FEBRUARY 14, 2009 (very early roll-call!)

[grizbuzz]

OK guys, bare with me b/c I had a thought this morning :scared1: . I was thinking about using DVC points for 2 studios @ OKW on Fri. the 13th (40 points) & then paying for the DCL shuttle for 5 people ($350), instead of getting the rental car each way & dealing with shuttles back & forth to the hotel & Avis location. THAT total is $110 for the car (plus gas) & $175 for hotel. I realize I'm paying more to take to DCL shuttle by $70 or so, but I've heard that rental cars & such can be a pain in the gooly. And of course there's 40 DVC points that I'm burning up, but....

So what do you guys think??

We're staying at AKV for 3 nights prior to the cruise. However, I wouldn't do DVC for just one night for my family - we're jet lagged from the flight (from CA), late check in, early departure for the cruise, plus it's weekend's points. So I'd say, either bump it up and stay at OKW for TWO nights or just stay at a convenient hotel.

As for the shuttle...I'd opt for the convenience of not having to rent a car. But you might look into a private shuttle instead of DCL...could be cheaper with five people.

Just my two cents :)

[Jodi]

Allright guys, here goes.

First, thanks for all the feedback. I thought about it last night & you guys are right, it's just too many points to waste :rotfl2: . I've got such anxiety about my points!! You guys have snapped me out of my temporary insanity, don't know what I was thinking :eek: .

So we're getting the FL tours van ($230) on the a.m. of the 13th when we get in &having it take us to the Country Inn Suites ($170). I know it's $100 more than renting a car, but I just feel it'll be less of a hassle. Then there's gas :scared1: .

Meanwhile I'm waiting for SW to open up & debating whether or not to blow $20 on the '08 Passporter guide. I've heard a lot of people here talk about it...is it worth the jing?? Oh, and lets not forget trying to rack the VISA rewards card points via work ;) . With any luck I'll pay for the entire cruise with points!!! :hyper:

Have a great weekend all!

Jodi

[Jodi]

Hey Guys!!

Just bumping to ask if I should buy a passporter, especially with all the info here on the boards??:confused3

Thanks
Jodi

[PURTYPAT1]

Hi Jodi,

Happy Summer!!!! :goodvibes

If I were you, I would call your local library, & order it. Read it & if you like it order it.

I have taken it out last month, & probably will do so again in December.

There use to be an excel sheet, that was going around, equivelent to a book. I had my DH print it out,(about 80 pages) I thought this was just as good as the passporter. Will look for it, or ask if it's still going around.

Off to shopping................

[disnutt]

Jodi I bought the Passporter using an online gift certificate and I wish I had used it on something else.:( I haven't seen anything that I haven't read on the boards.

Check it out of the library but I wouldn't recommend that you pay money for it. I gave mine to my mother so she could look it over. She seems happy with it.

[Jodi]

Thanks for the advice, guys. Yeah, it didn't look like too much was there that I hadn't seen b4. I'll save my $20 & get a margaruita on the boat :rotfl2: .

Hey Kiena, any races coming up anytime soon? I got into the NYC 1/2 marathon in July & am SOOOO pumped!!:banana: :woohoo:

[disnutt]

Hey Kiena, any races coming up anytime soon? I got into the NYC 1/2 marathon in July & am SOOOO pumped!!:banana: :woohoo:

Congratulations on getting in to NYC!!!!!:cool1: It's funny that we think that getting picked in a lottery to run a 1/2 is exciting! :hyper: Yea! I GET to run 13.1 miles!!!:banana:

I will be doing the Chicago Distance Classic 1/2 in Aug. I may be doing some half in Erie in either July or Sept. My friend just left me a voice mail yesterday about it but I don't know the date. I'm going to use it as a long run day and just enjoy being up around the lake.

Why can't SWA just release the Feb flights? I just want that part over! The fuel prices are starting to worry me. I may try to convince the family that we should do the "Burgh to Boat" ultra-marathon and start running to the Cape to finish just in time to get on the ship! :laughing:

[Jodi]

Kiena - I've always wanted to do the Chicago Distance 1/2...is this your first time? The 1/2 in Erie sounds beautiful. OK, what's this ultramarathon you speak of "Burgh to the Boat" or? popcorn:: Sounds interesting! I want to do the one in New Hampshire "Run to the Beach" or whatever it is.

SW better get their poop together & release those dates already.

Sorry for hijacking the thread guys!

[vavalynn2]

not much else to add except the new passporter does not seem worth it. i got it on amazon with a coupon for 15 with another book, so i recd free shipping. i would have rather bought a few konk coolers with the money.

i cant tell you how happy we are that we have airfare and a rental booked. i just checked on rental car prices and they have increased significantly since we booked a few months ago.

i will keep my fingers crossed for the swa fares to come out asap.

happy weekend!

[grizbuzz]

Congratulations on getting in to NYC!!!!!:cool1: It's funny that we think that getting picked in a lottery to run a 1/2 is exciting! :hyper: Yea! I GET to run 13.1 miles!!!:banana:

I will be doing the Chicago Distance Classic 1/2 in Aug. I may be doing some half in Erie in either July or Sept. My friend just left me a voice mail yesterday about it but I don't know the date. I'm going to use it as a long run day and just enjoy being up around the lake.

Why can't SWA just release the Feb flights? I just want that part over! The fuel prices are starting to worry me. I may try to convince the family that we should do the "Burgh to Boat" ultra-marathon and start running to the Cape to finish just in time to get on the ship! :laughing:

OK...I'm completely impressed :worship:

I'm plugging along slowly here in my training. Will be doing my first 10k in August and then hope to be ready to move to a 1/2 marathon. Still have to pick one to work towards. I think it would be great to have a nice destination to motivate me. ::yes::

[rubbergypsy]

hi everyone, well i finally booked the inbound air, airtran 109 nonstop rochester to orlando on wed feb11, evening flight, did not really want to go on wed but could not stand shopping around for the flights anymore. what a relief. just have to worry about return flight, perhaps we will just stay there!! so that gives us a couple of days to play in the world which will make my son happy.

[vavalynn2]

Rubbergypsy- Great Deal! :thumbsup2 It must be a relief to know that you will be getting there. Good luck with the return flight.

[disnutt]

Jodi- My 'Burgh to Boat ultra is my private answer to expensive airline tix. I was joking that I would convince my family to run from Pittsburgh to Florida to catch the ship. Just a bad running joke! I'd be willing but don't think the rest of the gang would do it!:hyper: Also, it's my 1st CDC! I'm excited but worried about the heat after last year's marathon there.

Grizbuzz If you understood my pace you wouldn't be so impressed. I like long, SLOW, runs! I'm just lucky that I was stupid enough to think I could do the Disney marathon for Team in Training with only 6 months 'training' to get me started. I did do it because I didn't know any better so now I'm working my way down the race ladder and trying to develop speed vs endurance. To me that's much harder.

I would recommend using one of the Disney runs as motivation if you want a nice location!

As a matter of fact I did my 11 yr anniversary of my 1st marathon training run on June 21!:banana: I took my 12 yo out with me and we did a pleasant 3.1 mile run! She's training w/ me for the Tower of Terror!

OK, back to this cruise thing! I'm starting to look at kid's sale clothes especially dressy stuff for the cruise. I'm not a good clothes planner so I have no idea what size to get for them. Maybe one size up from now as they are all actively growing? I'd like to have nice dresses for formal night. Nothing really formal but nice for the girls. Maybe some nice pants/shirt/tie for the little guy. I know we won't do the tux thing but we can kick it up a couple notches.

Now if SWA would just get to posting! I'm afraid I'm going to have to fly some other airline!:scared1:

Have a great Wednesday!
Kiena

[Jodi]

Kiena - Oh, DUH!! Good joke, though. I didn't realize you were from Pittsburgh...or did I? Anyways, just slow:rotfl2: . I thought it was something like that NH Mountains to Beach run...:lmao: . I'm beginning to think that we're going to be spending $200 each way :scared1: on airfare w/ SW. I'm trying to figure out if it'll be worth flying in on THURS instead of Fri. if the fares are a lot cheaper that day. :confused3 .

I've been thinking about buying some clearance summer stuff, too in the next few weeks for the boys - I'm not sure that we'll be going to the formal night dinner, still have to convince DH to pack a suit....not likely :laughing: . Besides, if others are in a tux, he'll feel like a "tool" in a "cheesy" suit :confused: . Oh well.

RubberG! - Nice deal on that outbound flight!! :thumbsup2 . Who cares about getting home, right??:rotfl2:

Grizbuzz - Good luck with that 10k! Hey, I only started running in the summer of '05 & my main motivation was b/c I signed up for the Disney World 1/2 marathon for Jan '06. Definitely needed somewhere fun if I was gonna run 13.1 miles :laughing: . You should sign up for the Disney Princess marathon in March of '09, you'd have plenty of time to train. I recommend buying the book "Marathoning for Mortals" if you decide to start training. It's an invaluable tool, for sure! They have run/walk plans as well as just running plans. Check it out of your library, maybe!! Good luck!!

Patty - Did you get some good shopping in the other day??

Hello to Jodi & VAVA!

[Jodijo]

Hi Everyone! I hope you all are enjoying your summer.

As I mentioned before, we took this same cruise in Feb 08. (We are so excited to be doing it with all of you in Feb.09) Anyway, I have been working on posting photos and scanning documents into my website. I thought some of you might be interested in seeing what you have to look forward to.

Disney Cruise 08 (http://web.mac.com/jodihiggins/Jodis_site/Disney_08_Photos/Disney_08_Photos.html)

Enjoy!!!

[disnutt]

Hi Everyone! I hope you all are enjoying your summer.

As I mentioned before, we took this same cruise in Feb 08. (We are so excited to be doing it with all of you in Feb.09) Anyway, I have been working on posting photos and scanning documents into my website. I thought some of you might be interested in seeing what you have to look forward to.

Disney Cruise 08 (http://web.mac.com/jodihiggins/Jodis_site/Disney_08_Photos/Disney_08_Photos.html)

Enjoy!!!

Jodijo Thanks for posting the link! The kids and I enjoyed watching the slide show. I don't really want to be late to CC but getting free rentals sure would soften the blow!

[vavalynn2]

Hi everyone!:yay:

Just wanted to share my constant enthusiasm for the cruise in Feb!

I brought it up to DH again yesterday and he said it was far, far away. I shared that it just around the corner. Final deposits are due in just a few short months.

Okay, so it might be a while until we go- but I am still looking forward to it.

I looked over the itin and noticed we would be there for Valentines Day. Dont ask me what took me so long to see that. How crowded do you think Palo will be on that night? Do you think they will do anything special for that day?

Happy Weekend and Happy Summer! :cool1:

[disnutt]

Vava- I was wondering if the spa would be open on Valentine's Day. I had read about that exotic shower thing for 2. I haven't read anything about if the spa is open on the first night of the cruise.

[grizbuzz]

Jodijo--Thanks for posting the pictures. I really enjoyed looking through all of them!

Jodi and Diznutt--I'd LOVE to sign up for the Princess Marathon in '09 but I'm afraid I can't swing a Feb cruise trip and then another March trip this coming year. But I'm definitely planning, hoping, dreaming to get to a WDW half marathon eventually - hopefully in 2010.

I did finally register for my first half marathon, btw. I signed up for the Huntington Beach run for Feb 1, 2009. Looks beautiful, not too hilly and who knows, perhaps I can make a stop to DL while I'm in Southern California. ;)

I looked for Marathon for Mortals at the book store this weekend, but it wasn't there, so I think I'm going to have to get this online. I did get ChiRunning which is pretty interesting.

vavalynn -I'm hoping for a Palo Valentine's dinner with DH! :lovestruc

All--Have a great week :goodvibes

[Jodi]

I did finally register for my first half marathon, btw. I signed up for the Huntington Beach run for Feb 1, 2009. Looks beautiful, not too hilly and who knows, perhaps I can make a stop to DL while I'm in Southern California. ;)

I looked for Marathon for Mortals at the book store this weekend, but it wasn't there, so I think I'm going to have to get this online. I did get ChiRunning which is pretty interesting.


Grizzbuzz - Congrats for signing up for your first 1/2!!:banana: Good for you!!! Huntington Beach?? I'm so jealous! DL is a definite "stopover" while down there, eh?:laughing: . Definitely sign up for WDW 1/2 in '10, but be forewarned that this event sells out in about a month, so look to sign up in Jan of '09!!

I can't believe you bought ChiRunning!!! That is my BIBLE!!! That book has done wonders for me, it's tough @ first, but stick with it, you won't be sorry. That, coupled with "Marathoning for Mortals" & you'll be unstoppable!!:thumbsup2

VaVa - Hey, it's not that far away!! You're right! Tell your DH that even MY ogre DH is starting to talk about it :lmao: . I've been wondering as well if they'll do anything special on V-Day.

Kiena - I've thinking about getting a week long pass for the Rainforest Room or whatever it is :rolleyes1 . Anyone know anything firsthand about this place???popcorn::

NameSake - Thanks SO much for posting your info & pix! Absolutely loved scrolling through! I'm SO psyched!:dance3:

Patty - Where are you, woman??

Happy rest of Tuesday!

[disnutt]

Grizzbuzz- Congrats on signing up for your half! I've got ChiRunning and haven't read it. Now that you've got it and Jodi is praising it I guess I better get it off the shelf.

Jodi Do they have more than one of those rooms at the spa? I hope so because we'll be in there a lot!:laughing:

Where is Patty?

Hope everyone else is going to have a great 4th! :cheer2: We're just going to cook out and hang out!

[Snow What]

Hi All,
I love the DIS! Read 'em all the time. My first post. :disrocks:
My family , DH:wizard: , DD5 princess: , DD 3 princess: and I are cruising this week (FEB 14). We are travelling with two other families (in-laws and cousins) for a total of 6 adults and 8 children (ages 13-3). We can't wait. We have cabins together:grouphug: .

I have my airfare, and talk about stressful!! :eek: 308pp out of BOS. I had to purchase 3 separate itineraries, 1 tix @ 209, 1 @ 274 and 2 @ 374 on Delta NON-stop, leaving on thursday. Our original plan was to go out on Friday the 13th and stay at the Hyatt with the rest of the family, but I got better airfare on Thursday. I can't decide whether to use DVC points to stay at WDW or pay for a cheap hotel somewhere else. I may want to use my points for a longer stay at WDW in the future, unless I decide that cruising is the only way to go! NO WAY, I need my annual WDW fix.

[PURTYPAT1]

Welcome Snowwhat. Is this your first Disney cruise? You got a great price on your airfare. These days $300.00 is a bargain. I have the link for the Hyatt coupon for $135.00 if you need it. We are staying there on the 13th & on the 21st. Are you renting a car?

My advice to you & all who have purchased there airline tickets, is to check your flights at least once a week, & hope not for a change. If there is, & your not happy, ask us first before you do anything.

Our AA flight non stop home to LGA has be totally canceled. Without our knowledge AA is now not flying into LGA anymore. We were automatically switched to JFK. No worries, I am going to have a limo pick us up at JFK. No stress. LOL

Hi "everybody" glad you all missed me. I have been selling away on ebay. My trip is just about paid in full. :banana: Thanks to ebay LOL

Anybody going away for the 4th. We usually watch Macys fireworks on DH's boat. Gas is so.....high, that we had to sell it :guilty: so no NY fireworks this year. We will go to the parade & local town fireworks

What is everyone doing this weekend?

[Snow What]

YES, our first Disney cruise. We did Carnival in the 90's before we were married.:lovestruc
I had more problems with Delta in OCT 07 (and Dec 05) with schedule and equipment changes. Our times and seats were changed and my 2 and 4 year old had seats all alone. :furious: I routinely check the flights. Now I call Delta after booking on line and ask that the party not be split up in the event of changes because I am travelling with young children.

PURTYPAT1, thanks for the Hyatt coupon offer, but we probably won't be staying there now that we are going two nights in advance.

I might consider renting a car. Cheaper than DCL bus or private limo. And you can go when you want. I'll spend the money on the return and possibly go with Happy Limo back to the airport.
The only thing holding me back now is dealing with my luggage. If I do DCL busses, then once I check in for the bus, I don't have to worry about it until I need to unpack on the ship.
Can you drive your luggage to the port THEN return your car and take the shuttle to the port with only your carry ons?:confused3

[grizbuzz]

Welcome Snow What! :wave:

Looks like your darling princesses are same age as my little monsters. :donald: :dumbo: :sulley: :tigger: Perhaps they can meet at the kids club!

[PURTYPAT1]

YES, our first Disney cruise. We did Carnival in the 90's before we were married.:lovestruc
I had more problems with Delta in OCT 07 (and Dec 05) with schedule and equipment changes. Our times and seats were changed and my 2 and 4 year old had seats all alone. :furious: I routinely check the flights. Now I call Delta after booking on line and ask that the party not be split up in the event of changes because I am travelling with young children.


I have be going to Disney World with my DD13 for the last 7 years, twice a year. They always change our flights & seats. My DFIL was killed in a plane, so you can understand my fears of being separated (now you all know why my DH won't be with us on this trip) DD & I have never been separated in all of our trips, & I have never seen a family with young children separated. Keep checking & keep calling, be persistent. If Delta changes your flight, find a flight that you like, before you call Delta back & politely let them know that's the flight you would like. They are usually very accommodating. If you get an agent on the phone, that's not, hang up & try until you get one.


[/B]

PURTYPAT1, thanks for the Hyatt coupon offer, but we probably won't be staying there now that we are going two nights in advance.

Why not try, price line. I hear last month, lot's of people were getting the Hyatt for $80.00 on priceline. You can get a 4 star for under a $100.00


[B]
I might consider renting a car. Cheaper than DCL bus or private limo. And you can go when you want. I'll spend the money on the return and possibly go with Happy Limo back to the airport.

Look for the car now, & reserve it, while it is cheap & free to reserve. You can always cancel it later


[B]
The only thing holding me back now is dealing with my luggage. If I do DCL busses, then once I check in for the bus, I don't have to worry about it until I need to unpack on the ship.
Can you drive your luggage to the port THEN return your car and take the shuttle to the port with only your carry ons?:confused3

Yes you can drop your luggage & your family off at the port, it will be easier to do this. You family can actually check in I believe. I have read that families do this all the time on the boards. I am doing this also. I am going with another family, & will be dropping them off at the port. We are saving lot's of $$$$ my doing this.

[Snow What]

[QUOTE=PURTYPAT1;26011116] If Delta changes your flight, find a flight that you like, before you call Delta back & politely let them know that's the flight you would like. They are usually very accommodating. If you get an agent on the phone, that's not, hang up & try until you get one.

I will give a Delta rep one chance to fix the situation and if I run into any problems I automatically ask for a supervisor. On our flight in DEC 05, I was handed boarding passes at the gate for two seats together and 2 single seats. I just told the gate agent that I will let the flight crew deal with it and take care of my 10 month old. They quickly resolved the problem. But we sat 2 and 2 in consecutive rows.


[QUOTE=PURTYPAT1;26011116]Why not try, price line. I hear last month, lot's of people were getting the Hyatt for $80.00 on priceline. You can get a 4 star for under a $100.00

I never tried it before. I might give it a go this time.

][QUOTE=PURTYPAT1;26011116]
Look for the car now, & reserve it, while it is cheap & free to reserve. You can always cancel it later
I've done that a number of times, especially with all of the discount codes!
But now I am realizing that I need car seats for the kids...that can add significantly to the rental costs.

Decisions...decisions

[Snow What]

Looks like your darling princesses are same age as my little monsters.
I have a feeling that my oldest will find yours. Even though she does dancing school and dresses up as a princess, she thinks she is a boy.
I was talking to my husband about getting some fabric pirate 'hats' for everyone and suggested red with white polka dots for the girls and black for they boys and she jumped right in and told me she wanted a black one!

[PURTYPAT1]

[QUOTE]

I am realizing that I need car seats for the kids...that can add significantly to the rental costs.

Decisions...decisions

Just a thought, but it might be much cheaper, for buying the car seats, cheap at a yard sale, & mail them down to the rent a car by Fedex ground, or if your staying at the airport hotel, send it to the Marriott (take there shuttle) there are rent a car places accross the street from the airport hotels. Again, just a thought .;)

[kimkreis]

Hoping to talk hubby into combining our 15th anniversary with a first Disney cruise with the kids. He said if I can get it for the 4 of us for under 3K then it is a go!!! They offered a military discount for this same time period last year so I am crossing my fingers another one comes out.

If we do get the cruise can someone tell me more about that spa dual shower thing?!!!! Sounds right up the alley for our anniversary.

[disnutt]

Snow What Welcome to the group!

kimkreis Hope you can get the deal you need! The spa thing used to be the exotic rasul or something like that. You and a partner get to go into a massage/shower area together and give each other the treatment!:rotfl:

Purty Welcome back and way to go on ebay!

[sbflynn5]

I am not sure I am in with the right group but we are planning to book our first DC leaving out on Feb 12th! I would love to hear from others!!

[grizbuzz]

Just booked (or should I say moved my reservation) to Beach Club Villas for three nights before cruise. Now I just got to hope my family can get that many days off in February! BCV, BWV and WLV were all available Feb 11-14.

I'm still running - up to 1 hour long run which is only getting me alittle more than 4 miles. Need to get to 10k before my August run. Not sure how I'm gonna get there. I found a very cool running podcast to listen to for inspiration, which is keeping me moving. Just keep on runnning...

I was wondering if anyone was interested in doing a little gift exchange sort of a thing on our cruise. We did it on the Med cruise and my kids and I really enjoyed it. Just assigned interested participants one night of the cruise to distribute their goodies (any little thing from postcards of their home city, to treats, etc...) and I think participants got about a treat a day. I can organize if people are interested.

Still no airplane tickets booked. I'm hoping prices drop for the SFO-MCO tickets - I know they did last year in the last couple months before the cruise.

Hope everyone is doing well!!
Have a great weekend!

-Jen

[Snow What]

BCV, BWV and WLV were all available Feb 11-14.
Thanks Jen-
That is good to know. I am still considering where I would like to stay. Home is BWV and BCV but was thinking about SSR. We usually don't do much time at DTD while we are there, so I thought it might be a little relaxing before the cruise to just hang out and walk around DTD a little and get the kids to bed early. :laughing: I certainly don't see them going to bed early on the cruise.


I was wondering if anyone was interested in doing a little gift exchange sort of a thing on our cruise.... I can organize if people are interested.
That would be awesome! :thumbsup2 If you are willing to take on this task, I think it would be wonderful. I wouldn't know how to organize it, and I certainly wouldn't have much time to do it either...
I have been looking at the pictures other people have of their FE's and want to make one. I think my girls princess: princess: will get a kick out of it too.

Still no airplane tickets booked. I'm hoping prices drop for the SFO-MCO tickets - I know they did last year in the last couple months before the cruise.
Keep checking. I was able to get one ticket for 209. (another at 274 and 2 for 374 =average price 308) My family is travelling under 3 different itineraries (same flights), because the prices were different based on the number of travellers. If you are willing to split your itineraries, you may get better pricing with fewer travellers per itinerary. Then when I finished I called Delta and asked them to link the intineraries in their system, just in case they needed to change schedules or equipment, these 3 groups cannot be split up.
Good luck with the flight search!! pixiedust:

[grizbuzz]

.
Thanks Jen-
That is good to know. I am still considering where I would like to stay. Home is BWV and BCV but was thinking about SSR. We usually don't do much time at DTD while we are there, so I thought it might be a little relaxing before the cruise to just hang out and walk around DTD a little and get the kids to bed early. :laughing: I certainly don't see them going to bed early on the cruise.


I'd guess SSR would be available too. I only asked about BCV, BWV and WLV for studio availability. MS seemed to think BCV was hardest to get, so if that was available chances were very good for all other resorts. I haven't stayed in an Epcot resort before, so we're excited!

[Snow What]

I haven't stayed in an Epcot resort before, so we're excited!
I LOVE staying at the EPCOT resorts. Walking distance to both Epcot and Hollywood Studios (it will always be MGM to me! :sad1: )
You will love it too. BWV is my favorite, but BCV has a better pool area.

[rubbergypsy]

got akv from 2/11-2/14 this morning. going the value route. only 37 points for the three nights. need those points for our lengthy summer vacation. Just returned from ssr tuesday evening after being there for 8 nights. weather was great, only rained 3 times. only got in the nineties twice. cannot believe how quick it goes by.
as for the gift exchange that would be great, just let me know what i need to do.
cannot find decent air home, sure glad we can at least get there!!! who knows about going home!! i do however want to fly out after the cruise on saturday

[grizbuzz]

got akv from 2/11-2/14 this morning. going the value route. only 37 points for the three nights. need those points for our lengthy summer vacation.

We stayed in AKV value rooms last year after a Wonder cruise. I got studios for my parents and brother and I thought they were quite nice. They had a view of the pool area and were quite large after the cruise cabins. We stayed in a 2-bedroom value with parking lot view and I was happy there as well. It wasn't noisy and there wasn't a lot of traffic in the parking lots and there were trees, etc. So I'm thumbs up for 3 nights value for 37 points! We'd do it again, but we're ready to try something new after Animal Kingdom after our last two trips

.

That would be awesome! :thumbsup2 If you are willing to take on this task, I think it would be wonderful. I wouldn't know how to organize it, and I certainly wouldn't have much time to do it either...
I have been looking at the pictures other people have of their FE's and want to make one. I think my girls princess: princess: will get a kick out of it too.




I'll plan on organizing a little gift exchange! I'll just be collecting names of those who want to participate for now. So far I have Snow What and rubbergypsy. Other takers?

[Snow What]

I'll plan on organizing a little gift exchange!..... So far I have Snow What and rubbergypsy. Other takers?

I was telling my DSIL about the gift exchange and she :snooty: was making fun of me because I have joined the DIS and wanted to 'meet' people before going on the cruise. Then she told me she wanted to do it too.... Well, I told her that she would have to register as a DISer and join in on the discussion. I think it is too much work for her, but she certainly sounded a little jealous.:laughing:

[Snow What]

Those of you that are staying a few nights at WDW before the cruise, are you planning on going to the parks too? Do you have AP's? I don't and since we are only going for 2 night before, we are not planning on doing any parks. We are going in Dec (6-10th) and I was thinking about seeing if it is worth it (price wise) to purchase extra days on the park pass with the 'no expire' option. We would only have one day on our pre-cruise stay to go to the parks, so I am already thinking it is not going to be worth it.
I usually plan vacations well in advance but it has never been worth the $$ to purchase AP's for us. The kids are too young to be dragging all over the World with hopper passes, so we just stick to one park per day.

[grizbuzz]

I was telling my DSIL about the gift exchange and she :snooty: was making fun of me because I have joined the DIS and wanted to 'meet' people before going on the cruise. Then she told me she wanted to do it too.... Well, I told her that she would have to register as a DISer and join in on the discussion. I think it is too much work for her, but she certainly sounded a little jealous.:laughing:

The more the merrier! Hope she joins the boards. If not, she can still do the gift exchange, provided your willing to give her info.


Those of you that are staying a few nights at WDW before the cruise, are you planning on going to the parks too? Do you have AP's? I don't and since we are only going for 2 night before, we are not planning on doing any parks. We are going in Dec (6-10th) and I was thinking about seeing if it is worth it (price wise) to purchase extra days on the park pass with the 'no expire' option. We would only have one day on our pre-cruise stay to go to the parks, so I am already thinking it is not going to be worth it.
I usually plan vacations well in advance but it has never been worth the $$ to purchase AP's for us. The kids are too young to be dragging all over the World with hopper passes, so we just stick to one park per day.

We got the 10-day non expiration passes last year and used three days. I'm planning on using another 2 or 3 days before the Feb cruise. With the water park options, I'm thinking these passes will last us 4 trips to WDW. I think it's worth it for us.

[Snow What]

The more the merrier! Hope she joins the boards. If not, she can still do the gift exchange, provided your willing to give her info.

I'm with you! THE MORE THE MERRIER. I think I can manage to share the gift exchange info with her.;)

So, who else is in??

[vavalynn2]

I'm with you! THE MORE THE MERRIER. I think I can manage to share the gift exchange info with her.;)

So, who else is in??

First- Welcome Snow What and Kim!!! I have been away from the boards for a while, our group keeps growing! Yeah!!:banana:

A while ago I booked marked a few threads about the fish extenders. DH and I would be interested in joining the gift exchange. I am still trying to read about it and not sure I understand it just yet, but count us in :thumbsup2

No real cruise updates here. We are set for hotel, car rental and airfare. As it gets closer I will spend more time figuring out excursions and looking at the most recent navigators. The one thing I would not like to miss on this cruise is the midnight dessert buffet. We missed it on the navigator and headed to bed early unknowingly on our first cruise. I would just like to see it in person. And maybe try a treat or two. :goodvibes

Hope all is well and enjoying the summer! We are enjoying it as much as possible. Before we know it we will be raking the leaves and getting ready for the snow. :cold:

Take care!

[Jodi]

Hey guys!!

Sorry I've been absent as of late....Count us in for the gift exchange :thumbsup2 . I'm kind of slow when it comes to this kind of stuff, so just let me know what I need to do :rotfl2: :rolleyes: !

I've been reading things like they'll be changing (or have already) the age requirements for teens @ the club. Now it'll be 14 & up. Fine by me, as my 13 y/o isn't ready for the "scene" that I've heard takes place up there late @ night :rolleyes1 .

For all of you waiting for SW tix to go on sale, I read on their site that they should be releasing flights for that week around 8/21! Let's keep our fingers crossed, eh?

Jodi

[disnutt]

Happy Monday everyone! :rotfl:

The gift exchange sounds like fun but I'm like Jodi and need clear directions!

Welcome to the newbies! I'm beginning to lose track of everyone's names/disboard names. I need to make a spreadsheet!:idea:

My calendar is marked for those SWA tix. I want that part over with ASAP!

Got to get to work. Take care!
Kiena

[grizbuzz]

Woohoo! We're getting more takers for the gift exchange!

Signed up for the gift exchange I have so far:
-grizbuzz (Jen, John, Max DS5, Nico DS3)
-SnowWhat and DSIL (Cabin 1: Jean, Eddie, Catrina DD5, and Christine DD will be 2 weeks shy of 4; Cabin 2: DSIL Debbie, Buzz, DS 11, DD9)
-Jodi (Cabin 1: Jodi and DH; Cabin 2: Spencer DS13, step-son Eli 13, step-daughter Skye 17)
-disnutt (Cabin 1- me, DH, DS 5; Cabin 2: disnutt's mother, DD-13, DD-8; Cabin 3- MIL, FIL)
-rubbergypsy (Cabin 1: rubbergypsy, DD8, DS17; Cabin 2 (?): Friend, DS6, DD9, DD12)
-lovesDLS (2 people)
-Jodijo (Cabin 1: Mitch & Jodi; Cabin 2: Mason (13) & Mickayla (11))

I will provide you all clear instructions on what to do as we get nearer the date.

Here's process we used on the 2007 Mediterranean cruise which I was planning to repeat.
-Participants will get small gifts for each cabin signed up. So as of now, each participant would bring 12 gifts (and hopefully we'll get more people to sign up!!).
-As we get closer to the departure date, you will PM me your cabin room.
-I will write up a gift exchange list to distribute at our DISMeet (we are having one, right?) with a list of cabins to deliver gifts to, as well as your assigned day to deliver the gifts. So that way, each day a gift or two will be waiting at your door.
-Fish extenders not required, though if you want to make/bring one, by all means do.

Kinds of gifts people brought at the Med cruise: postcards/treats from where they live, candy, scrapbooky kinds of things, items which might be fun/useful on the cruise. Only rules: not expensive and not too large (only so much room in the suitcase.

Idea is to be fun and entirely stress free!

Suggestions welcome on how we do it this year.

-Jen

[Snow What]

I know this might get confusing, but is there a way to find out the number of guests per family/cabin and the ages of any children?
Just thinking about stickers and tatoos for the kids. I am sure that a 7 year old boy would not be too happy about getting princess tatoos!! :laughing: :laughing:

[rubbergypsy]

myself, dd8 and ds17 in our cabin. my friend is also going on this cruise with her 3 children ds6 dd9 dd12. i told her about this thread so hopefully she will respond. :woohoo:

[grizbuzz]

Yes, I can keep track of this info as well. Though this will only be for the overambitious ;).

However, I suggest that we make it an option and not a rule to customize gifts for each cabin. As they say at my DSs' preschool..."you get what you get, so don't throw a fit about it!"

Signed up for the gift exchange I have so far:
-grizbuzz (Jen, John, Max - DS5, Nico - DS3)
-SnowWhat and DSIL (Cabin 1:? and Cabin 2:? )
-vavalynn2
-Jodi
-disnutt
-rubbergypsy (Cabin 1: rubbergypsy, DD8, DS17; Cabin 2 (?): Friend, DS6, DD9, DD12)

[Snow What]

I'm certainly not looking to customize gifts for everyone...who has time for that?!?!?!:laughing: There are some ideas that I have been floating around in my head :idea: and one of them is a gift will be a one per person type of gift, not just a family gift. Other ideas involve tatoos and stickers and I really wouldn't want to disappoint any of the kiddos by giving 'girl stickers' to the boys! Although if my girls got boy tatoos they would be psyched!!
Besides, I am really excited about this and I like being creative. If I start early enough, I could plan something nice, yet inexpensive. I am a planner. I already bought new clothes and bathing suits for my girls, thanks to the summer sales that start so early. :yay: All of their stuff is packed away in my vacation bin! (yes, you can call me a loser!!):blush:

[Snow What]

Signed up for the gift exchange I have so far:
-grizbuzz (Jen, John, Max - DS5, Nico - DS3)
-SnowWhat and DSIL (Cabin 1:? and Cabin 2:? )
-vavalynn2
-Jodi
-disnutt
-rubbergypsy (Cabin 1: rubbergypsy, DD8, DS17; Cabin 2 (?): Friend, DS6, DD9, DD12)

My cabin
-jean, eddie, catrina DD5, and christine DD will be 2 weeks shy of 4.

DSIL cabin
-debbie, buzz, DS 11, DD 9

[vavalynn2]

We are two adults, Tyler and Marra

[grizbuzz]

My cabin
-jean, eddie, catrina DD5, and christine DD will be 2 weeks shy of 4.

DSIL cabin
-debbie, buzz, DS 11, DD 9

Quick question..when is your DD3's birthday? My DS Nico will be turning 4 on February 24! Just a few days younger than Christine probably.

[Snow What]

Quick question..when is your DD3's birthday? My DS Nico will be turning 4 on February 24! Just a few days younger than Christine probably.

Nope, the other way around, Nico is a few days older! Christine will be 4 on Feb 28th!!:cake:
Are you planning a birthday celebration on the cruise for Nico?

[grizbuzz]

Nope, the other way around, Nico is a few days older! Christine will be 4 on Feb 28th!!:cake:
Are you planning a birthday celebration on the cruise for Nico?

I wasn't planning to, but it might be something to consider.

And I am keeping track of the list updates. Not reposting, but you can find updated list at:
http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=26378362&postcount=296

Let me know if I missed something or you want to add you names!

[rubbergypsy]

ok since we are doing some planning:cool1: who's going to be dressing up for pirate night? we dressed up for our 4 night cruise in 07, last feb 08 we just went to the pirate museum and all bought the same t shirts and wore them, although my dd wore her costume from the previous year. i hear on the 7 night cruises more people dress up.

[Jodi]

GrizBuzz - Hi, here's my clan's info...2 cabins (me & hubby) 2nd cabin (son Spencer, 13, step-son Eli, 13, step-daughter Skye, 17). Eli will be celebrating his 14th birthday onboard on Feb 16th!! I think we'll try & get him a cake or something, as I've heard they'll do this!

RubberG - Not sure we'll be dressing up for Pirate night...Kinda hard to get to teenage boys to compromise their coolness w/ costumes :laughing: ;) . My husband may do a little something...I'll dress up like a tool & embarrass my entire family (frequent occurence). I'll go to a party store b4 the cruise & get some stuff.

Kiena - NYC 1/2 on Sun., wish me luck!! I'm gonna need it :rolleyes1 , what with my limited training & all! :lmao:

Hi to all others!! We're getting closer!!! :banana: :woohoo: :yay:

[grizbuzz]

rubbergypsy: Oh, we'll definitely do something for pirate night. Last cruise my husband insisted on bringing part of his Davy Jones costume (fortunately, I got him to leave the mask behind). Don't have anything specific planned yet, but I do like to dress the boys while they are still willing (hopefully Max will still be willing this year).

Kiena: Good luck on that 1/2 marathon!! :woohoo:

Updates on names gift exchange here:
http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=26378362&postcount=296
More sign-ups and names welcome!!

[Snow What]

ok since we are doing some planning:cool1: who's going to be dressing up for pirate night?

As of right now I was just planning on doing bandanas for our group...nothing fancy. Just to get into the spirit of things and not feel left out!!

[PURTYPAT1]

Snow what, did you go on the 10 Med cruise or 11 day?

We were on the Med June 16th for 11 days, we had the best time ever.

We've done a 3 day Wonder & a 4 day Wonder (thanksgiving) & a Med 11 day. This will be our first 7 day :woohoo:

[grizbuzz]

PURTYPAT1: We were on the June 6-16 Med cruise. Maybe we crossed paths in Barcelona! Best vacation EVER! Also have done one 4-day Wonder, but this will be our first 7-day. I can't wait for another European cruise and I'm secretly hoping for Greek islands... :cloud9:

Question for all: What about formal night? Anyone planning on tuxes for the boys/men? I bought these $15.99 tuxes on eBay for our Med cruise and while the boys hated being in them, I love having pictures of my DH and DSs in their tuxes. Priceless. But I'm wondering if I need to do it again. Hmmm... Any thoughts?

[Snow What]

Snow what, did you go on the 10 Med cruise or 11 day?

Neither, this is my first Disney Cruise. There were many Carnival cruises in the 90's, before we were married.:drinking1 :drinking: :drinking1

[Snow What]

Question for all: What about formal night? Anyone planning on tuxes for the boys/men? I bought these $15.99 tuxes on eBay for our Med cruise and while the boys hated being in them, I love having pictures of my DH and DSs in their tuxes. Priceless. But I'm wondering if I need to do it again. Hmmm... Any thoughts?

My DH is bringing his tux (if it still fits!!:rotfl2: ). My DSIL rented tuxes for her DH and DS on their last Disney Cruise and are planning on doing it again. How often do you get to get dressed up like that as a family? I think it looks SOOOOOOOO nice.

[vavalynn2]

We were pirates this past Halloween, so we have complete outfits, but I am not sure if we are going to bring them. pirate: We minimally have pirate tshirts and bandanas from the last disney cruise.

DH will more than likely wear a dark suit, no tux.

It is too early to start packing, right? :rotfl:

Happy weekend! :goodvibes

[Snow What]

It is too early to start packing, right? :rotfl:

HA HA HA:rotfl2:

I had the same question. :rotfl2: I could easily pack everything for my 2 girls tonight. I would just need to transfer everything from the rubbermaid bin into individual ziplock baggies and then into the suitcase! Almost everything I am taking for them (clothes wise) is sitting in my 'vacation' bin.:rolleyes1

[disnutt]

Jodi- Good luck on Sunday! I hope the weather is good. I'm 'ready' for my CDC in August. I'm never as prepared as I want to be but I'm looking forward to a new course.

Here's our info for the gift exchange. We've got 3 cabins so I hope I'm not asking too much:
Cabin 1- me, DH, DS 5
Cabin 2- disnutt's mother, DD-13, DD-8
Cabin 3- MIL, FIL

grizzbuzz- What a deal on those tuxes! I might be able to get one for DH and DS but my FIL would think that was still too much to spend on something for 1 night!:rotfl:

We're almost ready to start packing, too! We will do something for the pirate party but it probably won't be more than t-shirts and bandanas due to the stodgy nature of my DH and FIL. I can't believe my DH was a theater major for his 1st year in college. You would think it was killing him to wear a costume. For formal night we'll probably just do dark suits for the guys and really nice dresses for the ladies. My DH would do the tux but I can't see FIL being willing to rent one.

[lovesDCL]

hi all! we are also on this cruise :goodvibes and i am interested in doing the gift exchange :thumbsup2

there are two of us

will post more tomorrow as it is getting late :surfweb: !

[grizbuzz]

Welcome lovesDCL!

You're on the gift exchange list!
http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=26378362&postcount=296

[Snow What]

Welcome aboard lovesDCL.
The more the merrier!!:woohoo:

[vavalynn2]

WELCOME lovesDCL :goodvibes

Our group keeps growing! Yeah!:banana:

[lovesDCL]

hi again! :)

thanks for all the warm welcomes :dance3:

just to provide some of the information others have provided... we are flying out of boston and have yet to book airfare as we are waiting for jetblue (we have a couple of free flights with them :woohoo: ) it will be me(Jhoanna) and my boyfriend (Sam) of 6 years and this will be his 2nd cruise, my 3rd and the 1st 7-nighter for both of us :cheer2:

we will be staying at the hyatt the night before as well and not sure if we should use the DCL transfers or use a town car service (we don't want the hassle of renting a car) but are unsure if we should pay the extra $60 for the town car (vs DCL transfers) since it is just the two of us :confused:

for those of you who have taken used some form of limo service is it worth it:confused3 i don't know if we want to pay the extra $$ just to get there earlier than the shuttles

we have a few excursions in mind but have not finalized any plans...and we are keeping our fingers crossed to be able to get palo high tea, brunch, and dinner :rolleyes:

that said...i'll keep future posts shorter...or at least try :rotfl:

btw...is anyone making door magnets?

ok..that's all..really...ttfn! :wave2:

[Snow What]

we are flying out of boston and have yet to book airfare as we are waiting for jetblue (we have a couple of free flights with them :woohoo: )

lovesDCL, do you live in Boston?
We are from Boston and are leaving on Thursday and staying at WDW.
My DSIL and my DH's cousin are all flying out on Friday and staying at the Hyatt also. (10 of them) As of right now, they are using DCL transportation. Sometimes convenience overrides costs. I personally think it would be cheaper for them to get a car service/van and travel together than to pay DCL bus service. But to hav on board airline check-in on the way home is key to me...I understand you need to have booked DCL transportation to do that.

btw...is anyone making door magnets?
YES I AM!!:)
I have already started working on some.:rolleyes1
I am saving up the large 2008 magnetic Red Sox schedules from Dunkin' Donuts us use for them. I have instructed my DH to get as many of these as he can find and save all other forms of advertising magnets to convert to my DCL door magnets. I am doing them for my DSIL and cousins cabins too. 4 in total.

I am just so excited!

[grizbuzz]

I just started doing a little research on St. Marteen/Martin last night...French side/Dutch side...beaches...shopping...so many things to learn! And I haven't even started looking into St. Thomas!

Has anyone been to these locations? I'm thinking we'll probably do excursions on our own and beaches are definitely attractive.

What are you all planning??

And, yes, we are planning to do magnets too!

[Snow What]

I just started doing a little research on St. Marteen/Martin last night...French side/Dutch side...beaches...shopping...so many things to learn! And I haven't even started looking into St. Thomas!

.... I'm thinking we'll probably do excursions on our own and beaches are definitely attractive.

What are you all planning??

Nothing planned just yet:scratchin ... You may want to becareful regarding the beaches in St Maarten with little ones.... I have heard that there is nudity, if that is an issue for you. :confused: Some of us are thinking about staying on the ship in St Maarten and enjoying the empty ship.... lunch in the dining room, nearly empty pools, etc
I have been to Meagan's Bay in St thomas...Very nice. it was such an awesome day at the beach. (but it was also over 12 years ago) We may go there on our own (with our little family group of 14). You will need to hire a taxi or one of those vans you find at the pier.

[Jodijo]

Hi Everyone! Sorry I have not been on lately. My husband has been on the California fires and that left me very busy at home.

Our family would love to be included in the gift exchange. We did it on our cruse last Feb. and it was a lot of fun. We have 2 cabins = Cabin 1 Mitch & Jodi, Cabin 2 Mason (13) & Mickayla (11).

We also have door magnets. It is fun creating them and I can't wait to put them on our cabin door. I looked at our countdown and we have 199 days to go. Although it is seems like a long way to go, we are under 200 days. :cool1:

[Snow What]

Hi Everyone! Sorry I have not been on lately. My husband has been on the California fires and that left me very busy at home.

I hope your husband stays safe and the weather conditions change to make it easier to fight those horrible fires! :angel:

[Snow What]

My bookings/travel plans are almost done for the cruise. I just booked my 2 pre-cruise nights at OKW today.

1. Arrive at MCO and take Disney's ME to WDW on Thurs Feb 12.:thumbsup2
2. 2 nights @ OKW :smickey:
3. Car service (need to book that) to Port Canaveral.:car:
4. 7-night fabulous cruise on the Disney Magic :sail:
5. DCL bus back to MCO :sad:

Now I can work on my door magnets, fish extender, and gifts for the exchange!:yay: :yay: As I have mentioned before, this is my first Disney cruise. How many of you have done the gift exchange before? And do you usually do one gift per cabin, or small individual gifts for each guest? I guess it can go either way depending upon what the gift is.
On other threads, some of the ideas were stickers, tatoos, pencils, candy... Is that one pencil per cabin or per kid? :confused3 I know my kids would fight over it....:eek: I just want plenty of time to prepare for this. I know it is suppose to be something inexpensive, but I want to make sure that my gift is not too cheap! :laughing: :rotfl:

[marybrat]

I am hoping to be on the Eastern cruise in Febraury. I have just about talked DH into it. ow it's a matter of getting a decent price. This would be our first cruise ever. It would be myself, DH, DD 11, and DS 8. So want to go! *Keeping fingers crossed*

[PURTYPAT1]

Hi Mary,

Welcome, start looking for airfare, if you can conquer that :banana:

How many will be staying at the Hyatt on Feb 13th. We are staying there, on the 13th & 21th.

I have never done this, but we are renting a car on the Feb 13th (Thrifty) returning it to MCO late 2/13, & on the Feb 14th renting again (enterprise), & driving it to the port

Feb 21 Enterprise is picking us up at the port, & we are off to the World for the day, staying at the Hyatt again & leaving for NY the next afternoon 22nd.

Yikes, I am bit nervous about the above, I have read how people have done it, & make it sound so easy, so what the hey.

[lovesDCL]

hi!

snow what...i am living in so cali right now and my BF is in boston, but i will be back in boston by the time of the cruise :)

hope everyone's planning is going well... and i hope jetblue puts up the feb flights this week!!! :woohoo:

have a great weekend all!

[disnutt]

LovesDCL Welcome to our group!

Marybrat Hope to have you officially signed on soon! It's our first cruise, too!

Jodijo Prayers for your DH's safety

My DH would probably rather be fighting fires in CA because I've started really talking about the cruise. He's a willing participant but not a willing planner. ;) I am always the travel coordinator. Good because I usually get my first choices of where to go and what to do but bad because I don't have anyone to consult with.

Have a great week!

Kiena

[Snow What]

My DH would probably rather be fighting fires in CA because I've started really talking about the cruise. He's a willing participant but not a willing planner. ;) I am always the travel coordinator. Good because I usually get my first choices of where to go and what to do but bad because I don't have anyone to consult with. Kiena

I know exactly how you feel. I do ALL of the vacation planning in my family and the only thing my husband does, it complain or says, "whatever". My SIL is the same way as my husband. She says, "just tell me where I need to be and what time.." I really don't have anybody to consult with or get excited about things with either.;)

[marybrat]

I put down a deposit on the cruise! :banana: :banana:
Of course, now I have to get airfare. Waiting for Southwest to open their schedule through February. Can only hope it's not too expensive.

[disnutt]

I put down a deposit on the cruise! :banana: :banana:
Of course, now I have to get airfare. Waiting for Southwest to open their schedule through February. Can only hope it's not too expensive.

Yippee!

We're still waiting on SWA, too! I know their website will be on fire when the dates go up.

Snow What I don't mind making the plans but I really get mad when someone complains about something that they could have had a choice in. My mother is famous for that! She's coming on the cruise but I won't listen to any complaints! I'll just plug my ears and say, "Lalalala I CAN'T hear you!"

[grizbuzz]

I put down a deposit on the cruise! :banana: :banana:
Of course, now I have to get airfare. Waiting for Southwest to open their schedule through February. Can only hope it's not too expensive.

Woohoo!! :cool1: :cool1:

[DH_Imagineer]

ahhh. then the tropical music starts playin:banana: g -----lets go already

[Jodi]

Hey Everyone!!

Sorry I've been absent as of late, no excuse really except nothing to report. It's been so long I feel like the "new guy"!

Welcome to MaryBrat & LovesDCL - The party is getting bigger all the time!! :woohoo: :yay:

Kiena - The NYC 1/2 was a great time, although very humid :scared: :sad2: . I can't wait for next year!! When's your "CDC"?

Patty - Hey You!! Are you busy planning away?

JodiJo - Has DH safely returned home yet??

SnowWhat - :scared1: What do I bring for gifts!!:scared:

GrizBuzz - Magnets??? You guys are doing magnets?? I think I'm way too inept for that or the danglers!:lmao:

I hope SW comes out with this airfare on the 21st like they said....I'm chomping @ the bit trying to figure out what all of this is going to cost the 5 of us :eek: ! I've been starting to think about excursions, too, but the way the airfare's going I'll be lucky if I can even buy 1 margarita while on board, let alone go snorkeling or the like :rotfl2: .

I am getting excited, though....once the kids go back to school it'll be here b4 you know it! :woohoo:

[grizbuzz]

I've been doing some reading on St. Martin and St. Thomas and I'm ready for my Caribbean vacation! Ah, the beaches sounds so nice. Still have no idea what we'll do, but I'm thinking beach days for both islands will be on the agenda. This will be my first time to those islands (only have been to Bahamas and Jamaica in Caribbean so far) and they look just gorgeous!

I'm discovering planning vacations far ahead is a great way to make time go slower. When you really want a vacation and it's months away, it seems to take forever to get to that date. I think this is a good thing, as time has been flying by way too fast these last few years.

If people have ideas/suggestions on excursions (especially self excursions), please share!

-Jen

[marybrat]

We would love to be a part of the exchange. It will be me (Mary), DH (Keith), DD11(Courtney) and DS8(Alex).

Since I'm new, I have no idea about any of this. Do people decorate their doors? What are fish extenders? How do I get one? Help!

[grizbuzz]

We would love to be a part of the exchange. It will be me (Mary), DH (Keith), DD11(Courtney) and DS8(Alex).

Since I'm new, I have no idea about any of this. Do people decorate their doors? What are fish extenders? How do I get one? Help!


I've put you on the gift exchange list: http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=26378362&postcount=296

Door decorations and fish extenders are optional. I've never had a fish extender myself, so I can't say much about them, other than they are called fish extenders because they hang on that little fish hook at the cabin door (I think). Basically just a string of pouches to put items in (like little gifts). Maybe someone can say more here?

If anyone else wants to join the gift exchange, let me know!

-Jen

[marybrat]

How many DISsers are going on this cruise? Is there a count?

[Snow What]

How many DISsers are going on this cruise? Is there a count?

Check out the list on post #296
grizbuzz has a link to it on her previous post! That lists those that have signed up for the gift exchange....so you can figure out the DISsers from there.

Glad to have ya!!:cool1:

[grizbuzz]

Check out the list on post #296
grizbuzz has a link to it on her previous post! That lists those that have signed up for the gift exchange....so you can figure out the DISsers from there.

Glad to have ya!!:cool1:


I could go ahead and add a list of everyone going to this post 296, as I think there are probably some out there who may be on the cruise, but not doing the gift exchange.

[Snow What]

Door decorations and fish extenders are optional. I've never had a fish extender myself, so I can't say much about them, other than they are called fish extenders because they hang on that little fish hook at the cabin door (I think). Basically just a string of pouches to put items in (like little gifts). Maybe someone can say more here?
-Jen

My 2 cents....small gift bags or party favor bags with ribbon tied around them can be used to tie your gift to the door handle on staterooms where fish extenders are not used. Duct tape works well also...:rotfl2:

From the gift exchange list we will probably be able to figure out who the gifts are from, but do we leave these annonymously or with a little gift tag?

[Jodi]

SnowWhat - Mine will be anonymous, as I don't want anyone to know what a dope I am!:rotfl2:

SWA flights should be released next Thurs!!:yay: popcorn::

[rubbergypsy]

YIPPEE!!! finally got our return flight today, airtran nonstop $203 2/21. I figured if it comes down any I will call and get the credit. So flying up nonstop ours was 107, so 310 roundtrip per person was okay. Last year I paid 264 per person roundtrip. Not too bad. Now I can stop constantly checking airfare 3x a day. Good luck to all who are waiting for southwest or jet blue. We do not have southwest out of rochester, only buffalo. :banana:

[Snow What]

Rubbergypsy YIPPEE!!!:banana: :banana: :banana:
What a huge relief it is to have your airfare all set! And non-stop, BONUS!!:woohoo: It felt like a huge weight lifted off my shoulders when I finally booked my airfare (average 308 pp). It is totally exhausting to check fares every day, 3 and 4 times a day... should I buy now or wait? will the fare drop or increase? the days of $200 or less airfares are gone. The good airfares are now $250-300. So sad:sad1:
Now the only thing left to do with the flights is to check your itinerary every once in a while to see if there are schedule changes!!:eek: I am waiting for that on Delta....I have a feeling it is coming....
And YES, Good Luck to everyone else still waiting to book!!:goodvibes

[Snow What]

I am trying to recruit my husband's cousin's family into the gift exchange. I will keep you guys posted....

[marybrat]

YIPPEE!!! finally got our return flight today, airtran nonstop $203 2/21. I figured if it comes down any I will call and get the credit. So flying up nonstop ours was 107, so 310 roundtrip per person was okay. Last year I paid 264 per person roundtrip. Not too bad. Now I can stop constantly checking airfare 3x a day. Good luck to all who are waiting for southwest or jet blue. We do not have southwest out of rochester, only buffalo. :banana:

Yay!! I can't wait until I can say that I have our airfare!!

It looks like we're near by neighbors. I'm just outside of Buffalo. :) Praying for no snow in February!

[Jodi]

SWA flights should be out today or tomorrow!!!:eek: :scared1: :yay: popcorn::

[disnutt]

I keep checking for the SWA fares. Nothing yet.

[marybrat]

We are booked on the Magic in February 2009. First cruise ever. So today, my friend calls and asks what we're doing in February, do we want to go to WDW with them? We would stay at her in-laws condo free of charge. Just pay for WDW tickets, food, rental car. Both DHs would golf for part of the day while she and I take the kids to the World. So, my dilemma is this... first ever DCL cruise (my dream) or staying with friends and doing WDW (another dream). DH is no help because he says either is ok with him. I asked if he could guarantee we would do DCL within 2 years and he said yes. Ugh! I don't know what to do!:confused3

[disnutt]

We are booked on the Magic in February 2009. First cruise ever. So today, my friend calls and asks what we're doing in February, do we want to go to WDW with them? We would stay at her in-laws condo free of charge. Just pay for WDW tickets, food, rental car. Both DHs would golf for part of the day while she and I take the kids to the World. So, my dilemma is this... first ever DCL cruise (my dream) or staying with friends and doing WDW (another dream). DH is no help because he says either is ok with him. I asked if he could guarantee we would do DCL within 2 years and he said yes. Ugh! I don't know what to do!:confused3

Marybrat-That's a good problem to have! Two Disney options!:cloud9:

Which do you REALLY want to do now? You can plan for something in two years but if you have the money/time/desire to do it now do the one you and your family want to do because things can change drastically in two years. Do your first choice now if it is possible.

Confession- after this cruise I will limit my Disney related trips to my immediate family and my running buddies for the Disney races. We've taken other family and friends and no one else 'gets' it. They may have a good time but they don't really BELIEVE that it is as wonderful as my family and I do. :sad2: Their faint praise of my favorite place on Earth makes me like them less.:rotfl: "What's wrong with them?" , I'm thinking. "Why do I want to be their friend?" :confused3 I can't keep losing friends that way!:lmao:

Good luck making your decision!

[disnutt]

SWA fares out but they are too rich for our blood. Ended up w/ Air Tran-(pray for us) for $294 each. Good luck to everyone!

[Jodi]

Kiena - Is that $294 OW or RT for Airtran?? SW is brutal...I couldn't use my credits (used them for the marathon weekend) and had to bite the bullet for 5 OW tickets @ $285 EACH!! Looks like we'll be renting a car & driving down :rotfl:

MaryBrat - Not sure about that one....but $ situations can change in 2 years...

[Snow What]

$294 pp is not that bad---these days. I would never consider driving...I would call that torture. Yup, anything over 5 hours..torture! :rotfl:


Marybrat What a dilema to be in!!???! that is also torture. I might consider WDW because you don't know what you are missing on the cruise being your first one....BUT...I am so psyched to go on the cruise, this opportunity may not come around again.

decisions, decisions.....

[grizbuzz]

Southwest flights don't look like a good option for us from SFO/Oakland.

When do jetblue fares open up?

My dream is a discounted non-stop United flight from SFO to Orlando. Any chances for that?

[disnutt]

That $294 was RT. The SWA was $50 more expensive and I would have had to buy 5 tix. I've been used to $175 from SWA or lower. That's quite a jump.

What I ended up doing is buying my DH, MIL and FIL tickets. My 3 kids and I are going to drive to Charlotte on Thursday (maybe rent a car?) We will stay at my mother's Thursday night and leave w/ her for Cocoa Beach Friday morning.

DH, FIL, MIL will fly to FL and meet us there. I have even thought about dropping the kids/mom off at the hotel and driving back to MCO to pick up the others.

The cost of the rental/gas will be about the cost of 2.5 tix. This would help my mother because her income is limited and if she splits the cost of the car/gas it saves her a bunch. Win/win I guess. My DH even gets to avoid missing a day's work. If we were going down together w/ the kids I would want to leave on the earliest flight.

I must really want this cruise to get this creative w/ our arrangements! I'm glad to be one step closer!:lovestruc

[Jodijo]

JodiJo - Has DH safely returned home yet??

:

Yes, my husband got home safely. Thank you for asking. His group did have to run to safety when the fire flashed over them. Everyone was unharmed thank goodness.

Sorry for not posting sooner but I am getting my Masters degree in Instructional technology and I teach 3rd grade (Which started on Monday). I have been very busy.

Last night, however, we booked our flight :cool1: I am starting to get very excited!!!!!

[Snow What]

Orginally posted by Jodijo
Last night, however, we booked our flight :cool1: I am starting to get very excited!!!!!
GREAT NEWS!!


Orginally posted by Jodijo
Yes, my husband got home safely. Thank you for asking. His group did have to run to safety when the fire flashed over them. Everyone was unharmed thank goodness.
EVEN BETTER NEWS!!!

[marybrat]

Southwest's ticket prices have put our cruise out of reach. Round trip from Buffalo is $548 per person. The only positive part to cancelling is that we'll be going to WDW instead since it's cheaper. LOL Never thought WDW would be cheaper than another trip :lmao:

[Jodi]

MaryBrat - Aw, sorry we won't see you :sad1: . SW fares are hideous, aren't they? I got our flights back, but we're still not sure how we're getting down there :lmao: We're entertaining everything from renting a car & driving to taking the train :scared1: . Have a great trip @ WDW, though!!

JodiJo - SO glad your DH is home safe :grouphug: .

[Jodijo]

SW fares are hideous, aren't they?

JodiJo - SO glad your DH is home safe :grouphug: .

Thanks, we are happy and relieved to have him safe at home.

I also thought the SW prices were very high. I was excited to find a deal ($389 per person RT per person from CA) through United. SW wanted almost $300 one way, Ouch!

[Jodi]

JodiJo - OUCH is right! Nice score on the flights from CA!!:thumbsup2

[marybrat]

We were signed up for the gift exchange, but we will not be going on the cruise after all. We had to cancel.:sad2:

[grizbuzz]

We were signed up for the gift exchange, but we will not be going on the cruise after all. We had to cancel.:sad2:

Thanks for letting me know. Sorry you won't make it on the cruise, but it sounds like you have a fabulous trip to WDW in the works. Have a great time! And I'm sure you will make it on a Disney cruise another time.

Gift exchange info: http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=26378362&postcount=296

[disnutt]

Yes, my husband got home safely. Thank you for asking. His group did have to run to safety when the fire flashed over them. Everyone was unharmed thank goodness.

Sorry for not posting sooner but I am getting my Masters degree in Instructional technology and I teach 3rd grade (Which started on Monday). I have been very busy.

Last night, however, we booked our flight :cool1: I am starting to get very excited!!!!!

:banana: So glad your DH is home safely!!!:banana:

Marybrat-Sorry you won't be onboard. Have a great time at WDW.

[vavalynn2]

I just received and email from Jet blue and it said they would be extending their schedule on 9/5/08. So for those of you who may be waiting for them- just a few more days!

Hope eveyone is enjoying Labor Day weekend! :cool1:

[lovesDCL]

:scared1: that was my reaction when i saw the fares!!!

sorry i've been gone for a while...thanks for all the welcomes and to all who have joined :welcome: ...here is a short update

i am now engaged!!! he proposed at disneyland in front of the castle!!! :lovestruc :bride: :groom: and have been busy planning the wedding :surfweb: :scared: since we want to have it this year after :santa: christmas and want to make this cruise our honeymoon :love2:

so i was waiting all evening for the flights to come up and then they did and i almost wish they hadn't :rotfl:

i CANNOT believe that for 2 from boston to florida it is $1358 :eek: :scared1: :crazy2: :faint: ...well you get the point. i couldn't even use my free flights that i have on any of those days :mad:

we had booked air through disney when we booked the cruise as a back up and that is about $900 and i thought that was bad! :lmao:

so i was wondering...has anyone used disney for their air portion? and if so can we request to fly in the day before (don't want to risk it with the snow and bad weather in feb) and how likely it is for them to accommodate? i know you have to pay $50 per person to make changes, but will they charge me more than that to just move the flight from the 14th to the 13th?

well i hope everyone's planning is going well...and sorry you won't be joining us marybrat but i hope you fun in wdw. here is some pixiedust: for everyone's planning!!!

[Jodijo]

i am now engaged!!! he proposed at disneyland in front of the castle!!! :lovestruc :bride: :groom: and have been busy planning the wedding :surfweb: :scared: since we want to have it this year after :santa: christmas and want to make this cruise our honeymoon :love2:


Congratulations:lovestruc What a wonderful place to get engaged. Good luck planning the wedding and cruise.

[grizbuzz]

Congratulations on the engagement lovesDCL!

So, we did well with the JetBlue fares. I got four tickets from San Francisco to Orlando for $1,360.

We're now ticketed and ready for departure! :cool1:

[Jodijo]

So, we did well with the JetBlue fares. I got four tickets from San Francisco to Orlando for $1,360.

We're now ticketed and ready for departure! :cool1:

How did you get a Feb flight from Jet Blue? I just checked their website and Feb is still unavailable. I live in Northern CA and would love a deal like that.

[grizbuzz]

How did you get a Feb flight from Jet Blue? I just checked their website and Feb is still unavailable. I live in Northern CA and would love a deal like that.

Per vavalynn2's advice, I checked right when I got up this morning at 6am and the site was working and I bought my tickets. I tried to call in for tickets and the lines were so busy, they weren't even putting me on hold. I suspect maybe their servers are just overwhelmed right now? I don't know, but I'd keep trying, as February was definitely available when I purchased.

Thanks vavalynn for the heads up. I wouldn't have known to check so bright and early otherwise.

Good luck Jodijo. Keep trying!

[vavalynn2]

First off- congrats lovesDCL on the engagement! How exciting!!:woohoo:


grizbuzz- i am glad the heads up paid off! :thumbsup2 i am a big fan of jet blue and wanted to share the news. i prefer them, but when i found airfare on united for 270 each, i took it!


jodijo- i just checked the site and it was working again. i hope you got through.


and for those that have joined and i missed- welcome!:banana: :cool1: :banana:

i was looking into my planner the other day and noticed when i had to make final deposit along with palo reservations was around the corner. well if you ask my dh, he would not say it was, but november isn't too far away.

i think we plan to do one excursion on one island and one beach day on another. when we cruised before the day we enjoyed the most other than castaway was the day we spent on the beach in a little town in costa maya. so we are looking to do a beach club or something. has anyone else narrowed down their choices for excursions?

have a good weekend. i hope that everyone is able to secure airfare soon!

[Wachsdds]

Jetblue started selling tickets yesterday. I was able to book our flights. Unfortunately, I was only able to use our frequent flyer rewards for our flight down. All award tickets were already gone for the return flight by 9am. Wow!

[Snow What]

:scared1: that was my reaction when i saw the fares!!!

i CANNOT believe that for 2 from boston to florida it is $1358 :eek: :scared1: :crazy2: :faint:


My thoughts exactly! :scared1: I have my flights, but I am always checking out other options, and my BIL is shopping around to see if he can get a better deal than going with DCL airfare.

CONGRATULATIONS!! on your engagement. :cheer2: Enjoy this time. It is awesome, but it can be stressful. Lot's of planning to do for a February Wedding!
Were you totally surprised? Disneyland in front of the castle....it must have been magical!:wizard:

[lovesDCL]

thanks for the congratulations everyone! :flower3:

Were you totally surprised? Disneyland in front of the castle....it must have been magical!

Snow What::yes:: i was not expecting it at all!!! will post pictures from the day when i finally find the time to start a pre-trip report :surfweb:

spoke or rather e-mailed TA to see what i could do about the airfare we booked through disney (costs, changing dates, etc) and still waiting for a reply. will be needing :pixiedust: to get everything to work out!

[Wachsdds]

I believe I had read a while back about the Disney runs by a few of you. The family and I were just out at Disneyland where they had the 1/2 Marathon last weekend. It stirred something in my DW. We came back from our trip and she signed us up as a family in the local gym because it has an indoor track that she can use during the winter. She is interested in running the Princess half marathon in March. She used to run cross country back in high school and was running about 3-5 miles on a treadmill daily up until about 8 1/2 years ago when she had our oldest son. Now 4 kids later a few years older, she still walks in the morning 2 miles and elliptical use. She is wondering is she crazy to run this event!!! She is looking for some thoughts on the matter.

Also, she wants to know is the after party worth it to stay around for or should we high tail it back home since the kids will have school the next day.

Thanks for any advise!

[Jodi]

WachsDDS Hi. Well, since your wife was a runner in a past life, :rotfl: , knows what running's all about, and still walks 2 miles a day in the a.m., I don't think she'd have too hard of a time training for the 1/2 in March. I started running about 3 years ago just so I could run the DW 1/2 marathon in '06, and caught the bug big time. My very first training plan was from a book called "Marathoning for Mortals" by John "the penguin" Bingham. I HIGHLY recommend this book for your wife. It has all different kinds of plans from run/walking 1/2 marathons & marathons, to all running. Maybe order it on Amazon or something & surprise her?:yay: .

I'm not sure about the after party as I've never attended. People I know that have gone seem to enjoy it. However, this is the inaugural Princess 1/2 marathon so I don't know anything about their after party. I tend to blow out of there the afternoon after the race :rolleyes: .

Tell her to go for it, she'll have a blast training for it & have an excuse to go to "the World" in March!:thumbsup2

[Wachsdds]

Jodi,
Thanks for your help. I already ordered the book and my wife is really fired up for March. Not to mention an awesome cruise in February. As a family, we're doing the 5K the day before. This will probably be mostly a fast walk since we have little ones. Jen and Zachary(8) will run some of it; However, we have a 6, 3 and 1 year old also. There definitely will be a couple of strollers.

Do you have kids and are they going to the race with you? Also, where in Connecticut are you. We live in Northern Westchester County, NY and I work in Danbury, Newtown, Trumbull and New Milford, Connecticut.

[Jodi]

Hey Wach

I live in Middletown, but grew up in New Canaan. My bro lives in New Milford, sis in Trumbull. Small world, eh? So glad you got your wife the book! She'll love it. Watch that 5k, not sure they allow strollers (I could be wrong). Read the fineprint!:laughing:

My son is 13 & I can barely get him off the couch :rotfl2: , but I do get him to walk/run at least once a day. He & I are headed down to the World in 2 weeks to run in the Expedition Everest 5k, I can't WAIT! When I run the 1/2 in Jan. I'll be joined by my mom, brother & niece this time around. Should be good fun! Tell your wife to visit the W.I.S.H. boards here on disboards. She'll find much inspiration & comradeship!

[disnutt]

lovesDCL-Congratulations!!!:bride:

WachsDDS- Your wife should have no problems w/ training. My 1st run until my first marathon was only 6 months. I wouldn't advise it for anyone but it is possible. My 12 yo DD and I are training for October's Tower of Terror 13K. The afterparty for the event last year was lots of fun. I don't know what they will do for the Princess 1/2 but it has potential. I agree with Jodi that you need to double check on the strollers. I don't think they are allowed. You and Jodi are making me homesick. I used to live in CT (Windsor and Suffield) my 5yo DS was born in Middletown, CT. I used to work all over CT into Westchester Co. NY. That's a beautiful part of the country especially this time of year. :cloud9:

[Jodi]

Hey Kiena, I didn't know your little guy was born in Middletown!!:yay: RU running the marathon this Jan.? I'm sure I've already asked you that :laughing: .

It's really not that far off now, guys!! February will be here b4 you know it!:banana:

[disnutt]

Hey Kiena, I didn't know your little guy was born in Middletown!!:yay: RU running the marathon this Jan.? I'm sure I've already asked you that :laughing: .

It's really not that far off now, guys!! February will be here b4 you know it!:banana:

Jodi I'm getting Goofy!!:banana: I'm starting to do my double long runs on the weekend this week. The weather isn't going to be good so I may end up putting it off one more week. I don't like to run in lightning!

Yup! My son was born in Middletown. He's our best souvenir from CT!

Vavalynn What do you mean by doing a beach club?

[Jodi]

UGH, didn't you do Goofy last year??? That was enough for me. I never did back to back runs while training for that thing...how do you do it?:scared1: What big race is up for you next? I'm doing Philly in Nov. Hey, aren't you in PA???:rolleyes1 popcorn::

Oops, sorry guys, I'll stop hi-jacking the boards here with running crud :laughing: .

[dwick]

Hi Guys -- Just logged in searching for any cruise meets for the 7 night Eastern Feb 14, 2009. Have I made it to the right one? We were on the Magic this past April 08 (7 night Western) and rebooked on board for another Spring Break 09 cruise. Well....as plans always seem to change around here....our neighbors booked the Feb cruise and talked us into changing our booking so we could travel with them. It was a bit of a financial juggle, but we are making it work and we are really excited to be back on board with Disney. I guess Spring Break will now be reserved for a DC trip. Anyhoo....

My gang consists of myself (40), DH (44), DD (11), DS (9), DD (7), DD (4.5). My neighbors traveling with us have 2 children DD (10), DS (8).
154 days and counting....wahoooo! :cool1:

Danna

[disnutt]

dwick-Welcome! What a crew coming with you! :grouphug:

[Jodi]

Hey Dwick - Welcome aboard!! Glad to have another on these boards - & Disnutt's right, what a mob you've got with you!! All set with airfare & all? We here have been going nuts with that, but I think everyone's all set now :scared1: .

[dwick]

Thanks! Yes it is a quite a group with 10 of us. This past April we sailed with another family which at that time there were 11 of us and it was such a blast! I just know we are going to have a great time in February!!

I bought airfare a few weeks ago. I ended up using miles for the 6 of us on a direct flight to MCO on Alaska and for our return Southwest had a screaming deal.

We are booked for hotels on either end of the cruise. I was really hoping that the PPP would be scheduled on that Saturday of debarkation, but the MK schedule shows the park closing at 10pm so I don't think we will luck out this time.

[vavalynn2]

dwick- welcome, welcome! and sounds like you have quite the crew. :)

disnutt- now, i am not really sure what they are called, but i call them beach clubs. a place where you can go where you have a chair, umbrella, bathrooms and a bar/restaurant. some places have pools, some don't. but just a guaranteed spot on the beach with a chair for an afternoon of relaxing. some have jet ski rentals and those big giant things in the water for kids to play on. a place where you can make an entire beach day out of it. does that help?

[Snow What]

Welcome Aboard dwick. Glad to have ya!

Now that school has started, time will fly by even faster. I still cannot believe that it is already mid September!! Christmas will be here soon, and then POW!! February and time for the cruise.
Still there is so much to do....magnets, packing, gifts for the exchange...

[lovesDCL]

dwick :welcome: !

i am debating between giving an "item" or doing some type of food stuff for the gift exchange and just wanted to know if there were any food allergies (mainly towards sweets) that i should be concerned about before i plan any further. :confused3

thanks everyone!

[disnutt]

disnutt- now, i am not really sure what they are called, but i call them beach clubs. a place where you can go where you have a chair, umbrella, bathrooms and a bar/restaurant. some places have pools, some don't. but just a guaranteed spot on the beach with a chair for an afternoon of relaxing. some have jet ski rentals and those big giant things in the water for kids to play on. a place where you can make an entire beach day out of it. does that help?

Yes it does! Thanks!

[Snow What]

i am debating between giving an "item" or doing some type of food stuff for the gift exchange and just wanted to know if there were any food allergies (mainly towards sweets) that i should be concerned about before i plan any further. :confused3

thanks everyone!

I am greatful to say no food alleries here!
I know that this is a huge concern these days....we travel frequently with friends whose son has a couple of different food allergies. And I always make sure that I have something available for him when they visit my house.
thanks for being so considerate and asking.

[Jodi]

Hi LovesDCL! No food allergies here, either, thanks for asking as I'd be interested in everyone's answers as well! Someone needs to give me some ideas REAL soon on what to get for these little gifts!

:woohoo: :yay: Did anyone else get a packet from DCL today?????:rolleyes1 popcorn::

[Jodijo]

No one has food allergies in our family. Thanks for checking.

Jodi, what did you get in your packet from DCL? I did not get anything and am very jealous.

[vavalynn2]

DH is certainly not allergic to any real sweets, but allergic to Bananas, Cantalope, Apples and Honeydew. Although when they are processed he is fine. But I am sure no one will bring fresh fruit aboard for the gift exchange. :) I am still confused on how many things to buy, but figured I would ask when it is closer since our group may still grow.

Packet? :confused: I did not get anything yet :sad1:

[Snow What]

What is this packet?? I feel like I am missing out! I get excited when anything Disney comes in the mail....even if it is my DVC annual dues notice.

[Jodi]

What is this packet?? I feel like I am missing out! I get excited when anything Disney comes in the mail....even if it is my DVC annual dues notice.

:rotfl: :lmao:

OK, so on Sat. I got the whole "time sensitive" packet indicating the cruise date & such & also the "brochure"/packet particular to our cruise ports. It lists all the different excursions & such. Then there's the usual stuff about what to pack, last minute things to pack, travel insurance, tux rentals, etc....NO ONE else got this yet? Perhaps they know what a procrastinator I am?:lmao:

[PURTYPAT1]

:rotfl: :lmao:

OK, so on Sat. I got the whole "time sensitive" packet indicating the cruise date & such & also the "brochure"/packet particular to our cruise ports. It lists all the different excursions & such. Then there's the usual stuff about what to pack, last minute things to pack, travel insurance, tux rentals, etc....NO ONE else got this yet? Perhaps they know what a procrastinator I am?:lmao:


Hi Everybody,

Jodi, did you get your airfare as of yet? Did everyone else get there fares? They are out.

We are going to the beach excursions with Disney, does anyone know anything about the Casinos?

[Jodi]

Hi PATTY!!!

Yep, I got my airfare when SW came out with their fares...NO bargains there!:eek: We're flying into Tampa on Thurs. the 12th & staying w/ my mom in Sarasota for 2 nights (she's a snowbird :rolleyes: ), then will drive to the port Sat. a.m. Return flights are out of MCO on the 21st @ around 1. Tampa was definitely the cheaper way to go...I can't believe it's almost October :woohoo: :yay: . I'm actually headed to Disney tomorrow for 3 nights @ AKL w/ my son so we can run the Yeti 5k! Seems to be VERY hot down there :scared:

[Wachsdds]

We also got our packet about a week ago. I am not sure if all the packets are sent out at the same time. It may be related to when you can book excursions concierge, castaway club, and first timers). We also booked our air on Jet Blue with no great savings. We tried to use frequent flyer passes but could only use them on the way down. The return flights were gone for passes. I even tried after midnight the first day the schedule was opened.

[Snow What]

I did get my packet. My DH yelled to me that we got something from Disney in the mail...I yelled back it must be the cruise packet!! I was so excited. Then he burst my bubble by saying that it isn't anything important, because it is bulk mail. (he is a lettercarrier.)

[PURTYPAT1]

Jodi, have a great time!!!

My travel agent just email me, that she has my packet & it is on it's way.:thumbsup2

Does anyone know if there are any casnios on the islands?

[Wachsdds]

There are casinos on St. Marteen

[lovesDCL]

i got my packet too! :cool1:

thanks for everyone's replies to the food allergy concern! :) happy to read that no one has any! :goodvibes

btw...are the casinos on St. Maarten on the French or Dutch side?

we are thinking about the following excursions:
St. Maarten: Rhino Rider & Snorkeling Adventure
St. Thomas: Sea Trek Helmet Dive and maybe the Screamin' Eagle Jet Boat as well
Castaway Cay: Personal Watercraft Eco Tour

anyone heard anything about these or have first hand experience? any opinions/suggestions are welcome! popcorn::

thanks!:flower3:

hope everyone's planning is going well :yay: :banana: :goodvibes

[rubbergypsy]

Hi all have not written in awhile, but have been reading all incoming posts. We were on the Wonder 9/18-9/21. Weather was outstanding, ship was fab, had a cat 6 and believe me it will be hard to go back to a cat 9 for this trip but the prices are sky high as we are nearing the cruise date!! Stayed at Wilderness Lodge the night before the cruise and I was not impressed. Thought whole resort was too dark, even the rooms were dreary and dark. So glad to get back to saratoga Sunday over Monday. Makes me really appreciate the resort. We are however staying at akv before this cruise and I hope we are happy, just wanted the resort with the fewest points spent (dvc).
Hope everyone has their air. It will all be here soon!!!

[Jodijo]

Ok, am I the only one that has not gotten my packet? Should I be worried? :confused3

I finally got my flights! I got a great deal ($400 RT from CA) with United. :yay:

The only thing I have left to do is to make hotel reservations for the 13th. We do not get into MCO until almost 10pm so I am thinking of staying at the airport Hyatt. I know it is expensive but am not sure what else to do. I think it will be to late to pick up our luggage, rent a car, and drive to a hotel. What would you do in this situation?

[dwick]

Ok, am I the only one that has not gotten my packet? Should I be worried? :confused3


I still haven't received mine either....but I also haven't paid in full yet. Usually my packet arrives after full payment is made.

[disnutt]

Haven't received my packet yet either.

I need to ask for prayers and good wishes. My MIL who is coming on the cruise w/ us had a lumpectomy yesterday. They are sending it to pathology. The surgeon said he was 'somewhat' concerned by the look of it. There is a family history.

I don't know what, if any, effect this could have on our cruise planning.

Thanks

[lovesDCL]

I still haven't received mine either....but I also haven't paid in full yet. Usually my packet arrives after full payment is made.

hi dwick...we are not paid in full either but still got the packet :confused3 like others have said, it's just excursion info... perhaps we got ours because we booked the REAS and can make reservations for palo and such at 105 days :confused:

whatever the reason...i hope you get your packet soon! :thumbsup2

[lovesDCL]

Haven't received my packet yet either.

I need to ask for prayers and good wishes. My MIL who is coming on the cruise w/ us had a lumpectomy yesterday. They are sending it to pathology. The surgeon said he was 'somewhat' concerned by the look of it. There is a family history.

I don't know what, if any, effect this could have on our cruise planning.

Thanks

disnutt, here is some pixiedust: for your MIL. hope all turns out well...
will say a prayer for her :flower3:

[PURTYPAT1]

Hi Everybody,
I just got an email from yapta.com wanted to give anyone from the NY area a heads up that hasn't gotten there fare.

There is a one way direct flight leaving from NY 2/22/09 MCO to JFK American flight # 630
Depart: Orlando (MCO) 12:10 pm
Arrive: New York (JFK) 2:55 pm
1 Coach ticket $164.00

Not a bad price for a direct flight.

disnut how is your DMIL?

[Jodi]

Haven't received my packet yet either.

I need to ask for prayers and good wishes. My MIL who is coming on the cruise w/ us had a lumpectomy yesterday. They are sending it to pathology. The surgeon said he was 'somewhat' concerned by the look of it. There is a family history.

I don't know what, if any, effect this could have on our cruise planning.

Thanks

Hi Kiena

Anxiously awaiting results...I hope all is well :grouphug: .

Just wanted to say "HI" to everyone else!! I feel very excited tonight about our cruise (not sure why tonight of all nights :confused3 ). I'm really looking forward to meeting all of you!!

Jodi, I can't believe your airfare from CA!!! I'm TOOOO jealous! Good for you!:thumbsup2

[Jodijo]

Jodi, I can't believe your airfare from CA!!! I'm TOOOO jealous! Good for you!:thumbsup2

It took a lot of research and patience but it was worth it. I just made our final cruise payment today as well. Now, I am getting super excited!!!!

[disnutt]

We still haven't heard anything about the test results for my MIL!:confused3 How long does this stuff take? I'm concerned that she might withhold info. She might be awkward talking about it with her sons (no DD's for her). I don't know.

I'm hoping that no news is good news. We're still on board. I want to send in the last payment but now with this...

My 12 yo DD and I are still planning to leave for WDW in one week for the Tower of Terror run! I'm so excited about that!

[vavalynn2]

Hello everyone!! It has been a while, but fall has been busy.

Unfortunately, this weekend we made the decision to cancel the cruise. :eek:

We compromised and will be going to Florida for the week (on the excellent airfare I purchased this past April), staying a few days with fam and the rest at OKW. :thumbsup2

We had a few things change here at home and will splurge on a cruise further down the road.

But we look forward to going back to the world!

Have a great cruise everyone! :banana: :banana:

Take care!:goodvibes

[Jodijo]

Unfortunately, this weekend we made the decision to cancel the cruise. :eek:

We compromised and will be going to Florida for the week (on the excellent airfare I purchased this past April), staying a few days with fam and the rest at OKW. :thumbsup2


I am so sorry that you will not be cruising with us. However, I am envious of the fact that you will have a week at WDW. I love the cruise but would much rather be in WDW.

Have a wonderful time with your family!

[PURTYPAT1]

Hello everyone!! It has been a while, but fall has been busy.

Unfortunately, this weekend we made the decision to cancel the cruise. :eek:

We compromised and will be going to Florida for the week (on the excellent airfare I purchased this past April), staying a few days with fam and the rest at OKW. :thumbsup2

We had a few things change here at home and will splurge on a cruise further down the road.

But we look forward to going back to the world!

Have a great cruise everyone! :banana: :banana:

Take care!:goodvibes

There will be plenty of cruises for the 2 of you!!!! You are going to have a great time at the world.

Hi everyone, it's been a very sad time for my family, ending with the loss of my Dad a few days ago.

Life is truly a gift, sometimes with all of the madness we tend to forget the little things.

Anyway, I am back & just wanted to hey to everyone.

[Jodijo]

Hi everyone, it's been a very sad time for my family, ending with the loss of my Dad a few days ago.

Life is truly a gift, sometimes with all of the madness we tend to forget the little things.


I am so sorry about your Dad. I lost my mother a few years ago and it is a difficult thing to go through. My thought are with you and your family.

[Jodi]

Hi Patty

I am so sorry to hear about the passing of your father, my thoughts are with you & yours.:grouphug:

[PURTYPAT1]

Thanks for the kind words!!!!

[lovesDCL]

hi patty,

so sorry to hear about your loss.

my prayers and with you and your family :grouphug:

[grizbuzz]

Patty-

Sending lots of prayers and thoughts of comfort to you and your family at this time. :wizard:

-Jen

[PURTYPAT1]

Again I just want to thank you all very much

[PURTYPAT1]

Does anyone know the dates when we will be able to book our excursions? :confused3

[Jodi]

Does anyone know the dates when we will be able to book our excursions? :confused3

I was counting on you to tell ME!:rotfl2: I have no idea??:confused3

[lovesDCL]

hi all! just wanted to share that...

WE PAID OFF THE CRUISE! party:

so about making reservations for excursions/palo/vista spa, i think the following is correct (i know the Nov. 1st date is correct b/c that's when we get to book per DCL's website and the letter that came with the excursion packet)

105 Days (suites & REAS): Nov. 1st
90 Days (Castaway Club Members): Nov. 16th
75 Days (First Time Cruisers): Dec. 1st

hopes this helps...:wave:

[Jodi]

Congrats on paying it all off DCL!!!

Now for the excursions....hmmmm?????:confused3 Not sure what we're gonna with this.

[PURTYPAT1]

Am I the only one that's only doing the beaches?

[PURTYPAT1]

hi all! just wanted to share that...

WE PAID OFF THE CRUISE! party:



hopes this helps...:wave:

Congrat's on the pay off!!!!!!!

[Jodi]

Am I the only one that's only doing the beaches?

No, I don't think you'll be the only one, I'm seriously considering that myself. The only excursion I would consider is snorkeling. The family has really enjoyed that on CC so I thought somewhere else might be nice this time around. Otherwise, I'm all for walking around aimlessly, shopping & beaching it!

[lovesDCL]

thanks Jodi & PURTYPAT1!

unfortunately i am not a beach person :upsidedow unless it is at CC!

that being said we have changed the excursion for St. Maarten to "The Golden Eagle Catamaran" since it includes an open bar, snorkeling, and a trip to the deserted island of Tintamar, and has gotten a 9/10 per Passporter :thumbsup2
does anyone plan on exploring Marigot while in St. Maarten? or does anyone know of any sites/books that will help in exploring on our own? :confused3 any help at all is welcome! :flower3:

as for st. thomas/st. john, i wanted to take an excursion over to st. john but DF wanted to do the helmet dive...which i don't mind at all :rolleyes: ...so we decided to leave st. john for next time...hope we don't miss too much by staying in st. thomas...;)

is everyone planning on doing Palo? and has anyone done Palo High Tea before? trying to figure out if it is worth missing some of the behind the scenes stuff to go...
i get to book this friday @ 9pm since i'm currently on the west coast! :banana: i am so excited :dance3: and nervous at the same time! :eek: i hope i book all the right things at the right times :rotfl:


happy planning and booking to all!!! here is some pixiedust: for all! :goodvibes

[Jodijo]

Ok, I am now officially ready for our cruise! everything is booked and paid for! However, I still do not have my packet :headache:

We went on this same cruise last year while I was getting my masters degree. I had to spend a lot of time reading and writing papers. As of yesterday, I finished! :yay: I now have a Masters in educational and instructional technology!!! I am so excited and relieved. Now, time to plan....

[PURTYPAT1]

Ok, I am now officially ready for our cruise! everything is booked and paid for! However, I still do not have my packet :headache:

We went on this same cruise last year while I was getting my masters degree. I had to spend a lot of time reading and writing papers. As of yesterday, I finished! :yay: I now have a Masters in educational and instructional technology!!! I am so excited and relieved. Now, time to plan....


CONGRAT'S JODI :thumbsup2

[Jodi]

Ok, I am now officially ready for our cruise! everything is booked and paid for!

NICE:thumbsup2 Plan away!!!!:woohoo:

[lovesDCL]

Congrats on both Jodijo!!! :woohoo: :dance3: :yay:

enjoy the planning! :thumbsup2

[Jodi]

HEY GUYS!!

Did you read about the $99 Bounceback offer for our cruise??? I contacted DU agent & she confirmed that we are indeed eligible! Basically it's a 3 day cruise August - Dec for $99 per person!!!:woohoo: :dance3: :yay: .

You KNOW times are rough when DCL is offering bouncebacks!! Glad WE benefit!:thumbsup2

[lovesDCL]

just finished booking excursions/palo/vista spa! :woohoo:

it all went very well and got mostly all we wanted :thumbsup2
will post details later ;)

have a good weekend all! :goodvibes

[grizbuzz]

Did you all see the deal for a $99 Fall 2009 Disney cruise for booking our Feb 14 sail date? I got an email from my travel agent indicating that she applied this deal to my existing reservation. I'm not sure that I can swing two trips to Florida next year, but it sure is tempting. If anyone is interested, I'd contact Disney cruise or your travel agent. Didn't cost me anything to get this applied to my existing ressie.


Buy One Disney Cruise, Get One for $99!
Sail on a 4-Night or 7-Night Disney cruise departing between January 31 - March 8, 2009 or March 21, 2009 or March 28, 2009 and get a 3-Night Disney cruise in the fall of 2009 for just $99* per person!

*Qualifying guests who book will receive information in their staterooms when they sail. In April and May 2009 they will be able to book the $99/person cruise for departures between August 13 - December 17, 2009.

Valid in Category 4-12 only. Must sail in same stateroom category and number of cabins. At least one person from original reservation must sail. Non-transferable.

Price does not include a fuel supplement of $8 per person per day for the first two guests in a stateroom and $3 per day for all other guests in the same stateroom, per sailing.

[Dino-000]

This is my first post and I hope I don't mess things up. We are on this cruise. The three of us. myself 46, wife 32, and our beautiful 8 year old daughter are going on the Eastern Feb 14th. This is our 4th Disney cruise. We always do the western but had to reschedule so we are doing the Eastern. I know we will have a good time. How can you not when your sailing on the Disney.:cool1: I was just hoping to meet a few people on the board so when we are on the ship it could even be more fun:cool1:

[disnutt]

I'm trying to catch up with everyone.

Purtypat1- My sympathy for you and your family on the death of your father. My prayers are with you.

Jodijo- Congratulations on completing your degree!:banana:

Dino-000-Welcome to the group!

LovesDCL- :cheer2:

My MIL does have cancer. She's having more tests. Waiting for a bone scan to see if she can start radiation or what. My DH isn't the best about relaying information. I need to talk to her to get the whole story.

We're still hoping we can cruise. I guess our final decision will have to be made soon. I've got to say that bounceback deal is going to make this decision harder!

On a happier note- my DD and I completed the Tower of Terror run last week! We had a great time doing it. I was so proud of DD because I thought the late night time of the race would be a problem for her but she was so excited. Our time for the 8 miles was 1:43. I figured we would finish in 1:45 so we beat our goal! Now she wants to do it again-faster-next year!

[PURTYPAT1]

;) I'm trying to catch up with everyone.

Purtypat1- My sympathy for you and your family on the death of your father. My prayers are with you.

Jodijo- Congratulations on completing your degree!:banana:

Dino-000-Welcome to the group!

LovesDCL- :cheer2:

My MIL does have cancer. She's having more tests. Waiting for a bone scan to see if she can start radiation or what. My DH isn't the best about relaying information. I need to talk to her to get the whole story.

We're still hoping we can cruise. I guess our final decision will have to be made soon. I've got to say that bounceback deal is going to make this decision harder!

On a happier note- my DD and I completed the Tower of Terror run last week! We had a great time doing it. I was so proud of DD because I thought the late night time of the race would be a problem for her but she was so excited. Our time for the 8 miles was 1:43. I figured we would finish in 1:45 so we beat our goal! Now she wants to do it again-faster-next year!


Will keep you DML in our prayers

Congrats on your Tower of Terror!!! Yesterday was NYC & it seemed like everyone I know were running.

Dino-000-Welcome

grizbuzz I called my travel agent, & she was able to apply. Maybe we'll do a quickie 3 day cruise next Nov "Jersey week"

Can you believe it's only a few more weeks till Thanksgiving

[grizbuzz]

This is my first post and I hope I don't mess things up. We are on this cruise. The three of us. myself 46, wife 32, and our beautiful 8 year old daughter are going on the Eastern Feb 14th. This is our 4th Disney cruise. We always do the western but had to reschedule so we are doing the Eastern. I know we will have a good time. How can you not when your sailing on the Disney.:cool1: I was just hoping to meet a few people on the board so when we are on the ship it could even be more fun:cool1:

Welcome Dino-OOO! :yay:

disnutt--many healthy wishes to your MIL :wizard:

Just wanted to remind everyone about the gift exchange. If you're not signed up and want to sign up, let me know.
http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=26378362&postcount=296

We got our packet in the mail today. I'm not sure if I'm going to sign up for any excursions. I'm thinking we just may take taxis to beaches on St. Marteen and St. Thomas.

Now just have to pay off the remainder of the cruise, and we'll be good to go! :thumbsup2

[Jodi]

Hey all!

Kiena - Sorry to hear about your MIL, hopefully all will be well. Congrats to you & DD for finishing ToT! Was it a blast?

Welcome to Dino!!!

Grizz - I know what you mean about the excursions...may just beach it!

Patty - RU planning away?

Hi to all others. OK, we're all paid off (Disney Reward Points :woohoo: ) and I'm now debating excursion, Rainforest room pass, formal night, etc. Anyone think missing formal night would be terrible? The DH is SO not into it :scared1: :laughing: . Also, is Palo open every day? Not sure how this works?:confused3

Any suggestions would be appreciated, as this is our first 7 nighter!!:yay:

[lovesDCL]

Hey all!

Hi to all others. OK, we're all paid off (Disney Reward Points :woohoo: ) and I'm now debating excursion, Rainforest room pass, formal night, etc. Anyone think missing formal night would be terrible? The DH is SO not into it :scared1: :laughing: . Also, is Palo open every day? Not sure how this works?:confused3

Any suggestions would be appreciated, as this is our first 7 nighter!!:yay:

hi Jodi!
i don't think missing formal night is terrible...:) if you both are not going to enjoy it i say find an alternative that makes you both happy! :thumbsup2

Palo is open for dinner every night...below are the time options available:
2/14: 6:30pm, 7pm, 7:30pm, 8pm, and 8:30pm
2/15-19: 6pm, 7pm, 7:30pm, 8pm, 8:30pm, and 9pm
2/20: 6pm, 7pm, 7:30pm, 8pm, and 8:30pm

Palo Brunch is only on sea days:
2/15, 2/16, & 2/19: 10:30am, 11am, and 11:30am

Palo High Tea is also only on sea days:
2/15, 2/16, & 2/19: 3pm only

we also got the Rainforest pass and can't wait to use it! :dance3: i love it in there:lovestruc i suffer from OCPD (obsessive compulsive planning disorder :laughing: ) and have already scheduled "rainforest time" into each possible day :rotfl:

hope this helps a bit and good luck with all the planning :goodvibes !

Booking went well! Here's what we got!
Day 1: Pedicure
Day 2: Spa Villa for Two
Day 3: Palo Brunch
Day 4: Golden Eagle Excursion
Day 5: Helmet Dive Excursion
Day 6: Rasul & Palo High Tea
Day 7: Wave Runner Excursion, Couples Cabana Massage, & Palo dinner

good luck with the planning all!

[lovesDCL]

I'm trying to catch up with everyone.

Purtypat1- My sympathy for you and your family on the death of your father. My prayers are with you.

Jodijo- Congratulations on completing your degree!:banana:

Dino-000-Welcome to the group!

LovesDCL- :cheer2:

My MIL does have cancer. She's having more tests. Waiting for a bone scan to see if she can start radiation or what. My DH isn't the best about relaying information. I need to talk to her to get the whole story.

We're still hoping we can cruise. I guess our final decision will have to be made soon. I've got to say that bounceback deal is going to make this decision harder!

On a happier note- my DD and I completed the Tower of Terror run last week! We had a great time doing it. I was so proud of DD because I thought the late night time of the race would be a problem for her but she was so excited. Our time for the 8 miles was 1:43. I figured we would finish in 1:45 so we beat our goal! Now she wants to do it again-faster-next year!

hi disnutt, sorry to hear about your MIL...been keeping her and your family in my prayers

great to hear about your TOT run:thumbsup2

hope you and your family are still able to make the cruise :wizard:

[Wachsdds]

I am thinking of the plans for Palo etc. I forgot which nights are Pirate night, dessert showcase and the captain's dinner. Does anybody remember which nights?

[Jodi]

Thanks for all the info, DCL! Man, sounds like you're all set!:thumbsup2 Tell me about his Rassul thing???popcorn::
What's best, Palo dinner or Palo brunch??? What night is formal night? Maybel we'll book Palo then & let the kids fend for themselves :rolleyes1 .

Wachsdds - I have no idea when Pirate night is, or anything else, if that's not obvious enough from the above query:rotfl2:

[lovesDCL]

Per Passporter and past navigators, this is what the rotational dining looks like:

Saturday: Cruise Casual, regular rotation menu
Parrot Cay: Island Dinner
Lumière's: French Dinner
Animator's Palate: Show Dinner

Sunday: Formal Night,
The navigator from 10/11/08 Eastern says dinner menu is Golden Mickey's
2008 Pasporter says dinner is from the regular rotation menu so :confused3

Monday: Cruise Casual, regular rotation menu

Tuesday: Pirate Night, dinner menu is Pirate Dinner

Wednesday: Cruise Casual,
Master Chef dinner menu per Passporter, but did not see thing on the
10/11/08 navigator but then again their schedule was altered due to
the weather, so again :confused3

Thursday: Semi-Formal, dinner menu is Captain's Gala menu

Friday: Cruise Casual, dinner menu is 'Til We Meet Again menu

I am waiting for people to post navigators from the Eastern that leaves this Saturday 11/08/08 and I will update the questionable nights when they do :thumbsup2

As for the Dessert Showcase, I'm not really sure, but they generally have a dessert buffet on Pirate Night starting around 10:45pm and sometimes there is a Gala Dessert Buffet in Lumière's on the last sea night which starts at around 11:15pm (all this info per Passporter)

Palo Brunch vs. Palo Dinner
I've never done brunch so I can't say how good it is but from ALOT of reading i've done :surfweb: people say this is not to be missed. I've done dinner right as the sun was setting and the view was beautiful and the dinner was far better than in any of the dining rooms. If you can, I say do both! :laughing:

Hope this is not too much info :rotfl: let me know if i can help with anything else

[PURTYPAT1]

I've done both, it seems like Palo dinner is very fancy, & the brunch is more casual. I also did High Tea (I think that is what it is called) That was fun & casual.

Jodi, my DD girlfriend & her Mom might join us on this cruise. I have been busy planning for them, getting prices. The more the better :banana:

Does anyone know the date that Castaway members can book?

[lovesDCL]

Tell me about his Rassul thing???popcorn::


so we haven't done the rasul but have read many good things about it!

but the official description per Passporter is the following:
"This unique treatment is inspired by the Rasul cleansing rituals performed by the Sultan's harems during the Ottoman Empire. You are escorted to the tile-lined ritual chamber, which is a suite with a sitting area, steam room, and shower. Exfoliating mud is in a small bowl-smear the mud on yourself or on each other (if you are with a friend) and relax in the steam room to absorb the minerals and trace elements from the mud. Afterward, shower off and apply complimentary lotions and scrubs. This is very popular with couples...Be warned that it does get very hot..."

one particularly entertaining description is by Erica author of Geeks on a Boat! and the other "Geek" reports (very good reading :) )
http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=14450671&postcount=28
(note: that the gift that she mentions is not the norm and i've read not to expect it :upsidedow )

hope this is useful!

[lovesDCL]

Does anyone know the date that Castaway members can book?

I believe it is November 16th :thumbsup2

[PURTYPAT1]

one particularly entertaining description is by Erica author of Geeks on a Boat! and the other "Geek" reports (very good reading :) )
http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=14450671&postcount=28
(note: that the gift that she mentions is not the norm and i've read not to expect it :upsidedow )

hope this is useful!

I just read above, how funny :rotfl2:

Thanks for the date

[lovesDCL]

I just read above, how funny :rotfl2:

Thanks for the date

no problem! glad you enjoyed it! :goodvibes

[Jodi]

OMGosh!! That was SO funny :rotfl2: . Thanks, DCL. NO WAY will my husband go for that, he's WAY too shy! He would DIE of embarassement.:lmao: . I could always trick him into it, though....hmmmmm:rolleyes1 .
The Rainforest Room is a communal room though, right? There are usually people in there all the time, correct? Anyone think it's worth it? I've never been in there before.

Patty - That'd be SO cool if your DD friend & mom came along!! What a BLAST! Is the food different for Palo brunch & dinner? Maybe brunch would be better so the kids don't feel like we're totally dumping them :rotfl: . Not that they'd care :rolleyes: .

[Jodijo]

Congrats on both Jodijo!!! :woohoo: :dance3: :yay:

enjoy the planning! :thumbsup2

I just wanted to thank everyone for your support and congratulations. It means a lot to me.

Time to party (in Feb.) !!!

[lovesDCL]

so i guess i won't know about those nights i was unsure about the dinner menu since this saturday's sailing has been changed to a western itinerary due to the weather...:sad2: i hope all those people still have an amazing cruise on the new route! :wizard:

[Dino-000]

It's nice to hear from people that enjoy Disney as much as my family. This is our fourth DCL cruise. We cruise a lot, but our DD enjoys the fresh water pool and the characters, so we try to make her happy...It is all about her:banana: :banana: . I find Palo at nigh to be more like classic cruise dinning. The way it used to be. I remember on the first cruise I ever when on everybody dressed for dinner and it was more elegant. Times have changed.:sad2: . The industry has really changed over the years. For those that has been on the ship before how do you find the food?:rolleyes1

[suzct]

Airfare is just not cooperating so we are changing plans. May stay at the GF club level the first week of Feb. Will save over $2000 and fulfill a dream of always staying at GF. Have a great time everyone. MAybe we'll try for the new ships in 2010.

Suzct

[lovesDCL]

Airfare is just not cooperating so we are changing plans. May stay at the GF club level the first week of Feb. Will save over $2000 and fulfill a dream of always staying at GF. Have a great time everyone. MAybe we'll try for the new ships in 2010.

Suzct

sorry to hear you won't we joining us! :sad1: but i know how you feel about the airfare...it is :scared1: !

enjoy your time at the GF:thumbsup2 and i hope you can make it onto the new ships! :wizard:

[grizbuzz]

Paid off the balance of the cruise yesterday, so we're officially a go! :woohoo:

Just waiting to start signing up for Palo and spa treatments this Saturday!

[Jodijo]

Paid off the balance of the cruise yesterday, so we're officially a go! :woohoo:

Just waiting to start signing up for Palo and spa treatments this Saturday!

Congrats on playing off your cruise!:cool1:

Thanks for reminding me that we are able to book Palo and other arrangements this Saturday! It completely slipped my mind.

[Jodijo]

Ok, I think I have a problem! I just checked my airline reservations and they have changed. Our flight was scheduled to leave Florida (after the cruise) at 11:51AM. I thought it we would be cutting it close but ok. Now, our flight was changed to 10:45AM. I booked directly through United. Should I call and try to change it or do you think we will be able to make it?

Any advice will be greatly appreciated!

[kimkreis]

Well I am not sure if some of you remeber me but I posted a LONG time ago hoping for a miliatry disocunt.

Well Disney came through! I am waiting to hear back from my TA, and hopefully I can talk hubby into this great deal for our 15th!

Please some fingers crossed on the deal AND my powers of persuasion!

[Wachsdds]

Ok, I think I have a problem! I just checked my airline reservations and they have changed. Our flight was scheduled to leave Florida (after the cruise) at 11:51AM. I thought it we would be cutting it close but ok. Now, our flight was changed to 10:45AM. I booked directly through United. Should I call and try to change it or do you think we will be able to make it?

Any advice will be greatly appreciated!

Generally DCL is great getting everyone off the ship and through customs. We are usually off the ship between 6:30 and 7:00 with breakfast. If you are using car service or a rental car the trip is only an hour to the airport. I don't know anything about the Disney transportation since we have never used it in 6 cruises. We usually arrive at the airport between 8:30-9. The only stress depends on the TSA security check line.

I think if you asked my wife you have a great departure time. She hates sitting around the airport. I am the other way and like a little buffer on time; However, we usually tend to sit an hour in the airport with my planning which drives the DW nuts not to mention allows the kids to get into trouble!

[Jodi]

Well I am not sure if some of you remeber me but I posted a LONG time ago hoping for a miliatry disocunt.

Well Disney came through! I am waiting to hear back from my TA, and hopefully I can talk hubby into this great deal for our 15th!

Please some fingers crossed on the deal AND my powers of persuasion!

:rotfl: :wizard: Good luck with the persuasion & congrats on a GREAT RATE! C'mon, he's gotta say yes!:laughing:

Jodi - I agree with the dentist guy;) , and think your flight time is fine! What means of transport are you using?

[Jodijo]

Jodi - I agree with the dentist guy;) , and think your flight time is fine! What means of transport are you using?

We are using Disney transportation. I know that they have busses waiting when you get off the ship so, I think we will be ok.

Thank you to all that responded. You are making me feel much better!

[lovesDCL]

good luck with reservations everyone! :thumbsup2

here is some pixie dust for all!!!
pixiedust: pixiedust: pixiedust: pixiedust:

[grizbuzz]

Made my Palo and spa reservations!
Think I got everything I wanted. :woohoo:
Going to check with DH now.

Good luck everyone!!:goodvibes

[PURTYPAT1]

Made my Palo and spa reservations!
Think I got everything I wanted. :woohoo:
Going to check with DH now.

Good luck everyone!!:goodvibes

Made mine too 1 Palo, & one brunch ;)

Was anyone able to get high tea? It wouldn't show up? :confused3

[Mamatipo]

Hello all,
Just wanted to introduce myself. We're booked for the 2/14 Magic cruise as well -- and everyone is getting very excited here at home. (Me, DH, DSons 6 & 9)

Though I have cruised before, I have never done a Disney Cruise. I haven't made any reservations for palo or for any excursions. Should I have done that already? I think if I read it correctly, I probably can't do that until 75 days out anyway, since I'm not a Castaway Clubmember, right?

Well, nice to see you all here. I'm doing all of my reading to get ready. It's been many moons since I've posted on the Dis boards, but I'm glad to be back.

[grizbuzz]

Made mine too 1 Palo, & one brunch ;)

Was anyone able to get high tea? It wouldn't show up? :confused3


Yes, we were able to get Palo high tea. When I checked tonight, it looked like there was a Palo high tea open for day 3 (for two people).

Good luck! :wizard:


Welcome Mamatipo! Let me know if you want to join the gift exchange! Or if anyone else does, let me know.

-Jen

[lovesDCL]

Yes, we were able to get Palo high tea. When I checked tonight, it looked like there was a Palo high tea open for day 3 (for two people).

Good luck! :wizard:


Welcome Mamatipo! Let me know if you want to join the gift exchange! Or if anyone else does, let me know.

-Jen

:welcome: Mamatipo!


grizbuzz, i am trying to determine how many FE gifts i will need...do you know what the total # of families participating in the gift exchange? i know there have been a few who have had to cancle...thanks!:flower3:

[grizbuzz]

Here's the info I have for the

GIFT EXCHANGE
1. grizbuzz (Jen, John, Max DS5, Nico DS3)
2. SnowWhat and DSIL (Cabin 1: Jean, Eddie, Catrina DD5, and Christine DD
will be 2 weeks shy of 4; Cabin 2: DSIL Debbie, Buzz, DS 11, DD9)
3. Jodi (Cabin 1: Jodi and DH; Cabin 2: Spencer DS13, step-son Eli 13, step-daughter Skye 17)
4. disnutt (Cabin 1- me, DH, DS 5; Cabin 2: disnutt's mother, DD-13, DD-8; Cabin 3- MIL, FIL)
5. rubbergypsy (Cabin 1: rubbergypsy, DD8, DS17; Cabin 2: rubbergypsy Friend, DS6, DD9, DD12)
6. lovesDCL (2 people)
7, Jodijo (Cabin 1: Mitch & Jodi; Cabin 2: Mason (13) & Mickayla (11))

Here's process we used on the 2007 Mediterranean cruise which I was planning to repeat.
-Participants will get small gifts for each cabin signed up. So as of now, each participant would bring 12 gifts (and hopefully we'll get more people to sign up!!).
-As we get closer to the departure date, you will PM me your cabin room.
-I will write up a gift exchange list to distribute at our DISMeet (we are having one, right?) with a list of cabins to deliver gifts to, as well as your assigned day to deliver the gifts. So that way, each day a gift or two will be waiting at your door.
-Fish extenders not required, though if you want to make/bring one, by all means do.

Kinds of gifts people brought at the last cruise I was on cruise: postcards/treats from where they live, candy, scrapbooky kinds of things, items which might be fun/useful on the cruise. Only rules: not expensive and not too large (only so much room in the suitcase).

Idea is to be fun and entirely stress free!

PLEASE LET ME KNOW if you would like to add your name or change details :thumbsup2

[Jodi]

Hey Everyone!

Made my Palo ressies, excursion & rasul (doubt I'll be able to talk DH into this:laughing: ). I booked the Capt. Nautica's snorkeling thingie in St. Thomas. Any idea where I can get a review on something like that?

How 'bout the rest of you?

OK, let's talk tips. I've never done a 7 nighter before & am wondering what the "recommended" tips are so I can plan ahead. Of course I'll add to that if necessary but I'm trying to figure out if there's any $ leftover for souvenirs!:rolleyes: :rotfl: I know there are threads about this but I can't find them (read too lazy to look or figure out search engine).

Thanks, guys!
Jodi

[PURTYPAT1]

Hey Everyone!

Made my Palo ressies, excursion & rasul (doubt I'll be able to talk DH into this:laughing: ). I booked the Capt. Nautica's snorkeling thingie in St. Thomas. Any idea where I can get a review on something like that?

How 'bout the rest of you?

OK, let's talk tips. I've never done a 7 nighter before & am wondering what the "recommended" tips are so I can plan ahead. Of course I'll add to that if necessary but I'm trying to figure out if there's any $ leftover for souvenirs!:rolleyes: :rotfl: I know there are threads about this but I can't find them (read too lazy to look or figure out search engine).

Thanks, guys!
Jodi

Hay Jodi,

Try these links

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/archive/index.php?t-29917.html

&

http://cruisetip.tpkeller.com/

[Snow What]

Hi All- and Welcome new ship mates!:yay: :yay:
It has been a while since I've posted. Trying to keep up with my girls' dancing, soccer, skating and school, plus work and chores, the last thing I want to do at the end of the day is sit infront of the computer...(couch potato is more my speed!:rotfl: )
I'm getting excited. I can't book Palo yet...but my DBIL did for Monday night. Just a couple of more weeks and I will be able to do it.
Have any of you with reservations through DVC done trip insurance, and with which company? Is the only option the one that comes advertised in your confirmation from DVC? AIG Travel Guard? I have paid 2 adults with pts and 2 children with cash....does anybody know how that works?:confused3

16 days 'til I get to stroll on the BoardWalk!:cheer2:

[Dino-000]

I'm jealous:sad1: The Boardwalk in 16 days. That is our home resort:thumbsup2. My family just loves it.:woohoo: Have never used the insurance so I can not help you with that but I had to write back when you mentioned the Boardwalk. I guess you can say we are neighbors. We live in RI. Hope to see you on the ship:yay:

[Snow What]

I'm jealous:sad1: The Boardwalk in 16 days. That is our home resort:thumbsup2. My family just loves it.:woohoo: Have never used the insurance so I can not help you with that but I had to write back when you mentioned the Boardwalk. I guess you can say we are neighbors. We live in RI. Hope to see you on the ship:yay:

Hey Neighbor! I love the BoardWalk the best. Have stayed at BC and OKW for DVC resorts and GF. BoardWalk is better than GF, IMO! I liked GF, but I like BW better!
And yes, we will see you on the ship!

[grizbuzz]

Hi All- and Welcome new ship mates!:yay: :yay:
It has been a while since I've posted. Trying to keep up with my girls' dancing, soccer, skating and school, plus work and chores, the last thing I want to do at the end of the day is sit infront of the computer...(couch potato is more my speed!:rotfl: )
I'm getting excited. I can't book Palo yet...but my DBIL did for Monday night. Just a couple of more weeks and I will be able to do it.
Have any of you with reservations through DVC done trip insurance, and with which company? Is the only option the one that comes advertised in your confirmation from DVC? AIG Travel Guard? I have paid 2 adults with pts and 2 children with cash....does anybody know how that works?:confused3

16 days 'til I get to stroll on the BoardWalk!:cheer2:

Hi! We did book a 4-day cruise on points last year and used the insurance that came with DVC confirmation. I don't know of any other options. We didn't pay any of the portion in cash, so I don't have any experience there. Fortunately, there were no incidents, so we didn't have to use the insurance - so I have no reports on coverage, etc.

Good luck! Sorry I can't be more helpful.

[lovesDCL]

Hey Everyone!

Made my Palo ressies, excursion & rasul (doubt I'll be able to talk DH into this:laughing: ). I booked the Capt. Nautica's snorkeling thingie in St. Thomas. Any idea where I can get a review on something like that?

How 'bout the rest of you?

OK, let's talk tips. I've never done a 7 nighter before & am wondering what the "recommended" tips are so I can plan ahead. Of course I'll add to that if necessary but I'm trying to figure out if there's any $ leftover for souvenirs!:rolleyes: :rotfl: I know there are threads about this but I can't find them (read too lazy to look or figure out search engine).

Thanks, guys!
Jodi

hi Jodi! i have the passporter's review of this excursion. would you like me to post that for you? i'd be happy to if you'd still like the review! :thumbsup2 just let me know :)

[PURTYPAT1]

hi Jodi! i have the passporter's review of this excursion. would you like me to post that for you? i'd be happy to if you'd still like the review! :thumbsup2 just let me know :)

I WOULD popcorn::

[lovesDCL]

sorry for the delay...it's been a little hectic....
here is the review per passporter

"Captain Nautica's St. John Snorkeling Expedition
Rating: 9
Active
Ages 8 & Up
4 hours
Enjoy a speedboat ride to two different snorkeling sites. Price includes snorkeling equipment, snacks, and beverages. Typical meeting times are 7:15am and noon. Cruiser comments are very positive: The adventurous speedboat ride is pretty fast and lots of fun. The crew is friendly and helpful. The reported snorkeling sites are either Turtle Cove off Buck Island or Christmas Cove, plus Honeymoon Bay. Snorkeling is wonderful with many colorful fish. The only complaint reported was with the snacks, which weren't all that great. Overall, cruisers loved it and would do it again. (On your own: http://www.captainnautica.com)"

let me know if anyone would like another review on any other excursion featured in passporter. i'd be happy to post it for you! :thumbsup2

[Jodi]

Thanks for posting the review, LovesDCL! I have booked this excursion and am looking forward to it! :yay:

[lovesDCL]

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone! :grouphug:

[Jodijo]

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone! :grouphug:

Thanks! The same to you!

I know it will be a great day for me because it is also my Birthday! (Yes, I was born on Thanksgiving and Yes, my mother called me her little turkey!)

[Jodi]

Happy Birthday, Jodi!!!

Happy Thanksgiving To All Fellow Cruisers!! It Won't Be Long Now!!!!

[Jodijo]

Happy Birthday, Jodi!!!



Thanks!!!!

[lovesDCL]

good luck to everyone making reservations Dec. 1!!! :thumbsup2


pixiedust: pixiedust: pixiedust: pixiedust: pixiedust:

[Jodi]

How'd everyone do with booking stuff??

I may have to cancel my Rasul ressie as DH is giving me a hard time on that one:rotfl: . He's too shy :cutie: .

[moosemom]

Hi all - I may have signed into this thread ages ago when we first booked but I can't recall LOL

I'm Cherie from NY and will be taking our first Disney cruise in February with you all - I'll be with our folks [it's an anniversary celebration for them and for us] and my dh, plus our kids dd10, ds 8 and dd 6
We can't wait!

I'm looking forward to getting to know everyone!

We're off to WDW on Saturday and I haven't packed yet [ulp!] but mom asked me for my passporter which reminded me to stop in and say hi!

[PURTYPAT1]

Hi all - I may have signed into this thread ages ago when we first booked but I can't recall LOL

I'm Cherie from NY and will be taking our first Disney cruise in February with you all - I'll be with our folks [it's an anniversary celebration for them and for us] and my dh, plus our kids dd10, ds 8 and dd 6
We can't wait!

I'm looking forward to getting to know everyone!

We're off to WDW on Saturday and I haven't packed yet [ulp!] but mom asked me for my passporter which reminded me to stop in and say hi!

Hi Cherie

I am jelous, I wish I was going to WDW!!!

What part of NY are you from?

[moosemom]

I'm from Long Island and looking forward to getting to sunny Florida asap!

[Jodi]

I'm from Long Island and looking forward to getting to sunny Florida asap!

LUCKY!!!:yay: You'll miss the killer cold-snap that's on it's way! It's supposed to be in the teens here in CT tomorrow night!:eek:

[moosemom]

I hope I do too Jodi LOL!

Although it's nothing here like you have - where in CT are you from? DH is a fairfield alum - we were married in the chapel there! he is there often for business still . . .

[PURTYPAT1]

What part of LI are you from, my sister lives in Bayshore(She's Weight Watchers leader in LI)

[moosemom]

Small world!

I'm on the west end of the island in valley stream . . .

[Jodi]

I hope I do too Jodi LOL!

Although it's nothing here like you have - where in CT are you from? DH is a fairfield alum - we were married in the chapel there! he is there often for business still . . .
Wow, it IS a small world. I live in Middletown now, but grew up in New Canaan. Was a paramedic for a long while in Fairfield/Bridgeport.

[kcashner]

Hello, my name is Kathryn and I'm a Disney Magic addict.

That says it all. We're currently booked at WDW for this week but DD is really pressuring me to make it a cruise and I'm seriously tempted. I thought I'd check out this thread to see who's sailing and have already identified one name from the same week last year. If we do this, it will be me and my DD who will turn 18 the week before we cruise.

I'm going to try to read thru at least some of this threat...35 pages or so....and catch up with all of you.