9/23/07: Life Stinks! The 2nd Season! -The Final Episode. :(

[Mozart]

This thread will attempt to capture all the magical moments in our 4 night cruise departing Sept 23, 2007 from nearly the beginning all the way to arriving back home at our doorway. It is inspired by the greatest TR I ever read, originally written by Ashman. I only hope mine is half as good. I’ll update it sparingly, as it warrants. If I don’t stop obsessing over the cruise, that may mean updates every night for the next 5 months.



It’s strange to try and pinpoint a time when a vacation really starts. Is it the moment that you make a financial commitment to the vacation? Is it the moment you decide you’re going to do something? Is it the moment that really sets in motion the chain of events that lead to the vacation? Do you have to be directly involved in it, or could you just be an extra who later becomes the star of the show? Is it the moment you begin the trip report? Tough to say, isn’t it? In one of those cases, you could point back all the way to 1956, when my parents were married. Or, you could point to the moment, 50 years later, in October 2006 when my brother and I decided that for their 50th wedding anniversary, we would take our parents on a cruise the following February. My discovery of the DIS boards to begin nurturing what would practically become an obsession in less than a month’s time might just be the right thing to point to. But, a lot of people would say that the moment the September 2007 vacation memories begin was that moment on February 24th, 2007 when we told the onboard booking agent to charge another $400 to our credit card. We’re coming back, we said. See ya in September. For a full recap of that first cruise, see this thread:

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1371493

But this would be a story with twists and turns so devilish that not even Alfred Hitchcock would be able to comprehend it all. You see, an unexpected thing happened when we got back home after our February cruise. My wife and I raved about our cruise to friends and family. We talked about how they needed to join us. We talked about all the great things we experienced. Mostly, we talked about Serenity Bay. We kept telling them how great a cruise was and that they needed to go on one. “We’re taking another one in September” we said. We didn’t really expect any of them to decide to go with us.

They did.

My MIL and FIL decided to join us. This just got interesting.

So, here I sit on the evening of April 17, 2007. I’m realizing just how obsessed I am about DCL right now. I’m writing a freaking trip report for a cruise more than 5 months away. Meanwhile, we’re heading to Orlando to celebrate our 10th wedding anniversary and eat at Victoria and Albert’s in 9 days. My priorities do seem kind of out of whack, don’t they? I’ve got so many things going on it’s ridiculous. I should be planning for our WDW trip next week. Maybe I should be stressing out over the fact that the real Mozart (my wife’s chihuahua) is at the vet’s office right now recovering from bladder surgery. Or should I be concerned about the fact that I think they’re going to close my office and move it all offshore?

Nope…it’s cruise planning time. I mean come on, we leave in 158 days! There are things to do, snorkel sets to buy, clothes to match up, spa treatments to book, Amaretto to sneak onboard, hotel rooms to reserve and cancel 500 times between now and then, but most importantly, there’s American Idol.

Sorry, Sanjaya’s singing right now. That's definitely a distraction.

In our next installment (I hope): How to start planning for a cruise! (Translated: Why obsessive compulsive disorder can be a good thing!)

[Babs417]

I have almost everything ready for my cruise and look how far away my trip is:goodvibes ;) :) :cutie:

[Sue F UK]

DH and I went to V&A for our 10 anniversary and had the most magical time, I hope you and your DW enjoy your evening there.

We'll be home and well into post cruise stress disorder by the time you go so spare us a thought :( won't you?

[MagicMe]

Interesting thought - a pre-trip report to cover the anticipation, anxieties, etc. Nice beginning. Is it just you and the IL's or did you talk even more people into going.

We've only done two 4-day cruises so far. One cruise had 20 of us and the last one had 15. Our family loves WDW and DCL. We have a 7-day booked for Sep08 but so far only with 6 of us.

[Stogrove]

Mozart, you are good, very, very good. Such a novel idea to start a TR before you even leave. I will love tracking this story. At least you only have 5 months to wait until your next voyage. I'm down to 499 days (Sept 2008). How do you try and put something like this out of your mind so you can concentrate on the real world?? Ugghhhh!!

[Gixer]

Loved reading your original trippie - so cant wait to see how this planning one works out! what a novel idea! :thumbsup2

p.s congrats on your wedding anniversary, we ate at V & A last year and it was truely amazing, DO go for the wine pairings, delicious!

[Mozart]

Please, please, please remember that I got this idea from Ashman. If you haven't had the chance to read his TR, he started writing his months before his cruise as well. The way he discusses the anticipation, the thrill of telling his daughters about it, and their excitement not just at the cruise, but actually being able to take them on their first plane is absolutely wonderful to read.

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1293772

Stogrove - Is that the Magic Double Dip on 9/1/08 you're going on? Check out my signature. :cool2:

MagicMe - Only my wife's parents. We wanted her sister to go along and take the 3 year old nephew and 2 year old niece, but it doesn't look like they're going to make out. (Gotta buy a stupid new house with more room instead.) Thought about taking the kids anyway for a reason I'll explain later, but we decided to make this one adults only.

BTW - Mozart the chihuahua came through surgery fine. He's back on my wife's lap where he practically lives.

Sanjaya, however, did not make it.

[rdy2bpampered]

I thought about posting a pre-trip report. I have 4 pages typed already, but I must say I haven't had the guts to do it 5 months in advance! :rolleyes1
I was afraid everyone would be tired of me by the time the trip actually rolled around!! :cool2: Since you did it tho.....makes me wonder :rolleyes: ...

[Mozart]

When last we left our obsessive cruise veteran (well, I’ve been on 3) he was stressed out and watching Sanjaya. Now, he’s relaxed and listening to Carefree Castaway Cay. What a difference a little mood music makes, huh?

Once we get back home in February from our last cruise, the first step, of course, is to unpack. Then, I start planning for the next one. Or, maybe do a little of both at the same time. Confession time: How many people have an Excel spreadsheet or Word document with everything you need for your trip in there? As a few examples: My April 06 DW trip – 4 pages. Feb 07 Cruise – 6 pages. Apr 07 WDW – 5 pages. Sept 07 cruise – currently at 3 pages. The Sept 08 double dip already has 2 pages. . By the way, for anyone driving somewhere soon, check out www.thenextexit.com . This is one of the greatest things I’ve ever gotten my hands on. It tells you where all of the interstate exits are, and what is at each one. It’s saved me a few times when I’ve thought about driving past an exit and getting lunch another mile or two down the road, but looked at the sheet showing the exits and realized that if I skipped this one, I’d have to drive another 40 miles for somewhere to stop.

How sad is my planning? You really cannot fathom it. I haven’t started picking out the individual clothes for the cruise in September, but I already can tell you that I’ll need 3 outfits on Tuesday, 2 on Monday, etc. The only reason I haven’t picked them out yet is because I want to wait until we’re back from our April trip to start packing for September. Next week, though, I’ll start picking. The places we were staying the night before have been modified 10 times already, and I’ve got 3 reservations currently for places to stay the night we get off the ship.

No…I have no life. And remember! I’ve already had to make a major change in plans. I was working on all this as soon as we got back from our first cruise, and had half of the pieces in place, when the in-laws threw all my plans into the trashbin. Originally, we were going to stay with my brother in Orlando, but that wouldn’t really work with the in-laws around like that since he hasn’t met them since my wedding day 10 years ago. So, we decided to go over to Titusville. I looked into a few of the hotels, but it looks like we’re going to stay a few miles away at a bed and breakfast now.

And yes, I really am this bad….I’m trying to figure out where we’re going to eat lunch and dinner on the day we drive down. Should we eat breakfast here in town, or drive 100 miles down the road and eat a little later in the morning, like a brunch. I’m only planning lunch somewhere off of I-95 in Georgia 5 months before I go there. I think I need medication.

And thus the journey begins…I’m at the point right now where I’m just anxious. Remember that I’m going to WDW tomorrow. I’m actually wanting this trip to hurry up and be done so that I can get back and start really getting into the details of the cruise. (?!)

Thought for the evening...Why do I always post these during American Idol?

In our next installment: Does a dinner at Victoria and Albert’s make you forget about Palo’s for a few nights, or does it just make the desire to get back on board the ship that much worse? (I don’t know yet…but I will in about 24 hours!)

[ashman]

Please, please, please remember that I got this idea from Ashman. If you haven't had the chance to read his TR, he started writing his months before his cruise as well. The way he discusses the anticipation, the thrill of telling his daughters about it, and their excitement not just at the cruise, but actually being able to take them on their first plane is absolutely wonderful to read.

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1293772



WOW! Thanks for the shout out! Good luck with the PTR (Pre-trip Report as given to me by another) The great thing about the really good TR's is that we stand on the shoulder who come before us! I certianly had many folks who inspired me along the way, I know you will take it to another level! I started about 60 days out. You are taking it to another level!:banana: Who knows, may be you will inspire someone to start the moment the dates come out! :lmao: I Can't wait to read along!

[Dave Dizney]

Wonderful work, Mozart! Even though we’re heading for only our first cruise – I can relate with you so much. It will be fun to meet you in September!

If you have ever seen the show “Fan’s Guide to Walt Disney World” on the Travel Channel or Discovery HD – we’re the family who they followed through Disney’s Animal Kingdom and the Magic Kingdom. I’ve been teased to no end for my perceived “over-planning” which was demonstrated by my little schedules I give the kids while we’re at the parks. Truth be told, pre-planning is my therapy for the months before we actually go on a Disney trip in any of the many locations. Right now, we have our second son getting ready to go off to college, my oldest son is planning on being engaged during our “land” portion of our September trip, both my wife’s’ and my career’s are in crazy places, and all I can think about is the cruise in September!

At this point, I am a month and two days away from sharing this good news with my wife on our anniversary. I have been reading the DIS boards every day insuring that she hasn’t been looking over my shoulder. I’ve been running to the mailbox everyday so my monthly payments to All Seasons Travel will not be detected. I have to confess I have been deceitful in our early preparations. My plan is to have a nice dinner with my DW on our anniversary – and at the end, pull out my laptop with a PowerPoint presentation of photos of our honeymoon 25 years ago, which was 6 weeks as staff at a youth camp, ending in an apology that introduces a “real” honeymoon this time. I hope in that moment there’s as much excitement for her as there has been for me in the 9 months I’ve been planning this trip!

So I’m with you Mozart! And I’m ready now!!! I guess I just have to get DW up to speed!

[Mozart]

Wonderful work, Mozart! Even though we’re heading for only our first cruise – I can relate with you so much. It will be fun to meet you in September!

Dave - I was thinking about asking you this. Feel free to share your story in this thread of planning. Based on what you've said on the cruise meets board, I was wondering if you'd like to share a little.

And about V&A's - WOW! I'll go more into it later...but WOW!

[rdy2bpampered]

:thumbsup2 I just want you to know that.

I too am not travelling until later in the year... October, as a matter of fact. It is our first Disney cruise... our first BIG vacation. Kinda want to do it up right, ya know? :)

I commend you in posting a pre-trip report. I wanted to but thought everyone would get tired of me before it was all done. :scratchin My mind is going a mile-a-minute over this cruise.:drive: .. I have obsessed so bad.
I have a whole memory key (2GB) dedicated to the vacation planning... do you think it's enough space? Hmmm, maybe I should get another one... I'm :stir: up a pot af trouble!

ps.. I have 5 pages written on a pretrip..:moped: It's moving along nicely, chapters and everything! Hey, my first (only) novel to publish!... :lmao: :lmao:

[TLHB70]

Mozart, I see that you are in upstate SC. Where? We are in Union County NC so we are just above the line.

I am enjoying reading your TR. I will continue to follow along. I, too, am in the excited planning stages for our upcoming cruise. The days are full of reading TR, watching the DCL movies on Youtube and listening to Caribbean music.

[TLHB70]

At this point, I am a month and two days away from sharing this good news with my wife on our anniversary. I have been reading the DIS boards every day insuring that she hasn’t been looking over my shoulder. I’ve been running to the mailbox everyday so my monthly payments to All Seasons Travel will not be detected. I have to confess I have been deceitful in our early preparations. My plan is to have a nice dinner with my DW on our anniversary – and at the end, pull out my laptop with a PowerPoint presentation of photos of our honeymoon 25 years ago, which was 6 weeks as staff at a youth camp, ending in an apology that introduces a “real” honeymoon this time. I hope in that moment there’s as much excitement for her as there has been for me in the 9 months I’ve been planning this trip!

So I’m with you Mozart! And I’m ready now!!! I guess I just have to get DW up to speed!

Wow!!!!!!!!!!!!! What a wonderful surprise!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I would love to read all about the surprise announcment dinner after you tell her. I would love to read about your trip, too.

[mruhaak]

Hey Mozart-
We're taking a 4 day in November! I'll enjoy reading about yours right before ours! Our first Disney cruise was a 3 day too. I'm hoping that extra day makes it seem MUCH longer!!!

[Mozart]

Okay, in my last installment I promised that I would talk a little about my dinner at V&A’s in relation to Palo and which one was better. That was a stupid comparison. I erred in even attempting to put them in the same league. V&A’s is a dining experience that one can only savor to understand. Palo’s is good, better than most of the restaurants I go to on a regular basis, but Vicky’s is just in another league altogether. It’s like comparing the singing of Melinda Doolittle to Sanjaya Malakar. Sanjaya’s really not that bad of a singer in the grand scheme of things…but Melinda’s just in a different league. (Why is it that I keep coming up with these American Idol references?)

Which brings me to an excruciating experience I am currently having. Why, OH WHY!?!?! did I not stock up on H2O shampoo while I was at the Grand Floridian. They sell the bottles there, and all I can think about whenever I smell that green beauty of a smell is how I’d like to be on a cruise right now. DW and I are on our last bottle from the previous cruise, and we’re stretching it out as long as we possibly can. The pain is cutting deep, that’s for sure. If you haven’t been to their website, go here: www.h2oplus.com. Check out the raspberry guava stuff. It smelled fantastic, but I’m just not a bath gel kinda guy.

So, we just got our next set of documents from our TA regarding our cruise. I pull out the package! RIP OPEN THE BAG! And ….it turns out to be the same (nearly) travel pack that I got late last year for our other cruise, though there are some subtle differences. It’s good to have something different to read. I mean, you can only read the DIS 5,000 times without getting a little tired of reading much of the same stuff over and over. So, I go to the TA’s packet and read the same stuff I read 500 times back in October of last year. I have to admit that I’m really struggling with using a TA to book your cruise. I just don’t feel like I’m getting alot for it, and what I am getting is them sending all of our travel information to our TA rather than directly to us. I don’t like that. I’m a hands on type of guy. I wanted to start using a TA for other trips, and figured I would let him help me with this cruise to get a kind of feel-good factor going between us. But since I booked it onboard, he really hasn’t had to do anything. What, exactly, does everyone else use their TA for? I’m just wondering if it’s the typical stateroom credit, or do they normally provide some services that I’m just not getting? I’m not upset with the TA, I’m just wondering right now how I really benefit from using one. I’m thinking that on this cruise, I don’t, where a trip to say – California wine country that I know nothing about – the TA would be much more helpful.

I’m playing the favorites game right now. You know the one. When reviewing the excursions and spa treatments…save to favorites. Then you go to your saved excursions and delete them, only to change your mind a few minutes later and save them again. I find myself doing that on many nights, as well as playing the “see how full the ship is going to be” game. It’s a fun one…pick a category, and plug in every room number to see if it’s booked or not. For example, on my Sept 23 cruise, there are 30 Cat 7 rooms (including the secret verandah rooms, of which I have one.) Only 9 of the 30 are booked at this time. Of the 4 secret verandah rooms, 2 are not booked yet. Looking pretty empty, isn’t it? I kinda hope it is. That would make the trip even more relaxing than I expect it to be.

Finally, I have an idea I’d like to see if we can get off the ground, but I’m going to need your help first. I saw recently on a cruise meets thread I read for some reason, that they were planning on meeting at 3:00 in the Promenade Lounge before leaving the port. I thought “Wonderful idea!” We should make that a DIS tradition! Just make it a known deal, that DIS’ers meet at 3, after they’ve seen the ship a little, but before the lifeboat drill, in the Promenade Lounge. That way you’re not looking for lime green mouseheads and the hand gesture from Meet the Parents. Instead, you just know you’ll meet them then! Agree? Should we propose that to the main board, or cruise meet thread? Help me out here.

In our next Oscar nominated edition: How to avoid the Ann Boleyn disease. (In other words: Looking for a way to get a head of the crowd.)

I live for these puns…

[Dave Dizney]

[QUOTE=Mozart;18506968]
Finally, I have an idea I’d like to see if we can get off the ground, but I’m going to need your help first. I saw recently on a cruise meets thread I read for some reason, that they were planning on meeting at 3:00 in the Promenade Lounge before leaving the port. I thought “Wonderful idea!” We should make that a DIS tradition! Just make it a known deal, that DIS’ers meet at 3, after they’ve seen the ship a little, but before the lifeboat drill, in the Promenade Lounge. That way you’re not looking for lime green mouseheads and the hand gesture from Meet the Parents. Instead, you just know you’ll meet them then! Agree? Should we propose that to the main board, or cruise meet thread? Help me out here.
QUOTE]

I thought the idea of a meeting in the Promenade Lounge was great when I heard how other groups had done that – I’m glad you brought it up. I will put a notice on our "page 2" of our Cruise Meet thread – let’s spread the word.

Who is your TA? I did a fair amount of research in the exact thing you've described. The purpose of the millennium travel agent sure has changed. I was planning on doing all the work myself, but when it finally came down to it, I found that some TA's who buy in bulk can give you better deals. I finally went through All Seasons Travel on a tip from some good people on these boards. It saved us about $300. The biggest thing that saved us money was booking early - and oh did I book early. I've noticed the price has gone up three times since then.

I have a file already full - hidden in my office - with the Passporter Book, the Birnbaum DCL book, the DCL DVD, all my paperwork, and all the little packets. A couple of days ago we got the Shore Excursion booklet in the mail and I had to hide it in my car for most of the day - but now it too rests safely in this bulging file. I have one month from tomorrow to keep this a secret (this is my Silver Anniversary gift to my DW) and I'm so afraid I'll mess it up. I have so many conversations with Bethany in a day and have caught myself moments from saying things like, "Yeah this desert is good, but that Chocolate Soufflé at Palo's looks divine!"

I’ve been considering V&A’s during the land portion of our trip. If we do that, the two of us will have completed every “sit-down” venue in the Resort/Parks! I walked past the place so many times and read so many reviews. Are we going to get a detailed report of the meal Mozart???

Another interesting addition to our land and sea plans - our oldest son has been dating a girl for 4 years now, and is considering popping the question soon. He has always wanted to do that in front of the MK castle at the end of Wishes. He's now thinking of doing this during our "land" portion of our trip. Though it’s a good thing and not-so-good thing that we can never get rid of our kids - I think this would be such a wonderful idea and hope it works out so we can witness the event. Nothing is ever under-planned in our household.

Hear that ticking sound??? We are slowly approaching the summer… :hourglass

[Mozart]

A couple of days ago we got the Shore Excursion booklet in the mail and I had to hide it in my car for most of the day - but now it too rests safely in this bulging file.

I’ve been considering V&A’s during the land portion of our trip. If we do that, the two of us will have completed every “sit-down” venue in the Resort/Parks! I walked past the place so many times and read so many reviews. Are we going to get a detailed report of the meal Mozart???

I really feel for the mail runs you're having to do. Hope nothing comes on that one day you get stuck in traffic.

As for V&A: Book now. I booked 5 months ahead of time and got the last table they had available. Dinner, including tip runs about $450. We got the wine package, though. Without the wine package you'd probably be able to get out of there for $325

And you should be getting to know me and trip reports by now:

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1438267

[Mozart]

I admit it. I have a problem. I am obsessed. I cannot think of anything during my spare time to do other than plan for this cruise. I struggle to concentrate on my work because I want to check the DIS for that one snippet of information I don’t already have that will make my cruise better. I need to stop starting every sentence with the word “I” because it is not proper grammar. I am lazy, Sam-I-Am.

I also just noticed that in every one of my posts so far, I’ve mentioned that I was obsessed. Could it be possible that I’m just obsessed with being obsessed? That is your deep thought for the day…

What makes me really think I am that way is that we recently had our very first cruise planning session with all 4 of us in attendance. My in-laws are probably now actively encouraging DW to consider alternatives to our marriage. Like having a Disney nut incarcerated for his own good. What they don’t know is that she’s just as big a Disney nut as I am. She just prefers to let me handle all the trip planning. Not that she has a choice in the matter in that area.

I had been trying to figure out how to actively engage them in planning excursions and the like because they really are the type who prefer to just wing it. We received a few weeks ago, the kit that Disney sends out with out potential excursions, packing lists, etc… and I figured this would be my best chance to get them talking. So, since they always want to meet us for Saturday breakfast, we obliged and said “Why don’t you bring your excursion book and we’ll talk about what we plan on doing?” I was prepared to start with the comment “So, we’re interested in parasailing at CC, what about you?”

Instead, my FIL started the conversation by saying “What ports are we going to?”

SUCK-A-DUCK! (That’s the closest this Austrian musician chihuahua gets to cussing on this board.)

No, they had not looked at the excursions book. They didn’t realize that they could book their excursions, spa treatments, Palo’s etc in a little over a month. THEY DIDN’T EVEN KNOW WHAT PALO’S WAS! I feel like I’m dealing with rank amateurs here. How can a person not spend all of their spare time (and a little they can’t spare) planning this stuff? It just amazes me. I mean, IT’S A VACATION! We have a tight ship to run here! Do they think relaxing just happens? IT MUST BE PLANNED!

All in all, though, it went well. Except for when they got into the argument about whether or not he would let her ride on the back of a jetski with him. Seems they did that one time before, and it didn’t go too well. Parasailing was even more complicated. They did that in tandem, and she apparently kept covering his eyes because she was too scared to look. :confused3

They promised to have their information looked over by mid-June. June 25th is the day our reservations open up, so we should be fine, although I admit to cringing over the fact that they don’t know the exact times and events they want to participate in.

One question I have to ask the peanut gallery reading this: Am I the only one who keeps checking to see if there is an error and the system will let me start booking my excursions and spa treatments now rather than waiting for the 90 day mark? Every week or so, I check out my cruise plans just to see if there’s some type of mistake and it lets me in.

In response to Erica’s statements on another thread recently about going cheap, I must respond with my way of doing things:

You know what to me might just be the best thing about going on a cruise? I am an admitted clothes hound. I tend to like to buy brand names, and therefore spend way too much money. Going on a cruise gives me an excuse to buy more clothes that are expensive without feeling guilty about it. “Gotta do it honey, if you want me to look good when we eat at Palo’s.” As Mel Brooks used to say, “It’s good to be the king…”

To prepare for our next class, please write a 1000 word essay about this subject: Why do I, whose stated goal in life is to be the best uncle who ever lived, feel guilty about going on this cruise?

[Mozart]

Just in case noone's ever mentioned it:

The Passporter is great! I got the deluxe edition, and, being the planner I am, am thrilled to announce that they give more ways to plan. I can start all over again! Plus the book is much more informative than I thought it would be. Goes into a lot of detail which is always good for me. Read the whole book in 2 days.

Took me 4 days to get my Passporter. My passport is at 12+ weeks and I am still waiting...

[Thumper's Mom 06]

How can a person not spend all of their spare time (and a little they can’t spare) planning this stuff? It just amazes me. I mean, IT’S A VACATION! We have a tight ship to run here! Do they think relaxing just happens? IT MUST BE PLANNED!

I read this to DH & he thought it was something that I wrote! I'm the planner in the family & have become completely obsessed with planning our cruise for this summer. It's definitely taken on a whole new level because I get to read about what other people are planning. I'm addicted. Keep on writing. I think I may enjoy reading about everyone's planning phase of the trip as much as the actual trip.

[Mozart]

Did anyone listen to the old Eddie Murphy concert tapes back in the early 80’s? Do you remember the ice cream song? “I GOT SOME ICE CREAM…I GOT SOME ICE CREAM…”

Sing my version with me…

I GOT MY PASSPORT…I GOT MY PASSPORT…

I can start making Palo/spa/excursions reservations in 18 days. I’m nervous. Gotta get all the good times. I’ve got it completely planned out with initial times, backup times, etc…I just hope Disney’s reservation is working on the 25th at 3 AM or else I will spend all night clicking refresh…work will be fun the next day if that happens.

Would you like to know the words that just about break my heart?

“Uncle Mozart…when are you going to take me on Mickey’s boat?”

This comes from the mouth of my 3 year old nephew. My wife is encouraging him. She loves to play the Castaway Club cd all the time when he’s over. Especially the horn. He knows all the songs on there immediately. “What’s this one, bud?” “Serenity Bay While the Kids are Away.” “What song comes after that?” “The shores of Castaway Cay.” He knows the whole thing. It’s disgusting. Every time he sees me, I know what the first words out of his mouth will be: “when are you going to take me on Mickey’s boat?” It breaks my heart.

But…I have no children. And he’s too young to realize that the week his aunt and uncle can’t keep him is the week they go back onto Mickey’s boat. With Grandma and Grandpa. He could’ve gone but Mom and Dad didn’t want to. It’s their fault, not mine.

Oh yeah…we’re now officially booked on the 5 night Double Dip in Sept 2008. We’re trying to talk the SIL and BIL into bringing my niece and nephew on that cruise with us. Maybe the nephew will get off my back about Mickey’s boat if we're succesful this tie.

Next time on The Sopranos…

Oops…wrong board. But I can’t wait for that one either. Or The Tudors finale. I’m addicted to both. Someone please tell me though why The Tudors isn't showing up on my Showtime On Demand this week like they promised it would. I'm dying over here.

[Mozart]

I feel like a runner at the starting line waiting to jump out of the blocks. It’s 7 days until we can start booking excursions, Palo’s etc…and I’m chomping at the bit. Over on our cruise meets thread, people are starting to talk about what excursions they’d like to do, etc….and I’m just waiting. How long until 3 AM Monday morning?

As for shopping, so far I have purchased specifically to be used on the cruise: 4 new pair of dress socks, 1 pack of athletic socks, a pack of sea bands, a pack of thank you cards for the wait staff, (See Life Stinks Volume 1 for the catastrophe that caused last time) a bottle of champagne, my wife’s already tucked away a large bottle of Amaretto DiSaronno, and 1 really expensive new dress shirt. All with the excuse that it’s stuff I need for the cruise. I use any excuse I can get.

I need some help, though. When we took my parent’s on the cruise for their 50th wedding anniverary, we split the cost of the cruise 50/50 with my brother. Now, since my wife’s parents are going, she wants to, at the very least, buy them a couples cabana massage. Tell me, should we buy them a massage, buy ourselves a massage, or splurge and figure out how to finance it later?

[tinker925]

I'm subscribing - I'm on the 9/23/07 with you too! Oh the anticipation :yay: :yay:

[Mozart]

I'm subscribing - I'm on the 9/22/07 with you too! Oh the anticipation :yay: :yay:

Well, we can't talk about this on the Meets Thread, or on Joel's (Ocealuvr's) thread, so here goes:

How can we ruin Joel's wedding? Not really ruin it, but just make it a memorable event which they're guaranteed never to forget? Everything I can think of would probably get me banned from DCL for life... :confused:

By the way, just making sure you remember... September 22nd is the day you're flying down to PC. We don't get on the ship until the 23rd. (Or when I go to sleep and dream in about 30 minutes.) Don't worry, I'm counting down to travel day as well. That's when it seems like the vacation begins...

[smh071]

My dw, son and daughter are going to try and book the Sept. 08 5 nighter while on the Sept. 23 cruise. Gotta have the discounts. We booked the 09/23 on our 05/06 cruise and got a pretty good deal...I think...yes...sure....or at least that is what I keep telling myself.

We got a shipboard credit anyway and when Disney buys the beer it always tastes better. :cool1:

What ship will the 5 night cruise be?pirate:

[Mozart]

My dw, son and daughter are going to try and book the Sept. 08 5 nighter while on the Sept. 23 cruise. Gotta have the discounts. We booked the 09/23 on our 05/06 cruise and got a pretty good deal...I think...yes...sure....or at least that is what I keep telling myself.

We got a shipboard credit anyway and when Disney buys the beer it always tastes better. :cool1:

What ship will the 5 night cruise be?pirate:

5 nighter is on the Magic. Here's a tip: book now, and when you get on board go up to the future cruise desk and find out if you'd be better off booking it then. If so, cancel the one you have booked, and use the deposit you've already paid to rebook the cheaper version.

I won't be able to do that, because we got the last Cat 7 for that cruise. Since that turns out to be the only way to get one, I guess we're better off.

[ashman]

My heart goes out to you when you were talking about your nephew. Its a shame his folks can't pick up on that and book with you guys. I sure understand why you're not going to do it for them! Keep up the work man, you got the passport, before you you know it you will be booking Palo, massages and excursions!

[Mozart]

My heart goes out to you when you were talking about your nephew. Its a shame his folks can't pick up on that and book with you guys. I sure understand why you're not going to do it for them! Keep up the work man, you got the passport, before you you know it you will be booking Palo, massages and excursions!

Actually, we tried to talk his parents into letting us take him and our niece. We have offered to take them to both WDW and on the cruise, and even pay for it. His parents though have decided that they really want to be there when he sees Mickey for the first time, and have turned down both his grandparents and us on the idea of going to one or the other. They would go on the cruise in September, but feel like with the new mortgage they want to get used to a different "discretionary income." Right now, they're looking at WDW next spring, with the possibility of joining us on the DD next September. Whenever they go, we're going with them. They just don't know it yet.

[Mozart]

It’s good to feel that things are starting to move a little more, although I know it’s going to come back to a grinding halt again very soon. It’s less than 48 hours until we can make spa/excursions/Palo’s reservations. After that I’ll have to pace myself, fill out the paperwork here and there, just to keep things interesting. In order to prepare for this, we had another cruise planning session with the in-laws. Once again it was over a 3 hour breakfast on a Saturday morning. (The quiche was really good. And, yes, real guys do eat quiche…cuz it’s good. Real guys eat any food that’s good, whether they’re hungry or not.)

I was very surprised with the in-laws progress. They had actually taken the time to go online and read about all the different excursions and spa treatments that were available. Our on-board plans are actually starting to get finalized with them. Looks like no excursions for either one of us, but spa treatments out the wazoo.

On Monday, we’ll know just how good my 3 AM internet clicking is. See you then.

[tinker925]

I'll be curious to see if you can get the Palo time you want. I should have my MIL make ressies for us 'cuz she's Cat 2, but I think I'll try my luck on July 10. Good luck tomorrow with you ressies!!

I DVR'd (is that a term now?) the cruise tips shows on travel channel on Wednesday, I LOVE watching the segments about Disney, I didn't delete them yet 'cuz I'll them for when I need a small fix!

Nancy

[smh071]

We only have 8 more hours to go until we are able to book those reservations. Can you make the Rasul Spa treatment online or do you have to do it onboard the ship?
Palo RULES!!! We will be making our Palo's Reservations for Tuesday night so that it doesn't interfere with Pirate Nightpirate:. On our last cruise we had the whole family in complete Pirate Garb. My DW and I even rented Pirate Costumes for the cruise. I felt like a complete IDIOT. I guess I didn't have enough rum:drinking1 . I think I was the only male over 14 who was dressed as a Pirate. This year we will be a children only Pirate Group.
Does anyone have any info on the Glass Bottom Boats either in Nassau or Castaway Cay? We are looking for some things to do with the whole family. My son is 3 yo and my Daughter will be 7. This is her birthday cruise:bday:
The ages of our children are kinda limiting. It seems that most excursions are for older children. We are looking for recommendations?
Will we be having a meet on board the Wonder?party: :drinking1

This cruise can't come soon enough and we will book our next cruise while onboard!!!!

[LindaBabe]

Subscribing - you're doing a great job, Mozart. But it sounds like you have a wonderful life - why does it stink?

PS If you really like that H2O stuff, I've got some you can have. PM your addy and I'll send it out to you. We tried it once and went back to the stuff we brought with us.

[Mozart]

Ummm....it let me in at midnight. By 12:15 I was done. :banana:

All did not go perfectly, though. Gotta figure out if I'm just doing something wrong, or if the websites screwed up. Palo ressies could be a problem. It won't let us book a table for 4, only 2. The remainder of our party cannot book for another 15 days....

[smh071]

GOT EM!!!!!

Palo's Monday
Rasul Wednesday

[Mozart]

I'll be curious to see if you can get the Palo time you want. I should have my MIL make ressies for us 'cuz she's Cat 2, but I think I'll try my luck on July 10. Good luck tomorrow with you ressies!!


I got the time, but not the party. See my next post. It's confusing, to say the least.

Does anyone have any info on the Glass Bottom Boats either in Nassau or Castaway Cay?

My parent's and brother went on the CC one last cruise. They said it wasn't that great. Passporter rating on both of those is down towards the bottom of the list, too.

But it sounds like you have a wonderful life - why does it stink?

It's actually from my first trip report. See this post, and it will make sense:

http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=17378743&postcount=24

GOT EM!!!!!
Rasul Wednesday

Based on what I've heard about that one, all I can say is:

You dirty, dirty man you...

[Mozart]

Okay, I’m officially frustrated. All the booking went well except for my Palo’s reservations. Palo’s will not let us book for all 4, only 2 people. DCL first told me that it was because all tables for 4 had already been booked for both the brunch and dinner. When I pressed that issue, it was changed to “Well, you can’t book them yet because they’re not CC members.” Finally, I called the CC line, and it changed to “It’s because the other two in your party haven’t paid.” I don’t know what’s going on, but it’s frustrating. I guess I’m going to try and talk the FIL into going ahead and paying, and we’ll see if that corrects the problem.

For the record, the following is what we were going for, and what we got. Most of these are due to the fact that you just can’t get the item scheduled during the time we wanted.

Event Wanted Got
Manicure for DW 2:00 Mon 5:00 Mon
Manicure for me 2:00 Mon 9:00 Wed
Couples massage 3:00 Mon 3:15 Mon
Bike Rentals 2 hours All Day?
Palo’s Dinner for 4 6:30 Tuesday Dinner for 2 at 6:30 Tuesday
Brunch for 4 10:00 Wed Brunch for 2 at 10:00 Wed
Pedicure for DW 12:30 Wed 2:00 Wed

Next step is to get the in-laws to pay and see if that straightens out our Palo’s problem. If you’ll excuse me, I have a phone call to make…

[Mozart]

WHAT A PAIN!

So...FIL went and paid for his cruise. I go in to make Palo's ressies, right?

It lets me get to the point where I confirm my table for 4, and then it errors out every time saying that we cannot book for that size party. CC phone line says it has something to do with the fact that there are 2 people in our room, and we cannot make ressies for a party of 4 unless there are 4 people in the room. I still say something is screwed up.

At least now, we can make 2 reservations for 2 people each. Worst case scenario...we'll all be at Palos, just not at the same table. Better than nothing, I guess. I'll just wait until we get on board and see if they can straighten it out when we get to Wavebands on the first day.

By the way, changed our brunchtime to 11:30. Figured we'd be hungry by 3:00 if I didn't. Because there's not enough free food on the ship...

[zweihund]

WHAT A PAIN!

So...FIL went and paid for his cruise. I go in to make Palo's ressies, right?

It lets me get to the point where I confirm my table for 4, and then it errors out every time saying that we cannot book for that size party. CC phone line says it has something to do with the fact that there are 2 people in our room, and we cannot make ressies for a party of 4 unless there are 4 people in the room. I still say something is screwed up.

At least now, we can make 2 reservations for 2 people each. Worst case scenario...we'll all be at Palos, just not at the same table. Better than nothing, I guess. I'll just wait until we get on board and see if they can straighten it out when we get to Wavebands on the first day.

By the way, changed our brunchtime to 11:30. Figured we'd be hungry by 3:00 if I didn't. Because there's not enough free food on the ship...

Mozart, why did it take me this long to find your pre-TR???

Wonderful, so far! Sorry we'll be missing you in 2007 and 2008 by mere weeks. But this way, we won't have competing TR's right? ;)

As you well know, I am a compulsive pre-planner. I had everything all set last year for the cruise we took with our friends, and the same thing happened for our Palo ressies. We ended up each booking a table for 2, and then going to Wavebands as soon as we got on board where they changed it to a table for four in a matter of about 10 minutes.

So far for my budget cruise, I have bought:


a Passporter - LOVE it
a bag for port days, mostly bought for the parks
a new pair of sandals, exchanged from a gifted pair of crocs


So far for my budget cruise, I have resisted buying: new everything.

There's always next year, right? :upsidedow

Isn't the Passporter great, by the way? There are so many great tips in there. I think we're going to try out their "walking tour" of Nassau. I might even have to pop over to the straw market again for one of those genuine purses......

Keep it coming! :thumbsup2

[Mozart]

Wonderful, so far! Sorry we'll be missing you in 2007 and 2008 by mere weeks. But this way, we won't have competing TR's right? ;)

Isn't the Passporter great, by the way? There are so many great tips in there. I think we're going to try out their "walking tour" of Nassau. I might even have to pop over to the straw market again for one of those genuine purses......

Keep it coming! :thumbsup2

The last thing I need is another competing trip report. Joel's report (the one called Shhh!! It's a suprise wedding) is from our same cruise. And a surprise wedding is definitely more interesting than little ole me.

I love my passporter. I just have to get it back from my FIL, who borrowed it to look at the excursions. All we're doing in Nassau is Del Sol, the Straw Market, and probably the Pirate Museum. Most of the other stuff they had listed we saw either on our first trip walking, or they drove us by it on our way to Atlantis. Too bad I don't understand what most of it is because the bus driver's mike was horrible. And I never did figure out what was so great about a water tower. It's old, but is that it?

[Mozart]

Well, we’ve now passed the 75 day mark, and my in-laws were able to make their reservations. Everything went well for them, except that we still are not able to get dinner and brunch for 4, even with changing our times. Just 2 tables of 2 for both. Guess I’ll be racing to Wavebands as soon as I get onboard to straighten out that little dilemma. I swear I think we scheduled 50% of all the massage, pedicure, and manicure times they have.

I did decide it would be better to have brunch at 11:30 instead of 10, so we can treat it like it’s a lunch almost. For some reason, King Crab Legs and Pizza just sound like they would go better if it’s not considered brunchtime.

For now…it’s deadtime. Nothing else to plan, no reservations to make, and it’s a little too early to begin packing. Only thing I really have to do is check in online, but I’m going to try and spread that out a little while, so I have something to do when I’m really going stir crazy.

So now comes the question. Do I:
a) Start on the planning in depth for the 2008 5 nighter?
b) begin planning a potential trip to WDW for the food and wine festival we’re discussing? Looking at sometime in October. I just have to make sure I avoid Erica. She’d drink me under the table, I think. I won’t need my pride hurt again after Joel does that on the cruise.
c) Start working on our unscheduled, 2009 7 night eastern caribbean cruise? How much longer do I have to wait for prices to come out, anyway? And should we go in September or February? Decisions…decisions.
d) Take a break from planning and buy some Disney pins for my wife.
e) Buy her a new house

74 days…Hurry up

[smh071]

Well we have gone and done it....We booked the '08 5 nighter. Thanks for the advise. We will see if we can get a better price once onboard the Sept. 23 cruise.
We have made all of the reservations that we wanted so far for '07. I think I will try and get a Mani and Pedi for my wife. Sounds like a plan...We received a new DCL video today. We are going to have a family fun night and watch the video. We are all getting excited.
If i close my eyes, I can taste the boat drinks already.

[smh071]

Wife now has Mani and Pedi on Nassau day!!!
SHHHH everyone it is a surprise.

Withn the surprise trips, weddings and excursions happening on this cruise, I needed to do something so that we wouldn't be left out!!!

[zweihund]

Well, we’ve now passed the 75 day mark, and my in-laws were able to make their reservations. Everything went well for them, except that we still are not able to get dinner and brunch for 4, even with changing our times. Just 2 tables of 2 for both. Guess I’ll be racing to Wavebands as soon as I get onboard to straighten out that little dilemma. I swear I think we scheduled 50% of all the massage, pedicure, and manicure times they have.

I did decide it would be better to have brunch at 11:30 instead of 10, so we can treat it like it’s a lunch almost. For some reason, King Crab Legs and Pizza just sound like they would go better if it’s not considered brunchtime.

For now…it’s deadtime. Nothing else to plan, no reservations to make, and it’s a little too early to begin packing. Only thing I really have to do is check in online, but I’m going to try and spread that out a little while, so I have something to do when I’m really going stir crazy.

So now comes the question. Do I:
a) Start on the planning in depth for the 2008 5 nighter?
b) begin planning a potential trip to WDW for the food and wine festival we’re discussing? Looking at sometime in October. I just have to make sure I avoid Erica. She’d drink me under the table, I think. I won’t need my pride hurt again after Joel does that on the cruise.
c) Start working on our unscheduled, 2009 7 night eastern caribbean cruise? How much longer do I have to wait for prices to come out, anyway? And should we go in September or February? Decisions…decisions.
d) Take a break from planning and buy some Disney pins for my wife.
e) Buy her a new house

74 days…Hurry up

:lmao:

My reputation precedes me.

[PLANNER88]

Great pre-trip TR, can't wait to hear the post Tr.

[Mozart]

Well we have gone and done it....We booked the '08 5 nighter.

Make sure you read the meet thread for that one. The amount of stuff they're planning is amazing. PJ breakfasts, meets, stateroom tours, wine and cheese tasting in the Roy Disney suite, etc... I think the grass skirt fraternity is the best idea I see on there though. I WILL be taking part in that one. Wanna do that on Sept 23rd?

That thread is almost always on the first page of the meet board.

:lmao:

My reputation precedes me.

Just got finished reading your first TR the other night, and was going by that. I've been watching for giant mutant sharks swimming underneath the ice on Ice Road Truckers ever since I finished your report.

[Mozart]

Remember how I said in my first post that we would have to make changes to our hotel reservations a few hundred times between now and the cruise? Okay, I lied. Only one. We just switched from spending the night before in a bed and breakfast in Titusville to staying on property. Looks like we’re going to be at the Pop Century resort the night before. We figured we’d go ahead and get started with the Disney feel as soon as we got to Florida, so we decided to do that, and eat at our beloved Pei Wei in Orlando the night before. Mmmmm…I can taste the Kung Pao right now.

Meanwhile, I’m bound and determined to get a meeting of the grass skirt fraternity together for this cruise. I’ve already picked up a grass skirt and lei to wear. I might be the only one, but I’ve decided I’m going to wear one no matter what. If you see an idiot at the Sailaway Party on September 23rd wearing a grass skirt and looking like a dope, that’ll be me. Hopefully, I’ll have had just enough beverages to make me not care. I’ve got to try a grass skirt drink, though, and see how those taste first, or else I’ll stick with my normal cruise drink Bahama Mama.

[zweihund]

Remember how I said in my first post that we would have to make changes to our hotel reservations a few hundred times between now and the cruise? Okay, I lied. Only one. We just switched from spending the night before in a bed and breakfast in Titusville to staying on property. Looks like we’re going to be at the Pop Century resort the night before. We figured we’d go ahead and get started with the Disney feel as soon as we got to Florida, so we decided to do that, and eat at our beloved Pei Wei in Orlando the night before. Mmmmm…I can taste the Kung Pao right now.

Meanwhile, I’m bound and determined to get a meeting of the grass skirt fraternity together for this cruise. I’ve already picked up a grass skirt and lei to wear. I might be the only one, but I’ve decided I’m going to wear one no matter what. If you see an idiot at the Sailaway Party on September 23rd wearing a grass skirt and looking like a dope, that’ll be me. Hopefully, I’ll have had just enough beverages to make me not care. I’ve got to try a grass skirt drink, though, and see how those taste first, or else I’ll stick with my normal cruise drink Bahama Mama.

LOVE Pei Wei.
We would go way more often if we lived a little closer......but every time I'm up that way I want to stop in. Of course, then I look at the Starbucks next door and I'm like, "does garlic and ginger broccoli go better with a raspberry mocha or a vanilla frappaccino?"

I love the grass skirt idea. Pictures, please. popcorn::

[Mozart]

I love the grass skirt idea. Pictures, please. popcorn::

Comes from the Double Dip thread for Sept 2008. There's a group that does it on all the special cruises, apparently. Pictured in the post I'm linking to are Bob and Scott, who I believe are the founders of the DCL Grass Skirt Fraternity.

Just in case you don't know...a grass skirt is gin, grenadine, pineapple juice, and something else I can't remember right now.

http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=13064599&postcount=4445

[Mozart]

Like a snowball rolling downhill, time keeps ticking along. The number of days until the cruise continues to count down. Only problem is that the hill isn’t very steep and the snowball just got passed by a turtle. I keep doing a virtual cruise in my head. 6 weeks from this moment I’ll be getting a cabana massage. 2 months from right now I’ll be just boarding the ship and heading towards lunch. 5 hours from now I’ll be enjoying a cool beverage on my back deck. (I guess that part’s not really cruise related, now is it?)

So, I figured I would share with the board some of the little things I do to pass the time until my next cruise.

1) Buy Evian water and carry it around in a strap. At a NASCAR race.
2) Use H20 shampoo. Only problem is that I’m out, and even the metrosexual in me can’t justify spending $14 on that small of a bottle of shampoo.
3) Make Bahama Mama’s in our Disney cruise glasses. I’m talking lots of Bahama Mama’s. Co-workers think I have a new kind of cologne, but it’s just the rum. (Speaking of cologne. I just found the best one on the shelves right now. Believe it or not, it turned out to be Paris Hilton for Men. Ethical decisions abound.)
4) Listen to the Castaway Club CD. I’ve also started listening to DISradio some at work. I really like it when they play the soundtracks from rides that don’t exist anymore. Makes me all sentimental and crap.
5) Review navigator’s and see if there’s anything I want to do that I missed in the 1,000 previous times I looked at it.
6) Watch the DCL show on the Travel Channel
7) Watch ANY cruise ship show on the Travel Channel
8) Okay…I just flat out watch the Travel Channel. Samantha Brown is hot, in a goofy sort of way.
9) Make door magnets.
10) Sing Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah as loud as I can in the office and make everyone think I’m possessed.
11) Read my passporter again. I just bought one for WDW just because I was getting tired of reading the DCL one.
12) And when I absolutely run out of ways to waste time…I do some work. It’s not like Big Blue is paying me to write trip reports, now is it?

Maybe we should just leave that last question alone…(Sorry about being late with this report, boss. I’m just really slammed right now.)

If you have any more suggestions for how to pass the time, please post them. I’m tired of actually working.

[smh071]

FYI-I put this on the Sept. 23 thread-
Thursday, I got an e-mail from my TA that said there were Florida Resident Rates available on the Sept. 23 Cruise. I was able to upgrade to a Cat 5 (from a Cat 6) and get a $175.00 refund:cool1: There is limited availability.
Good Luck All
It is getting close.:yay:

[Mozart]

It’s time to get excited, finally, if I wasn’t already. The bags are out, clothes are coming back from the dry cleaners, and college football has started. That’s my queue for the fact that the cruise is coming soon. I think even the in-laws are starting to get excited.

We overpack. That’s a realization that I’ve come to. We have one suitcase that’s the size of a small elephant, and it’s going to be absolutely slammed. Then we have a nice hang up bag that’s full. My athletic bag is the maximum size allowed as a carry-on, and it’s going to be full. We’re probably going to need one more bag, and this is only for a 4 night cruise. I can’t figure out what to leave behind, though. One set of clothes for each day, one set for dinner each night (and we’re both only taking one pair of dress pants), a bathing suit and t-shirts for lounging around, and then our various sundries like snorkeling equipment, grass skirt, underwear, etc…and all these bags are packed. We wanted to be able to drive just one car to the port but I don’t think we can do that with 4 people and our bags considering all we are taking. The biggest car we’ll have is one of those mini-SUVs, and I never realized that those didn’t really have a lot of luggage space until after we got it. I hate to see what packing for the 5 day cruise next year will be like.

[Mozart]

Just wanted to say:

YES! We're sticking around an extra day to do EPCOT too!

Now back to your normally scheduled programming.

[Mozart]

With all the things I've stressed out about on this cruise, the possibility of us being affected by a tropical storm is the last thing to think about, but there's a potential storm brewing out there that has me concerned. The models seem to be starting to show a scenario that has it in the Bahamas area while we're on our cruise. This is my worst case scenario for my cruise starting to rear its ugly head.

If you know how to read the tropical models for storms, look at invest 91L. 7 days from now it puts the storm due east of CC, and on a westward bearing on a timeframe that puts it in our area right during our cruise. I don't need this.

Just something else to worry about...

[Tink rules]

Mozart....

PLEASE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Don't mention this to Joel....

PLEASE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The guy has much more to worry about than a tropical storm!!!!

They're going to have to pick the guy up off the deck if there's a storm... Crystal or not....

[smh071]

I saw the storm that you are talking about this morning. My favorite weather site is www.weatherunderground.com go to the tropical section and it has several different computer models. I am concerned.:scared1:
We will just have to wait it out until closer to departure.....I need a drink!!!

On a positive note we received our cruise documents today:cool1:

We are getting close

[ILUVEVERYTHINGDISNEY]

[QUOTE=Mozart;20603525]It’s time to get excited, finally, if I wasn’t already. The bags are out, clothes are coming back from the dry cleaners, and college football has started. That’s my queue for the fact that the cruise is coming soon. I think even the in-laws are starting to get excited.


AHHH ! College Football. Its here at last. The only thing I have to look forward to other than this trip report. It stinks right now cause I Do not have anything planned (vac.). No cruise, no parks. I am just plain sad!!!! I am living through all of you all trip reports. Its giving me hope that someday me and the mouse will meet again. :sad2:

Loving the pre-trip report. Keep them coming. You and ashman are in a class by yourselves. Can't wait til your trip report. Make sure we get pics along with the report. Can't beat Ashman in the tub, though!

[zweihund]

Mozart, with much luck and pixie dust it will take a sharp turn and leave you with nothing but stunning sunny days in the Bahamas. A few years ago, it happened to some friends of ours.....they diverted to Cozumel and got lots of free drinks.

Here's hopin'!

[Mozart]

Well, Ingrid doesn't exist anymore so that's one bullet that we've missed. But now, there's a system developing off the coast of Florida that they think could be a problem. It's supposed to move into the Gulf of Mexico sometime soon, so it may be well west of us. I'm still watching the tropics very closely, though.

Now I have to figure out how I'm going to handle the drive on Saturday. Clemson plays NC State at noon, and I have to figure out how to keep up with the game since I'll be on I-95 and I-4 while the game is going on. Is there a sports bar at Downtown Disney? I'm trying to think of someplace the game might be on so I can watch it once we get there.

Had our official Bon Voyage party on Sunday night. The menu featured grape and goat cheese pizza, Italian chicken, Sweet Potatoes with sour cream and onions, and Parmesan Asparagus. I love every one of those recipes. The highlight of the evening was when we announced to the in-laws that we were buying them a cabana massage. At first they thought we were just joking. They've paid for so many condos in Hilton Head in the past that we felt like we owed them one. It's not the same thing as when we bought my parents a complete cruise, but then again it's not their 50th wedding anniversary either.

We leave in 3 days, cruise in 5. I'm worthless at work right now. My boss might say that's no different than normal, though.

[ILUVEVERYTHINGDISNEY]

[QUOTE=Mozart;20867356]Well, Ingrid doesn't exist anymore so that's one bullet that we've missed. But now, there's a system developing off the coast of Florida that they think could be a problem. It's supposed to move into the Gulf of Mexico sometime soon, so it may be well west of us. I'm still watching the tropics very closely, though.

Now I have to figure out how I'm going to handle the drive on Saturday. Clemson plays NC State at noon, and I have to figure out how to keep up with the game since I'll be on I-95 and I-4 while the game is going on. Is there a sports bar at Downtown Disney? I'm trying to think of someplace the game might be on so I can watch it once we get there.

Had our official Bon Voyage party on Sunday night. The menu featured grape and goat cheese pizza, Italian chicken, Sweet Potatoes with sour cream and onions, and Parmesan Asparagus. I love every one of those recipes. The highlight of the evening was when we announced to the in-laws that we were buying them a cabana massage. At first they thought we were just joking. They've paid for so many condos in Hilton Head in the past that we felt like we owed them one. It's not the same thing as when we bought my parents a complete cruise, but then again it's not their 50th wedding anniversary either.

We leave in 3 days, cruise in 5. I'm worthless at work right now. My boss might say that's no different than normal, though.[/QUOTE

I know what you mean! When we went on our cruise, I couldnt get anything done at work before and after the cruise. I was excited before the cruise and depressed after the cruise (It was over). So I was useless for a week after the cruise.

Have fun on your cruise and I can't wait to hear all about it when you get back.

[smh071]

In my opinion the best place at WDW to watch Sports is the ESPN Zone on the Boardwalk. TVs everywhere and the Best Chili Dogs in Orlando. Plus lots of cold beer.
Off of WDW I would go to Gators, Hooters, Chili's, Orlando Ale House, or the Winghouse. Most of those are within a couple of miles of Downtown Disney.
I hope you enjoy the recomendations.
4 Dys until we are on the road!!!!!

[zweihund]

Wow, 5 days! Tell the Wonder we said hello, and we will see her very soon ;)

[Mozart]

Ah, my dear readers. I do appreciate the fact that some of you have been faithful and followed me through this time of planning. I shall now take my leave of you for a few days. I have a trip to make, and do not at this time plan on purchasing internet access on the ship, or at House of the Mouse. Don’t be surprised if that changes, though. I may not be able to resist.

As soon as I finish posting this, I shall have to get back to work so I can leave early. Today is a 2.5 hour drive from my home in the beautiful Upstate of South Carolina (an area which during the fall is better known as Clemson country) down south to my parent’s house to give us a head start. Tomorrow is an 8 hour drive to Disney World. It’ll take us a little longer than normal since we’ll be stopping on the way a few times because we can, but I am going to shorten it as much as possible. We normally make the drive to Orlando with dogs in tow, which means fast food so we don’t have to lock them in the car. Tomorrow, we don’t have to worry about that. I’m just worried that I won’t be able to sneak by the outlet malls this time.

I will be writing up my on-board reports each night from my beautiful secret verandah (unless I go all Zweihund on you and can’t distinguish the keys on the keyboard), so the reports will at least be written in real-time. First one should be posted probably next Saturday since we won’t get home before then, and I’ll even include a follow up report on our day at EPCOT after we get off the boat. Again, that may be sooner if I do give in and purchase internet access.

If you happen to read this between noon on Sunday and around 9 AM Thursday, I have a thought for you:

I’m on the boat. You’re not. :cool2:

[4 mickey]

hi
Have a niceeeeee trip and can't wait for the TR :cool1:
Enjoy your trip.

[zweihund]

Mozart, I drove past the Cape on Sunday at about noon - were you boarding? Hope your vacation is everything you were looking forward too. Can't wait for the TR! :thumbsup2

[ashman]

[QUOTE=Mozart;20603525]It’s time to get excited, finally, if I wasn’t already. The bags are out, clothes are coming back from the dry cleaners, and college football has started. That’s my queue for the fact that the cruise is coming soon. I think even the in-laws are starting to get excited.


AHHH ! College Football. Its here at last. The only thing I have to look forward to other than this trip report. It stinks right now cause I Do not have anything planned (vac.). No cruise, no parks. I am just plain sad!!!! I am living through all of you all trip reports. Its giving me hope that someday me and the mouse will meet again. :sad2:

Loving the pre-trip report. Keep them coming. You and ashman are in a class by yourselves. Can't wait til your trip report. Make sure we get pics along with the report. Can't beat Ashman in the tub, though!

I agree with you about college football. Its been a while since I have read here and wanted to see the rest of the report. Just don't let my wife hear about other people talking about me in a tub! :lmao:

[ashman]

Well his cruise should have gotten off to a good start. Clemson CRUSHED NC State

[Mozart]

Well his cruise should have gotten off to a good start. Clemson CRUSHED NC State

Watched the second half of the game in the Rainforest Cafe at Downtown Disney. Enjoyed it thoroughly. :cool2:

Trip report is in process of being written. A few teasers until it's fully ready:

1) A surprise at the port
2) A golf cart with flowers
3) The best server ever
4) A cast preview that we got to join in on

It's been an incredible week. I wrote alot of my trip report once, but I'm rewriting it because there were just so many great suprises.

[zweihund]

Watched the second half of the game in the Rainforest Cafe at Downtown Disney. Enjoyed it thoroughly. :cool2:

Trip report is in process of being written. A few teasers until it's fully ready:

1) A surprise at the port
2) A golf cart with flowers
3) The best server ever
4) A cast preview that we got to join in on

It's been an incredible week. I wrote alot of my trip report once, but I'm rewriting it because there were just so many great suprises.

Can't wait to read it! popcorn::

[Tink rules]

Hurry up Mozart!!!

You're almost as slow as Joel is!!! (and HE'S got a reason!!!) :love:

[Mozart]

Well, the first part of the drive down came and went on Friday. That morning it just got to the point where I couldn’t take it. After I made my last post, I was absolutely worthless at work. By 11:30 I had already made all of my vacation arrangements and my boss was gone for the day. Do you know what that means? SEE YA! I had originally planned on leaving about 12:30, but since I’ve made it to a position in my life where I can run out early from time to time, I decided Big Blue had enough of my services for the week, and I was on my way.

By the time I got home, my wife had made the same decision and was waiting for me. By 3:30, we were officially on vacation. We didn’t think too much about the timing. What it did however, was put us right in the heart of Columbia, SC during their rush hour. On a Friday.

For those of you who have never been to Columbia, there is an intersection there of note. It is where I-26 and I-20 come together. Have you ever heard the old saying that if you put 1,000 monkeys at 1,000 typewriters for 1,000 years one of them will write a Shakespearean play? Well, one of those other thousands of works they produced was this intersection. Locals know it as Malfunction Junction. On I-26, 4 lines merge into 2, while people coming off of I-20 are trying to get on from the right hand side. At the same time, everyone leaving I-26 to get onto I-20 are trying to get to the right to take their exit. It took us 45 minutes to go that mile. The guy on the radio in the helicopter described it as “the normal backup at Malfunction Junction.”

A 150 mile drive took us nearly 4 hours to make. Outside of that intersection, we did 80 the whole way. You do the math.

Now, it’s 9 PM. We’ve had dinner with my parents. I have to go to bed early tonight, because we’re getting up at 5 tomorrow to get ready for the drive. My parents don’t believe I’ll make it. They just remember the teenager who used to sleep until 12 each Saturday. I’ll show them…I hope.

[disneyfaninaz]

popcorn::

[Mozart]

It never fails to amaze me. There is a great difference between men and women when it comes to road trips. (This isn’t just me talking, I’ve heard it from many others through the years.) Men have a mission when driving long distances. The goal: keep to the schedule. If I say “Let’s leave at 6 AM, and we can be in Orlando in time to eat lunch,” that means NO STOPS! Go to the bathroom before you leave and don’t drink any water until we’ve passed Daytona. You get a 10 minute break in Jacksonville while I refill the car with gas. THAT’S IT! I certainly don’t want to hear “Oooohhh…can we stop at that outlet mall for a few minutes?”

As you can imagine based on my first paragraph, it was a long day on I-95. My original plan was to leave at 6, and we’d be at Downtown Disney around 1:30, if I drove slower than normal. We left about 6:15 and I drove really fast. We got to WDW at 3. The thing that got me was the stopping every 100 miles for the bathroom, to stretch the legs, to get something vitally important out of the back, and to go shopping. Also, I get really cranky when I get hungry. I was pretty hungry by 3. We finally made our way to the Rainforest Café. Now, I’ve heard on many an occasion that their food wasn’t very good. There were two reasons I wanted to eat there. 1) I had never been before and wanted to experience their atmosphere one time. 2) I was hoping to sit at the bar and watch the Clemson game, since I figured nowhere else at Downtown Disney would be carrying it. I ordered the Cobb Salad. It was the size of a small semi-truck. It was also very good, although it wasn’t really a true Cobb salad. Sort of a modified version of one. No avocados for example, but since I hate those anyway, I didn’t mind.

We, of course spent a little time at Downtown Disney afterwards. And after there were a few complementary gifts purchased, it was time for a trip up to Orlando for some Pei Wei. This is where I could be about to start a hot-button topic war here on the boards. Saving seats. My wife and brother went to sit-down while the other two of us ordered. This restaurant was packed. I didn’t think much of it, but noticed after they sat down that the managers were pointing at them and talking. After a minute or two, the manager walks over and asks them to not save a seat until they had ordered. This really bugged me. Why? Because half the restaurant was tables who had people saving seats. My wife and brother were noticed because they sat right next to where the managers were working. When it was pointed out that everyone was doing it, the manager stated that he didn’t see anyone else. EVERYONE IN LINE HAD A MEMBER OF THEIR PARTY SAVING SEATS! I don’t have a problem with the idea of making people order before they get a seat, but I do have a problem when they only apply it to the table they happen to notice. Other than that, though, Pei Wei was its usual high quality self.

The next morning would be a little different experience.

[ILUVEVERYTHINGDISNEY]

I'm glad Clemson won. Good Game!!! Although my team lost, Penn State!! Heck we are out of the top 25. Not ranked!!!

Well, anyway. Can't wait to read more!!!!!:surfweb:

[Tink rules]

Yes Moz...

There is a difference between us and you...

We not only know when it's time to pee...

But we ask for directions!!! :lmao:

[zweihund]

Sorry about your Pei Wei manager experience, but I'm glad teh rest of the meal was up to expectations. I can taste the ginger broccoli right now.....
Just imagine, you were right across the street from my favorite booze store the whole time! Perhaps you saw someone staggering out with an armful of O'Mara's Irish Cream? :rolleyes1

[CruisinEars]

I'm hooked! Can't wait to read more.

[Mozart]

Yes Moz...

There is a difference between us and you...

We not only know when it's time to pee...

But we ask for directions!!! :lmao:

Don't need to ask. That's what a GPS is for. :)

Just imagine, you were right across the street from my favorite booze store the whole time! Perhaps you saw someone staggering out with an armful of O'Mara's Irish Cream? :rolleyes1

If you're talking about the place I am, we went there and walked out with a case of wine for my brother's house. Put a fair dent into it that night as well. :rolleyes1

[Mozart]

I’ve never stayed at a value resort before. I’ve certainly never eaten at a value resort’s food court before. My wife would describe the food court at the Pop Century as a mariachi band on crack. That was truly one of the most chaos filled experiences of my life. Ducking, dodging, swerving to avoid people. And I’m talking about adults, don’t even get me started on the kids. I don’t know how many times I had to perform miraculous saves of my tray to keep my food from flying all over floor. Finding a table was another story altogether. Again, we’re back to the issue of people saving seats without having their food. I noticed more than one person doing it here. Finally, around 9:30 on a Sunday morning, it was time to leave Orlando and head for Port Canaveral.

Now, anyone who lives in Florida right now can tell you exactly what that means….LOVEBUGS! It was like listening to a machine gun going off on my windshield. POP, POP, POP, POP, POP! We were very fortunate in that it actually ended up pouring rain on us about halfway between Orlando and Port Canaveral. That washed all the lovebugs off the front of our car. I actually felt sorry for them. Here they are, having a really good time if you know what I mean, when suddenly a car comes along at 80 mph and blows right through them. Literally. What a way to go!

So, we’re at the terminal and it’s time to head inside. I guess this is where being a Dis’er begins coming in to play. I start recognizing people. The first one comes as soon as I go up the escalator and reach the main terminal. If you’re familiar with the poster 2angelsinheaven, I see the guy from her pictures standing at the top. I look at him for a second as if to say “really?” and then walk over to him. Before I even got a word out, he said “Are you a DIS’er?” I couldn’t resist laughing at that one.

First issue of the cruise comes up now, though. You would think the people checking in the Castaway Club would give better service, right? Well, one little problem. My in-laws, who were not CC members got some information that we didn’t. Turns out that a rumor on the main board that I thought was just that, a rumor, turned out to be true. This cruise is double-dipping CC! On the one hand, I was really happy because who couldn’t use another day there? On the other hand, I really had the day at sea all planned out, so this was going to throw me for a loop. The thing that bothered me is that had my in-laws not gotten the letter, we may not have known we were double-dipping CC until we got there Wednesday morning.

I feel the frantic side of me coming up. I need to tell someone just how great this is. I need to talk about this in greater detail. I need something. And then I see her. It was instant recognition. That woman looks just like Joel’s wife in the pictures he posted! And those look just like his kids! And that looks just like him! So, I amble over and say hello. Now, for a split second, I have to admit I thought about how I could reference the wedding without really saying it and watching him squirm. But, I just couldn’t do it. I played nice for the guy and let him go so he could take his kids pictures with Mickey Mouse. What I was really trying to do was merge my group in with his and basically cut into the front of that long line. He didn’t seem to get it, though.

Overall, I was just thinking that despite some little problems, I really like this cruise line and the people who work for it. Just wait, though. There’s one cast member that later just blows me away. But this is where Joel’s wedding would threaten to interfere with the happiness of OUR cruise.

[CRUIZEN MAMMA]

We're all really proud of you for showing restraint. I'm sure though you tried to plant some surprises of your own for Joel and Family;) Can't wait to read more.

[Mozart]

It’s that time! Now welcoming boarding group 1, group 2, group 3, group 4, and finally…GROUP 5! That’s us and we begin the walk, take the picture, and walk across the famed gangplank.

Now, I’ve never met the guy before, but his stuff is the tale of legend. A true cruise line hero, waiting at the top of the ramp to greet us. It’s the immortal PIKEY in full living color! Yes, for those of you wondering where he is, Pikey is on the Wonder as of Sep 23rd. Darren was the cruise director. I say that because I know someone will ask.

One of the things I had most been looking forward to was that initial lunch when you get on board. I just remember from last time that there was something so relaxing about sitting in Parrot Cay on the first day. This time the relaxation seemed directly in tune with the Bahama Mama’s that were sitting on the table within 5 minutes of us boarding. Granted, there was one Mimosa mixed in as well. It was just incredibly relaxing to sit there and say “Hey, it’s started. We’re really here.” It was also nice to revisit some of their breaded pork. For some reason I really liked that stuff. I am now refraining from making a pun about pigging out.

Now, about 12:30, I had tried to sneak over to Palo’s to straighten out our dining reservations. I was unsuccessful at that time. Basically, Simone (the current maitre’d) slapped me on the hand for being bad and sent me away. Just after 1, we head back over, turn the corner into Wavebands….and there she is. Her eyes meet mine and a huge smile crosses her face, she cries out in joy…and runs to hug my wife. Yes, Coralia, good to see you too.

Now, let me begin this diatribe by saying that Coralia is my girl. She was our server at Palo’s back in February, and we absolutely loved her. We’ve exchanged e-mails and first-born children. But here’s where we get into the problem. We knew we might have a problem getting Coralia as our server on Tuesday night, but not why. When we ran into her on Sunday, she told us the why. She had been requested by a large wedding party for that night at 7. Our dinner was scheduled for 6:30. “A large wedding party? About 15-20 people?” I ask her. “Yes,” she says “are you familiar with them?” “Are they getting married on Castaway Cay that day?” “Yes.”

I’M GOING TO BE DENIED MY CORALIA BECAUSE OF JOEL’S WEDDING PARTY!?!?!??!?!

If Joel’s family had been standing there right that moment I would have spilled the whole story.

But, I cooled off while waiting in a long line to get our brunch reservations straightened out. My wife tried to convince me that our cruise would still be okay even if Coralia could not wait on us at Palo’s. She said “It would be disappointing, but not totally ruined.”

I was not convinced.

[CRUIZEN MAMMA]

It's probably your fault that Joel requested your server. You must have raved on and on about her in your last trip report. Ok so now you know when their big dinner is- what have you got up your sleave for them????:goodvibes :wizard:


You would not have spilled the beans you would however may have taken Joel aside and blackmailed him a little. Your server for my silence-HMMMMMM.

[mruhaak]

popcorn::
This is getting good... love the drama!

[Mozart]

You would not have spilled the beans you would however may have taken Joel aside and blackmailed him a little.

You know, I never did get that bottle of Dom that he promised me.

popcorn::
This is getting good... love the drama!

You'll have to wait awhile to find out THE REST OF THE STORY. (Insert evil laugh here.)

[mruhaak]

You know, I never did get that bottle of Dom that he promised me.



You'll have to wait awhile to find out THE REST OF THE STORY. (Insert evil laugh here.)

I can't wait. Bring it on!!!:rotfl2:

[Tink rules]

At least you didn't scream it outloud!!!!!

Or did you???? ;)

[LovableGluttons]

This is getting SO good!

I should be working on my TR over in the nether regions of the DIS, but I've been over here reading yours instead.

I can't wait to hear about the double dip at CC. One of the cruises I have booked is a double dip too!

[zweihund]

Wow.....I thought having a surprise High Tea was cool - you win! I can't wait to hear more. popcorn::

[Mozart]

Based on the fact that DCL had made changes to the cruise itinerary, we decided that we needed to change the way some things were set up at the spa. The ladies had pedicures booked on the day that we were supposed to be at sea. Since that was now a Castaway Cay day, they wanted to either change the time on those or cancel them entirely. The issue is that since we booked online, we cannot cancel once we get to the boat. I tried to explain that the only reason we were cancelling was because the cruises itinerary had been changed. That didn’t matter, they said. Now, let me just point out that I realize that the spa is not run by DCL, but shouldn’t the two of them have gotten together on this and said “Since changing the itinerary could alter some people’s cruise plans, maybe we need to take into account our cancellations policies need to be relaxed a little.” In the end, the manager was able to do something and give us a different time that was acceptable to the women in our party, but we came very close to paying for nothing.

Before I state what we did next, I need to back up a few minutes and explain how we looked. There are 4 people in our party. One of the members of our party does not drink. The rest of us had been talking about how we would be relaxing with Bahama Mama’s all the first day. On our way to the spa, we sat down for a moment at a table. While everyone was sitting down, I said that I wanted to walk to the front of the ship to take a picture. On my way back, I grabbed 3 Bahama Mama’s. Turns out that while I was gone, my wife had excused herself for a moment, and ran to the bar to grab…you guessed it…3 Bahama Mamas. Problem is that she didn’t tell the MIL where she was going. While both of us were gone, the waiter walking around with Bahama Mama’s walks by my in-laws who are sitting down and offers them something to drink. They grab….(sing with me now)….3 BAHAMA MAMA’S!

So now here we are, it’s about 3 o’clock, and we’ve got 9 Bahama Mama’s in front of 4 people at a table. So where did we go? The spa. After straightening out our reservations issues from above, 4 people begin taking a spa tour with 9 Bahama Mama’s in their hands. If you haven’t been on a tour, they constantly talk about all the toxins people put into their bodies, with alcohol being the worst of these toxins. And here we are with 9 drinks in the hands of 4 people. So, in order to make us look like we’re not total losers, we all bought rainforest passes for the cruise. By the time the tour was over, it’s 4:00, bells are going off and people are running by us with life preservers on.

Maybe the ship was sinking, but we just knew that we still had a bunch of Bahama Mama’s in our hands. Can’t waste alcohol, man. We’ll die, but we’ll die happy. Just like those lovebugs.

[Tink rules]

Hey Erica...

Mozart went over your 1 days worth of extra bonus from your refund in what??? 1 hour??? :lmao:

[CRUIZEN MAMMA]

"So now here we are, it’s about 3 o’clock, and we’ve got 9 Bahama Mama’s in front of 4 people at a table. "


9 drinks 4 people- I don't see the problem:confused3 :rolleyes1 sounds like good math skills to me:lmao:

[ILUVEVERYTHINGDISNEY]

This is getting good!!!!:surfweb:

[Belle1997]

Just wanted to say I was on this cruise.And we too stayed at POP the day before. Can totally relate to the hetic food court at POP. Let's just say never again. Why were so many wanting to eat at 11:30 at night hehe.

You may have seen me I was on the blue Scooter with Belle Sticker's on it :) It is always nice to be able to relive parts of a cruise and have others write it for me :) Keep up the great report.

[disneediva]

popcorn::

[Mozart]

Hey Erica...

Mozart went over your 1 days worth of extra bonus from your refund in what??? 1 hour??? :lmao:

I have a gut feeling she won't last 3 days on the little tiny refund either.

9 drinks 4 people- I don't see the problem:confused3 :rolleyes1 sounds like good math skills to me:lmao:

Problem is in trying to walk through the spa carrying 3 drinks in your hands like I was doing.

Just wanted to say I was on this cruise.And we too stayed at POP the day before. Can totally relate to the hetic food court at POP. Let's just say never again. Why were so many wanting to eat at 11:30 at night hehe.

You may have seen me I was on the blue Scooter with Belle Sticker's on it :) It is always nice to be able to relive parts of a cruise and have others write it for me :) Keep up the great report.

I don't remember seeing you specifically, but I do remember that there were a number of people onboard with carts. :confused3

[Mozart]

You know those people. The ones that everyone looks at in annoyance at the muster drill. After everyone else has been standing around for 10 minutes, this one stupid half drunk couple shows up to check in, laughing the whole time because they’re so late. The ones that gets on everybody’s nerves until the muster drill is over.

That was us.

Don’t get me wrong, we weren’t that bad. But we did get the giggles a little over the fact that we were always talking about how irresponsible people were to do this kind of stuff, and here we are doing it. And it was half the fault of the people who were in the spa and didn’t seem to think we really needed to be there. But, it was also partially our fault for being…those people.

Moving right along.

The muster drill is over, the sailaway party has sailed and now we’re along to my next question of the cruise….someone explain the Mickey Hands at the restaurant. Either the restaurant there (I think it’s called Grillz) keeps them on hand and gives them out to patrons, or the same people show up 3 days a week to wave goodbye specifically to the Disney ships. If it’s the latter, I’d like their life please.

After the sailaway party, we made use of a Dis’ers special. We walked back to the super-secret (and at this time super-soaked) deck 7 verandah to watch the coastline disappear behind us. It’s a really cool thing to watch, but let’s talk about something else even cooler. I just mentioned it so I could post a picture.

http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t300/kdubose527/Shore.jpg

Have you ever watched a lightning storm from a cruise ship about 10-15 miles from the storm? Un-freakin-real. It was mesmerizing to watch. You can see the full outline of the cloud, and watch the bolt not only streak down to the ocean, but see the lightning bolt all in the cloud. It was a beautiful thing to watch which made us really appreciate the power and beauty of nature.

While all this is going on, my FIL and I are heavily involved in a race. There’s a Carnival ship off in the distance and we notice that we seem to get closer and closer to it. We feel like we’re in the Daytona 500 and we just have to pass it. After about an hour or two, we catch up to it, and pull ahead. THE CROWD GOES WILD! We’re so much better than them, ya know.

http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t300/kdubose527/Carnival.jpg

By this time, I was feeling pretty relaxed on the verandah. Dinner was coming up. What I didn’t know, was that my dinner would feature a wall.

[Tink rules]

Those people at Grillz....

That's Erica...

gotta be...

How else can she come up with so many recipes for new drinks...

[smh071]

I was at the pramanod lounge at 3:00 and I was wearing a lime green shirt and I only met one of my fellow DIS'ers. Where were ya'll?:confused3 I was hoping to meet some of the people that I have been speaking with.

[Mozart]

I was at the pramanod lounge at 3:00 and I was wearing a lime green shirt and I only met one of my fellow DIS'ers. Where were ya'll?:confused3 I was hoping to meet some of the people that I have been speaking with.

I stopped by there a few minutes after 3 but didn't see anyone. The only people in there at that time were 2 guys sitting up by the bar, but the way they were dressed I figured they worked there. I didn't see anyone wearing a lime green shirt.:confused3

[chepic]

I’ve never stayed at a value resort before. I’ve certainly never eaten at a value resort’s food court before. My wife would describe the food court at the Pop Century as a mariachi band on crack. That was truly one of the most chaos filled experiences of my life. Ducking, dodging, swerving to avoid people. And I’m talking about adults, don’t even get me started on the kids. I don’t know how many times I had to perform miraculous saves of my tray to keep my food from flying all over floor. Finding a table was another story altogether.

Loving your report, as I knew I would...I myself am a disney-travel-a-holic with issues....but, as I read this piece, all I could think of was Dodgeball with Ben Stiller....dodge, Duck, dive, dip, and Dodge...and we know your pain, we stayed at the All-star sports----bought DVC that day!!:rotfl2:

cheryl

[zweihund]

I have a gut feeling she won't last 3 days on the little tiny refund either.


My reputation precedes me.....:rolleyes1

Those people at Grillz....

That's Erica...

gotta be...

How else can she come up with so many recipes for new drinks...

:rotfl2:

[Mozart]

We headed on to our first dinner, tonight in Parrot Cay. First came our assistant server, Roque from Peru. Nice guy. He was a little more social than our last assistant, and joked around a lot. Our server was Noel from the Phillipines. I didn’t get to meet our head server that night for reasons I’ll go into in a minute. For the record, my dinner consisted of the Baked Crab Martinique, and the Mixed Grill.

I can’t really give a review of them. You see, I had been going for as long as I could remember. Asleep around 1 each night, and up well before 7. It had been going on for at least a week. By Sunday night, I finally began to relax and the second I did, it happened. Long distance runners call it The Wall. It’s when you hit a certain point that you just can’t go any further. It started to hit me during the appetizer. Every little movement of the ship seemed to be exaggerated in my mind. I had to walk out for a minute between the appetizer and the main course to get some fresh air. I ate just a few bites of the main course and had had enough. Back to the room I went, and hit the bed. I was out within a minute. Next thing I knew it was 8 o’clock the next morning and I could see Nassau off in the distance.

The rest of my party followed my instructions and headed down to see Match Your Mate. The review: Absolutely hilarious. I felt bad because I had heard so many good things about it and really looked forward to going to see it. They didn’t enjoy the 80’s party too much.

But as I said, I was out and Day number 1 of the cruise was done. The second day would feature shopping, some chatty girls in a quiet place, and maybe the cruelest move I’ve ever seen Disney do. They did it on purpose, and everyone loved it.

[smh071]

I stopped by there a few minutes after 3 but didn't see anyone. The only people in there at that time were 2 guys sitting up by the bar, but the way they were dressed I figured they worked there. I didn't see anyone wearing a lime green shirt.:confused3
I met "INDIMINI" (Bob and Deb) around 3:00 in the Lounge but at a table. I did see the two people at the bar and neither had green. I didn't see anyone else. It was nice to meet INDIMINI. They are really nice people as I am sure that you all are.

[Mozart]

Nassau Morning and I sure am feeling better. We would begin the morning with a breakfast at Parrot Cay and then it’s into Nassau for some shopping. It’s Nassau, which means we won’t be staying long. My wife always like to pick up stuff for the niece and nephew from Del Sol, and this time she decided to pick up some of those plastic rings to give away at Halloween. I, somehow, had missed the Hard Rock Café on our first trip. I have a collection of Hurricane glasses from Hard Rock Cafes I’ve visited all over the world, so I did get to add Nassau to my collection.

http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t300/kdubose527/NassauStreet.jpg

Finally we walked into a department store in which I discovered that Paris Hilton had 3 kinds of men’s colognes instead of just 1. Now, on the one hand, it’s Paris Hilton. On the other hand, it smells really good. I refrained this time, because I had one of her bottles on the boat already. Other than that, it was just to pick up a rum cake for me (my wife actually ate all but 2 bites after we got home.) and a purse for my niece. (We don’t spoil them or anything.)

So, we head back to the ship, this time without any issues from the Carnival people who forgot their ID’s, and headed on to lunch at Triton’s. The Shrimp Cocktail was very popular at our table, and I topped it off with the oven roasted chicken. I think that’s the first time I’ve ever had warm potato salad. I’m not sure I liked it. Being warm just didn’t seem right. But make sure you get the salad station, the dressing they use is wonderful.

Since we purchased a pass to the rainforest room, I decided that I would actually go and use it. The aromatic steam room was my favorite, but I did spend a little bit of time in the main room. I have a beef here. Please, please, please, if you spend some time in this room, be aware that it’s supposed to be a quiet zone. I kept going back into the steam room because there were 2 girls in there that never shut up. And they didn’t talk quietly, either. I can tell you all about their sister’s boyfriends and how scummy they are. One of them was talking about what it would be like to date their brother……’nuf ced.

Once my rainforest room experience was ruined, it was time for one of the highlights of our cruise. A couples massage. Last time we did the cabana massage, but we decided that our time on the island was too precious, so this time we scheduled one for onboard the ship. It would test me in many ways to survive this massage. An unfounded fear would crop up, but my wife would be the one it would really affect.

[Tink rules]

Mozart... Darling...

Please post a picture of you and your family....

We would hate to have to ask Joel to describe you...;)

[CRUIZEN MAMMA]

I have a collection of Hard rock glasses too. Where is the Hard Rock In Nassua- I'd love to add to my collection:cool1:

[Mozart]

Mozart... Darling...

Please post a picture of you and your family....

We would hate to have to ask Joel to describe you...;)

Patience Tinkerbell. There is one coming, but we actually have never taken many pictures of ourselves on vacation. The first one we have on the ship is from Tuesday night. But Joel said that they snapped a picture of me about the same time I got that picture of them on the golf cart, so he may beat me to the punch.

I have a collection of Hard rock glasses too. Where is the Hard Rock In Nassua- I'd love to add to my collection:cool1:


It's on Charlotte St between the wharf and Bay St. It's easy to miss though. The sign isn't exactly large.

[Tink rules]

I have patience....

I just want to see what my partner in crime looks like!!! :lmao:

(or at least Joel's TR...)

[buf68]

just subscribing, it's nice to hear about the cruise from 2 different standpoints (yours and joel's). I can't wait to hit our first cruise in about a month :) yay!

[CRUIZEN MAMMA]

I have patience....

I just want to see what my partner in crime looks like!!! :lmao:

(or at least Joel's TR...)

Tink, I think we all want to put a face with the name when it comes to Motzart-:eek:

[Tink rules]

Ya know.... I just told Joel he has nice legs...

I just wonder if Mozart will live up to my expectations......:rolleyes:

[Mozart]

A picture of me for Tink. :)

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/47/Croce-Mozart-Detail.jpg

[Tink rules]

So... Mozart...

How's your harpsichord? :lmao:

[CRUIZEN MAMMA]

I just knew you'd do something like that:lmao: -Come on post a more resent picture -not one of you in the early years:rotfl:

[mruhaak]

A picture of me for Tink. :)

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/47/Croce-Mozart-Detail.jpg

Sorry to break this to you... but you're cracking...

[Tink rules]

May i suggest moisturizer and a facial on your next cruise???

[pierresgirl]

Hey Mozart- good start and love how you are cruising with your installments (pun intended) I am on Joel's report too since I was supposed to be on this cruise as well. Free dining won me out but I'll get on that boat one day! :sail:

[tinker925]

Mozart you're report is great! I'm trying to re-live the cruise along with it. We were on the ship too, but my dad passed away (not totally unexpected) the Friday morning after we got off the ship so it seems like it was a million years ago. We did have a wonderful time on board however! We actually cancelled our Palo Dinner and Brunch ressies because there just wasn't enough time to do everything . . . so I hope some lucky couples got to go. Looking forward to more of your story!

[Mozart]

Ever since I started getting massages, I have had a strange fear. For some reason, the concept of having a male masseuse just freaks me out. It’s stupid. It’s probably a little homophobic. But it’s real. I don’t want one. So, imagine my fear when our 2 masseuse’s meet us at the spa, one’s male, and he introduces himself to me, while the female goes to my wife. I have too much pride, though. I’m not going to ask to switch. In we go to the room, and the guy is talking to me while the girl is talking to my wife. When they leave the room, my wife laughs at me and tells me I’ll just have to get over it. Oh yeah, and she says “Better you than me, I’d prefer a female too.”

When they come back in the room, they switch. I get the girl, and the guy heads over to my wife. YES! WE HAVE A WINNER! Only problem with the massage is that once again my pride interferes. When they asked me how hard I wanted the massage to be, my answer had been “If you can dish it, I can take it.” Let me tell you something…they can dish it. I mean really dish it. I know she was testing me to see what it would take to get me to cry uncle. I never did, though. My pride wouldn’t let me. I am a man’s man. No way I was going to let a girl get the best of me. :rolleyes1

After goofing off for a few hours, it was down to the punniest show of all, Hercules. I loved Hades. Pain and Panic deserve some of both though. Now, I got really annoyed during the show. Sitting directly behind me was a group of adults who spent the entire show complaining. They thought the show was stupid and didn’t get the jokes. They didn’t understand what everyone was laughing at. I didn’t understand why they stayed. If you’re going to be so rude as to constantly talk and complain, then just get out. (Us Southerners are too nice to say anything to your face, you know. But, man, will we talk about you behind your back.)

Getting off my soapbox, it’s time for dinner. And last night our adventurer couldn’t survive due to total exhaustion. This night, his goal was to go from zero to hero, and survive dinner.

[CRUIZEN MAMMA]

I don't think you're alone when it comes to massages. My husband and I are taking our 1st cruise in Nov. I've booked a cabanna massage for the two of us. He has never had a massage and I had one once- He adimantly refuses to have one if the person is male- he says it would be too weird. The one massage I had done was by a woman and I thought it would be weird being rubbed all over by a woman but I really enjoyed it.:cloud9: I guess it's kind of like Labor- when I was pregnant with my son I had to have a female doctor- long story short- he was 6 weeks early and her male partner had to deliver because she wasn't on call. :eek: It's true what they say- when a woman is in labor you don't care if the janitor delivers the baby as long as it gets out!!!:lmao:

[Tink rules]

Oh come on Mozart....

BE A MAN!!!

Let a man give you a massage... you'll live - unless you give him the "I can take it remark again!!! :rotfl2:

Side note... this summer my teenage nephew was having lunch with me and my mom while we were discussing our cruise... I said I wanted to spend some time at the spa and he just cringed and looked around... so I had to of course embarrass him - I LIVE for moments like that!!! I tell him Men go to the Spa all the time and it's getting very popular too... he disagrees so I look around and spot 5 guys from our local Air National Guard base... I ask them... (embarrassing them too... NEVER seen so many grown men turn pink!!! ) if any of them had ever had a massage... they hem and haw and study the menu over head until this big guy steps forward (apparently their commander) and says that his wife made him get one on vacation last year and he LOVED it!!!

I guess now it's ok for spa appts at the 109th!!!!

[Mozart]

We headed for dinner the second night, and this time it was at Triton’s. I actually made it through dinner this time. The food this evening consisted of the chilled vichyssoise soup, escargot, and lamb. I chose wrong. Another at my table chose the citrus glazed duckling. Now THAT was fantastic. Not that the lamb wasn’t good, but I highly recommend the duck if you go. Again, I know that I could’ve ordered a plate afterwards myself, but being the manly man that I am, my pride would not allow me to admit a mistake in front of other people.

Our head server turned out to be Tektas from Akron, OH. The Akron part I haven’t figured out. He’s originally from overseas, but now lives in Akron, and has lived there since the early 80’s. Akron? I’ve been to Akron. How, exactly, does one choose to live in Akron when you’re from outside the country and you work in the beautiful weather of the Caribbean. I don’t need an Akron defender to take me to task (although I’m sure somebody is thinking about it) but Akron? I’m stumped on that one.

Since we have the latest possible seating for dinner (8:30) after dinner we just kind of roam the ship. We watched a few minutes of Monday Night Football on the bigscreen on Deck 9, but since our teams weren’t playing, it didn’t really hold our interest. The Cadillac Lounge was kind of dead, so we decided to head to Wavebands and watch the 70’s party.

That place was packed. They had picked 3 girls and 3 guys and had them at the front. The girls had been told that they were going to be the judges while the guys lip-synched. Problem was that the guys had been told the opposite. So, they sent the girls to the back and brought them out one by one, and they were told that they were actually doing the lip-synch themselves. Erica – this one’s all you. The lip-synching was done to Gloria Gaynor. Now, the first girl that went up there embraced it. She grabbed the boa and went nuts. Did a little dirty dancing for the 3 guys who were judging. Then came one of the two lines of the cruise as I refer to them. After her dance, the emcee walks over to the guys, one of whom was sitting a little funny. The emcee asked him if he enjoyed her dirty dance? He said it was pretty good. At which point the emcee replied “Well, this is a Disney ship. Please remove your hand from your crotch.”

I think I’ll end day 2 right there.

[CapnJackGroupie]

Loved your first TR and lovin' this one as well!!!:thumbsup2 :thumbsup2

[zweihund]

We headed for dinner the second night, and this time it was at Triton’s. I actually made it through dinner this time. The food this evening consisted of the chilled vichyssoise soup, escargot, and lamb. I chose wrong. Another at my table chose the citrus glazed duckling. Now THAT was fantastic. Not that the lamb wasn’t good, but I highly recommend the duck if you go. Again, I know that I could’ve ordered a plate afterwards myself, but being the manly man that I am, my pride would not allow me to admit a mistake in front of other people.

Our head server turned out to be Tektas from Akron, OH. The Akron part I haven’t figured out. He’s originally from overseas, but now lives in Akron, and has lived there since the early 80’s. Akron? I’ve been to Akron. How, exactly, does one choose to live in Akron when you’re from outside the country and you work in the beautiful weather of the Caribbean. I don’t need an Akron defender to take me to task (although I’m sure somebody is thinking about it) but Akron? I’m stumped on that one.

Since we have the latest possible seating for dinner (8:30) after dinner we just kind of roam the ship. We watched a few minutes of Monday Night Football on the bigscreen on Deck 9, but since our teams weren’t playing, it didn’t really hold our interest. The Cadillac Lounge was kind of dead, so we decided to head to Wavebands and watch the 70’s party.

That place was packed. They had picked 3 girls and 3 guys and had them at the front. The girls had been told that they were going to be the judges while the guys lip-synched. Problem was that the guys had been told the opposite. So, they sent the girls to the back and brought them out one by one, and they were told that they were actually doing the lip-synch themselves. Erica – this one’s all you. The lip-synching was done to Gloria Gaynor. Now, the first girl that went up there embraced it. She grabbed the boa and went nuts. Did a little dirty dancing for the 3 guys who were judging. Then came one of the two lines of the cruise as I refer to them. After her dance, the emcee walks over to the guys, one of whom was sitting a little funny. The emcee asked him if he enjoyed her dirty dance? He said it was pretty good. At which point the emcee replied “Well, this is a Disney ship. Please remove your hand from your crotch.”

I think I’ll end day 2 right there.

:rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

[Mozart]

Day 3 of our cruise and I’m up and at it at 6:45. The sun is just starting to come up, and I experienced an awesome sensation. The sunrise was nice, but the feeling of sitting out on the verandah in nothing but my underwear as we chugged along towards Castaway Cay is something I’ll never forget. I’m sure I’m painting a beautiful picture for everyone to see right now.

http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t300/kdubose527/Sunrise3.jpg
http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t300/kdubose527/Sunrise.jpg
http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t300/kdubose527/Sunrise2.jpg

Skipping away from my boxers, we move on to Castaway Cay. I think everyone must have just been taking their time getting on the island, because we were a few minutes late heading over, and NOONE was on the island yet. We walked all the way to where the bike rental shop is, and hardly saw a soul. Rented our bikes and went out for a ride. Got to the observation tower, and the only person we could see anywhere from there was someone parasailing back on the other side of the boat. We discovered the identity of that secret beach we found last time, although this time it was roped off and said cast members only, and then turned around to head back.
http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t300/kdubose527/Parasailing.jpg

Some guy and gal had gotten married on Castaway Cay that day. Don’t know who they possibly could have been, but rumor has it he’s a DIS’er.

One point to make. If you rent bikes, they don’t care how long you have them. We brought ours back within about an hour, and learned that they don’t really check the bikes back in. Had we known that, we would’ve kept them all day.

So, it’s time to head for Serenity (and I’m not talking about the spaceship in the TV show Firefly). We start to walk to the tram…and walk…and walk…and walk…and realize that we walked right past the tram spot when we get to the landing strip. We’ve done this every single time we head to Serenity Bay. That little spot the tram is in is very easy to miss. We’ve now gone to Serenity Bay 4 times, and missed the tram every time. Next time, I’m gonna drink first so I don’t feel so stupid when we miss it.

Here’s where the man’s man shows up again. My wife had purchased a $1.99 float from Target before we left. When we got to Serenity Bay, she decided that we should just purchase a float for the day. “No” I say. We bought this float and we’re going to use it. It took me nearly an hour to blow that stupid little thing up. My face was red and I probably about passed out 3 times. But I blew it up all nice, shiny, and blue. And then discovered it was too tiny for an adult other than my 35 pound wife to float in. So what’d I do after all that….went and bought the $6 float. Maybe I’m not a man’s man after all.

Soon, we head back to the boat to get our snorkeling gear and I wonder why everyone’s headed back so early. It’s only 1:30 after all. Why’s everyone leaving Castaway Cay now? A few hours later, I would learn the wet way.

[wuv tigger]

I got 1 hour left in my morning to read your trip reports.

I need the next one ;)

I have truly enjoyed your tr so far!

wuv tigger

[Mozart]

After spending a day snorkeling and just relaxing in general at Serenity Bay, my FIL and I start watching the clouds. We’ve seen a thunderstorm off in the distance a few times, and we notice the clouds over our head are starting to get darker and darker. We’d better head back we decide. About that time a cast member comes along and tells us that the captain is calling everyone back to the ship due to a severe thunderstorm approaching. Now, if you’ve never been caught in a thunderstorm, let me inform you of a little detail…Serenity Bay is not the place to be when one hits. It’s suddenly pouring rain in sheets. There’s now more rain on the island than alcohol, which is saying something. The tram finally shows up. I think it literally took 5 minutes from the time we saw it turn onto the other end of the runway until it finally arrived. At one point I asked a cast member standing by us if the tram had broken down. He just laughed and said “____ must be driving.” I didn’t catch the name he said.

So, we board the tram, get back to the tram stop near the family beach, and a lifeguard there calls us under a shelter. There’s lightning in the area, and we need to wait there until it’s clear. While waiting, we meet Mike Super, the guy who performed the first night on the ship. He asked if we made his show, and I told him that we don’t really go to the shows. (I’m such a liar.) He replied “Well, you didn’t miss much.” Dude, it’s your show. Great advertising you’re doing.

So, after about a 45 minute wait, we get to head back to the ship, soaking wet. When we arrived the crew was so happy to get us onboard that they didn’t even check our ID’s. Maybe a stowaway jumped onboard at Castaway Cay. It could be done. I’ve got it all planned out. Take a boat from Grand Abaco Island which is only 8 miles away, and you’re on the island. Catch a good thunderstorm and they won’t check and VOILA! You get a day at Castaway Cay and at sea on DCL and they never even know it. Sleep out on deck 4. I LIKE IT!

Afterwards, it’s simply a change to our future cruise plans. We decided that since this cruise was doubledipping, we could skip the 5 nighter and just go ahead with our next one which was a 7 Night Eastern. Nov 2008. Come join us. We tend to have way too many Bahama Mama’s on our table.

But you all know what time it is…Palo’s. Without Coralia. She’s waiting on a 20 person wedding party, after all. We suck it up and head upstairs even though we know it just won’t be the same.

Or will it?

[chepic]

Day 3 of our cruise and I’m up and at it at 6:45. The sun is just starting to come up, and I experienced an awesome sensation. The sunrise was nice, but the feeling of sitting out on the verandah in nothing but my underwear as we chugged along towards Castaway Cay is something I’ll never forget. I’m sure I’m painting a beautiful picture for everyone to see right now.



Mozart....the picture that you are painting is certainly not the picture you posted...:lmao:

You are just getting me more and more psyched for our Jan. cruise....keep it coming.

cheryl

[Tink rules]

Mozart....the picture that you are painting is certainly not the picture you posted...:lmao:

You are just getting me more and more psyched for our Jan. cruise....keep it coming.

cheryl

Honey... just make sure there aren't any holes in your boxers and you'll be FINE!!! ;)

(now I need to get counseling for that picture that was "painted..."

[ashman]

It could be worse. I put up the shub picture, lets just be thankful he left it as a "word picture" give the guy a break.

Mozart you better hurry alone, the crowd's getting fiesty! Good read my man!

[Mozart]

Mozart....the picture that you are painting is certainly not the picture you posted...:lmao:

cheryl

Trust me. I posted the better of the two pictures.

Honey... just make sure there aren't any holes in your boxers and you'll be FINE!!! ;)

Well, they were a pair that I had just bought. :laughing:

Mozart you better hurry alone, the crowd's getting fiesty!

There are certain portions of this crowd that have been feisty for a very long time.:rolleyes1

[Tink rules]

There are certain portions of this crowd that have been feisty for a very long time.:rolleyes1


WHO????????????? ;)

[Mozart]

We walk into Palo’s. There’s a few servers and the maitre’d at the door. Coralia is one of them. The maitre’d asks us a question. “Coralia wants to be your server, but she has a large party coming in at 7. Would you be willing to tolerate the fact that service may be a little slower than normal?”

Our cruise is complete. I watched Coralia for the next 2 hours run at full pace in order to be able to wait on Joel’s group and ours. She had actually specifically requested that she be allowed to wait on us. We never made the request because we knew she was going to be that busy. As the maitre’d put it to us “Coralia told us you were a special party.” I still feel absolutely honored that she would do that. Their service is good, but that’s just going above and beyond the call of duty. Not only did she serve us and a large group, but she still provided excellent service. I highly recommend that any trip to Palo’s be completed with a request to have her as your server. Simply put, she is fantastic. And being willing to wait on us really made our cruise feel special. For the record, my dinner consisted of the grilled portabello mushroom appetizer, tenderloin, and chocolate souffle. As usual, all were excellent.

http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t300/kdubose527/Coralia.jpg

(You happy now, Tink?)

Now, in order for Coralia to be able to serve us as well as the wedding party, they sat us at the table right next to the private dining room. A few minutes into our meal, the wedding party begins to filter in. Joel and his wife are among the last to come in. I spent my entire meal trying to figure out how to make Joel laugh. He wouldn’t look at me, though. I think he was afraid.

During the course of the dinner, there was one phrase we heard Joel mutter that I would really like to be able to share with you. However, I consider it kind of a spoiler for his trip report and therefore will not. Suffice it to say that we weren’t eavesdropping, but there was a lull in our conversation where he uttered, quite loudly, what I consider to be one of the two best lines of the cruise. It made everyone at my table nearly choke on their food. Even Coralia, who was at her server stand, dropped her mouth in shock and looked to see if she’d heard correctly.

After dinner, it was on to the Pirates party, where we got to watch Pikey dance the night away. Sort of.

[LITTLEKID58]

TFS you TR is awesome

[CRUIZEN MAMMA]

Great picture of you and your beautiful wife. Guess who I'm requesting for Palo on my Nov 18 cruise. If I say Motzart sent me will she know who I mean?:goodvibes

[Tink rules]

Yes....

I'm happy...

Although your rennaisance picture and your 21st century one are SO different!!!

Make over perhaps???

Glad you had a good time at Palo's!!! Can't wait to try it myself!

[Mozart]

Pirates in the Caribbean. What a party! Well, I think you’re all kind of used to it by now. My thoughts generally at the party centered around one thing…Pikey.

Everyone loves Pikey. I really hadn’t had much of a chance to see him, but I thought one thing as I watched him…this guy is bored. He just didn’t look like he was having any fun whatsoever. Clayton seemed to be thoroughly enjoying himself, but Pikey was just going through the motions. It wasn’t just at the pirate party either. I saw him a couple of times through the cruise, and always got the impression that he was just kind of tolerating being there. Maybe there was something distracting him. Maybe he’s just burned out. I don’t know, but for all the great things I’ve heard about him, I just don’t understand everyone’s fascination with him after seeing him.

After the pirate party, we killed a little time waiting. On our first cruise we had gone to karaoke and had a wonderful time watching the people get up on stage. We walked in a few minutes after it started to see a guy doing what was actually a fabulous rendition of Barry Manilow’s “Copa.” Now, instead of taking his drink, he gave it to his partner, who was already absolutely rocked. This would start a trend. The next people that came up gave their shot to “Greenie” as my wife called him. (He was wearing a green t-shirt and had wrapped a green boa around his neck.) Next group – “Give him our drink, too.” At this time, the emcee ended up skipping the next 4 groups that did karaoke. When people reminded him that he had done so…all 4 groups gave their drinks to Greenie. 4 shots go down: BAM! BAM! BAM! BAM!

I would see him the next morning. He was still green, but this time it wasn’t his shirt.

[Mozart]

Great picture of you and your beautiful wife. Guess who I'm requesting for Palo on my Nov 18 cruise. If I say Motzart sent me will she know who I mean?:goodvibes

She won't recognize the name Mozart. Tell her Kevin and Holli said hello and she'll know.

Yes....

I'm happy...

Although your rennaisance picture and your 21st century one are SO different!!!

Make over perhaps???

That's the difference after a day tanning on Castaway Cay.

[CRSNDSNY]

just found your TR! Off to start reading!!!

[ashman]

Mozart your bride bears a striking resemblence to Bridgette Fonda, you did well my friend!

[smeecanada]

Great trip report so far, Mozart. Was CM Ian on your cruise? He was wonderful in Wavebands when we cruised AUG26. So much energy.

[Tink rules]

Mozart your bride bears a striking resemblence to Bridgette Fonda, you did well my friend!

This coming from the Ashman himself!!!

She won't recognize the name Mozart. Tell her Kevin and Holli said hello and she'll know.



That's the difference after a day tanning on Castaway Cay.

Kevin... Mozart.... Kevin.... Mozart.....

Actually I think you look more like Beethoven....


And a day on Castaway Cay... I bet your music turned from Classical to Jimmy Buffet REAL FAST!!! :thumbsup2

[ashman]

This coming from the Ashman himself!!!




I'm not sure how to take that!:confused3

[Tink rules]

I'm not sure how to take that!:confused3

Tis a compliment on both your tastes in wonderful women!!!! :goodvibes

[Mozart]

Mozart your bride bears a striking resemblence to Bridgette Fonda, you did well my friend!

Well...that's a new one. The closest we've ever come to a celebrity misidentification was when a woman asked me in a grocery store if I was Jeff Gordon one time. (Like Jeff Gordon would be shopping in Bi-Lo?) My brother, however, has been mistaken for Anthony Edwards on numerous occasions. He even got chased through a mall once back when AE played that doctor on TV.

Great trip report so far, Mozart. Was CM Ian on your cruise? He was wonderful in Wavebands when we cruised AUG26. So much energy.

I think Ian was the emcee with the great crotch line. For some reason I'm thinking that was the guy's name, but I'm not sure.

And a day on Castaway Cay... I bet your music turned from Classical to Jimmy Buffet REAL FAST!!! :thumbsup2

Again I ask the question if you've ever seen Amadeus? Mozart drank ALOT more than Jimmy Buffet ever did.

[Mozart]

Sunrises are beautiful. To have a second sunrise over Castaway Cay in just 2 days was more than a person could ask for. To have your in-laws knock on your door at 6:45 in the morning to join you is a rude wake up call. We spent about 45 minutes totally unkempt before everyone went back to their rooms and my wife and I crashed again. We were still worn out from yesterday, and besides, by the time we got over to Castaway Cay, we’d have to come right back.

It was brunch morning at Palo’s, and guess who met us at the door. Once again, Coralia requests to be able to wait on us. Now, my stated goal for this cruise was to put on 10 pounds and I figured with all the snorkeling I did at CC yesterday, I may have actually lost weight thus far. So I basically pigged out. The brunch itself was excellent. I just can’t say anymore about it. Only mistake I made was getting the Eggs Julia instead of the Eggs Benedict. I just wasn’t in the mood for salmon, but ordered it anyway for some strange reason.

We then headed for Serenity Bay, passed Greenie on the way…who was very green. I asked him how he was feeling this morning and the response I got was “Ugh…” The rest of the day was just snorkeling at Castaway Cay, and then heading back to the ship. This time thankfully with no thunderstorm.

Just a point of reference, this starfish was easily 2 feet across. We could see it from more than 30 feet away.

http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t300/kdubose527/Starfish.jpg

The women headed for a manicure while the guys just relaxed and did their own thing for awhile. One of the things I decided to do was head up to Shutters before we headed off to a final meal at Animator’s Palate. There, I ran into Mr. Secret Wedding one last time with his family. I think his wife was a little shocked when I handed all her pictures from Palo’s to her.

The last meal of the cruise with Roque and Noel comes and goes. It’s the usual Animator’s Palate show, this time with Wild Garlic Mushrooms, a Caesar salad, and the Bacon wrapped Filet Mignon. Why am I so into steak on this cruise? It’s not like me.

After dinner, it was raining outside, and the cruise line is shutting down most of the bars. So we just headed back to the cabin and sat out on the verandah watching the rain come down around us. Our cruise was coming to an end. But our trip still had time to go.

[Tink rules]

Hey Mozart...

Did you guys just stay docked at CC???

That should have been cool!!!

[Mozart]

Hey Mozart...

Did you guys just stay docked at CC???

That should have been cool!!!

No, they were having the pirate party that night, and the fireworks wouldn't let us shoot them off.

Plus, with the bugs supposedly as bad as they are, and there are some security reasons they won't stay docked somewhere all night, they wouldn't no matter what.

[chepic]

Cool picture of the starfish!!!! I hope you don't mind but I copied it into my ever-growing picture montage for my screen saver!!

I suppose if they stayed docked at CC, there would be the person that would try to sleep on a hamock....which would be kind-of cool.

Thanks for the TR, it is great to read.

Cheryl

[CRSNDSNY]

Wow...this is a beautiful picture!
http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t300/kdubose527/Starfish.jpg
You don't happen to have a higher resolution copy of it, do you? I'd love to have that as my desktop! :goodvibes

[miztigg]

enjoyingpopcorn::

[Mozart]

Cool picture of the starfish!!!! I hope you don't mind but I copied it into my ever-growing picture montage for my screen saver!!

I suppose if they stayed docked at CC, there would be the person that would try to sleep on a hamock....which would be kind-of cool.

Thanks for the TR, it is great to read.

Cheryl

Copy away. From what a lifeguard told us about the bugs, you don't want to stay there overnight anyway.

You don't happen to have a higher resolution copy of it, do you? I'd love to have that as my desktop! :goodvibes


That picture was taken with one of those $8 disposable underwater cameras. I'm surprised it came out as good as you guys seem to think it is. Actually, it is my laptop's background right now, and it looks okay.

[Tink rules]

So I guess with the bugs...



Gilligan and the Skipper didn't get a good night sleep...

Ginger and Maryann were ok because she found a native to swat the bugs...

The Howels had central A/C

And the Professor is STILL trying to invent a bug spray!!!

[ArmandXG]

Hey Mozart, great T.R. You should really tell us that great line uttered by Joel at Palo's, cause by the looks of his thread, he NEVER will!
I like how you describe meeting "friends" in the terminal. On our 2006 cruise, we all had green wristbands. Everyone was running around, hunting bands and introducing themselves. I thought it was great. That's one of the good things about being a Dis'r, you'll always have friends waiting for you on board.
I'm enjoying this T.R. so much, I'll have to go back and read your first one.

[Mozart]

Hey Mozart, great T.R. You should really tell us that great line uttered by Joel at Palo's, cause by the looks of his thread, he NEVER will!
I like how you describe meeting "friends" in the terminal. On our 2006 cruise, we all had green wristbands. Everyone was running around, hunting bands and introducing themselves. I thought it was great. That's one of the good things about being a Dis'r, you'll always have friends waiting for you on board.
I'm enjoying this T.R. so much, I'll have to go back and read your first one.

I'm still giving Joel a chance, even though he has gotten pretty lazy. If it goes on too long, I'll share it.

Honestly, if Joel hadn't posted a picture of his family awhile back, I would never have met anyone on the cruise. I probably would've figured out who they were at Palo's, but I wouldn't have had time to meet him then. I like the green wristband idea.

[Mozart]

It’s that morning. The one where everyone disembarks. After waking up as slowly as we think DCL will allow, the whole group heads up to the buffet on Deck 9. As we’re getting in line, all of a sudden a blonde woman comes literally, hopping into view yelling “TAKE MY SIDE! TAKE MY SIDE!” Yes, one last visit with Coralia takes place since the Palo’s team has to serve at the buffet on the final morning.

After getting the typical buffet fare, we head towards our luggage. The cruise is all over. One important note: Look at your luggage tags and remember them. My in-laws forgot what character was on their tags and spent awhile searching all over the floor looking for their bags. The line to get out this morning was pretty long, it probably took us 15-20 minutes to get out, and then the cruise was done. But my wife and I still had a full Disney day to go. We had decided after the cruise was over we would extend things by taking a daytrip back to Orlando. To put it simply…EPCOT…HERE WE COME! It’s the day before the Food and Wine Festival begins. We wanted to come on the first day of the Festival, but due to some other events going on, we have to travel back to South Carolina on Friday, so EPCOT could only be done on Thursday.

So we jump in the car, drive through another 5,000 lovebugs, and watch the golf ball get bigger and bigger. Thank God they took that wand down, by the way. When we get there, the first thing we notice was that the Food and Wine Festival signs were already up. Well, just a reminder of how close we’re going to come without success.

http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t300/kdubose527/Foodandwine.jpg

The next thing we notice is that off to the left at the entrance gate is a sign which says “Cast Member Preview.” Now my curiousity is piqued. What, exactly, will the cast members be previewing? Hmmm…all the signs are up…cast member preview…could we be so lucky as to get a preview of the Food and Wine Festival? No way our luck is that good.

Then again…I wouldn’t put anything past Coralia. Maybe she arranged a surprise for us.

[Mozart]

Once we got into the park, we do the same thing we do every time we get to EPCOT…we head to Soarin’. Now, this was the first time we’ve been to Soarin’ since they modified the queue area to have that interactive “game.” Once everyone figured out how to play, it was a lot of fun. I still have no idea how they do some of the things they do. Their technology is just amazing.

I love this ride. The scene where you go over the orange groves, and down the river both just make you feel fresh. But my favorite part is the golf ball. I love hearing everyone on the ride scream. Meanwhile, I’m sitting there yelling out “I’VE GOT IT. I’VE GOT IT!” Most of them think I’m an idiot. (Shocker.)

Now, I know. We’ve been pretty slack in the past. We’ve never been to the Finding Nemo ride or Turtle Talk with Crush. So, we head over there to do that for the first time. Turtle Talk is awesome. That’s about all I can really say. Just a fun thing to watch, dude. Can I throw in a Cowabunga just because I’m a child of the 80’s?

After a trip to Mission Space, we look at our watches. It’s 11:00, and you know what that means. The International Pavilion is now open. Since that’s what we really go to EPCOT for anyway, we head towards the back. We also did something we’ve never done before. We went clockwise. We always start in Canada and work our way around that side, but this time we decided to break tradition and start in Mexico.

While we’re making our tour of the world, we notice that the Food and Wine Festival booths are being prepared. Cash registers are going on their stands, cooking utensils are being setup. It’s just a reminder of how close we are with no luck. But the souvenir booths are not open and don’t appear to be in the process of opening anytime soon. Bummer.

So we do our shopping. Some earrings from Mexico, a child’s outfit from China for my niece (and I’ve got to admit that she looks adorable in it), lunch in Germany, and then we see it. The booth is open. People are buying food. What’s going on here? The next booth is open, and the next. So I walk up to one of the people at a booth and ask what’s going on. “We’re doing a soft opening today for cast members. Bur, really, everyone’s welcome.”

OH…MY…GOD!

We quickly finish the shopping portion of our trip, and begin a 2nd tour of the world, this time stopping at the food booths along the way. Put simply…we start chowing down, and drinking a lot of wine. The perfect conclusion to this Disney trip.

Our story is almost done…but next time, I’ll make you hungry.

[zweihund]

Once we got into the park, we do the same thing we do every time we get to EPCOT…we head to Soarin’. Now, this was the first time we’ve been to Soarin’ since they modified the queue area to have that interactive “game.” Once everyone figured out how to play, it was a lot of fun. I still have no idea how they do some of the things they do. Their technology is just amazing.

I love this ride. The scene where you go over the orange groves, and down the river both just make you feel fresh. But my favorite part is the golf ball. I love hearing everyone on the ride scream. Meanwhile, I’m sitting there yelling out “I’VE GOT IT. I’VE GOT IT!” Most of them think I’m an idiot. (Shocker.)

Now, I know. We’ve been pretty slack in the past. We’ve never been to the Finding Nemo ride or Turtle Talk with Crush. So, we head over there to do that for the first time. Turtle Talk is awesome. That’s about all I can really say. Just a fun thing to watch, dude. Can I throw in a Cowabunga just because I’m a child of the 80’s?

After a trip to Mission Space, we look at our watches. It’s 11:00, and you know what that means. The International Pavilion is now open. Since that’s what we really go to EPCOT for anyway, we head towards the back. We also did something we’ve never done before. We went clockwise. We always start in Canada and work our way around that side, but this time we decided to break tradition and start in Mexico.

While we’re making our tour of the world, we notice that the Food and Wine Festival booths are being prepared. Cash registers are going on their stands, cooking utensils are being setup. It’s just a reminder of how close we are with no luck. But the souvenir booths are not open and don’t appear to be in the process of opening anytime soon. Bummer.

So we do our shopping. Some earrings from Mexico, a child’s outfit from China for my niece (and I’ve got to admit that she looks adorable in it), lunch in Germany, and then we see it. The booth is open. People are buying food. What’s going on here? The next booth is open, and the next. So I walk up to one of the people at a booth and ask what’s going on. “We’re doing a soft opening today for cast members. Bur, really, everyone’s welcome.”

OH…MY…GOD!

We quickly finish the shopping portion of our trip, and begin a 2nd tour of the world, this time stopping at the food booths along the way. Put simply…we start chowing down, and drinking a lot of wine. The perfect conclusion to this Disney trip.

Our story is almost done…but next time, I’ll make you hungry.

Wow - that's really cool that you got to be one of the first at the Food and Wine fest! :thumbsup2

[Mozart]

Foods we purchased at the Food and Wine Festival, along with our recommendations for those of you going:

Chile – Camaron con Pebre (Shrimp with Cilantro Salsa) and Santa Rita Reserva Chardonnay – Not a bad start…
Argentina – Grilled Beef with Chimichurri and Bodega Norton Reserva Malbec – Wonderful!
Mexico – Quesadillas con Chorizo (Spicy Sausage and cheese ) – Just a note, if you spill your food, they will give you another one to replace it.
Spain – Papas con Chorizo – Potatoes with spicy sausage - Yeah, we’ve got a spicy sausage thing going on here.
Ireland – Boxy Potato Pancake with Bacon and garlic and Honey wine – probably my least favorite of everything we tried. Make sure you order a Guiness when here. The girls in the both go nuts whenever they fill one.
India – curried butternut squash soup with Sauvignon Blanc – Okay, I liked this one less than Ireland.
South Africa – Durban Spiced Chicken with Goat Door Charonnay – very good. Just the right amount of spices.
Turkey – Meze – Wonderful! Can’t miss! And I thought it sounded gross when we ordered it.
Germany – sausage and sauerkraut in a pretzel roll. Beck’s Oktoberfest beer. – Really good. The sausage is killer.
Poland – Kielbasa and Pierogies with a Zinfandel – yummmmm…kielbasa rocks!
USA – BBQ Pork Rib with Cole Slaw – not bad.

I just realized that basically everything we ate while we were there was pork. What are we saying here?

Japan – California Sushi Roll with dry Sake – not my favorite, but I’m not a big sushi person.
Australia – shrimp on the barbie with Shiraz – can anyone resist a shrimp on the barbie?
3 Sisters Café – Buffalo with Carmalized Onions – Fantastic! The onions melt in your mouth!
New Zealand – lamb slider. I didn’t know it had mustard on it until after I tasted it. I hate mustard.
Peru - Arroz con Pato – Duck with Rice – Great way to finish the night!

Unfortunately, because it was a soft opening, not all of the booths were open that night. And some of them closed early. But we were absolutely stuffed by the time we were done. It was a great night to say the least but, suddenly, EPCOT’s getting ready to close. For all intents and purposes, our vacation is done. All that’s left is time on Interstate 95.

And thus, it happens that 7 months of planning comes to a bitter end. On every trip I go on, I realize how much I love traveling with the Mouse. As weird as it may sound, living with the Mouse for a few days is almost inspirational. It refreshes the body, mind, and soul. Gives us a chance to really remember what life should be all about….spoiling yourself.

Just kidding, (sort of) but it really does give us a few days of wonderful relaxation. It’s something to look forward to during those times when life has us down. It’s the happiest place on earth, dropped onto a cruise ship. And I know that in 13 long months I’ll be back on board.

So for now, I shall not bore you with my customary final paragraph about how much better life is on the ship than it is at home. I shall not remind you that we now are forced to repay our credit card company for all the fun we just had. I shall not yet dare to begin writing a report for another cruise. You see, there are 13 months of normal life to live between now and my next magical moment on board Mickey’s cruise ship. 13 months of planning. 13 months of work. 13 months of living every day without princesses and pirates. 13 months of waking up to alarm clocks which remind me that it’s time to fight traffic on 385. 13 months of life.

Life stinks (again).

[Bethipooh4]

BRAVO!!!!!!

Wonderful as usual, your closing lines brought tears to my eyes....Thank you for sharing your trip with us!

[ashman]

well done!

[ArmandXG]

Bravo! (Applause) Well done Maestro! I love the closing paragraph!:thumbsup2
Our first cruise was in Oct. 2006. I helped send off one friend at the beginning of the year and I'm now helping another get ready for Nov. 11th. I am still on my Disney high. My DH doesn't understand how I can get so excited over someone else's trip (park or cruise).:confused3 In the mean time, I am planning our 2008 land/sea trip. It was origionally just the cruise, but the more we talk about it, the better it sounds to add the land portion as well. So 13 months ain't all that bad compared to 24! I just don't think people want to read about my whining for two years before I get back on the boat:rotfl2:

I did go back to read your first T.R., only to realize I had already read it before. Disney certainly does it better! We were in St. Thomas when we encountered people from another ship that managed to get off without their required paperwork. The customs guy at the gate asked the woman "Did you like my island? Did you enjoy your visit? Next time your stay may be a little longer than planned!":scared:

Again, great job on your T.R. ... Now over to see what (or if) Joel posted.

[zweihund]

Great finish! :goodvibes

[miztigg]

excellent!!! :woohoo:

[stenogoddess]

A home run trip report! I actually used part of it to answer the questions "why are you going to Disney again? You don't have any children. Why would you pay more for a Disney vacation?"

And thus, it happens that 7 months of planning comes to a bitter end. On every trip I go on, I realize how much I love traveling with the Mouse. As weird as it may sound, living with the Mouse for a few days is almost inspirational. It refreshes the body, mind, and soul. Gives us a chance to really remember what life should be all about….spoiling yourself

If Joel doesn't post his famous line in the next month, I hope you will! :rotfl:

[Mozart]

If Joel doesn't post his famous line in the next month, I hope you will! :rotfl:

At the rate he's going, we'll be done with our 7 day before he gets around to it.

BRAVO!!!!!!

Wonderful as usual, your closing lines brought tears to my eyes....Thank you for sharing your trip with us!

well done!

Great finish! :goodvibes

excellent!!! :woohoo:

Appreciate the kind remarks, although I've come to the realization in reading her report that Erica is a much better writer than I ever will be. Hers is actually interesting.

So 13 months ain't all that bad compared to 24! I just don't think people want to read about my whining for two years before I get back on the boat:rotfl2:


I cannot imagine not having something planned for 24 months. 13 months seems like an eternity. Especially when your wife asked you over the weekend if we could start planning that one now. SO...HARD...TO...RESIST.

[Momof1+2]

I am just starting you report having just finished part 1. I don't know if you check up on this anymore or not. We leave for our first cruise next week. I am in the upstate too so just wanted to say 'HI!".

Erin

[LindaBabe]

Are you REALLY going on the 9/1/08 double dip? YEAAAAAA! So are we :) Now I won't have to write a trip report !

Cr*p! You changed :( From Joy to dispair in one afternoon.

[Mozart]

I am just starting you report having just finished part 1. I don't know if you check up on this anymore or not. We leave for our first cruise next week. I am in the upstate too so just wanted to say 'HI!".

Erin

What part of the Upstate? I'm in Simpsonville.

Are you REALLY going on the 9/1/08 double dip? YEAAAAAA! So are we :) Now I won't have to write a trip report !

Cr*p! You changed :( From Joy to dispair in one afternoon.


Sorry. I want to go on both, but the budget just didn't seem to want to cooperate. I really would rather do ports that I haven't seen yet. That's what it came down to for us.

[Momof1+2]

Simpsonville!