cabo for less.

I hope you are all well. I had such a great time on our med cruise meeting everyone! It's been nice to stay in touch over the years.

Steph

Hay Steph and my Cruise friends,

Hope everyone is doing ok.

Steph, are you going to have a blog, on your DC? I would love to follow it. What part of Ca, are you from?

Jenna & I are thinking about 2/19/12 doing the mexican riviera cruise. Care to join us?

[Skallywag]

Hi all,

Nice to hear from you and glad you are all keeping well. Steph, we are doing an Alaska cruise this May with Regent Seven Sea. We did book Disney but they worked out more expensive. With Regent we get all gratutites, most of our excursions and drinks on board included in the price. We could hav chosen the slightly more expensive option but decided to sort our own airfares and accommodation. We are flying into San Francisco on te 10th May and the cruise leaves on te 13th. Just sorting out getting from the airport and what to do in the short time we are there. We have booked a trip with Tom to Muir Woods on the first morning and do want to do the evening Alcatraz as believe this has better atmosphere. Can you advise us on this. Also thinking of getting the city pass as of course we want to ride the trams having never been to the city before.

The excursions we have booked for nothing would probably cost as a fortune on Disney so well pleased with this.

Hope we can all meet up sometime in the future.
Brenda

[PURTYPAT1]

Hi all,

Nice to hear from you and glad you are all keeping well. Steph, we are doing an Alaska cruise this May with Regent Seven Sea. We did book Disney but they worked out more expensive. With Regent we get all gratutites, most of our excursions and drinks on board included in the price. We could hav chosen the slightly more expensive option but decided to sort our own airfares and accommodation. We are flying into San Francisco on te 10th May and the cruise leaves on te 13th. Just sorting out getting from the airport and what to do in the short time we are there. We have booked a trip with Tom to Muir Woods on the first morning and do want to do the evening Alcatraz as believe this has better atmosphere. Can you advise us on this. Also thinking of getting the city pass as of course we want to ride the trams having never been to the city before.

The excursions we have booked for nothing would probably cost as a fortune on Disney so well pleased with this.

Hope we can all meet up sometime in the future.
Brenda

Hi Brenda,

How's things over the pond?

We were on the Magic last year February presidents day. One big problem , on boarding day. The Magic was stuck in Castawy Cay due to storms on the Saturday that we were to leave. A 7 night cruise turned out to be a 6 night. :scared1:

Disney gave us a 20% discount, and 200.00 on board credit per person for future cruises. :wizard: We booked Alaska with the discounts costs were about the same as the other cruise ships non Disney. We are going July 5th.

Early November I have a high school reunion with the girls, in SF. We haven't booked a room as yet, but we are thinking about renting an apt. for a 4 days in the heart of town. Can't wait to hear what tours your doing. It will give me a heads up.

Has anyone been on the Dream yet? I've been reading reports about the good bad and ugly. :confused3

[Skallywag]

Hi Patricia,

Over the pond here damp and miserable at the moment but not as cold as it can be this time of year. Perhaps we had all the white stuff before Christmas. We were doing the Disney Wonder from Los Angeles up to San Francisco and then onward to Alaska. This time we are doing the Navigator from San Francisco on teh 13th May arriving into Vancouver on the 25th.

We have booked three nights at the Wynndham Canterbury Resort using our Fairfield timeshare points and have read some reasonable reports. Will let you know how things go. Always wanted to see the Redwoods so that is why we have booked this walk through the woods with a guy named Tom and it sounds good. After Vancouver we are flying back to LA and staying at the Californian Disney villas for a couple of nights. Then unfortunately home.

Still thinking on Venice back to back for 2010 that is if NCL still do that one. it is two different itineries but you get to stay in Venice which we love and can use the ship as our hotel. Just nip across the bridge into Venice from where the cruise ships dock so no problem.
Bren

Bren

[taysmom]

Hay Steph and my Cruise friends,

Hope everyone is doing ok.

Steph, are you going to have a blog, on your DC? I would love to follow it. What part of Ca, are you from?

Jenna & I are thinking about 2/19/12 doing the mexican riviera cruise. Care to join us?

Hi pat! The feb cruise is a possiblity. My daughter will be deep in her term paper at that point so I'd have to see how her work progresses. Let me know if you book, I'll probably hold a spot with the discount just in case. I should be updating my blog. I randomly do it now, but always more so when we are gone. We are going with a large group on this years mex. plus all of the nice people we have been talking to on the boards! We live just outside of SF about 30min. in the east bay. I'm ready for vacation!

Hi all,

Nice to hear from you and glad you are all keeping well. Steph, we are doing an Alaska cruise this May with Regent Seven Sea. We did book Disney but they worked out more expensive. With Regent we get all gratutites, most of our excursions and drinks on board included in the price. We could hav chosen the slightly more expensive option but decided to sort our own airfares and accommodation. We are flying into San Francisco on te 10th May and the cruise leaves on te 13th. Just sorting out getting from the airport and what to do in the short time we are there. We have booked a trip with Tom to Muir Woods on the first morning and do want to do the evening Alcatraz as believe this has better atmosphere. Can you advise us on this. Also thinking of getting the city pass as of course we want to ride the trams having never been to the city before.

The excursions we have booked for nothing would probably cost as a fortune on Disney so well pleased with this.

Hope we can all meet up sometime in the future.
Brenda
Muir woods is beautiful, but can be very rugged. Make sure to wear proper hiking shoes and I recommend jeans or long pants as it can also be cold. May can be foggy in the bay so doing alcatraz in the afternoon is your best bet. The fog rolls out around noon but right back in around 3pm. Not a large window. The sights are gorgeous from the island. Again it can be quite chilly so wear layers. Cable cars can take forever catching from the starting point by fishermans wharf so try catching one at another point on the route. If you like seafood there are so many great spots around fishermans wharf. You really can't go wrong with any of them. (this is coming from a person who really dislikes seafood!) Coit tower is a neat little place. Good views. Also try to get over and walk the golden gate bridge..it's stunning. I've never done a city pass but you can get around on foot if you are close by the wharf and get alot done. Cabs are also plentiful and if you're really feeling active there are lots of bike rentals. I hope you have a great time. If you have any more questions feel free to email me taysmomca@gmail.com

Hi Brenda,

How's things over the pond?

We were on the Magic last year February presidents day. One big problem , on boarding day. The Magic was stuck in Castawy Cay due to storms on the Saturday that we were to leave. A 7 night cruise turned out to be a 6 night. :scared1:

Disney gave us a 20% discount, and 200.00 on board credit per person for future cruises. :wizard: We booked Alaska with the discounts costs were about the same as the other cruise ships non Disney. We are going July 5th.

Early November I have a high school reunion with the girls, in SF. We haven't booked a room as yet, but we are thinking about renting an apt. for a 4 days in the heart of town. Can't wait to hear what tours your doing. It will give me a heads up.

Has anyone been on the Dream yet? I've been reading reports about the good bad and ugly. :confused3

Nov/Dec is a great time to visit. The weather is very mild and not alot of fog. You should have so much fun. If you want any help use the above email addy to ask. I'm not an expert but i'd be happy to ask around.

My friends were on the dream inagural cruise and had a great time. It was the first real cruise so they said there were bumps but overall they said just being on the dream was enough for them. They were also in the video they used to promote the dream. Very exciting!

Have a great V-day!:love:

[vtiffany]

Hi Everyone,
Tom and I managed to squeeze in a 3 night Dream cruise earlier this month. I actually got on the last flight out of Milwaukee before the blizzard hit our area. Timing is everything! We had an inside cabin with the virtual porthole, I couldn't resist. There is so much amazing technology on that ship. We really enjoyed ourselves, but, we did have some issues with the layouts of the restaurants and the size of some of the hallways. The Aqua Duck was fantastic, rode it twice. The Cove was huge and quite comfortable. It was cool to see the whole island of Castaway Cay as the Dream is three stories taller than the Magic. All in all, we have really decided that 3 days is just not enough time on a Disney ship. We talked about booking the Fantasy in January 2013 for a 7 night to the western Caribbean. New ship, longer cruise. Can't get much better than that! We are booked on an Alaskan cruise in August but will be cancelling as I am having a knee replaced this spring:sad1:. Other than that, we leave Monday for our annual Cabo trip. Pat and Steph, if you go on the MR cruise next year, we will meet up with you when you port in Cabo. I love that we are keeping in touch over the past couple years. Everyone, enjoy your upcoming vacations.

[vtiffany]

New for 2012, 15 nights to Hawaii! Big news from DCL!

[taysmom]

HI all!
While on board the wonder last week, I booked the hawaii and then had parents remorse and cancelled. I just can't pull my kid out of school for 12 days at the end of the year. Damn those kids! LOL. I was hoping to meet up with purtypat next year on another wonder cruise but her english teacher is telling me not a good time. again..damn it! I rebooked spring break on the wonder (4/1) as a back up. :)

Hope everyone has fun on their upcoming cruises and vacations.

S

[pillow]

HI all!
While on board the wonder last week, I booked the hawaii and then had parents remorse and cancelled. I just can't pull my kid out of school for 12 days at the end of the year. Damn those kids! LOL. I was hoping to meet up with purtypat next year on another wonder cruise but her english teacher is telling me not a good time. again..damn it! I rebooked spring break on the wonder (4/1) as a back up. :)

Hope everyone has fun on their upcoming cruises and vacations.

S

Hey Steph. Take a look at 12/15/12 on the Fantasy. Good prices even though its close to Christmas. Is Orlando too far for you to travel?

Jodie

[taysmom]

Hey Steph. Take a look at 12/15/12 on the Fantasy. Good prices even though its close to Christmas. Is Orlando too far for you to travel?

Jodie

Tay has finals then. I should start homeschooling...lol. :idea:

I am looking at WDW/Dream or Fantasy cruise in early summer 2013.

Question..what is better WDW then cruise or cruise then WDW?

HI Jodie! Are you doing alaska?? Next year they fly out of seattle...saves me about 150-200pp in airfare so maybe 2014? Who knows.

[Skallywag]

Glad everyone is still keeping in touch and planning. We pulled out of the Wonder Akaska cruise and are on Regent Navigator from San Francisco on the 13th May returning to Vancouver. We then fly down to Los Angeles for the last couple of days at Grand Californian.

Would love to do Hawaii but feel it will be too expensive with the flights also. Have booked a back to back on NCL from Venice next June which goes down as far as Turkey and is a different itinerary each week apart from returning to Venice which I love and can live with that. Booked at the cruise show at Olympia in London and have about $1400 on board credit and a rear facing penthouse suite. All that and a couple of hours flight which sounds great.

Hope everyone who is doing alaska has a great time and hope we can meet up some time in the future.
Brenda

[pillow]

Tay has finals then. I should start homeschooling...lol. :idea:

I am looking at WDW/Dream or Fantasy cruise in early summer 2013.

Question..what is better WDW then cruise or cruise then WDW?

HI Jodie! Are you doing alaska?? Next year they fly out of seattle...saves me about 150-200pp in airfare so maybe 2014? Who knows.

I like WDW then cruise = craziness then relaxation.

No, we ended up cancelling Alaska due to cost. I noticed that they moved the port to Seattle, which definitely makes things easier. I think when we do Alaska, I might try a different cruise line. I like the idea of a point to point cruise versus round trip so that we can explore Denali and such either before or after the cruise.

This summer, we're driving up to Maine and renting a cabin in Acadia. Looking forward to that.

We're leaving for Florida tomorrow - doing the Disney waterparks, Epcot, and both Universal parks. Can't wait!

Hope you can find a cruise that works. I know its hard to do with school schedules. If you book a verandah, book a 5E category - either 5150 or 5650; they have extra large verandahs. I booked one by accident and about died when I saw the pictures!

Jodie

[PURTYPAT1]

Have a great time Jodi!!! I miss you on our thread. The girls aren't to friendly.

Steph I bought my air for 2/17 to 2/26 Kayak sent me an alert (SALE) EWR quick stop in SLC then off SNA SNA to ATL EWR RT with tax 217.00 :banana: my friends tried to book it, and it went up to $600.00 in one hour. Go figure. We are taking a chance with the stop in SLC (I have a rent a car reserved just in case)

I would love to meet in Disneyland!!! We booked the Hyatt for 2 night before the cruise. How was your cruise???? Did you and Tay have a great time??

Brenda, your trip sounds awsome!!!

[taysmom]

Have a great time Jodi!!! I miss you on our thread. The girls aren't to friendly.

Steph I bought my air for 2/17 to 2/26 Kayak sent me an alert (SALE) EWR quick stop in SLC then off SNA SNA to ATL EWR RT with tax 217.00 :banana: my friends tried to book it, and it went up to $600.00 in one hour. Go figure. We are taking a chance with the stop in SLC (I have a rent a car reserved just in case)

I would love to meet in Disneyland!!! We booked the Hyatt for 2 night before the cruise. How was your cruise???? Did you and Tay have a great time??

Brenda, your trip sounds awsome!!!

Thats a great price! I've got to start doing that. I will put those dates on my calendar and reserve a room in DL. We can definately join you in DL before your cruise. We don't get a ski week :sad1:

I still speak fondly of this cruise and all the wonderful people we met. Miss u all:love: