January 26 2008 - Western [Archive] - The DIS Discussion Forums

GuardMusic

06-22-2007, 01:18 PM

Glad to see someone has initiated this thread.

Wow - looks like I might be the senior crusier here! (Before you picture the gray hair, I'm in my early 30s!)

This will be my 4th cruise (3rd w/ DCL). The first was a college graduation cruise with Carnival. It was so horrible we never speak of it. It's like "The-Cruise-That-Must-Not-Be-Named!

First Disney one was land/sea (Jan. 2006) to celebrate mine & best friend's doctorate degrees. We were upgraded from Cat 9/Deck 2 to Cat 6/Deck 6 for free! (This is where I say we've been snookered by Disney AGAIN - introducing us to a more fab experience, so we'll want to spend the money on it next time!) Wanna know how our land/sea went? Check out the link to my Trip Report below!!!

The 2nd DCL hasn't happened yet! This cruise is the 4 night on Sept. 2; it will make up for a HORRIBLE trip to Hawaii in Jan. 2007.(Ask if you want details.) I'm taking my mom (her first cruise ever). I just surprised her with it last weekend for her birthday!

So for Jan. 2008, it will be Best Friend and I again. We booked this one during the land/sea, but pushed it back for Hawaii (NIGHTMARE!) Alas, we've booked the Cat 6. Come on, it's 7 nights; we NEED a verandah! Right? :rolleyes1

We've both been to WDW a lot (me a lot more)! But DCL is a different kind of vacation. It doesn't require miles & miles of walking, no pre-planning meal locations, quick time back to room, etc. I was literally addicted 3 minutes into the Sail Away Party!

Hope to hear more from everyone over the next few months.
Gayle

Frankiesmom

09-06-2007, 08:14 PM

Thanks Jen for pointing me in the right direction! Nice to see you all here! We are slao joining your sailing-Me (angel) 36, and my DH (donald) 48, and our 2 sons-Frankie 6 and Dominic 3. Can't wait! this will be our 4th Disney cruise;1st time on the Magic. Talk to you all soon! Angel

Frankiesmom

09-11-2007, 08:21 AM

I can't believe that we are the only ones from these boards that are sailing on this ship! Well it looks like we'll have the ship pretty much to ourselves! LOL Angel

Billybob7

09-13-2007, 09:46 AM

My DW and I will be joining you. This is our second disney Cruise and we can't wait!!

jenkh

09-13-2007, 10:00 PM

Let's get the ball rolling here. What excursions is everyone considering?

For Key West we've decided just to explore on foot ourselves.

In Grand Cayman we are looking at the Shipwreck & Reef Snorkeling

Cozumel - Fury Catamaran Sail, Snorkel & Beach Party

And in Castaway Cay I've made a promise to myself to do Parasailing. I'm scared of heights but love the thrill and I know I'll just love it.

What's everyone else doing/considering?

Gabbypick

09-14-2007, 09:27 PM

I will be going on my 2nd Disney cruise on this cruise. I Can't wait. It is the best!!!

purplepeg

09-15-2007, 09:44 AM

Hi everyone,

We will be joining all of you as well. We just booked last week. This is our first DCL but not our first cruise. We haven't cruised in 7 yrs. Last time I was expecting our first Dd(7). Our cast is me(44) Dh(39) Dd(7) Dd(3). Our children have never cruised so we are looking forward to exploring the ship with them. We thought we might just hang out on board instead of doing shore excursions. The alternate is just exploring at the pier. I am so excited about this cruise:cool1:

Frankiesmom

09-16-2007, 09:42 AM

Hi to all! We are planning on exploring on our own in Key west;maybe staying on the ship in Grand Cayman and in Cozumel we would like to take the youngest to Playa Mia? I think that's it? We were there with our 6 year old 4 years ago on RCCL Enchantment-and we had a blast as a family-a wonderful relaxing beach day. We would do this on our own;as obtaining a taxi and getting there would be way less than using DCL. I really think an extra sea day and extra time exploring the ship would be great-that's why I plan on skipping GC. Now to start packing for my Mariner cruise in 2 weeks;leaving DH with the kids and sailing with my BFF! No kids and no husbands!! LOL Take care everyone and nice to see this thread getting some movement. Angel

dzorn

09-17-2007, 03:28 PM

Hey everyone. We will also be joining you on this cruise

DM
DSis

Dh & Me

DD ages 6 & 8.

We are only doing cat 10 to save points on the DVC we just bought for next years Christmas Vac. My mom has cruised before years ago but is my sisters and my family's first cruise. Just booked this morning cannot wait.

Denise in MI

http://tickers.TickerFactory.com/ezt/d/4;10748;128/st/20080126/e/First+DCL+Cruise/k/c793/event.png
(http://www.TickerFactory.com/)

dzorn

09-21-2007, 08:06 AM

Still have not decided on shore excursions. It does look not to many Diser's are going with us.

Denise in MI

GuardMusic

09-22-2007, 01:24 PM

Hey all!

Just booked air this week. We were planning to book air later, but this week we could grab for only $140 round trip! :cool1:

Best Friend (DBFF) and I will plan our excursions the weekend of Oct. 12, while we celebrate her b-day. We've never been to any of these places and feel the DIsney site is completely lacking. We'll be pouring over the latest PassPorter edition very soon.

BFF wants to informally browse Key West. Any advice?

I want to stay on the ship during at least one port day, as I love having the ship empty. I thought BFF would want to do the dolphin experience, but she seems to be shying away from that. The speedboat trip to the beach looks cool, but would like some true-life experiences. BFF also originally considered the Ruins, but that seems to be off the table as well.

ANY AND ALL excursion advice/recommendations are welcomed!

We're flying in the day before at 11:30am. The last time I rented a car to go over to the WDW hotels & Downtown Disney, stayed out at the airport, and took the Disney bus to the port. (I thought my mom would enjoy the video and it saved me another drive/gave me a chance to nap.)

BFF and I are trying to decide if we should do that or stay at WDW and still transfer to the port. (We did that for land/sea.) The big thing is deciding if we want to ge to the port early or not.... :confused:

OK - enough for now! Look forward to hearing from you all over the coming months.

Gayle

dzorn

09-23-2007, 10:20 PM

We are flying in a day early also and probably renting a car and dropping it off near port. DH wants to stay near port but I have not decided yet on hotel. Still looking at flights. Southwest is cheapest but the thought of no assigned seats does not sit well with DH or Me. Oldest daughter is high functing autistic and will do better with her family around her. Printed out a lot of excersion stuff for DH and Mom to look at. In key west we were thinking of doing the old town trolley tour (not necessarity through DCL) that way we could get on and off around Key West. We like it when we did it in St. Augustine one year.

Denise in MI

jenkh

09-26-2007, 10:11 AM

Well I got a nice surprise in the mail yesterday. Our cruise planner from DCL. Giving us all the details on excursions, gifts, formalwear and some tips for the cruise.

We're starting to get closer :cool1:

dzorn

09-26-2007, 10:19 AM

Jen

Just noticed you have DVC at Animal Kingdom. We just purchased ours on our trip to the world in August. Using our developer points for the cruise. Still have not deciede when to go back to WDW.

I'm still trying to deciede on air fare. SW is cheaper but NWA can do the luggage transfers on the way back.

DH hoped buying DVC would give me a little more rest from planning. NO Way!

Love to plan the vacation, but I better get off her and get some house work done.

Denise in MI

Denise in MI

jenkh

09-30-2007, 11:12 AM

Hey!

Yep we just bought a few weeks ago. I'm already planning about the first 4 vacations were going to do haha. But we are waiting until Jan 2009 for the first trip home.

I actually just got our flights home a few days ago. We're doing southwest down there as it offers a nice early morning non-stop fkight, and coming home we are going with Jetblue. They just opened up non stop service between BUF/MCO and Rochester/MCO.

Now I'm just waiting until Nov 12 to book those excursions

dzorn

10-02-2007, 11:30 AM

Southwest is still the cheapest for us, but still have not booked.

We have not deciede when to take our first trip back home. Considering rebooking on board and trying an eastern in Jan 09. though DH wants to go WDW Dec of 08 to see the decorations.

After an 11 day trip this past August I an so looking forward to sitting on a deck chair and reading a book. I hope the kids like the clubs so Dh and I can get an evening in Palo if not DMom and DSis will watch them.

Got our cruise planning Kit and cannot deciede what to do.

Denise

GuardMusic

10-04-2007, 11:30 AM

Check it out gang!!!

http://dvc.disney.go.com/dvc/miniSite/doorwayToDreams?id=HawaiianResortPressReleasePage& hbx.hrf=http%3A//desktop.disneylinks.com

Gayle

dzorn

10-05-2007, 10:04 AM

Noticed it on another thread. So happy we got DVC. Big appeal to DH is if we deciede to go somewhere other that the world :scared1: we have options. Still may try to get him to rebook on board withour point for Jan 09. We already had vacation plans for spring 08 with his parents. He would like to do WLV next December but I would like to go AKL for our first DVC trip.

Still looking at which shore excersions to take. Would like to pick just one for family then DM and DSis can deciede which they would like to see. Also trying to see if DD will be too freaked out to snorkle with the sting rays. DMom does not like to swim but enjoys the beach.

Denise in MI

dzorn

10-05-2007, 10:08 AM

Wow - looks like I might be the senior crusier here! (Before you picture the gray hair, I'm in my early 30s!)

Gayle

I plead the 5th, but no you won't be.

Denise in MI

Billybob7

10-05-2007, 11:11 AM

I plead the 5th, but no you won't be.

Denise in MI

I am 40 and my DW is in her mid 30's.

dzorn

10-05-2007, 12:08 PM

Dh, you and I will have something in common but not for atleast 7 more weeks.

Since this is our first cruise and comming in from Michigan I think we will fly in the day before. Anyone that has cruised before reccomend a hotel that has a nice pool for the kiddos. DH wants to stay near port.

Also for those that have been is there an Applebees in Cocoa Beach? DD has food allergies and I know she can have the chicken from here.

Densie in MI

dduffin

10-06-2007, 10:31 PM

Looks like we have some fellow passengers. We are also doing the Western from 1/26 to 2/2. We have 3 rooms with 11 people total going. We absolutely can't wait. We range in ages from 11 years old to (I'm not allowed to say, my parents would kill me :rolleyes1 ) but we are 3 generations worth.

dzorn

10-08-2007, 08:43 AM

I knew better than to post Mom's and Sis age also.

Denise in MI

purplepeg

10-08-2007, 10:42 PM

Nice to hear from so many fellow cruisers. I'm getting so excited our final payment is this month. We booked through Air Canada Vacations so we fly in the day before. We leave at 5:30 AM :scared1: but get in at 1PM. We're staying at Port Orleans Riverside. We've never stayed there so looking forward to it. We thought we'd hit Downtown Disney and grab a bite to eat. We'll probably have an early night due to the early flight. We'll take the bus the cruise line provides to the port. Does anyone know what time it usually takes you to the port? Does it really make a difference to get to the port early? Thanks for any and all info.;)

GuardMusic

10-10-2007, 07:00 AM

PurplePeg~

Welcome aboard! I've stayed at POR on 4 different trips. It's a wonderful resort for the night prior the cruise. In fact, when we did land/sea last time, we stayed at POR. Let me know if you need some photos or have questions. (I definitely recommend a nice breakfast at Boatwrights the morning of the cruise!)

I believe the bus picked up at POR around 12:15pm, but we had to be "checked-in" for the bus earlier, like maybe 11:30 or 11:45am? It didn't matter because we had to have our luggage ready by 8am for pick-up.

There are a few reasons to get to the ship early: 1) get Palo reservations if you don't get them online, 2) request alternate dining rotation, if the one you are assigned doesn't meet your needs, 3) spa &/or salon reservations you didn't get online or aren't available online, 4) simply to start your "cruise" early!

In Sept. we were on the first bus from the airport to the port. I liked getting there early, but did NOT enjoy waiting in the crowded and noisy terminal to begin boarding. When we left from POR, initial boarding was already complete, so we were able to simply walk on the ship with no hustle & bustle.

Gayle

purplepeg

10-10-2007, 12:07 PM

dzorn

10-11-2007, 04:05 PM

Purplepeg,

We love it at POR stayed there the past two years. Take the boat to or from Downtown Disney if you have the time it doesn't take much longer than the bus and is very enjoyable. I would have prefered to stay here but DH wants to stay near port. We are not taking the DCL but but renting a car.

We also had a wonderful dinner at Boatwrights prime rib was great.

Not sure the best time for Palo, still trying to figure that one out myself. You can request a change in dining rotation if you do not like what you were assigned (early or late) if you like what you have your all set.

Is everyone dressing up for the pirate party?
Denise in MI

dzorn

10-18-2007, 03:38 PM

Finally booked our air, flying in the day before. Dh still wants to stay near port at the Residence Inn so I can cook one last meal for DD, who has food allergies. I may talk him into a Disney hotel since they can accomidate her diet. Would like to spend some time in DD then head to port. DMom will probably be missing the casino on the cruise so I did debate dropping her off at the casino boat the night before we leave.

Cannot wait until the 12th to start booking things. Not sure what yet though.

Denise in MI

purplepeg

10-22-2007, 09:35 PM

The other day I thought I'd browse through a western itinery of navigators. Boy am I in trouble. I started to cry when I got to the last day's navigator because it was coming to an end. :sad1: If this is me just reading about it what am I going to be like when I finally get there:confused3 I am getting so excited, can't wait for Nov 12.

dzorn

10-23-2007, 08:33 PM

I'm already packing the girls clothes. I need to rotate to their winter things in drawers so I packing the outfits that I think I'll take separately. Hopefully they still fit come Jan. they are both growing like weeds and of course you cannot find summer clothes this time of year. If I get enthusiastic I may make them a few disney themed capri sets for Christmas. :santa: I just love when they have matching outfits. It's so hard to pack. Given when we are going I really need a few outfits incase it is cooler in the evening. DH thinks I overpack for WDW wait till he sees the number of suitcases now.
Trying to think of small things to get Mom & Sis to go along with the cruise. Maybe I'll pick them up some pirate stuff for Pirate nite.

Can anyone else suggest something other than clothes to give them for Chirstmas?

Denise in MI

GuardMusic

10-28-2007, 10:56 AM

First to dzorn: I'd suggest some Disney Pins. Many people will be wearing them on their lanyards (us included) and it will make them feel like the "in crowd". We also make our own laminated luggage tags for the trip. I also highly recommend the Passporter pocket sets to log events of the days: http://www.passporterstore.com/store/0966899434.aspx

For EVERYONE else - well, we did it! We booked our excursions last night at midnight:

Palo at 7pm on Wed./Cozumel Day
Shipwreck Reef Snorkeling on Grand Cayman 10:30am
BFF to Spa for pedicure & foot treatment Key West morning

I hope to add a salon appointment when I get on the ship too. So what all is everyone else booking??? popcorn::
Gayle

jenkh

10-28-2007, 02:16 PM

Lucky you!!

Since this is my first DCL cruise I still have a 2 week wait until I can book, but I will be posting as soon as I do.

Its exciting how close it is now :cool1:

feshie1100

10-28-2007, 05:37 PM

Hi, this is my first ever visit and post to this website. My sister just raves about it, so I thought I'd check it out. My immediate family and parents are going on the Jan. 26, 2008 cruise. This is our 2nd time on this itinerary, and we love it! I would like to know if there are any kids close in age to mine that will also be aboard. My daughter will be 11 and my son 7. Look forward to chatting!
-Stephanie

dzorn

10-28-2007, 08:26 PM

Alas, our first cruise so we have to wait till the 12th to book excursions, though I still have not decided what they are.

DH is taking the 12th off so we can stay up late and book. :banana:

Key West I pretty sure that we are just going to do the trolley tour on our own they head back to the ship to relax.

Grand Caymen thinking of one of the sting ray city trips.

Will try to book Palo for dinner. Couples Spa treatment for DH and I.

Other than that not sure.

What dining time does everyone have. We have late seating.

Denise in MI

:sail: I saw this and couldn't resist.

dzorn

10-28-2007, 08:30 PM

DSis and both DD's already have lanyards and pins. Oldest DD got pins before last trip and refused to trade any of them. She though I was nuts for wanting her to trade. Youngest was trading every two seconds it seemed. But they would make great stocking stuffers so will the luggage tags. Thanks.

Denise in MI

bryiank

10-29-2007, 09:06 PM

Bryian, DW Karen, DS Christopher and my DM Alice are all on the 1/26 cruise too. I am really surprised that my mom agreed to come along. She doesn't fly so we will be on I-95 the day before and overnight in St. Augustine. We plan on going to the Fountain of Youth (we might need it by then) Saturday morning and then covering the last 2 hours to be at the port 12:30-ish. We have late seating which we need to change due to a diabetic in our party so we will be doing that first thing. We are looking at the butterfly farm tour in Grand Cayman and Tulum in Cozumel. We will probably just walk through Key West on our own. My energy packed 11 tr. old DS will probably be the leader of the pack in OL. We can't wait either.

Ima Princess

10-31-2007, 10:19 AM

We'll be onboard with you! :thumbsup2

Myself and DH, plus DD8.5 and DD3. We're traveling with friends who have DD8 and DD7. Looks like there's a lot of DDs on this ship!

This is our 3rd cruise (2nd DCL plus a Carnival Western from our pre-kids days...).

Having a 3yo somewhat limits the excursion options, but here are our plans:
Key West -- on our own
Grand Cayman -- one of the semi-subs, plus we plan to do the Butterfly Farm on our own
Cozumel -- we booked the Dolphin Swim on our own for DH & DD8, plus DD3 & I will do the tamer version
Castaway -- parasailing for DH, plus float and snorkle rentals

Our friends will do some of the same, but in Cozumel they're doing the Catamaran.

What are you most looking forward to?? I'm a SAH mom, so for me it's the possibility to relax on the deck with my friend, a cool drink and uninterrupted conversation :rotfl: knowing that our DDs are having a blast in the club!

See you in 3 months! Happy Halloween!

CC

GuardMusic

11-01-2007, 05:25 PM

Thanks for the info. Just a question...why would you request a different dining rotation? Is there something I need to know? Another thing...what's a good time or day to book Palo for dinner? How about brunch? Thanks for everything.

purplepeg - Sorry I missed your Q above about changing dining rotation. Our initial rotation had us in Animator's the same night we were in Palo. I didn't want to miss either. Instead of trying to change Palo, which was more important, I tried to switch the rotation.

When I made it to the front of the line, it turns out I requested a rotation that doesn't exist! He said something about the rotation going "clockwise" & I was asking for the opposite. :headache: We did however change to another rotation and get to keep Palo. :hug:

As an aside, the family we sat with had also changed rotations, so it really was fate that we were together. It worked out fantastic because we both had links to work at universities AND their 4 year old son was a perfect angel the entire trip! :eek: :cutie:

Can't wait to hear about everyone else's plans! Keep 'em coming!
Gayle

dzorn

11-06-2007, 10:19 AM

GuardMusic

11-06-2007, 10:28 AM

All of the excersion info is starting get mixed together. No one is giving me any info in my family about what they want to do and I just keep re-reading it all. It's starting to be one big blur.

Denise in MI

Denise~ How can we help? I'd give them 3 choices:
1. Book nothing & suffer!
2. Book only what YOU want to do and make them go!
3. Book only what YOU want to do & leave them behind!

Why aren't they providing input? Perhaps a "scheduled family dinner" where this will be the only topic is in order??? :confused3

dzorn

11-06-2007, 01:38 PM

GuardMusic

11-06-2007, 02:17 PM

I keep getting what ever you want and when I suggest something I get dissenting(sp?) opinions. DMom does not swim well, so snorkeling is out for her. I would love to go snorkeling, or stingray encounters but not sure how DD's would like it. DH just want to relax and hit the beach. Oldest DD has food allergies so I am also concerned with how long the excursions are so she could eat on the ship if possible. Who knew planning a relaxing vacation would be so stressful. I really don't think anyone would care if we just did not leave the boat all week. I thinking a good book and a deck chair is starting to sound great. I think the 10 days we did in WDW in August has DH thinking the same thing. If I don't get any requests or input soon well just wing it. First Cruise if we don't get to do something well just have to go back.:cool1:

Denise in MI

Here's one thing I forgot to say, even though I say it to myself "It's OK to NOT do excursions!" :angel: Just like when I go to WDW I have to purposefully plan specific time to NOT go to the parks!

1st DCL - No excursions. We decided with only 4 nights (and after doing all 4 parks in 1 day at WDW :scared1: ) AND not liking Nassau, we decided to not do excursions.

2nd DCL - Took 63 year old mom. No excursions.

3rd DCL (Jan 08) - 1 excursion planned. BF loves snorkeling. Tried to snorkel in Hawaii in Jan., but weather cancelled it. I'm going along, but may not even get out of the boat - who knows.

Let's remember this is VACATION, not an obstacle course! Relax and spend quality time with your family! :hug:

I'm one of THOSE planners too & can understand. Maybe look at it through a different lens.... :rolleyes:

4piglets

11-06-2007, 09:03 PM

I have just found this listing.We are also sailing on this date.DW(myself),DH,DD9 yrs.,and my DS 5yrs.Does anyone else have children this age?Also I have read about on the cruise thread about fish extenders.Is anyone doing this on this cruise?It looks like fun but I don't want to get one and take it and no one else doing it.Can't wait until January. 4piglets

bryiank

11-07-2007, 09:53 PM

My DS who will just be 11 will be there. He's looking forward to the lab and the activities. Oh, and the steak, he loves steak. B

Tesanrick

11-09-2007, 12:40 AM

Hi everyone,

I've just found this board tonight. We will be joining you. Myself, dh, ds(15) and dd(8). It's our first Disney cruise, but we've been on RCCL and Celebrity before.

Looking forward to getting to know you all.

Theresa

dzorn

11-11-2007, 10:42 AM

Is everyone ready to do their booking tonight?

Denise in MI

jenkh

11-11-2007, 11:52 AM

Yep . Very Excited :dance3:

jenkh

11-11-2007, 11:30 PM

Well i hope everyone got what they wanted. Dreams unlimited didn't apply our payment (even though we paid in full weeks ago) So I guess our hope of eating Palo at out the door :sad2:

But everyone else share your joy, what did you get?

Ima Princess

11-11-2007, 11:38 PM

Jenkh,

Don't give up! When I logged in for my friends, I got the same message and i KNOW they called in payment. So I logged out and logged back in, and I was able to book!

Go try again!!!

CC

BTW, I was able to book their catamaran and scuba excursions. FYI Palo Brunch and Tea were already gone, but hope you could get dinner!

jenkh

11-11-2007, 11:42 PM

Thanks for the pixie dust hope, but I have been trying and am still getting the same message. :sad1:

Congrats on your bookings though

dzorn

11-12-2007, 12:56 PM

They still have a few palo reservation available, just checked. Booked Palo for DH and I on Thursday for dinner. Tea and Brunch we of course gone.

Key West- Old Town Trolley on our own or else wing it.
Grand Cayman- Did not book anything may just stay on ship and kick back.
Cozumel- Beach Break- Still up in the air on this one, but booked it.
Castaway Cay- Extreme get away package for 1/2 of us and Stingray adventure for the other 1/2. This way we get three sets of gear for the whole day and we can share. Not sure DMom will want to do stingray but she might just go to see the kids. Will double check with her soon. How deep is it? Dmom does not like to swim.

Spa Treatments for DH and I on a sea day.

Checked in girls for the club/lab.

DMIL called yesterday and wanted me to look up prices for her and 3 GK's to see about going with us. All already have passports except for DN.

Denise in MI

ecomerford

11-12-2007, 06:19 PM

My family and I are also going.

Me - 39 (but will be the big 4-0 the week before)
DW - 37
DS - 7
DS - 5

I am a true newbie:
- Never cruised
- Only been to WDW once, twenty years ago
- Never really involved with bulletin boards (I said to my wife, "They've got all this DW, DH, stuff... what's that? DIS-Husband, DIS-Wife?" She straightened me out.)

I was really just looking for a fun vacation for our boys that could also be relaxing for my wife and I. Multiple people suggested DCL, so here we are. We actually only booked last week, which I naively thought was plenty of time! Usually my wife arranges trips (she's the ultimate organizer) but she just went back to work (at a start-up @#$!), so I volunteered. Then I found this website and, of course, I have now become obsessed. Is there some kind of 12-Step Program you can refer me to? I can't believe I'm about to insert a smiley face... :eek: Wow, I think I'm possessed.

jenkh

11-12-2007, 06:27 PM

Sorry no 12 step program. We just feed the addiction here lol

After a few hiccups I got all my reservations.

Palo Dinner on Key West night (right before our rotation dinner so we don't miss anything)

Shipwreck & Reef Snorkeling at Grand Cayman (10:30am)
Fury Catamaran Sail, Snorkel and Beach Party on Cozumel (12:45pm)

A bit bummed that parasailing on Castaway Cay were all gone. Hopefully something opens up

ecomerford

11-12-2007, 08:53 PM

Just got Palo reservations online at 8 am this morning. Not much available -- got Wednesday night, which sounds like either going to be formal (cool) or pirate night (bummer). I guess I should have stayed up until midnight and tried then. No brunch reservations were available. Luckily we plan to fly in the night before and get on board early...

Reserved massage for DW, but otherwise no other activities yet...

bryiank

11-12-2007, 09:37 PM

We also got the Palo Key West night Palo ressies. How does that work with rotational dining? Do we eat at a particular resturant staurday and Sunday (key West day)? Thanks, B

purplepeg

11-12-2007, 09:40 PM

Had DH book for us because I was working today.:confused3 Didn't even think about staying up until midnight:idea:. Anyway he said all that was available for Palo was 9-11 pm everynight. We got Sunday(Key West day) at 9pm. Signed the kids up for the club. We keep reinforcing no br (accidents to dd3:scared1: (as we didn't hear her knocking on the door and she peed all over the front step), poor kid:hug: The plan is to stay on board so the kids can swim on port days. We'll see how that works out. What about these fish extenders? What are they and why do you need one? Also I have a question about your day bag on the last night and flying out the next day.:hug: Do you just open your checked luggage at the port and put the razer and shampoo etc in? Any advice? It's harder now with the airline rules. Seems so real now, can't wait til Jan.:cool1:

dzorn

11-13-2007, 08:00 AM

I did stay up till midnight and was still only able to get a 9pm reservation for Palo on Thursday, may try to change it when we board. We are wait listed for first seating but now DH thinks second may be best. My kids usually go to bed early so I'm not sure about this. Youngest DD begged to stay up and watch new Spongebob last night (pm our time) but when I looked in on her she was out by 8:20 so I am concerned with second seating.

PurplePeg I'm still reinforing no accidents and DD is 6, she waits till her bladder is about to burst till she stops what she is doing and runs to the bathroom, heaven forbid if someone is in there or in her way. I keep telling her they won't let you stay in the clubs if you have accidents. Not a problem when I'm around cause I remind her to go often.
I think I got this correct.

Port Ashore Onboard Dinner Shows
Saturday Port Canaveral 4pm Casual All Aboard
Sunday Key West 12:30am 7pm Casual
Monday At Sea Formal Golden Mickeys
Tuesday Grand Caymen 7:30 AM 4:30pm Casual Twice Charmed
Wednesday Cozumel 8:30am 6:30pm Pirate Pirate Deck Party
Thursday At Sea Semi-Formal Disney Dreams
Friday Castaway Cay 9:30am 4:30pm Casual Remember the Magic
Saturday Port Canaveral 7:35am

We are still up in the air about where to stay the night before. I have reservations for Residence Inn, but still might stay in Disney.

Denise in MI

dduffin

11-13-2007, 12:44 PM

We had quite a bit of trouble booking the other night. I also stayed up til after midnight and kept getting error messages. It took me quite a while to get things fixed. We also seemed to have complications because we are hooked to 2 other rooms (group of 11 going). Glad to see there are at least a few others my kids ages, I have a DD 19, DD14 and DD11.
We did get Palo reservations but could not get our whole party in. Some are doing dinner and others brunch.

We are doing the shipwreck snorkel in Grand Cayman and some of us are doing the Dolphin in Cozumel while the rest are doing the Fury Catamaran. Key West I think we'll just explore on our own.

I saw someone's comment above about the parasailing being booked, I think I read on another thread that they are looking for a new vendor and that is why there is none available. Parents are CC members and there were none when they booked at 90 days out. Hopefully they have something in place by the time we go for those who want to do it (not me !!)

Look forward to meeting everyone. The excitement is definetely building with our gant and we can't wait.:yay:

GuardMusic

11-13-2007, 12:50 PM

Hey dduffin! Welcome aboard. We are doing the Shipwreck Snorkel on Grand Cayman too. Which time did you choose?

dduffin

11-13-2007, 12:54 PM

We chose the 2nd time (10:45 I believe) as 9 out of the 11 of us are doing this trip and chances are we wouldn't all be ready for the early one (not mentioning any names to protect the innocent:rolleyes: )

Ima Princess

11-13-2007, 01:33 PM

Hi all,

We are CC members and I was able to book parasailing for DH. The weird thing was at 90 days out, it was greyed out and I figured it was all booked since I didn't stay up until midnight. However, a few days later when I went back to book the semi-sub in Grand Cayman, parasailing was available. I booked DH but couldn't book our friend to join since they're not CC members. In hindsight, I should've booked myself (along with DH) and then just transferred the res to friend since it's now sold out. Ah, hindsight.... :headache:

The good news for all of you is the next time you cruise, you'll be able to book 90 days out!! Last time we cruised, we were forced to do the onboard ressie rush for Palo and Spa since you couldn't book any of that online.

So here are the plans:
Key West -- on own
Grand Cayman -- Nautilus semi-sub for 7; 2-tank dive for 1
Cozumel -- Fury Cat for 4; Dolphins on own for 4 (DH & DD will do the swim, while DD & I will do the encounter)
We've also got some massages booked

The Fury Catamaran says it doesn't get back until 5:55 or something and we have early seating AND it's Pirate night, so our friends were initially concerned, but from what I've read here (love these boards!):love: they'll probably get back a little early. Thank goodness it's Pirate Night and not formal night -- pirates are supposed to be grungy! :lmao:

Jen, I'm so glad you were able to make ressies! The DCL site can be so frustrating!

--CC

dduffin

11-13-2007, 01:55 PM

Thanks for clarifying. That's good news for those who want to parasail. I'll tell my SIL who wants to do it to keep checking back or try once we get onboard.

Tesanrick

11-13-2007, 09:06 PM

The beauty of being on the West Coast is that I was able to access the site at 9pm (well actually 9:30 because we didn't get home until then).

I got an 8pm at Palo on Grand Cayman day. And, I booked the Wild Side on Castaway Cay for DS 15 and a couples massage for DH & me in the open air cabanas - sounds heavenly.

In Cozumel, we decided to take a taxi to Paradise Beach. At Key West, I think we'll stay onboard and enjoy the ship when it's a little less crowded. Grand Cayman is the only one we still have to figure out.

DDuffin - I'm glad to see you have teens coming. There seem to be lots of kids the same age as my DD, 8 - but I hadn't seen any teens listed yet for my DS to hang out with.

We still need to book a room for the night before (my TA suggested the Nick Hotel) and find a good agency to rent a car from. Does anyone know which of the car rental companies have an office at the airport and near the pier and perhaps provide shuttle service?

Just a little over 2 months - this is getting exciting.

GuardMusic

11-14-2007, 02:52 PM

GuardMusic

11-14-2007, 02:53 PM

jenkh

11-14-2007, 07:31 PM

We booked this time too! Hope we don't get run over by your big group! :scared:
Gayle

Awesome half the excursion will just be us here from the meet lol

bryiank

11-15-2007, 09:18 PM

How many DS aged 10-11 are going to be aboard the Jan. 26th cruise?:cool1: My son is looking for some buddies to hang with. B

dduffin

11-15-2007, 09:25 PM

Looking forward to meeting you guys on the Shipwreck snorkel. I'll try to keep our gang under control but there's no guarantees

purplepeg

11-18-2007, 04:27 PM

I had read that giving the kids club staff phone cards is a great idea. I've been looking at them in Canada to buy international cards. A few of the cards said they charged extra if they were used at a pay phone. Do you know if the staff can use the phones on board when they are docked at Port Canaveral? Any info on this or other gift suggestions would be helpful. Thanks.:thumbsup2

dzorn

11-19-2007, 04:04 PM

I thought I read that phone cards are not really suggested anymore because so many have cell phones. Not sure what a good alternative would be.

Denise in MI

dzorn

11-24-2007, 03:36 AM

Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving!

Denise in MI

Ima Princess

11-26-2007, 02:36 PM

We sail 2 months from today!!! :woohoo:

Let the countdowns begin (or continue, in my case)!

Hope everyone enjoyed their Thanksgiving!

CC

dzorn

11-26-2007, 05:03 PM

I think I've been counting since we booked. Cannot wait.

Denise in MI:sail:

dzorn

11-26-2007, 05:22 PM

I made some door decorations today. I think DH thinks I'm going over board. I told him it would make our room easier to spot. He claims that's what the number on the door is for.

Denise in MI

dzorn

11-28-2007, 11:57 AM

dduffin

11-28-2007, 12:15 PM

Only 8 1/2 more weeks. :hourglass We are really getting excited. Dzorn - great job on getting the door magnets started. I have been collecting photos and clips to use but have not put any together yet.

dzorn

11-28-2007, 12:44 PM

I had to make name tags for Brownies so I figured while I had that laminator out I would do a few. Don't think I'll tell Mom & Sis and let them be surprised.

Denise in MI

ecomerford

11-30-2007, 07:41 AM

Well I just found out we will not qualify for the Onboard Airline check in and luggage transfer. We are not using DCL transfers since our plane does not leave until 5:40pm. Oh well I guess I could have flown SW instead of NW at least I found out now so I can book an appropriate rental.

Denise in MI

Sounds we'll be on the same flight back to Detroit... I think it's at 5:26 now. We're still looking at what to do for the day, but we'll definitely stay on the boat until they throw us off! The average weather in Orlando that time of year is high of 73, low of 50, so I guess we won't be going to the beach!

There's not really enough time to go to the parks... does anyone have any suggestions?

Billybob7

11-30-2007, 08:15 AM

Sounds we'll be on the same flight back to Detroit... I think it's at 5:26 now. We're still looking at what to do for the day, but we'll definitely stay on the boat until they throw us off! The average weather in Orlando that time of year is high of 73, low of 50, so I guess we won't be going to the beach!

There's not really enough time to go to the parks... does anyone have any suggestions?

Why can't you go to the parks? Get off the boat at 7:30 A.M. get your car rental and you would be parked by 9/9:30 at whatever park you choose. You can then stay at the park until 3:00 or so before driving back to the airport for your 5:30 flight.

I think people do this all the time. Why deprive yourself?

GuardMusic

12-01-2007, 10:08 PM

Sounds we'll be on the same flight back to Detroit... I think it's at 5:26 now. We're still looking at what to do for the day, but we'll definitely stay on the boat until they throw us off! The average weather in Orlando that time of year is high of 73, low of 50, so I guess we won't be going to the beach!

There's not really enough time to go to the parks... does anyone have any suggestions?

Definitely still drive to WDW. Have a late breakfast or early lunch at a resort hotel & check out some of the hotels. And/or go out to browse Downtown Disney. If you have plenty of time to spend, catch a movie at the AMC 24. Play some miniature golf at one or both of the WDW courses. Or stuff your luggage with a quick trip to the outlet mall located about a mile from DTD!

Happy to suggest more specifics of the above!
Gayle

dzorn

12-03-2007, 09:13 AM

Yep were on the now 5:26 pm flight. We will have a rental car so if by chance the weather is great we'll head to the beach otherwise DTD or the outlets. I would not mind hitting the parks, but I would hate to buy one day tickets for everyone rather save the money for Annual passes when we do our first DVC vacation. I wish we would have flown out on Sunday they we could have done P & P party the saturday night though, DD both enjoyed it in August when we went. The dates we not out when I booked air.

ecomerford are you from the Metro Detroit area, or taking a connection?

Denise in MI

ecomerford

12-03-2007, 08:54 PM

ecomerford are you from the Metro Detroit area, or taking a connection?

Denise in MI

Metro Detroit, NW.

dzorn

12-04-2007, 07:18 AM

We're downriver.

Tesanrick

12-05-2007, 02:44 PM

Hi Denise,

You mentioned a p & p party? What is this?

Thanks!

Ima Princess

12-07-2007, 07:51 AM

What cruise-related (if any) gifts are you buying for the holidays?

Aside from purchasing eye patches for Pirate night, I haven't purchased anything specifically for the cruise. (Hence the reason I'm asking -- I need to spark my creativity!)

Tesanrick: P&P party is "Pirate and Princess" party in the MK. Only on certain nights after regular park hours, so requires separate ticket (like the Christmas or Halloween parties).

CC

GuardMusic

12-07-2007, 08:10 AM

dzorn

12-07-2007, 12:37 PM

FYI at JoAnn's they have foam pirate patch and sword it the kids craft section. I'm picking a few up for DD's.

As someone said before pins for trading are great. Bought DMom and DSis T-shirts. For the girls they got new gameboy games, magic pen books and a few new movies to use on the airplane. My brother is looking for a Wii for DMom and Sis, if they do not it then they will get a nice outfit. May get them spa certificate for nails to use before we go. Santa already got me a DVC this year so I told DH we've spent enough. Though he did get me new PJ's. Guess he did not want me going to pajama bingo in my old ones.:rotfl: :rotfl:

My girls loved the Pirates and Princess Party. It's a good way to get a few park hours in without paying the full cost for 1 day pass. Good parade & fireworks and shorter lines for rides, though the lines for some characters was long. But Minnie looked go cute as a princess.

Denise in MI

dzorn

12-07-2007, 12:39 PM

Oh and making everyone luggage tags with disney characters and bought a few lanyards.

Denise in MI:sail:

dzorn

12-12-2007, 03:41 PM

Bought some cute capris while Christmas shopping on clearance. Yea! Not easy finding anything in the frozen north, but I keep looking. How dressed up is everyone getting for formal night?

Denise in MI

Ima Princess

12-12-2007, 04:29 PM

Formal night?? Good grief, I almost forgot! :eek:

I do have a "little black dress" but otherwise will not get too dressed up. In general we're a pretty casual family, and at home I nearly live in jeans. DH is allergic to suits ;) so he won't be too formal, either. He has to at least being one jacket for Palo, right? DDs are easy -- they have plenty of dresses.

I plan to bring nice pants/capris for the non-formal nights, business casual for DH, casual dresses for the DDs. It's not that I don't like getting dressed up now and then, I just don't like the extras it adds to my packing!

CC

dzorn

12-13-2007, 09:46 AM

I just like the thought of everyone getting dressed up for a family picture. We never seem to find the time for one.

Denise in MI

jenkh

12-18-2007, 12:07 PM

Were getting closer. We got our Magical Express Tags yesterday and it's only for a 1 night pre-stay and AKV. Now it feels real.

GuardMusic

12-18-2007, 03:01 PM

Ah the "beloved" formal night. BF and I were going to go shopping on New Year's Day, but figured what would we do with the dress after. So we scrapped that, much to her joy. The only new thing I really want is some jeans!

Not sure how formal we'll be on formal night. We want our dressiest clothes for Palo & maybe the Captain's Gala. It really depends on which restaurant we're in.

I have a charcoal skirt that has black velvet detailing on it. Black sweater with tiny rhinestones along the neck. Bought new this month for a work event. BF will probably be in an all black dress with a mesh wrap that has beaded detailing.
Gayle

GuardMusic

12-18-2007, 03:08 PM

I've been away so long because I'm afraid of spilling the beans on BF Christmas surprise! :rolleyes1

BF is always so busy with work, she doesn't get detailed about trips until 1) reservations/excursions/dining is available and 2) it's time to go! So to keep her up to date, I'm doing a 12 Weeks Til Vacation. Here's what we're up to:

* On the 6th week til vacation my planner said to me… find numbers for DCL online check-in!
* On the 7th week til vacation my planner said to me… decide if we’re going to re-book!
* On the 8th week til vacation my planner said to me… start designing door magnets!
* On the 9th week til vacation my planner said to me… time to think of a theme! * On the 10th week til vacation my planner said to me… order Disney Visa Rewards card soon!
* On the 11th week til vacation my planner said to me… make sure to measure the duffle!
* On the 12th week til vacation my planner said to me… don’t forget to buy the insurance!

The ones in bold are not yet complete! :sad2:

I'll be at her house Dec. 27-Jan. 1, so I can insure they all get done. ;) However, we won't see each other again until the night before we leave! :eek:

And I'm sure we're all thinking the same thing: Thank goodness for the MLK holiday, which for this year, I've renamed Packing Day!
Gayle

ecomerford

12-19-2007, 10:04 PM

I just like the thought of everyone getting dressed up for a family picture. We never seem to find the time for one.

Denise in MI

Do people really dress up? I actually own a tux and I was considering getting tuxes for my boys (5 and 7). You can actually get them on eBay for $25 each! DW makes the point of when will they EVER use again, soooooo we'll probably go with suits for them.

Here's a pic of the family (about a year ago...)
http://images1.snapfish.com/232323232%7Ffp34%3B%3Enu%3D3237%3E992%3E2%3A9%3EWS NRCG%3D3234993495757nu0mrj

Come on -- wouldn't they look great in tuxes!

dzorn

12-20-2007, 08:54 AM

DH is talking about wearing his tux. He need a few new dress shirts since they have gone business casual at work he doesn't wear them to often. I'm having the hardest time finding them with french cuffs in his size. They all seem to be sold out of his size. Off to macys!!

Denise in MI

bryiank

12-20-2007, 07:48 PM

Can you believe its about 5 weeks to our cruise? It seems like I am forgeting some things??? Planning, planning. We got our disney rewards card today and since I run a lot of expenses through it for work we will have about $400 to cover excursions, etc. DW is starting back to work Jan. 2 after being out for back surgery so we should have a little extra spending money there as well. Everything is set for a fantastic cruise. Can't wait. Even my DS 11 year old seems to be looking forward to it. B

dzorn

12-22-2007, 07:58 PM

Could not resist the gold dresses at the disney store for the girls.

Yeah!! :cool1: :banana: :woohoo: :cheer2: Five weeks left.

Denise in MI

purplepeg

12-22-2007, 10:02 PM

I can't believe it's so close:cool1: I had completely forgot to book Magical Express for the day before stay until I read someone's post about getting their tags. When I tried to book, Disney told me it had to be done by my travel agent. Well for the past two days Disney Cruise line's computers have been down! Let's hope they're up and running soon. I want to fill out the paperwork on some down time after Christmas. My cruise plans have pretty much been on hold since Christmas preparations took over. I hope everyone has a great Christmas and all the best for the New Year:santa: Can't wait to meet some of you on the cruise:banana:

JENR

12-27-2007, 06:07 PM

Hey just found this thread. We will also be cruising the Magic in 4 weeks. It will be myself, DH, DD (16), DS (7) and DS (4). I am so excited. This is our first 7 night Magic Cruise. We have cruised the 4 night Wonder 3 times.

dduffin

12-28-2007, 10:51 AM

Jenr

We will be going too. This is our first cruise. I see you are also from NJ. As I posted earlier, we have a group of 11 going and I have kids ages 19 (DD), 14 (DD),and 11(DD)

dzorn

12-29-2007, 11:36 AM

OK Christmas is over. This is probably the first time I am happy to see summer clothes in the store in December. Hope everyone has a Happy New Year. DDs are home until the 7th so I won't be on the Dis very often. They keep me hoppin.

Denise in MI

maggiesueb

12-29-2007, 07:21 PM

Second Magic cruise. Grandkids DGS - 7, DGD - 11, DGD - 2 1/2. Anyone else? Very excited!
Maggie from Maryland

livefree

01-01-2008, 02:17 PM

We are also going on the Jan. 26 2008 western sailing.We have a DS5 and DD9.Does anyone else have children this age?Also I have read about the fish extenders and thought they sounded fun.Is anyone in this group doing them and exchanging trinkets?We would love to do so but don't know how to go about finding such a group.Please help? Thanks Livefree

JENR

01-01-2008, 07:19 PM

I would love to do the fish extender thing also. Let me know how we go about doing this.

Tesanrick

01-01-2008, 11:03 PM

Does anyone know which night will be the formal night on our cruise? Also, which night is pirate night?

We're flying out the Thursday before the cruise and are going to spend Friday at the Kennedy Space Center. That makes our trip only 3 weeks and 2 days away! How exciting!

Anyone else staying at the Radisson at the port the night before the cruise?

Thanks,

JENR

01-02-2008, 07:19 AM

Day 3 will be formal night. That is Monday night (sea day). Day 5 will be pirate night (Cozumel day).

We are not staying anywhere the night before. We are flying in early Saturday morning.

livefree

01-02-2008, 08:49 AM

I would love to do the fish extender thing also. Let me know how we go about doing this.

I am not sure I am replying correctly or not.Forgive me if I have done this wrong.I am new to this board and not very computer savy.My ? is are we the only two that want to do the fish extender?How do we go about finding others and knowing how to find them on the ship?I read about the fish extender on the cruise board.Thanks Livefree

purplepeg

01-02-2008, 10:22 AM

Hi All,
I can't believe we're so close now:banana: We won't be doing the fish extender this time. I thought about it and I thought it was just one more stress for me. We aren't decorating our door either. I know...party poopers. I thought I would do a lot of observing this time and maybe next time who knows:dance3: I was wondering if there are any geocachers on our cruise. My DH and DD(7) are fans and apparently we are going to find one as a family. Anyone else doing the same?

JENR

01-02-2008, 05:01 PM

I am not sure I am replying correctly or not.Forgive me if I have done this wrong.I am new to this board and not very computer savy.My ? is are we the only two that want to do the fish extender?How do we go about finding others and knowing how to find them on the ship?I read about the fish extender on the cruise board.Thanks Livefree

I am not sure if we are the only ones or how this works. I never did it before. But it sounds fun . Does anyone know?

GuardMusic

01-02-2008, 06:04 PM

Today was my first day back to work since Dec. 21. :surfweb: What a wonderful break, but this first day back also has me fighting a migraine as I type. Sad to yearn for a vacation after just finishing the longest one of the year.

Well, my surprise can now be revealed. BF thought we were staying at Caribbean Beach the night prior to our stay. However, one of her Christmas presents was announcing we're staying at Wilderness Lodge instead. :thumbsup2

Upon seeing it on Great Hotels a couple of months back she immediately fell in love with it. I built an elaborate PowerPoint to introduce the surprise, but silly me didn't make it obvious enough. So she didn't "get it". :confused3 Oh well. I've decided she'll never be as crazy about Disney as I am, with the exception of her obsession with Pluto.

I know it's a short time there. We land at MCO at 10:31am and will Magical Express to WL. Lunch (1:30pm) will be at Whispering Canyon with her aunt & uncle who are driving over for a quick visit. (We wanted supper, but the only availability was 8:30pm!)

We'll probably boat over to the Contemporary and visit the Monorail line resorts. (I will be calling the Beach Club before our arrival to know if they have any new BC merchandise, as I collect it. If so I'll probably bus over & take a taxi back.) Probably a light dinner, catch the geyser & Electric Water Pagent, pray for a view of Wishes, & call it a night.

Plan to take the official WL tour at 9am Sat. Breakfast Sat. (9:40am) will also be at Whispering Canyon, as I LOVE big breakfasts. Then we'll await the boarding of the bus to the port.

Our door magnets are mostly done and I had the luggage tags laminated on the way home from work today. Magical Express tags arrived last week and am now only waiting on the cruise tags! :woohoo:

From near zero-degree temps in Indiana,
Gayle

dduffin

01-03-2008, 10:55 AM

Hope everyone had a Happy New Year! We are definetely counting down in my household. My daughters have even already done most of their packing! Don't know if I'll have time for the fish extender thing but we are creating magnets for our door.

Tesanrick

01-03-2008, 05:38 PM

What is a fish extender?

Thanks,
Theresa

Ima Princess

01-04-2008, 02:47 PM

Has anyone received cruise docs?? I know we'll get ours late as they have to go to the travel agent first, then come to us. I just want to live vicariously through those that have them already... ;)

As for the fish extenders -- no, we won't be participating. Not to be a party pooper, but like someone else said, I don't need one more thing on my to-do list! :upsidedow

That said, however, I was thinking of bringing magnetic white boards (one for us and for our travel mates) to put on the cabin doors so we can leave messages for each other. Has anyone done that before? :confused3

FYI, a fish extender is a series of pockets that hangs from the fish (message holder) located next to each cabin door. See message #12 on this thread for a photo http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1157663

We fly out the day before (staying near the airport since we get in late) so we leave 3 weeks from today! :goodvibes

CC

purplepeg

01-05-2008, 10:04 AM

I talked to our travel agent yesterday and she said she was hoping cruise documents would be here next week:thumbsup2 I can't wait:goodvibes We will be on the Magic 3 weeks today:cheer2: I think panic mode is setting in now. :scared: I spent the other night going over the tip thread and writing a bunch of hints down and things to buy. It really is going to be here before we know it. Now I'm starting to waffle on our Palo reservation. I'm not sure I'm going to want to miss our dinners every night. Our oldest Dd(7) can't wait for the club.

Ima Princess

01-05-2008, 10:30 AM

PurplePeg:

I thoroughly enjoyed our Palo dinner last time we cruised. :cloud9: Have you compared menus? Perhaps doing so will help you decide if it's something you want to try. Another idea, if you want the best of both worlds (dinner in the dining room AND try Palo), is the Palo brunch. I haven't been there yet myself, but I've heard wonderful things. Just an idea. You can find menus at castaway club dot com (no spaces), then click menus.

Our DDs are similar in age, so it's likely I'll bump into you at the clubs! Happy packing!

CC

Ima Princess

01-05-2008, 10:32 AM

Have we, as a DIS group, decided to do a meet? Any interest?

Any experienced cruiser have suggestions on where/when?:confused:

CC

jenkh

01-05-2008, 08:41 PM

Have we, as a DIS group, decided to do a meet? Any interest?

Any experienced cruiser have suggestions on where/when?:confused:

CC

Thats sounds like a great idea. But we definitely need a more experienced DIS'r cruiser to handle this. Any takers?

purplepeg

01-06-2008, 09:58 AM

Ima Princess,
Thanks for the advice regarding Palo. I love brunch but there were no ressies left. I think onboard I may try although they do sound elusive. I hope we do run into each other at the clubs or perhaps a DIS meet. It doesn't seem like there is too many of us. I think it's a great idea:goodvibes

JENR

01-06-2008, 08:33 PM

Did anyone get their cruise documents yet? I booked through Dreams Unlimited so not sure when I will get them.

Ima Princess

01-07-2008, 06:51 AM

In general, when you use a travel agent it takes a little longer to receive your documents. DCL sends the docs to the agency, who then forwards them on to you. When you book direct, DCL sends docs to you.

I'm not expecting to see our docs until next week, and I will be doing a dance of joy when I see them in the mailbox!!!:banana:

CC

dzorn

01-07-2008, 12:28 PM

Yea! The kiddo's are back in school. I love my kids but the silence in the house is blissful right now. Now I can get back to my to do list. I think I better revise my packing list. I'm bring way to much. I am really leaning toward doing laundry and taking less bags.

A meet sounds good but I have not idea where.

Denise in MI

Billybob7

01-09-2008, 06:21 PM

We received our cruise documents tonight!!!!

Yeah!!

dzorn

01-09-2008, 09:20 PM

I cannot believe it is right around the corner.:cool1: I must remember to hold the mail at the post office tomorrow and get DD doc to sign medical form and fax tomorrow. I almost forgot about both and the just popped in my head tonight.

Looking over our plans and I still may change around what we are doing in the ports.

Denise in MI:sail:

Cruisin

01-09-2008, 09:44 PM

Thats sounds like a great idea. But we definitely need a more experienced DIS'r cruiser to handle this. Any takers?

Hello January 26, 2008 Disney Magic cruisers :wave:

I don't mean to hijack your thread but we are sailing on the 4 day, Jan 27th Disney Wonder sailing and I was just checking to see if your documents had arrived yet;)

I'm excited to hear that they have, which means that ours will probably be here soon too. :woohoo:

I thought I could maybe give you a few suggestions on where to have your DISmeet onboard the ship.

A couple of good places are The Promenade Lounge on Deck 3. It is a big open lounge with lots of seating available and easy to find.

Another good place is Diversions. It is the sports bar, also on Deck 3, in the Adult only area of the ship. During the day time hours children are allowed to be in these areas too. In Diversions there is also plenty of seating area and a bar with snacks available. Also it is a little off the beaten path so to speak so therefore it tends to be a little more private and cosy, especially at that time of your cruise.

Sometimes people with hold their DISmeets outside on the upper decks.

Hope these suggestions will help you plan a successful DISmeet.

Enjoy your cruise. :boat:

Ima Princess

01-10-2008, 01:42 PM

Thanks for the suggestions, Cruisin!

Now that we have possible place(s), what do you think of meeting on Key West morning? Since we don't dock until almost noon, perhaps we can do a meet around 10am? I'm just thinking that Sat will be busy with the drill, sail away party, getting settled and acclimated, etc. But I also don't want to be halfway through the cruise before I find out that my hallway neighbor was a DISer. Thoughts? Any preference on location suggestions?

16 days! :beach:

jenkh

01-10-2008, 08:01 PM

Key West sounds like a good idea. But maybe a different time them 10? Thats the DVC member get together and I'd hate to miss out on the free swag LOL

Ima Princess

01-10-2008, 09:08 PM

Gee, can you tell I'm not DVC? :laughing:

Any suggestions on day/time?

CC

dduffin

01-11-2008, 12:45 PM

Just over 2 weeks. Really can't wait! Is everyone getting ready? Also, did everyone get cruise documents yet, we haven't received ours.

Kids are really getting excited and trying to come up with ideas for pirate night.

dzorn

01-11-2008, 02:03 PM

No documents yet.

Denise in MI

JENR

01-11-2008, 03:35 PM

No docs here yet either.

purplepeg

01-11-2008, 10:20 PM

Talked to our Travel agent today. Documents were supposed to be mailed out last Friday! She followed up today and they said they were just sent today! Apparently some sort of problem and were returned before they got to her. Let's hope there isn't any more hold ups. I'm anxious for them to arrive. I'm up for a meet but also a first time cruiser so I am no help for meeting time or place.

GuardMusic

01-11-2008, 10:38 PM

We don't have ours yet either! If they don't come on Monday, I'm calling the TA ASAP! Thanks for the info!
Gayle

dzorn

01-13-2008, 08:07 PM

For those with Kids are taking the homework they will be missing? DD teacher has already sent some home. Hopefully we will have it done ahead of time.

Denise in MI:sail:

Ima Princess

01-13-2008, 08:58 PM

DD's teachers don't even know she'll be gone yet!! :rolleyes1

I will let them know, of course. But I don't want DD to bring any homework with her, even if it means we'll have a VERY busy week catching up when we return! :scared: She'll also have time on Sunday 2/3 to get caught up on whatever she was given in advance.

No docs here, either, but I'm not expecting them until later in the week.

I said to DH tonight, "In 2 weeks, we'll be in Key West!" pirate:

CC

jenkh

01-14-2008, 05:56 PM

We got our docs today!!!!! :cool1: :yay: :yay: :woohoo: :banana: :dance3: :cheer2: Now it's really really real. These last 7 days of work are gonna be a killer!

Krish0513

01-14-2008, 08:48 PM

We are going with our 6 year old twins and I think I am more excited than them.

We booked Rum point beach ......

anyone else?

Tesanrick

01-14-2008, 09:06 PM

We got dh and ds's doc's today, but not mine and dd. That's weird since we're one family in connecting cabins and made the reservations together. Oh well, I'll hope it comes tomorrow.

On the homework question, we will try to get done whatever we can before we leave, but we don't know for sure when we will get the packet. There's no time on the return side either because the completed packet is due on the Monday. So, we may end up having to have some "homework time" on the cruise - that will be a bummer.

purplepeg

01-14-2008, 09:58 PM

We still don't have our documents. I will post as soon as I have them:cool1: As for homework, I talked to Dd's teacher a while ago about homework and she said she could catch up when we get back but she would like her to keep a daily journal. I bought one of those notebooks that are half lined and half blank so she can draw pictures as well or put photos in. Now to get her to do it everyday:lmao: I did send a note to the teacher today reminding her when we were leaving. I can't wait. I'm actually nauseated trying to get the packing done. The girls tried on all their summer stuff yesterday and I tried to narrow it down. I only want to take 4 suitcases for all of us and some carry-ons. I'll let you know if I'm successful:woohoo:

jenkh

01-14-2008, 10:23 PM

FYI - I just checked the DCL website (for the second time today like I do everyday) and parasailing on CC has opened up. They have about 7 times available.

ahhh this day can't get any better. I finally got what i really really wanted :thumbsup2

GuardMusic

01-15-2008, 08:21 AM

Not as good news here. Still no docs. Called & emailed TA. She both called & emailed me after her work day ended :cloud9: Disney didn't mail them until last Thursday. That means they are supposed to get to the TA (in Texas) today. :sad2: She said they planned to turn them around immediately, so should expect them (in Indiana) on Thurs. or Friday. :confused3

I just finished a crazy beginning of the semester here at the university and today I plan to get all that stuff done that's been placed on the back burner. :headache: THEN I hope to start thinking warmer thoughts.

My goal last weekend was to be 90% packed, so I could relax for the upcoming holiday weekend and try to start learning Photoshop Elements for digital scrapbooking. :wizard: At 5pm Sunday night there was still a completely empty rolling duffle on my floor :sad2: - AND it looked like my closet had exploded in the guest room (packing central)! :eek: I guess I'm about 40% done now, so I assigned myself a big fat F for the weekend.

Trying on the shorts and swimwear was again an unhappy experience. :rolleyes1 However, since it's the middle of Jan. and I can't find any of those things in the store, I will do with what I have and focus on enjoying the experience. :cutie:

As an aside, I just checked the weather for the Cayman Islands. For just prior to our trip the forecast is consistently Mostly Sunny with temps in the high 70s/low 80s. :love:

Through the stress of the next week, just remember "We're All in This Together!" (I'm sure some of you got this joke!)
Gayle

dzorn

01-15-2008, 11:27 AM

Did we ever pick a time and place for a meet?

Denise in MI

dzorn

01-15-2008, 12:13 PM

Saw to other thread with OP going on our cruise and invited them over.

Denise in MI

jkester

01-15-2008, 12:41 PM

Saw to other thread with OP going on our cruise and invited them over.

Denise in MI

That would be us. Thanks for the invite.

We are excited to be going on this cruise. Two months ago we had no intentions of doing a Disney cruise this year since we are cruising to Bermuda in May but I got an email from *************.com in December offering a great Florida resident rate and here we are. Good deals win out over common sense around here.

Our 9 year old son has no idea we are cruising in 2 weeks. He thinks we are just going to our condo in Kissimmee and visiting the parks for vacation. The plan is to schedule a day trip to Cocoa Beach for Saturday and as we are crossing the bridge where you can see the ship we will start talking about how fun it would be to go on a Disney cruise. As we continue our wishful thinking about having a "boarding pass" show up in the car, hopefully our son will find one hidden under the seat. Should be a pretty exciting day.

This will be our 1st Western cruise but our 5th Disney cruise overall and I can't wait to get started.

See you real soon,
James & Rhonda
stay@DisneyCondo.net

purplepeg

01-15-2008, 03:17 PM

Our documents are here:cool1: Our documents are here:yay: Our documents are here:woohoo: :dance3: :banana: :banana: :banana: Do you think I'm excited:rolleyes1 Our Ta is just checking on transfers from the airport and whether we need to claim our own luggage. She should get back to us today. I feel your pain Guardmusic:sad2: I'll send somepixiedust: Hope it helps. I'm no where near the packing being mostly done either and I'm not too happy about how the clothes fit either. I had tried on and bought a dress jacket for formal night/Palo and thought "take off 10 lbs and it'll look great---I have time". Well here we are just over a week to go and still the same weight:scared: Oh well, time to enjoy the experience and the people and not worry what I look like:scared1:

jkester

01-15-2008, 06:07 PM

I found out today that our document package was sent to our condo in Florida. Of course since we are still in Virginia I won't be able to see them until the Friday night before we cruise. I don't think that's a problem as long as all the information is correct in the package.

Since we have already filled out the forms online, what will be in the documents package that needs to be filled out? Other than luggage tags...

James & Rhonda
stay@DisneyCondo.net:surfweb:

runmom

01-15-2008, 06:16 PM

Hi, thanks to Denise in MI I found this meeting place - and we just got our cruise docs today! but I haven't had a chance to read thru them, basically looks like little tickets etc and reminders I think ... hopefully peruse thru them tonight. Traveling with DH, DS 6 & 9 (and grandparents)

ecomerford

01-15-2008, 08:27 PM

We got our docs today too! We're in Michigan...

DW and I are excited but have a VERY busy time at work over 1.5 weeks, PLUS we're hosting my 40th birthday party on Saturday night. Yikes!

1-25 can't get here soon enough.

JENR

01-15-2008, 10:09 PM

Our documents came today also. I am getting so excited. I ordered gift baskets from the Perfect Gift today for my kids. They are so awesome there. They will do just about anything you want. Got the boys a large sand pail filled with their favorite drinks and snacks, autograph books and snorkel sets. Got my 16 yr old daughter a tote bag with teen magazines, underwater camera and sodas and snacks. Can't wait to surprise them. I am about 75 percent packed. Everything is just thrown in piles so I need to go through and pack. Can't wait.

dzorn

01-16-2008, 02:17 PM

Yea:cool1: Doc finally arrived.

Have not packed a thing. Bought DD new loft bed over Chirstmas. So I have been working on organizing their room. Which also led to painting and replacing carpet.

DH is off monday so we will work on it then. Debating on doing laundry and packing less.

ecomerford:bday:

Denise in MI:sail:

runmom

01-16-2008, 10:32 PM

ecomerford

01-17-2008, 08:16 AM

Is it too early to start checking weather... I started to yesterday and all the ports said partly cloudy 70's... is that typical for caribean weather or because of the cold front... am I panicking early??

Hmmm, when I checked weather.com it showed highs in the upper 70's for Orlando and Key West, and low 80's for GC and Cozumel. I'd say those are pretty decent... especially coming from Michigan where it will be ZERO degrees this weekend. :cold:

I certainly might bring a sweater for a chilly evening or too, but otherwise it's shorts and t-shirt all the way. :cool1:

ecomerford

01-17-2008, 11:00 AM

FYI -- I called Disney today a got a list of the movies playing on the cruise... not that we'll have a lot of time for movie-watching, but here you go:
- Wild Hogs
- Meet the Robinsons
- Bridge to Terabitia
- Pirates (the latest)
- Ratatouillie
- The Game Plan
- Underdog
- Dan in Real Life
- Enchanted
- National Treasure II

Sounds like something for everyone.

runmom

01-17-2008, 12:03 PM

purplepeg

01-17-2008, 06:09 PM

Thanks so much for getting the movies listed:thumbsup2 My DH will be so happy, he's wanted to go see National Treasure II since it opened and we just haven't made it yet.
As for weather, here in Winnipeg tonight and tomorrow a wind chill warning has been issued. What does that mean? Temperature will be -30 Celcius with a windchill of -42 celcius:cold: :cold: :cold: :cold: :cold: As far as Farenheight and Celcius I'm pretty sure when it gets to -40 it's close to the same on both scales. Tomorrow a "high" of -24 with the windchill -42 to -45.:scared1:
I believe that is because I was just saying yesterday how it hasn't been that cold so far this winter:lmao: so anything above freezing and I'll be happy:banana:

JENR

01-17-2008, 06:42 PM

Yeah! as I sit here working it is snowing in Maryland, better today then this time next week or we would never get out! we have transportation 'issues' here in DC ! ugh! and one of my kids is sick, I guess better now then next week right, everyone rest up and maybe some Airborne is a good idea. I here the ship is a little chilly at night, maybe a sweater too. I guess I was panicky about the weather b/c I just can't imagine being in shorts and a bathing suit but you are right about the weather, we'll be good, I was reading the thread about the folks going on the 4-day cruise same time as us... starting to get excited but my work just piled in - how am I ever going to pack?!

JenR - are the baskets really cute? I thought about doing that too... also wanted to have the Stateroom decorated, but thought the money might be better spent in other ways.. still up in the air

Nicole

Yes they are cute. I get them everytime we cruise and my kids love them. They think it is from Mickey (well my 16 year old knows its not) but it is fun anyway. I got my boys a big sand pail basket to share.

By the way, are you the one that was asking about the fitness classes on the boat. I am excited that I can do spinning classes on the cruise. I do them at home. We have only sailed on the Wonder and they were not offered on that ship. I also like to run. Maybe we can workout together. I like to get up early and get it done.

GuardMusic

01-17-2008, 08:42 PM

:worship: Our docs FINALLY arrived today - phew! However, there's confusing bit. The booklet includes a DCL/DME transfer page with each of our names & barcode; however, a later page states Transfers are not part of your package. :confused3 Expecting explanation from TA tomorrow.

Cold front's here too. Saturday's forcast is -2F with windchill of -15F. :cold: Luckily I plan to stay in all weekend & happy Monday is a work holiday. Plan to finish the other 50% of packing, clean house, paint nails, etc.

Work was CRAZY this week, but I hope that ended today. :confused:

I just hope to catch up on my sleep this weekend or I'll ended up sleeping through the cruise! :sad2: At least I'll be able to pick up some Necture of Life (Mt. Dew) in Key West! :dance3:

Gayle

melsmom12

01-17-2008, 10:25 PM

How on earth did it take me so long to post something here?!?!? I can't believe how soon we're leaving to get onboard! I'm stressed, but soooo excited!

I'm Allie, 35, cruising with my wonderful DD who is 2.5 years old. My DH can't make it, he has to work, which is very very sad. But we will be in good hands with my mom, stepdad, sister, BIL, nephew-7, and niece-11. We did this same cruise, same itinerary, 2 years ago this same week. It was so magical for us that we couldn't stay away, so here we are again!

I think I am almost ready to start packing. Our house is so small that it's hard to get the suitcases out already, but I feel like I want to start getting things ready. I spent wayyyyy too much $$ at Target last week, buying all sorts of odds and ends for me and DD. Fortunately, it's stuff we'll use again.

Is anyone else travling with an older toddler/younger preschooler? I'd love to meet up, we can hang out at the shallow part of the Mickey Pool! Thank goodness DD mastered her potty training in time for the cruise, she would have been brokenhearted if she couldn't swim. :cool1:

Anybody packed yet? :yay: :yay: :yay: :yay:

Billybob7

01-18-2008, 07:04 AM

Anybody packed yet? :yay: :yay: :yay: :yay:

Not packed yet, but DW is so stressed about it, I think we'll start over the weekend.

dzorn

01-18-2008, 09:12 AM

DH off monday will pack then, and sure make a few more shopping trips tue to get anything last minute. Our high this Sat is for 10 F not counting the wind chill. I how I long to feel some warm sun shine.

Denise in MI

runmom

01-18-2008, 12:57 PM

I better start packing this weekend, just tried on a bathing suit! OMG...lets not go there - going to buy a cover up! Kids can't wait But now they are predicting snow for next Thursday (we fly out Fri...) I know I shouldn't panic, they can't call the weather for the next day, let alone a week away - I'm sure we'll get out fine... can't wait to feel the warmth of the sunshine either.

Allie, you did this itinerary already- any tips? or excursions we shouldn't miss? thinking of doing Stingray City in Grand Cayman - I know I have to decide by Wednesday - we might do it on our own thru the tour operators - but I really want time to go to 7-mile beach.

Who's doing early/late seating. We have late seating, I hate to eat that late, but I also don't want to rush the day, I always figure we'll just eat a really late lunch, 4:30 or so, then see the show (my friend is an actress on the ship!!) then do dinner - then no night activities I'm sure we'll be too tired b/c up early to get the day going, but I'm wondering if its worth it to try to switch to early seating? any thoughts.

Looking forward...! Nicole

melsmom12

01-18-2008, 02:33 PM

Allie, you did this itinerary already- any tips? or excursions we shouldn't miss? thinking of doing Stingray City in Grand Cayman - I know I have to decide by Wednesday - we might do it on our own thru the tour operators - but I really want time to go to 7-mile beach.

Hey, Nicole! Well, I wish I had more to tell you about the excursions, but traveling with a 9 month old last time didn't leave much room for big trips. We did scuba dive in Grand Cayman, it was wonderful. We did the 1-day PADI license (I think that's what it's called!) where you take a short class in the dive center and then a short lesson in the water and then you get to go dive around the shipwreck.

We didn't go to Cozumel because of the hurricane damage 2 years ago, so we went to Nassau. I'm MUCH more looking forward to Cozumel. Hopefully some other people will have tips here or on the mail DCL forum for you.

FYI, we are doing the early seating for dinner, it just works better for us. But I think there are advantages of eating later, too, like you said. :confused3

purplepeg

01-18-2008, 09:05 PM

We're doing the late seating but I think I will inquire about changing(if possible) to early seating. There was no availability when we booked. We'll be happy with whatever we end up with. I've started packing the girls(7 and 3) and hope to get me done this weekend. DH is on his own:lmao: Is it too late to order baskets from the perfect gift ? How much do the sandpails run? It probably depends on what's in it?

JENR

01-19-2008, 09:12 AM

[QUOTE=purplepeg;22657018]We're doing the late seating but I think I will inquire about changing(if possible) to early seating. There was no availability when we booked. We'll be happy with whatever we end up with. I've started packing the girls(7 and 3) and hope to get me done this weekend. DH is on his own:lmao: Is it too late to order baskets from the perfect gift ? How much do the sandpails run? It probably depends on what's in it?[/QUOT

You still have time to order baskets. I ordered a small sand pail for my neice with some princess stuff in it. That pail was @ $30. My daughters was more because I got a tote bag with underwater camera and teen magazines ($60) My boys I got a large pail with snorkels sets and autograph books with pens and snacks that basket is for two kids that one was about $(100) But I added alot to it so it just depends on what you want. They are very helpful when you call.

JENR

01-19-2008, 09:48 AM

We also have a late dinner seating. We have had that the last few times and it worked out very well. We didn't feel rushed and the kids could take a nap b/f dinner if they needed it. We didn't think we would like it but we do.

As far as excursions, this is the first time I ever booked them. I always had a baby but now my baby if 4 so we are doing the Eco Outrage tour in Cayman which is a boat that takes you to stingray City, Starfish Beach, Rum Point Beach, they will do fishing and pull you on tubes also so it sounds really fun. In Cozumel we are doing the dune buggy tour. I am hoping it is not too long of a day for my kids but it sounds fun.

I am so excited.

My boys are both sick so I am taking them to the doctor today. I guess it is better this week than next. They are not running fevers but one has a bad cough and the other has been really stuffy for over 2 weeks so I am thinking maybe it has turned into a sinus infection or something. I really want to get them checked out before we leave.

I still have to finish packing so hopefully I will get to it this weekend. I have all kinds of stuff thrown in suitcases so I have to just go through it all and hopefully take some stuff out. I don't want to overpack. I will probably do laundry b/c I have done that on our 4 night cruises so I know I will have to do it on the longer cruise.

maggiesueb

01-19-2008, 09:58 AM

I always figure we'll just eat a really late lunch, 4:30 or so, then see the show

Nicole,
FYI the main restaurants and buffets are not open at 4:30. Your choices at that time would be 1) room service 2) Hot dogs/burgers 3) Pizza

Margaret B.

purplepeg

01-19-2008, 10:12 AM

Thanks for the info JENR it is much appreciated:)

dzorn

01-19-2008, 02:15 PM

Finally went and got a new pair of heels. I just hope I don't break an ankle it's been so long since I wore them.

Just think by this time next. Oh warm weather I cannot wait.

Denise in MI

dzorn

01-19-2008, 02:28 PM

Current weather

Cape Canaveral 82 feels like 85
Key West 81 feels like 83
Detroit 16 feels like -3 and getting colder

Oh I cannot wait

Denise in MI

runmom

01-19-2008, 02:47 PM

Current weather

Cape Canaveral 82 feels like 85
Key West 81 feels like 83
Detroit 16 feels like -3 and getting colder

Oh I cannot wait

Denise in MI

OOOHH wahoo! thanks for the info as I look out onto our snow - melting as it is - I'm soooo overwhelmed by my packing, all I've done so far is count out everyone's medicine (allergy pills and such!) i have refregerated medicine I now have to bring along and I'm nervous... injectable, first time ever traveling w/it - I'm nervous I'll get stopped w/needles and all, I guess I need to bring a note or something. Margaret, thanks for the info on the restaurants, I'm figuring room service or salads at the pool side right? how long does room service usually take? and my mom was just asking me, b/c her sig other doesn't really like the late dinner -you can always eat at Topsiders instead of your dinning rotation right? is it served or buffet? thanks all - need to pack instead of being on the boards - going now...! nic

JENR

01-19-2008, 03:42 PM

seventhc

01-19-2008, 05:43 PM

Hey guys!

This is Ima Princess (me, DH, DD8, DD3 plus friends)! I had to get a new DIS account because the other day I updated the address on file with DIS and since then I've been unable to post, send PMs, etc. It's been driving me crazy, especially seeing all of you post that your docs arrived!

Happy to say our docs arrived, too!! :goodvibes

I need to post a few more times to get my post count up on this new account, so bear with me! :thumbsup2

CC

seventhc

01-19-2008, 05:45 PM

If I had known that updating my email address would cause such problems, I would've waited until we returned. The real problem is not so much that my email address changed, but more that DIS is having trouble sending emails, and I need to get an email in order to confirm my new address.

Funny that an email confirmation isn't required to start a new account...

CC
aka Ima Princess

seventhc

01-19-2008, 05:50 PM

DH decided today to cancel his parasailing on Castaway.

I just got an email from DIS support, so hopefully the steps they provide will allow me to post again as Ima Princess! (sure beats "formerly known as Ima Princess...) :lmao:

CC

jenkh

01-19-2008, 06:11 PM

Why did you DH cancel parasailing?

Glad to hear everything will be sorted out with your DIS name

purplepeg

01-19-2008, 06:13 PM

Runmom I think a Dr's note saying what the medication and needles are for should be good to show security. I'm sure there are lots of diabetic people out there that travel with insulin and needles. Imaprincess how about a freezer pack in a small insulated lunch bag? Do you think that would work?
Thank for the weather update. I can't wait for warmer weather:cool1:

runmom

01-19-2008, 06:29 PM

How are you taking your refridgerated meds. I just took ds4 to the doctor. He has a sinus infection. He had to take Imoxicillian for 2 weeks. It needs to be refridgerated. How do I do that? I know once I get to the ship they have a fridge, but what till then?

My son is also on Amox, we go the chewable pill kind, he'll only have 2 days left once we board, there is a 'cooling box' in the room, don't know how cold it stays tho, but I would do the ice pack for the airplane, that is what I'm going to do, and hopefully you'll have a fridge in your hotel for the night before, its such a pain! did your son have a sinus infection? mine had strep, and now my youngest seems congested.. i'm watching him like a hawk, and he is invited to a b'day party tomorrow can't decide if I'm sending him b/c I"m a bit germaphobic.

Anybody wearing jeans (nice w/cute sandles) to casual nights at dinner? Just saw a thread about that, and it said it was ok, what are the dress codes/nights for dinner? does anyone know which night is what, its taking me forever to try on what I want to bring, I can't believe I'll be wearing warm weather clothes in a week, right now I'm freezing, thinking of bringing some sweaters for the ship, do you think I"ll need them, what about pants for port days, or will I want shorts/skorts? thanks! Nicole

seventhc

01-19-2008, 07:31 PM

Jenkh,

No one was going with him (I'll with dd3, dd8 is too nervous) and he decided he'd rather hang with us than in the air. :laughing:

We're cruising April 09 so he'll have another chance then. Hopefully DD8 (who will be DD10 by then) will go with him that time -- I really think she'd enjoy it.

I thought of you when he cancelled, but glad you were able to get a ressie!

CC
(still seventhc, but I'd rather be a princess!) princess:

bryiank

01-19-2008, 08:06 PM

DS who is 11 is a little nervous about going now at the last minute. Are there any other boys 10-12 going from the boards? His name is Christopher, if I can tell him the names of some the friends who will be aboard I think he might feel better. B

melsmom12

01-19-2008, 08:17 PM

Which nights are casual, which are semi-formal and which are formal? Can anyone tell us?

runmom

01-19-2008, 08:23 PM

Which nights are casual, which are semi-formal and which are formal? Can anyone tell us?

that's what I'd like to know too - thought I needed to wear blank pants or dress every night, now I'm realizing we can maybe wear nice jeans some nights? DH will be very! happy.

runmom

01-19-2008, 08:24 PM

JENR

01-19-2008, 09:22 PM

Which nights are casual, which are semi-formal and which are formal? Can anyone tell us?

Here is the run down
Day 1 Casual
Day 2 Casual
Day 3 Formal
Day 4 Casual
Day 5 Pirate night
Day 6 Semi Formal
Day 7 Casual

dzorn

01-19-2008, 10:39 PM

I plan on capris for most nights. DH got home and I showed him the heels and the first thing he said "Are you trying to break something" Oh I guess I better look for some flats. I'm a crocs kind of gal these days.

Denise in MI

maggiesueb

01-20-2008, 08:44 AM

OOOHH . Margaret, thanks for the info on the restaurants, I'm figuring room service or salads at the pool side right? how long does room service usually take? and my mom was just asking me, b/c her sig other doesn't really like the late dinner -you can always eat at Topsiders instead of your dinning rotation right? is it served or buffet?

Nicole,
It's been two years since we cruised (I'm MelsMom's mom btw), and I've just been referring to the Navigators I've saved, not necessarily on my memory! I don't think we had room service, though. Probably depends on hour of the day and how busy they are and what food is ordered. In the listings here it says that "Topsider's table service" is from 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM.
***Question for all***
If you dine, let's say at Palo's or somewhere else for dinner, how, if at all, does that affect your tipping to your regular serving staff?
After planning this trip for six months, it's hard to believe it's almost here!
Margaret B

mommybot

01-20-2008, 09:52 AM

As far as dining & tipping goes..I believe if you dine at Palo's, which has an extra $15 charge, you tip when you're there. I think you tip if you eat in the dining room. The document book has their "suggested" tipping as well. What has anyone tipped at Palo's? We're having dinner & brunch there.

mommybot

01-20-2008, 09:56 AM

We were on the Magic a year and a half ago. My DS had just turned 3. He did NOT want anything to do with the Club. I'm concerned he's going to be grouped in the 3-4 yr-olds and it will happen again. He's 4 1/2, do you think they might group him in with the 5-7 yr olds? He is better with older children.
~Karen

Tesanrick

01-20-2008, 10:57 AM

I am also travelling with an injectible medication for the first time. It has to be refrigerated. I asked my TA, and she had me download the medical form that is on the Disney website. My doctor filled it out requesting a fridge in the room to keep the meds cold enough. They also will put a box in your cabin for the needle collection.

For travelling, my husband found a soft cooler online that is not much bigger than the palm of my hand. Just google "insulin cooler". The problem is you may not have time before we leave to order on internet, but you could try a local medical supply store in your area. Before I had that, I used to pack it in a plastic bag and surround it by ice. It works fine - just a bit more of a pain.

I read the carry-on restrictions at the TSA website. There are exceptions for all injectible medications and needles. Lots of people have diabetes or other conditions which require them, so the screeners are quite used to them. You don't need a doctor's note, but they suggest to bring the original packaging from the pharmacy to show it is a prescription.

Hope that helps,
Theresa

mommybot

01-20-2008, 11:30 AM

How can you tell what rotation you're on? I missed Animators Palate last time because we were eating at Palo on 3rd nite. I have a feeling we're on the same schedule.

dzorn

01-20-2008, 01:39 PM

No way to know rotation until you get your room key. If you get to port early enough you could always try and change your Palo reservation.

Denise in MI

melsmom12

01-20-2008, 03:06 PM

Here is the run down
Day 1 Casual
Day 2 Casual
Day 3 Formal
Day 4 Casual
Day 5 Pirate night
Day 6 Semi Formal
Day 7 Casual

Thank you!!

dzorn

01-21-2008, 11:12 PM

Mondays come and almost gone and still we are not packed.

Denise in MI

jenkh

01-21-2008, 11:19 PM

We were good worker bees and packed practically everything yesterday. But we're heading out to buffalo first thing thursday morning so we have a bit of a shorter deadline.

I can't believe how close it is now. These next 2 days may just kill me :scared:

Ima Princess

01-22-2008, 08:06 AM

Hooray! My Princess status has returned!! princess: :rotfl:

I've come to view packing as a perpetual state. :laughing: I don't think I'll be DONE until I board the plane on Friday afternoon (which, I'm pleased to point out, is a mere 3 days from now)!! :woohoo:

I'm giddy, a wee bit nervous (the flying, not the cruising) and incredibly excited!! :dance3:

See you there!

CC

runmom

01-22-2008, 11:55 AM

Mondays come and almost gone and still we are not packed.

Denise in MI

Denise, me neither!

dduffin

01-22-2008, 11:58 AM

We're getting there. Cannot wait at this point. I keep adding to my list though, I really should be checking things off!

Hope everyone has a safe journey there!

dzorn

01-22-2008, 12:18 PM

OK I admit it I scared to try on my summer clothes and swim suit.

Did we ever set a time and place for a meet?

Denise in MI

jkester

01-22-2008, 02:12 PM

I looked through the last couple of pages and didn't see a meet yet... maybe I missed it? If some well informed DIS'er would post where we're meeting that would be super!

See you guys in a few days!

Rhonda & James Kester

purplepeg

01-22-2008, 06:19 PM

We're almost packed....I think. I agree with it being a perpetual state:lmao: Here is something I'll share with all of you and I'm sure you'll laugh as much as I did:rotfl2: My DD(7) brought home her home reading book yesterday...the title...."On Board The Titanic":scared1: Can you speak:confused3 The books are usually picked out by the teacher or a parent volunteer, but yesterday she was able to pick out her own book. She said a boy in her class told her it was a really good book. I laughed so hard.
I'm up for a meet too. What about on a sea day when we won't be running to be somewhere? Just a suggestion. Only 3 more sleeps until we leave on Friday at 5 am:scared1: I don't really think that will count as a sleep though. Can't wait to meet you all.

purplepeg

01-22-2008, 06:25 PM

[QUOTE=dzorn;22719123]OK I admit it I scared to try on my summer clothes and swim suit.

I agree with you. I did try on my summer stuff and it wasn't pretty:scared1: Of course 4 months ago when I booked I thought I had lots of time to loose weight:laughing: Did Ipopcorn:: no! My sister said well you just need to be more aware. I said "I am aware...I'm eating":rolleyes1 At this point people will just have to love me for who I am and not what I look like.:love:

dzorn

01-23-2008, 10:24 AM

purplepeg I know what you feel like we need to be at the airport by 5am at the very latest. And thats after picking my Mom and Sis up. I think the kids are sleeping in sweats and I'll pack short and shirt in the carry on. At the rate the packing is going I may be doing an all nighter and snoozing on the plane. DH assures me he will pack tonight. Of course he said he would pack last Monday too.

Denise in MI

Ima Princess

01-23-2008, 01:48 PM

I'm all for doing a meet! Cruisin', a veteran cruiser but not on our cruise, suggested these locations for a meet:

A couple of good places are The Promenade Lounge on Deck 3. It is a big open lounge with lots of seating available and easy to find.

Another good place is Diversions. It is the sports bar, also on Deck 3, in the Adult only area of the ship. During the day time hours children are allowed to be in these areas too. In Diversions there is also plenty of seating area and a bar with snacks available. Also it is a little off the beaten path so to speak so therefore it tends to be a little more private and cosy, especially at that time of your cruise.

Sometimes people with hold their DISmeets outside on the upper decks.

I'll suggest 10am near the Outlook Bar (deck 10) on Monday (first at-sea day). It's behind the mid-ship elevators and overlooks the adult pool. I chose this location based on deck plans NOT EXPERIENCE so if you have another suggestion, I'm all ears! I'm hoping it won't be too busy at 10am (tho it will be 5 o'clock somewhere!). :laughing: If you want to get an idea of where it is, http://www.wdwinfo.com/wdwinfo/cruise-new/cr-deckplans.htm#

What time is the character breakfast? Some of us may have Bfast that morning (it's based on dining rotation) so I'm wondering if our meet time will interfere? I should look at some other cruise posts to see when/where they meet, but who has the time? :surfweb:

I'll check back to see what you think! If all else fails and we can't come up with a good date/time, we're in 5520 -- stop by and see us! :flower3:

--CC

mommybot

01-23-2008, 06:12 PM

Is there a list of people with fish extenders? We'd love to participate!

purplepeg

01-23-2008, 09:17 PM

Ima princess the meet sounds good to me too. Again a newbie so I'm up for anything never having done this before! We're in 8510. No fish extender. I'm pretty much done packing just the last minute stuff to do now. 2 more sleeps:cool1:

jenkh

01-23-2008, 10:02 PM

sounds like plan. :thumbsup2 We're in 6134. We head out to buffalo in 12 hours. It's finally here :cool1: Can't wait to meet you all

(and no fish extender for us, we just didn't have time)

melsmom12

01-23-2008, 10:47 PM

Tomorrow is THURSDAY!! Oh my word, it's getting so close!

What's everyone still got to get done? I am running around tomorrow like a crazy person to find my DD a pair of lightweight pants, a travel clock, call the pediatrician to see what to give my DD in case of seasickness, and a whole mess of other junk.

What's on your agenda for tomorrow in preparation for our very soon trip?!??

purplepeg

02-03-2008, 05:46 PM

So, how was everyone's cruise? I don't think I ran into any of you that I'm aware of although I might have seen guardmusic at an art of entertaining event on board. We had an awesome time:cool1: :thumbsup2 We're sad it's over but I think I'll try a trip report when I get a little more organized. Yesterday we were up at 5:30 am for breakfast at 6:30 am. Our flight didn't leave until 1:55pm. When we got to Toronto it took one hour before the luggage carousal even started to move and longer to get bags on it. Lots of people missed their connecting flights because of the delay. Then we checked on our flight that was to leave at 8:55 pm. It was delayed until 11:15 pm and then eventually delayed until 11:40 pm. We didn't get home and in bed until 3 am central time. We were up for almost 24 hrs. What a slap back to reality:lmao: Our poor girls (7 and 3) were so tired and slept off and on so were very grouchy as was I! So start posting so I can hear about everyone's trip.:banana:

Ima Princess

02-03-2008, 07:32 PM

We had a MAGICal time!! Fun was had by all! I missed the meet, but hope others were able to connect. I'm eager to do a trip report, but other necessities are calling my name...

Hope everyone had safe travels and magical memories!

CC

jenkh

02-03-2008, 09:50 PM

Our trip was AMAZING! Unfortunatly we missed the meet (we managed to get into a Palo brunch, woohoo) I'll be posting a full report and pics soon. But like everyone else have to get back into the swing of the real world first.

Quick note - Parasailing was one of the most amazing experiences of my life (and i'm terrified if heights! If anyone is even debating doing it, DO IT!. I already decided i'm doing it again next cruise)