August 30th 2009 - 4 night Wonder [Archive] - The DIS Discussion Forums

Young Pooh

03-20-2008, 03:37 AM

Hi,

This will be our first cruise. There will be me (Sue), DH (Bill) and DD (Evie) who will be 4 when we sail.

As you can see we are from across the water so will be combining the cruise with around 10/12 nights at Disney (DVC) before and after the cruise. We will also be celebrating my 40th whilst away - the cruise is my extra treat!

I hope we won't have the ship to ourselves so if anyone else is going let me know.

Young Pooh

03-28-2008, 08:25 AM

Anybody out there???

I'm feeling lonely!!

Carys

04-12-2008, 04:48 PM

Hi YP!

Looks like you'll be having some Commonwealth company - I have just booked onto this cruise and am very excited as it will be my first ever cruise, let alone Disney cruise. My dad and I are planning on spending eight nights at WDW after the cruise, haven't decided which resort yet. It will be a bit of an international mission as dad will be coming from NZ and I will be living in Taiwan (for my job) at that time. Congratulations on your 40th!

Young Pooh

04-13-2008, 10:42 AM

Hi Carys

It is nice to know that we won't be the only ones on the ship!!

I think we will be doing a week at BCV and then a few nights at AKL before the cruise and then a few nights after (probably AKL again).

This will be our first cruise also and I am excited already. Only another 16 months to go.

Carys

04-14-2008, 04:36 AM

We really enjoyed Port Orleans Resort when we stayed there last year for ten nights. Before that, I'd been to Pop Century twice. I'm kind of scared to try the Deluxe resorts because I'm worried I'll get hooked and won't be able to stay Mod or Value again. POR had a nice relaxing atmosphere, with a great piano entertainer in the bar, and plenty of deserted quiet pools. Wilderness Lodge had great grounds, I'm tempted to give it a try.

It's fairly head spinning to read all the tips and advice on this board about Disney cruises. We managed to get the Main dinner seating (8pm is really too late for us to have dinner) and booked a mid ship category six. The pictures of the beach at Castaway Cay look gorgeous, I love ocean swimming.

Young Pooh

04-14-2008, 06:03 AM

We had always stayed offsite due to cost but one year we were able to stay at CBR and were hooked. We bought into DVC so have been staying on site ever since - we can afford a trip every other year. We usually stay at BCV which is our home resort and have also tried BWV and SSR as well.

We saw the new units for AKL last year and they look fantastic so want to try them next year - also Evie will appreciate the animals.

I know what you mean about all the tips and information on the boards. I've also just got the Passporter Cruise guide so am working through that at the moment.

We are also on main dining (the late one would be too late for Evie) and have a Cat 7 - deck 7 aft. We managed to get one of the secret verandah rooms. :banana: :banana:

Carys

04-14-2008, 03:02 PM

What did you think of BWV and SSR? I have been thinking about buying into DVC in the next couple of years and these would be my fore runners, the first for vicinity to Epcot and atmosphere, and the second because I like the construction and vicinity to downtown disney. The photos of AKV are beautiful but we're not big fans of the resort's location.

That's really good luck on the secret veranda! I think it helps to book so far out - now if only resorts had "Secret Concierge Rooms"!

Young Pooh

04-15-2008, 03:17 AM

Hi

I did like SSR last year - it is very big but we had requested Congress Park so were handy for DTD. It was about a 10 minute walk to get there. The only downside was we were on the ground floor and found the room rather dark due to planting outside. If we stay there again we will ask for a higher floor.

We have only stayed at BWV for a few nights and found it to be fine. We do prefer BCV though. I like the theming of the hotel and also it being well placed for Epot, MGM and the Boardwalk.

I agree about the location of AKV but I think for a couple of nights it is fine. We will probably only do AK whilst we are there plus I do like Boma, which is a pain to get to from other resorts.

I think buying into DVC was one of the best decisions we made. It means that we can stay in accomodation we could never have afforded before and guarantees that we can do Disney every other year if we want. We have also used the points for DLRP a couple of times when I was pregnant and when Evie was a baby. It is not good value to use points for non-DVC accomodation but better than losing them. There are always arguments from people saying you should rent the points instead.

Sorry to be nosy, but what will you be doing in Taiwan? How long does it take to get to WDW from there and NZ?

Bye for now

Sue

Carys

04-16-2008, 06:17 AM

I'm attracted to the convenience of kitchen facilities in DVC rooms, which would be good for those days I'm not commandoing around the parks, as well as the cost savings and general space. It would also be handy to have worldwide flexibility to at least use the points (even if not such great value) if I can't get back to WDW for a couple of years.

The photos I've seen on BCV (I haven't looked around it in person) don't draw me as much as the other others, perhaps the atmosphere is something best experienced in person. I hear BCV has the best pool by a country mile.

(Actually, the idea of swimming while on a boat is a little hilarious to me, now that I think about it!)

Some of the tips on these boards I'm thinking about using are giving guest services pillow cases for the characters to sign, decorating the cabin door with magnets, and using an over door organiser. I found a pop up hamper to be very convenient last time I went to WDW so I suppose I'll bring another of those along. I haven't heard of the H2O products that are in the cabins - do you have those where you are? Are they any good?

Not nosy at all :) I'll PM you on Taiwan. With air travel and time in airports figur ein, we tend to book flights back to back where possible and generally take 1.5 days to make the haul off the top of my head - probably a bit longer as it's tricky to calculate quickly because of time zone changes. The most direct path is (internal flight n NZ) - Auckland, NZ - San Fran or LAX - MCO. I like to fly JetBlue so tend to stop over in JFK, NYC. How direct is your route?

Young Pooh

04-18-2008, 03:52 AM

:confused3 Hi Sandra,

Wow!! And here's me, just a stay at home Mum! Hopefully by the time we cruise I will be working or about to start as Evie will be starting school full time when we get back.

It is a bit of a trek for you isn't it. We can get direct flights from the UK to MCO which take around 8-9 hours. Even indirect (changing at NY or Chicago) would only take 12 hours ish. The only problem we have now is cost. Flight prices are getting more and more expensive due to fuel costs and the airlines don't seem to be having any offers. Of course, August is also peak travel time in the UK due to school holidays so they are never discounted much at this time of year anyway. Oh well, only another 16 or so years until Evie finishes school!!

I think we will also do the door decorations and, if we get anyone else joining us, see if people want to do a "fish extender gift swap"!! When I first saw this I thought what!! :confused3 but then I read more and it became clear:)
We will of course be giving Guest Services somthing for autographs - I quite like the idea of the borders that go in photos frames - I think these would look great around a nice photo from the cruise. I have also read that the Princesses will only autograph something if the other characters haven't. So is you want there autographs you need to send too items -1 for them and 1 for the other characters.

We don't have H2O products over here that I am aware of, but I have read on here that they are supposed to be very good.

Bye for now

Sue

Carys

04-20-2008, 05:30 AM

Hi Sue

Eh, it puts food on the table ;) There is nothing "just" about being a stay at home mum. We have a generous parental leave policy (up to 2 years, and then part-time if requested) because many women were choosing not missing their kids growing up over time behind a desk. Running a home is, in work jargon, a FTE (full time equivalent job)!

Yes air tickets have rocketed in price over the last 6 years or so, especially when you take into account the strong kiwi dollar which should be decreasing prices. The dollar has really helped the Disney price. In 2000, NZ$1 = US$0.39. This year's high so far is NZ$1 = US$0.82. Big difference!

What's a "fish extender gift swap"? :confused3 I guess I have some more threads to read! It's been a busy weekend with my parents visiting so haven't had much time on the DIS. One thing I'm wondering is whether I might get sea sick - I've never really been sea sick before (except for one occasion which did not result in any...reverse digestion :thumbsup2 ) but I've only ever been on smaller boats. Do you get sea sick / do you use anything to prevent it?

Sandra

Young Pooh

04-25-2008, 04:15 AM

Hi

Sorry it has taken a while to reply but I just don't seem to have had the time to sit down and do anything other than a quick read of the latest posts.

Fish Extenders - you get a metal clip (in the shape of a fish) outside your stateroom door so that DCL can put messages etc for you. People then hang a bag or hanging storage from this to "extend it" so that they can exchange gifts with others from their cruise meet. I think typical gifts are small Disney themed gifts (stickers, pins etc), sweets or gifts from their home town/state/country. There are quite a few threads about this, some have piccies of the extenders and the gifts received.

I'm not too worried about sea sickness for myself but you never know with kids so I will probably take something for Evie as a precaution. I have no idea what they do for kids but will check it our before we go. I have only ever had a problem once - we sailed from the UK to northern Spain across the Bay of Biscaye which is notorious for bad seas. It was fine going but coming back it took an extra 24 hrs (!) as the sea was so bad. I felt really bad but wasn't actually sick - I think it was made worse as we weren't allowed on deck due to the bad weather.

I think the Bahamas in September will be a lot better.

Speak to you soon.

Young Pooh

07-04-2008, 03:58 AM

Bumping. Anyone???? :confused3

Carys

07-09-2008, 10:22 AM

Looks like just us two still! Plenty of time to go yet though. I have arrived safe and sound in Taipei and now have internet at home so am back on the Dis :-)

shasess

07-14-2008, 03:46 PM

Hello Guys! This will be our first Disney Cruise!! It will be me, DH, and our two DDs. DH and I celebrated our honeymoon at Disney in May and we are returning next August for a family trip. We are a blended family with each of us bringing in one daughter. We can't wait to go!!! :dance3:

Young Pooh

07-15-2008, 05:16 AM

Hi Shasess, welcome to our cruise meet thread. For a while there Carys and I thought no-one else was going to be onboard. Now that would be great, a while cruise ship for just a handful of people :yay:

Congratulations on your recent wedding - the photo of you is beautiful. How old are your DD's? My DD Evie will be nearly 5 when we travel.

Hi Carys, glad to hear that you are safe and sound in Taipai. For a while there I thought you had disappeared and we might be on our own on the cruise.

Bye for now.

shasess

07-15-2008, 04:31 PM

Thank You!!!
Our DDs are 12 and 5. The 5 year old has never been to Disney World so we are soooo excited to take her. My DD (12) has been several times with just her and myself but this will be the first time that the four of us have been to Disney together. Before the cruise we are going to spend a week at the parks. DH and I have been on a RCCL cruise to the Caribbean but we do not know anything about Disney cruises. I'm trying to do as much research as I can! I just found out what a fish extender is. :rotfl:
Can you tell that I'm excited?!!!!

Carys

07-17-2008, 06:48 AM

Young Pooh - no way would I miss this cruise! In fact, I have booked myself on another one for this Christmas holiday so I'll be a castaway clubbie on this cruise, all going to plan.

Shasess - Great to have another family on board (although our family is dad + adult daughter, no young kids). We're planning on doing the parks after the cruise (although I wouldnt be surprised if we stayed a night or two before the cruise too to get in the Disney spirit, it all depends on flight choices). I must say that your signature photos are beautiful. It'll be a magical trip for your 5-year old :-)

Fish extenders are a really cute idea, I would definately be interested in a gift swap.

Young Pooh

07-17-2008, 07:39 AM

Hi guys,

A fish extender gift exchange would be great. Already we have 3 families from 3 different countries and continents - imagine the varied gifts we will be able to get!

All we need now are some more folks to join us.

silmarg

07-27-2008, 06:48 PM

Hi folks!

My name is Sil and I am from NY.

My DW and 2 DDs (will be 7 and 10 at sailing) are coming as is my sister in law, her husband and their DS (he will be 8).

We may have additional parties join us as well... I'll keep you all posted.

We will be in adjoining cat 6s.

It will be my sister in laws first DCL.

But it will be our 3rd (by then). We have been on the 4 day in late August in 2007 and in two weeks we are doing the 15 day eastbound repositioning cruise. As a result, you wont likely see me lurking this thread for the next month or so.

Anyway, I am sure this will be a fantastic cruise.... and for you first timers... it will be a trip of a lifetime... its that good!

silmarg

07-27-2008, 06:52 PM

And this repo cruise will be my first time doing fish extenders...

And there are 140 rooms participating (and nearly 400 individuals) :scared1:

Young Pooh

07-28-2008, 03:20 AM

Hi Sil, welcome to our cruise thread. It's nice that we are getting a few more people.

Hope you have a great time on the repo and let us know how it was when you get back.

debsters41

07-29-2008, 03:35 PM

Hello fellow cruisers! We just booked today:banana: We are me (37) DH (40) and our daughters (15 and 13 at time of cruise). We were booked for the last six months on the August 27 3 day.. but after reading the boards all this time I couldn't stand it and had to have a sea day:lmao: So, here we are! I downgraded to a category 10 to make up the difference, but will always hope for pixiedust: pixie dust and an upgrade! Still, if not, I seriously doubt we will be spending much time in our cabin.

Anyway, I have already almost completed my Fish Extender!!!! I am so happy to hear that other people will be interested!!!!!!!!!! :banana:

It is also our first time cruising, ever. I am planning on making magnets for the door, but as I can't seem to find magnetic paper here in Greece, I am planning on just simply laminating some printouts and glueing magnetic tape to the back once I get to the US. The funny thing is, I had already asked some DISigners to make me some pictures with the August 27 date! Do I dare ask those busy and generous people to turn around and make me new ones with the new dates???:confused: I doubt I will. I am trying to get DH to teach me photoshop, so I can make my own, but he doesn't seem to be that patient these days:laughing:

We are all excited about the prospect of getting involved in this forum! bye for now!

Carys

07-30-2008, 06:33 AM

Oh my gosh!! I turn my back for 5 minutes, and two more families sneak aboard ;) Great to have more people with us!

Hi folks! My name is Sil and I am from NY. My DW and 2 DDs (will be 7 and 10 at sailing) are coming as is my sister in law, her husband and their DS (he will be 8). We may have additional parties join us as well... I'll keep you all posted. We will be in adjoining cat 6s.

Sounds like you have a fun group amassing there. We're Cat 6 also, you never know, maybe we're neighbours too!

Hello fellow cruisers! We just booked today:banana: We are me (37) DH (40) and our daughters (15 and 13 at time of cruise). It is also our first time cruising, ever. I am planning on making magnets for the door, but as I can't seem to find magnetic paper here in Greece, I am planning on just simply laminating some printouts and glueing magnetic tape to the back once I get to the US.

Magnets for the door is a good idea, I wonder where I might some here. I've visited Greece twice on holiday, good place for both chilling and partying. Are you in Greece on holiday or living there at the moment?

Young Pooh

07-30-2008, 03:41 PM

Hi Debsters

:welcome: to the thread!

At first Carys and I thought we would be the only ones on the boat but all of sudden we have another 3+ families.

We nearly booked the 3 nighter on the 27th as that is my 40th birthday but when I saw how little extra it would be to do the 4 night that sealed it.

Bye for now

Sue

shasess

07-30-2008, 04:35 PM

Hello Debsters and Silmarg!!!!
Welcome to the post!! It looks like we're turning into an actuall group! What fun!!!!

debsters41

08-01-2008, 06:23 AM

Hey thanks for the warm welcome! We live permanently in Greece. August is vacation month here, which means that I will not be near the computer much until September. I hope there will be even more families by then! Thanks for starting the thread and keeping it going!

happyj

08-07-2008, 04:53 PM

Hi all:)
We have just booked :cool1: Myself DH and DD 20 This is our first cruise and it had to be disney we also belong to DVC the best thing we ever did .We also love BCV so are staying a week before and after although our home is SSR and we might not get rooms ( never had a problem before )

My DD is working on splash mountain at the moment on the collage program .It is just 10 weeks and she is having a ball .Today she got her graduation Mickey ears .We are going in 17 days:banana: BW to spend her last week with her and then fly home together .Desperate to see her .:banana:
About the cruise so excited we have gone for category 6 .It might be the only time we cruise so decided to go for a veranda .I have not heard of fish extender something to get to know also door magnets .
Well fellow cruisers cannot wait to meet .
Janet

Young Pooh

08-08-2008, 04:18 AM

Hi Janet :welcome: to the cruise thread.

It's nice to know that there will be others from the UK on the boat!

We will also be staying at BCV for 8 nights before the cruise - this is our home resort - can't wait until end of September when I can book it. :cool1:

I bet your DD is so excited about her job - is this a gap year job or just something she decided to do?

Bye for now.

happyj

08-08-2008, 08:10 AM

Hi Sue
My DD is at cardiff uni and this is a program for uni students in the summer recess .
Like I said we hope also to be at BCV first but will have to book SSR until the 7 month window.I will be happy when september comes so we can book including flights.
Janet

Young Pooh

08-08-2008, 08:18 AM

Hi Janet

Looks like we both have nothing better to do at the moment :surfweb:

We stayed at SSR last year for the second part of the holiday and liked it's location near to DTD but nothing beats the BCV IMHO.

We have already booked flights. We usually use VA/VH but flydrive prices on VH were really expensive and I didn't want to have to wait until Sept/Oct to book through VA. We've ended up getting a flight only with Thomas Cook Airlines (Premium Cabin) for a good price - much cheaper than VH in economy. We are also making the trek down to Gatwick, not that we mind as it a better airport than Manchester.

Bye for now.

happyj

08-09-2008, 04:57 PM

Hi sue :goodvibes
We have been looking into Thomas cook flights but cannot find Orlando or florida as destination :confused3
Can you help
Janey:worship:

Young Pooh

08-10-2008, 04:13 AM

Hi sue :goodvibes
We have been looking into Thomas cook flights but cannot find Orlando or florida as destination :confused3
Can you help
Janey:worship:

Hi Janet

Thomas Cook fly into Sanford airport rather than MCO. For the difference in price I don't mind the slightly longer drive.

I used this website http://www.thomascookairlines.co.uk/ and then tried over the phone - got exactly the same price either way. There have been a few people reviewing TCX both here and on the Dibb and they have given good reports about the premium cabin so we thought we would give it a go.

happyj

09-02-2008, 02:46 AM

Hi fellow cruisers
Have just returned with our DD home .Now have a whole year to plan next year .
Concerns at the moment is what happens if the weather is like it is at the moment ?
Also what have you all done about insurance ?
Janet

Young Pooh

09-02-2008, 07:17 AM

Hi Janet

Glad you had a nice time - how was BCV? I think we will spend our first 4 nights there before we do the cruise next year.

I think being in a cruise ship during hurricane season is probably one of the safer places to be - I understand that the Captains navigate around any storms - the only downside is that you could miss out on a particular port.

Not done anything about insurance as yet - will just be getting the usual policy I think.

debsters41

09-02-2008, 05:24 PM

I am also back home. I am so excited about planning that I have already begun my fish extender! (So, if anyone starts anything, count me in!):goodvibes I can't find anything like mickey fabric here, so I am using solid colours (DIS lime green and blue) with some patches ironed on.

I also fear the cruise portion of the holiday the least, although I would hate to miss port. We just got the insurance provided by Disney, because I would rather be safe than sorry. I don't know about the rest of my trip, though. Following a tip, I checked out squaremouth.com, but I was quoted 800 dollars. I think it a bit much, so I will still be looking. Unless of course, that is the norm?:confused3

Anyway, my biggest question is when and where to hire the car. I would like to know if those of you coming from outside the US get an all inclusive package or wait until you are at the counter in the USA? We won't be flying into MCO but Miami. Anyway, any thoughts you may have on the matter would be most appreciated.

Welcome back! May all the children in the families of those on this thread have a good school year!:wizard:

Young Pooh

09-03-2008, 03:40 AM

Hi Debsters,

Hope you had a great summer - I bet the weather in Greece was better than we have had over here in the UK!

I would definately recommend you arrange your hire car before you go - it does work out cheaper for us non-americans. If you check out the UK Trip Planning board on here you will see lots of threads about car hire etc and companies that people use - a favourite is USRentacar.co.uk. I don't know if you being in Greece will cause problems though.

Also check out thedibb.co.uk if you haven't already - it is very much like Dis but with a British twist so full of very good information.

I think we should definately do a Fish Extender exchange - already with only a handful of families we have people from all over the World so that should make for some interesting gifts. I'll wait until after Christmas (hopefully we willhave more people by then) and see if everyone is interested. I think I might get my extender from Ebay - there seems to be a very nice lady that makes them to your own specification - she has had quite a few recommendations on here.

Well, bye for now. I might not be around for the next week or so as we are going to DLRP next week :cool1: :cool1: :cool1:

debsters41

09-03-2008, 06:32 AM

Hi Sue!

Thanks so much for the information! I will certainly look into the sites you posted.

Have a marvelous time at DLRP!!! :dance3: :dance3: We went Easter 2007 (the girls and I) and that is what set in motion this whole America trip!

happyj

09-03-2008, 08:48 AM

Hi Sue
Have a great time at DLP and I have already ordered some disney fabric to make a Fish Extender sounds great fun
Janet

shelleyr25

09-09-2008, 04:47 PM

Just changed our Thanksgiving reservation to the Aug. 30, 2009 cruise. Long story as to why but doesnt really matter anyway.
Coming on board will by DH and I and ds (11) and dd(10).
This will be our second time on the Wonder and we are really looking forward to it.
Any ideas as far as a meet up for the first day???

happyj

09-09-2008, 06:39 PM

Hi Shelley:)
It is nice to have someone on our thread who will have lots of information .There are bound to be quetions as time goes on .
Where are you going to stay before and after ?
Janet

happyj

09-09-2008, 06:49 PM

Hi Shelley
I already have a question how formal are the evenings ?
I have seen pictures of guests in full length dresses and evening suits .:confused3

shelleyr25

09-09-2008, 09:35 PM

Not formal at all and the last time we went it was Thanksgiving. DH never wore anything but khaki pants and either a polo style shirt or a short sleeved button down. I wore mostly capri sets..no skirts or dresses at all. We didnt dine at Palo's, that would be the exception.
I am not sure as to what our plans are before. We would need to head home right after...still working on all of this.
Really excited to be going again and super happy with my room 7503...right near the "secret" deck!!:banana: :banana:

happyj

09-10-2008, 02:30 AM

What is the secre deck?

shelleyr25

09-10-2008, 05:16 AM

It is the "secret" deck- sorry, typo :)
It is a deck in the front of the boat accessable only from the 7th floor. It is very quiet because most people dont know about it.

debsters41

09-10-2008, 09:18 AM

:wave: Hello! It looks like we will be neighbors, as we are in 7509!:)

happyj

09-10-2008, 02:53 PM

It's a small world after all la la la :rolleyes1

shasess

09-10-2008, 04:13 PM

Hello Shelly! :wave2:
Welcome!

silmarg

09-10-2008, 10:32 PM

Howdy folks!

Back from the 15 day Eastbound Repositioning cruise... it was fantastic!

It was our 2nd DCL (our 1st was a 4 day on the Wonder).

While I am going thru vacation withdrawl as we speak... I think I need to look towards my 2009 cruise to get over it.

While we are getting pressure to move to a 7 day (to be with some friendly cruisers we met on the 15 day) I think we are standing pat and going on this 4 day.

The "private deck" is on Deck 7 aft (not forward). Deck 7 forward is actually where the crew's pool is.

We did a fish extender on the 15 day with 140 participants (140 is the number of rooms participating - not the number of guests!). Needless to say there was always new stuff in the FE... and the kids loved it. Hopefully we can get a good group of FE participants for this sailing! This is sort of what my FE gift looked like (I say sort of because the ones I gave out included a stamp from Panama... but I ran out of them!):
http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa262/silmarg/scan0001.jpg

I look forward to doing some planning for 2009 with all of you... I am thinking about staying at AKL for this trip. My older DD loves animals... and she would love it...

debsters41

09-11-2008, 08:28 AM

The Repo cruise must have been amazing! I am glad you set me straight about the deck on 7. I knew about the aft one but I spent some time yesterday looking for the secret front one :lmao: Your gift was really clever! Did you ever have any problems because of the hurricanes?

skiingwife

09-12-2008, 09:54 AM

Hi everyone. My family and I are so excited to be planning another Disney Cruise. My husband, youngest son, and I went in October 2007 for our 20th anniversary. We loved it so much that we have to go back, but this time we are taking our 2 oldest sons too. We are:

Steve
Melissa (me)
Spencer 16 (at the time)
Alex 14
Nicholas 11

We've got 2 connecting cat 7's.

I'm planning to book a room at Comfort Suites to go to Atlantis on our Nassau Day, but also toying with the idea of just staying on board to enjoy the many activities. We went on a catamaran sail and reef snorkel last year. It was fun.

Looking forward to meeting everyone!

happyj

09-14-2008, 03:48 AM

Welcome :thumbsup2

debsters41

09-14-2008, 06:03 AM

Hello! Welcome to the group!:yay: I was considering doing the whole Atlantis thing, but then I decided that since it is our first time in Nassau, we would just get off the boat and do the walking tour for an hour or so, then get back on the ship to enjoy ourselves there. We will have been two weeks in Orlando beforehand, and I expect we will have visited at least one waterpark while there.

It's nice to have some teenagers, my daughters are looking forward to Aloft and I am glad that they will be practicing their English!:thumbsup2

Young Pooh

09-14-2008, 10:17 AM

Hi Shelleyr25 and Skiingwife :welcome:

I go away for a week and we get two new families! We have been to DLRP for a few days so will try and post a few piccies this week as I guess that most of you won't have been there.

We are also on deck 7 (7120) but aft, near to the secret deck.

Hi Sil, welcome back. How was the repo? I can't imagine doing a fish extender for a 140 families. What sort of gifts did you get? I thought that if we do one for our cruise then we should try to give gifts that are representative of our home state/country as we are quite a global group already.

We will be in WDW for a few days before and then for a week after the cruise so if anyone is interested in meeting beforehand (or after) for a pre/post cruise drink then I would be up for that.

skiingwife

09-14-2008, 10:23 AM

Young Pooh: We were in 7120 last year. It's a great cabin. We loved the location and the room was very clean. I think we're in 6140 and 6142 in August.

silmarg

09-14-2008, 11:19 PM

The repo was fabulous... We had no port changes due to weather (not bad considering it was 15 days during hurricane season)! Fay was doing her stuff while we were in the Pacific, Gustav was into the Gulf when we were on our way to CC (from Aruba) and Hanna was about one or two days from the Bahamas by the time we got to CC.

They did alter our course to stay away from Gustav. When going from Aruba to CC we were supposed to go between Cuba and Hispanola, but instead we went between Hispanola and Puerto Rico.

By and large the Carribean side of the cruise was smooth as silk. The Pacific side was more choppy, but I think part of it was we had some passenger miss the all aboard time in Acapulco and they had to make up for lost time to make it to the Panama Canal for our time slot. Generally speaking we were going much faster on the Pacific part than the Carribean.

As for FE gifts, many many were Pirate related, there were many small door magents (at least 15) and pens. Some folks gave out stuff related to where they were from - 2 Canadians gave out Tim Horton's coffee, a New Zealander gave some interesting postcards, etc. Among the big hits were a small rubber chicken key chain and a real working POTC pocket watch.

As for Nassau, I have done the Comfort Suites to gain access to Atlantis' facilities (and they are fabulous facilities). If it were up to me, I would be doing it again, but we have another family coming with us and I an not sure what we will be doing on Nassau day this time around...

Carys

09-16-2008, 04:36 AM

Oh man I am just back from the world and suffering serious pixie dust withdrawl, I wish I were back! On the bright side I booked the bounceback deal with deluxe dining at Wilderness Lodge for 8 nights following the cruise. I might get there a few nights early too depending on how flights pan out, so if I'm around I'd be keen to meet up for a pre-cruise drink. I was set to go to a meet last week but slept right through it!! So hopefully my track record will improve.

Silmag - sounds like you had a great time! 15 nights would rock my socks. I'm crossing fingers we'll get a good fish extender group going too because I keep running across lots of things here in Taiwan that would be perfect.

Skiingwife- welcome aboard! Great to have another family on deck :)

(And thanks all for the Boos!!)

Young Pooh

09-16-2008, 05:47 AM

Hi Carys

Glad you had a great time at the World (hard not to though :rotfl2: ). I take it from the piccies you managed to do MNSSHP. How was it? We did it last year but it was torrential rain/thunderstorm all night and most of the activities were cancelled so we didn't really enjoy it that much. I'm hoping that there will be one on Sept 4th next year so we can try again after the cruise.

Great that you got to do the bounceback offer for next year. We will be there at the same time as you but at BCV - 4 nights before and 8 nights after the cruise. Just need to decide now wether to do normal DDP or the deluxe one. I think we will probably just do the normal one as we probably won't eat at that many signatures with having Evie with us. I think we will only do Narcoossees and Flying Fish.

happyj

09-16-2008, 04:26 PM

Hi all
I always have withdrawal .:surfweb:
I have received my fabric ready to make FE for next year .so have plenty of time .:banana:
Also we went to Pirate and Princess party this year:cool1: and had torrential rain all night :confused3 but we donned our macks and had fun but a few things were cancelled .:wizard:
Did not realise the MNSSHP :) will be on when we are there next year .Do you know what date it will start .
welcome new comers .:)

debsters41

09-17-2008, 06:58 AM

pixiedust: Here's hoping and wishing that there is a MNSSHP right after the cruise. :banana: We are planning on spending a couple days in Cocoa Beach after the cruise, but I wouldn't mind driving on over to Orlando again for it! My kids have never 'lived' Halloween, they only know what I tell them. They love the idea of it, although I can't get my fourteen year old excited about dressing up :confused3 .

Halloween: :cheer2:
Pre-cruise drink: :cool1:
fish extender exchange: :banana:

Carys

09-17-2008, 09:21 PM

Halloween: :cheer2:
Pre-cruise drink: :cool1:
fish extender exchange: :banana:

Debster you have a great way with words, my thoughts exactly!! :rotfl: Dressing up for MNSSHP seemed to be about half n half so your son wouldn't stick out either way. Last year I saw a group dressed as CSI/cops, and talked to one of them later while in line waiting to look at photopass photos - they apparently ran into a group dressed as prison inmates on the run!

Happyj, I'd quite like to try out one of those PnP parties sometime, I was lucky that both MNSSHPs had clear weather but rain doesn't bother me much. There was a huge downpour one day at Hollywood Studios but I put on my poncho and carried on. I wear crocs or Teva hiking shoes with special drainage panels around the parks so wet shoes aren't a problem, and I SO wanted to go jump in some of the puddles but I would have gotten too many strange looks from everyone crowded under nearby shelters (I was already getting strange looks for carrying on as normal). What sort of fabric did you select for your FEs?

Young Pooh, I am definately going to try Narcoosees next trip as I think the setting lakeside at the GF is lovely. In 2005 I watched Wishes from the GF dock instead of fighting with the Christmas crowds in the park and it was perfect. MNSSHP rocked my socks so much that I bought another ticket and did it again a few days later. I'm a sucker for great fireworks, the ride lines were non existant, short character lines, just brilliant evenings all around. Can't wait to go again next year!

Young Pooh

09-18-2008, 04:31 AM

Reading everyone's posts I think that we are going to have a great time - everyone seems to be on the same wavelength :cool1:

My suggestions would be to arrange to following "events" and then families can join in at whichever ones "tickle their fancy" (an English saying so may not be familiar to everyone!):

1) Pre-cruise drink a couple of days before the cruise.
2) "Welcome aboard" meet on the first afternoon of the cruise.
3) Fish Extender gift exchange.
4) MNSSHP meet on the Friday after the cruise (if they do one that day - fingers crossed).

I've also noticed from other threads that some people are naming their cruise meets - any suggestions for a name for ours?

Carys - Narcoossees is very good. We did it last year on the DDP and both DH and I had the surf and turf (filet and lobster) - well worth the 2 credits. Although it is a signature restaurant it is not stuffy and we didn't feel out of place taking an almost 3 year old. It was lovely to just wander outside and watch Wishes from the deck - they pipe in the music.

The rain at WDW doesn't usually bother us (we're used to it being British:rotfl2: ) but that night at MNSSHP was something else. You can tell how bad it was - as we left the park, they issued everyone with a voucher for a free day in MK to make up for most things being cancelled.

happyj

09-18-2008, 05:11 AM

Hi :thumbsup2
We went to eat at narcoossees in august this year .:banana: Wonderful food and service and will definatley go back ,try for the firework time .
We buy an annual pass and make it last for 2 years as we go for 3 weeks approx.Then we buy DDE .
The FE fabric is red with MM and yellow with goofy.Bought from EBay.

Young Pooh

09-18-2008, 04:00 PM

Wow!! I've just seen what the new theme for 2009 is - Celebration Vacations.

There will be lots of special things (including a free day park admission) for people who are celebrating their birthday whilst at Disney.

Guess who turns 40 the day after we arrive :cool1: :cool1: :cool1:

Will anyone else be celebrating?

happyj

09-21-2008, 03:23 AM

Lucky you.:dance3:
All we can celebrate will be being in WDW :woohoo:

debsters41

09-21-2008, 08:30 AM

:banana: on celebrating your 40th! How cool is that!:cheer2:

debsters41

09-28-2008, 03:59 PM

I have been researching what we will be doing the week before the cruise, and my DH :love2: has said that even though my mom has offered us her time share for the two weeks, we can go ahead and book Port Orleans for the one week before the cruise as long as there is free dining. :yay: I have always wanted to stay on property since I first thought about this whole trip last year :yay: :drinking1 . Anyway, that is not all....

I also signed up for touring plans, it seems to be the most economical of the online communities, and I absolutely adore my unofficial guide

And now to the point.... touring plans is under the impression that disney may do the same next year and start the mnsshp :hmghost: on the fourth of September! :banana: I hope so!!!

I still have to wait until November to purchase flights, and I am nervous about how much that is going to be.

Is it just me? or is the agony of the unknown also making you feel :jumping1: and :crazy: at the same time?

happyj

09-28-2008, 04:47 PM

I agree :goodvibes
I get so nervous about all the booking .:surfweb:
The flights and fly drive are booked also the week before cruise booked .:cool1: Now we are waiting to book week after cruise that will be thursday.:happytv:
Very excited about mmnssh :rotfl2: would be wonderful to have it to look forward to do after cruise.:rotfl2:

Young Pooh

09-29-2008, 05:03 AM

That's great Debsters. Staying on site is so much fun - especially if you get free dining :cool1: :cool1:

I really do hope they do the first MNSSHP on the 4th - that would be so cool.

I know what you mean about the unknown - I am so glad that we were able to book our flights a little while ago - at least that is out of the way.

I will be phoning Member Services this afternoon to book the 4 nights before the cruise at BCV using our DVC points. Our 11 month window was Friday but I forgot all about it until last night. I then just need to wait until later in the week and book the 7 nights after the cruise - also at BCV. If I can, I might change the first 4 nights to BWV or AKL if there is availability at the 7 month window.

Happyj, are you at BWV before the cruise?

happyj

09-29-2008, 03:57 PM

Hi Sue
Please call me Janet .;) Well we hope to be at BCV that is our favourite but for now have booked SSR (we like it there too )and on Thusday phone for AKV and SSR then at 7 month window will change for BCV .:happytv: We have never had any problem before so confident .We will have to have a meet .:hug:
Janet xxx

Young Pooh

09-29-2008, 04:13 PM

Well we hope to be at BCV that is our favourite but for now have booked SSR (we like it there too )and on Thusday phone for AKV and SSR then at 7 month window will change for BCV .:happytv: We have never had any problem before so confident .We will have to have a meet .:hug:

Hi Janet

Well I have just got off the phone to Member Services and booked the 4 nights before the cruise at in a 1 bed at BCV. I can phone again on Friday to book another 1 bed for the 7 nights after the cruise.

I will see what is available at the 7 month window and may change the first 4 nights to BWV if I can get a BW view. If not, then I am more than happy to keep BCV. I was thinking about AKV but I do like the location of BCV/BWV.

A meet would be great either before or after (or both :rotfl2: ) the cruise.

Sue

debsters41

10-04-2008, 03:53 PM

I've also noticed from other threads that some people are naming their cruise meets - any suggestions for a name for ours?
.

Well, I've been trying, and drawing up blanks....

But it would be cool to have a name. I was thinking "Wonder's Winsome Wenches" but I am sure our Husbands (and Sil) would love that! :lmao:

Seeking Salty Pirates (maybe sounds too much like longing for Johnny Depp or Orlando?)

Marauding the Wonder?

Hoisting our colours (I don't want to go into the innuendos :rolleyes: )

Come on.... I know we have got a creative group!:3dglasses

debsters41

10-13-2008, 03:54 AM

Young Pooh

10-13-2008, 04:21 AM

but I have put in a request for a room on the 8 night Dover to Barcelona...

I haven't even figured out how I am going to pay for all of next year's trip yet.

My husband may actually throw me overboard if I choose to tell him while we are on the Wonder! :lmao:

Good for you Debsters :cool1: :cool1:

A good tip for saving is to put all your loose change into a jar every night - it is amazing how quickly it builds up. It might go towards some onboard credit.

Did you book POR for next year with the free dining?

I have booked BCV for the 4 nights before and 7 nights after the cruise but am thinking of changing the first 4 nights to VWL if I can get it at the 7 month window. We have never stayed there but I think we may give it a go.

Sue

debsters41

10-13-2008, 05:47 AM

:wave: Hi Sue! I booked POFQ for the week before, but not being British, I can't get in on Free Dining until it is announced for the general public (last year, it was announced in April) If I don't get it, I will just stay another week at Cypress Pointe, where my mom has points. I wish we had something like Disney rewards visa here in Greece for DLRP!! I had been thinking of running up there in 2010, but of course, the cruise will knock that idea out of the water!

I have been doing the jar thing since last year. One day I even emptied it, put it 300 Euro in notes to make room to fill it up again... but I was robbed this summer :mad: They took a lot more than those 300, but that is what made me break down and cry even more than the jewellery!!! Anyway, 10 months to go!!

Young Pooh

10-13-2008, 07:00 AM

I have been doing the jar thing since last year. One day I even emptied it, put it 300 Euro in notes to make room to fill it up again... but I was robbed this summer :mad: They took a lot more than those 300, but that is what made me break down and cry even more than the jewellery!!! Anyway, 10 months to go!!

Oh no that is terrible:grouphug:

Well at least you still have the holiday and cruise to look forward to.

You know you could always fly to Paris, do DLRP and then get the ferry from Calais to Dover before doing the 2010 cruise. :rotfl:

Now I didn't say that if your DH asks. :rotfl2:

Sue

happyj

10-13-2008, 07:46 AM

Hi Sue and all:wave2:
A meet would be great before .pixiedust:
I have booked all our 11 month windows now and booked flights .Now waiting for 7 month window .:hourglass
I am also working on my husband to go to DLP at chris:ssst: tmas .
Janet

debsters41

10-13-2008, 03:52 PM

Funny enough you said that about flying to Paris.....

Because I was checking out flights for 2009 to get some ballpark idea for 2010 and sure enough... Paris was significantly cheaper than London! :rotfl:

debsters41

10-19-2008, 01:34 PM

Am I just too impatient? I guess I am so excited simply because it is our first cruise ever!

NADINENURSE

10-25-2008, 04:18 PM

We will be going with you , please indicate if you have any teens, have DD who will be 17, and DS who will be 16, not Disney lovers, just go to make me happy, and of course hubby, we have tried to cruise at least 4 times, but I am a nurse and it always ends up gets cancelled, this year , no cancelling... I have a back injury and will not be doing any shore excursions so I'll be seeking some adult company on the boat.. I hope I won't be lonely, we are "squishing" ourselves into a Cat 4, , yes I am Pooh sized, not that round, but volupteous (did I spell that right ?), and my son is now 6 feet tall at 16 and wide as a footballer, he does not football as that would take way to much time from the XBox 360 :lmao: , so frustrating.. and DD, also chubby, oh, she would kill me if she reads this !! ,is a "goth" wanna be- you know, only wears black, loves tshirts and hoodies with skulls,, no peircing or tatoos :scared1: (not while still living in my house , sorry if I offend anyone :) , actually I find that bicep tatoo and the upper arm of a well developed man extremely sexy !!! DON"T TELL ), other than that, really a normal kid.. Oops oof topic, anyway, anyone staying on the boat that I can say hi to ? Still looking for some teens, can't wait :thumbsup2 :thumbsup2

NADINENURSE

10-25-2008, 04:23 PM

I also forgot to ask, with the chair turning into a bed, do you think we will really be terribly crowded ? I really wnated a verdnah, but could not affod 2 rooms net to each other and did not want to go for the cat6 and 10 across the hall from each other, I would be too nervous about not knowing when or when the kids are, can 4 pooh people live happily in a cat 4 for 4 days, PLEASE say YES !! I think it will be dooable, after all , the only times we'll be together is sleeping and dressing, how bad can that be (famous last words ?) thanks !!;)

skiingwife

10-25-2008, 06:51 PM

Hey Nadine - Welcome to the cruise. I have 2 teenage sons plus a 10 year old son. My teens are 16 and 14. Good to hear another 16 year old boy will be on board. My boys are tall, 6'1" and 5'10", and they love sports as well as video games. I imagine they will be up on the sports deck a lot as well as in the health club lifting weights when the teens have that option. But they are looking forward to the Guitar Hero and Wii challenges too. We're going to Atlantis on Nassau day, booking a room at Comfort Suites.

Only 10 more months!

skiingwife

10-25-2008, 07:54 PM

Anyone else planning to book a room at Comfort Suites or Atlantis?

Carys

10-27-2008, 02:29 AM

We will be going with you [....], actually I find that bicep tatoo and the upper arm of a well developed man extremely sexy !!! DON"T TELL

Your secret is safe with me!! Welcome aboard, this is going to be a great cruise. No teens here sorry, but it would be great to meet up (maybe over some girly fru fru drinks if you're so inclined). Consensus is definately lending itself to a meet.

Anyone else planning to book a room at Comfort Suites or Atlantis?

We're yet to make up our minds about what we're planning to do on the Nassau day. We definately will be checking out Castaway Cay, but as this is our first ever cruise it might be more fun for us to stay aboard depending on activities at Nassau. Plus I'm a bit of a chicken when it comes to water slides (although I love lazy rivers)!!. Do rooms book up far in advance or is it something safely left closer to the time?

What's the progress on a cruise name? I liked Debster's suggestions (especially the wenches one). There are lots of pirate phrases we could adapt somehow..

Plenty of rum and parlay for none

Sand lovers, landlubbers, and deck scrubbers all aboard!

debsters41

10-31-2008, 05:41 PM

Lovely to have you with us! I have two teen daughters, but rather on the other end, as they will be 13 and 15 on the cruise. The 15 year old does not want to come:scared1: (I know, it is scary) I am really hoping for her to find some other teens to meet and chat with, to maybe get her warmed up to the idea of coming on this vacation. Happy Halloween everyone!

Young Pooh

11-01-2008, 04:18 AM

Hi Nadine, welcome to the Cruise.

We will be spending some of the Nassau day on the ship so I will be more than happy to keep you and a few cocktails company :cool1: :cool1:

I can't believe how quickly time is passing - it will be time to sail befofre we know it.

Nadine, are you spending any time at WDW before or after the cruise? Some of us are and are also thinking of maybe trying to meet up before the cruise. The more the merrier :banana: :banana:

happyj

11-02-2008, 02:38 AM

Welcome Nadine :goodvibes
We do not know what to do in Nassau,:confused3 probably some time on ship and an excursion into the town for a few hours :dance3:

NADINENURSE

11-04-2008, 08:54 AM

Debsters41, my daughter does not want to go either, she and your duaghter should go well together ... is she into Anime ? DId I spell thsat right, those Japanese cartoons.. I hate them... My family has been to DIsney 7 times and only I love it...

shasess

11-08-2008, 12:04 PM

Welcome Nadinenurse!
DD will be 13 by the time that we sail so I will have a baby teen who thinks she's a full fledge teenager. :lmao:

NADINENURSE

11-15-2008, 02:17 PM

Shasess, just wait, I forogot how I was at 16/17, but this is really interesting, I never asked about piercings or tatoos, uggh, :scared1:

debsters41

11-18-2008, 06:17 AM

It's Done! I found rates only 300 Euro more than the best rates I had found for last year, and I booked them because in my research I had noticed that fares from Athens only go up! We will be coming into Miami on Swiss Air. So, the two definites for our trip are that we will be in the States for five weeks starting August 6, and that four of those days will be spent on the cruise. We will have to see how work goes for what we will be doing the rest of the time ;) . I have my fingers crossed for a fabulous deal for the second half of 2009 like what there is for the first half.

Nadine, my daughters are not into anime yet, but it is becoming all the more popular here in Greece. I will say one thing, I have noticed that it is usually the intellectual, yet also 'cool' kids who are into it. (I teach English to middle and high-schoolers). They do talk about tatoo's and piercings. I tell them that they can talk all they want!!! I try to remind them that they too will reach my age, and to think about how lovely a tatoo would look on my flabby arms or, dare I say, posterior!:scared1: I think that has got them cooled off a bit for now!:rotfl:

And now for a name for our group...

Carys, "Plenty of rum and parlay for none" I think that is brilliant! What about the rest of you? I think it is time for a vote. We have only nine months!!!! :dance3: There is so much to think about!!!! Fish Extenders... Magnets... :woohoo: Oh man, I am starting to sound like a SPAZ! (only those from my generation will understand that one:laughing: )

Shasses... my younger one will also be 13... and she already has the makings of pureblood teenager! I bet our daughters will get along great!

Well, that was a bit long-winded... sorry. Anyone else care to share their news?

shasess

11-18-2008, 12:39 PM

Debsters that's great about booking you flights! One less thing to worry about!! My DD will be excited to hear that I already know of one other 13 year old that she can pal around with. :cool1:

NADINENURSE: DD wants to get a tattoo when she turns 18. I keep trying to convince her that she will change her mind by then but I don't think that approach is working. :lmao:

I like the name! Now all we need is for some of you talented graphic designer types to come up with a cool logo. :rolleyes1......any volunteers???? :rotfl:

Carys

11-19-2008, 01:08 AM

Only nine months???? Where did the time go Debsters41??? I must admit I'm still on airfare watch as I know I'll get a much better deal than what's currently available (I have a spreadsheet going to see how the prices are moving). Since the temperature is starting to drop quite a bit here it's great to have the cruise to look forward to. I picked up a dining bounceback for the WDW portion but with the great deals coming out for the first part of the year I'm keeping an eye out to see if I can score anything better! I had a pincode for kids stay, play and eat free which I can't use being the wrong time of year and having no kids.

I think I'll have a go at a DIY fish extender, if I can find the necessary bits - the home-made ones posted on this board are really neat.

On the topic of Japanese cartoons, in this part of the world young adults seem to enjoy dressing up (wigs makeup shoes ear pieces and all) in intricate home-made costumes to look just like their favourite cartoon characters! They all get together at cartoon conventions where enthusiast photographers take photos of them as if they are famous models! It's quite a sight to behold...

debsters41

11-29-2008, 02:20 AM

Happy Thanksgiving to all those in the States! We do not celebrate here, and so I have been working hard. Still, I cannot complain.. teachers here get two full weeks off for Christmas!

I made a name tag countdown on mickeypath... if anyone wants it just let me know!

Young Pooh

11-30-2008, 08:15 AM

Hi Guys

The countdown looks great Debs - can you PM me the link?

We have had a slight change of plans over accomodation. Instead of using our DVC points to stay at BCV before and after the cruise, we have booked with Disney Travel UK to stay at SSR. This includes free DDP and 14 day tickets.

I am now trying to rent out our DVC points which will cover the cost of the holiday. Plus we don't have to pay out for DDP or tickets.

If we had stayed with our DVC resssie then I don't think we would have done DDP and would have eaten much more offiste to keep costs down. This way we get to eat on site all the time and can do some signatures:cool1: :cool1:

If anybody is interested in renting any points, send me a PM.

Now, I just have to start thinking about making my Fish Extender:scared1:

Sue

happyj

11-30-2008, 05:31 PM

Hi all
Very brave of you sue to change your booking I would be worried that we would not be able to rent our points .Have you done it before?

jns

12-06-2008, 11:20 AM

Hi everyone and hello

well I've gone and booked this cruise :cool1: :cool1: :cool1: :cool1:

but still waiting to see if the price of the flights come down

Got a great deal on 2 Cat 12 GTY staterooms and was even able to get the fuel charges taken off :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana:

This will be our 4th DCL cruise and our 2nd time on the Wonder
looking forward to making friends with you all in the next few months

shasess

12-06-2008, 02:19 PM

Welcome JNS! :grouphug:

happyj

12-06-2008, 07:09 PM

Welcome :thumbsup2

Carys

12-08-2008, 12:45 AM

Welcome jns! Are you joining us from the emerald shores of Ireland?

jns

12-08-2008, 11:18 AM

Welcome JNS! :grouphug:

Welcome :thumbsup2

Welcome jns! Are you joining us from the emerald shores of Ireland?

Thanks everyone for the warm welcome
Yes Cary we are from Ireland

So whats everyones plans for this cruise ?

debsters41

12-08-2008, 04:40 PM

jns - A little belated welcome from me, too!

It will be our first cruise, so we (I;) ) plan to pack as much as we can into the time that we are alloted. I am lucky enough to live close to the sea in the summer, so I do get a lot of 'relaxing' done.... My family, on the other hand, are much more laid back. They will most likely be napping a lot. Needless to say, we are open to suggestions!:flower3:

Young Pooh

12-09-2008, 10:54 AM

Hi Jackie, welcome to the thread. I've just started reading your last trip report - it is nice to be able to put a face to the name.

Maybe we should all try to post a photo of our families before we cruise so that we all know who we are.

Debs - are you ok? Heard on the news abour the riots in Athens so immediately thought of you. Hope everything is fine.

debsters41

12-09-2008, 03:48 PM

There have been some slight incidents in the area of the city where I work, they have burned down some shops (and subsequently the apartments above) It is just shameful what is happening. My children haven't been to school for two days, although nothing is really happening in the northern suburbs where we live. I have been taking my car to work instead of the subway, but that is all that is happening with me. I really feel bad for those who are losing their fortunes in the riots. Insurance rarely covers "acts of terrorism":sad2:

Still, that is not to say we are free from sadness... my mother (in Florida) has fallen gravely ill, so much so that I will be coming to the states for the first time in 9 years to sit by her bedside. She isn't going to die (so they say) but I feel that she needs me to encourage her to fight to live. If she doesn't get better, I will have to cancel the family trip in August. My children only met her when they were babies, they don't remember her at all. I won't let them meet her if she isn't healthy. Sorry to be so long winded. I wasn't going to talk about it, but sometimes it helps to share our pain. Thanks for understanding.

Young Pooh

12-09-2008, 03:53 PM

Debs -:grouphug: Our thoughts are with you.

jns

12-09-2008, 05:00 PM

Debbie sorry to hear about you Mum :grouphug:
Hope she feels better soon
Its good to share about these things and I fine the boards a great place to do that

been watching some of the riots on the news Good to hear you are safe
I'm sure the kids are enjoying there extra time off school
Hopefull there settle down soon

debsters41

12-10-2008, 01:32 AM

Thanks for the kind thoughts. :grouphug: But really, I don't want this thread to turn into a pity party! It should be more like a real party:cheer2: The holidays are fast approaching :cool1: We should be talking about spreadsheets, meet bulletin boards, etc. ::yes:: (actually, I have no idea what those things are or how they are used, I just heard about them on trip reports...:rolleyes1 ) Just think, the bright side is that I may be able to find something Disney like in the craft store to fix up my fish extender! Or even magnetic paper! Any ideas on what I should look for while I am there?

happyj

12-10-2008, 04:21 PM

Sorry to here about your mum :grouphug:

debsters41

12-11-2008, 02:49 AM

Thanks Janet

Now that the holidays are here with Christmas cookies, hot cocoa, egg nog and the like... anyone thinking about going on a diet to get ready for the cruise? :lmao:

jns

12-11-2008, 03:16 AM

Heres a great site for anyone with kids

http://portablenorthpole.sympatico.msn.ca/home/

debsters41

12-11-2008, 03:41 AM

Thanks Jackie! That was really neat, I will have it send a video to my daughter!:flower3:

jns

12-23-2008, 07:11 PM

http://bestsmileys.com/christmas1/11.gif

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v491/MMM120/micmin.jpg

:santa: Merry Christmas to everyone

Hope Santa is good to you all
Have a great Christmas and a Very Happy New Year

Jackie and Michael and boys xx :santa:

happyj

12-29-2008, 11:43 AM

Hi all
Happy New Yearparty:
Came back from DLP yesyerday .Great to experience Christmas in Disney .
But it was very very cold brrrrrrrrrrrrrrr.
Roll on summer and Cruise.
Janet

jns

01-03-2009, 02:18 PM

Hi there
sorry we will not be sailing with you after all
was luckly enough to get some cheap flights for Sept so have moved our cruise dates to the following week

Hope you all have a great cruise

Looks like I'll have to start a new thread as there is no one yet

hmansure

01-03-2009, 08:18 PM

Hi everyone! We will be joining you on this cruise later this year (our 3rd DCL cruise). We just switched from a 7 night Eastern for a variety of reasons. This thread doesn't seem to active yet - hopefully we can things sparked up a bit :)

Cruising - me (Harry), DW (Vicki), DS (Tim - 14, Jake - 10) & DD (Keira - 5).

Young Pooh

01-04-2009, 10:11 AM

Hi Jackie, sorry to hear that you won't be cruising with us but you can't argue with cheap flight deals.

Hope you get some more families on your new dates.

Hi Harry, welcome to the the thread. It looks like your DD is a similar age to mine. Are you staying at WDW as well or just doing the cruise?

I seem to have finally sorted out our travel plans. We are flying Virgin Atlantic on the 26th (the day before my 40th birthday) and have a reservation at SSR for 15 nights with free DDP. It was cheaper for us to do this than to do seperate reservations for before and after the cruise (we wouldn't have got the free DDP). It also means that we will have extra dining credits so will be able to do more signature restaurants.

I have also rented out all my DVC points to two people in the UK so that worked out really well and pays for SSR.

At long last we can all say we are going to Disney/DCL this year :banana: :banana: :banana:

hmansure

01-04-2009, 01:14 PM

Hi Harry, welcome to the the thread. It looks like your DD is a similar age to mine. Are you staying at WDW as well or just doing the cruise?

We are still in the process of re-working our travel plans, but we will be staying at WDW as well. We're coming up on the 7 month DVC booking window so we'll see what we can get... probably do a couple of days prior and couple days post cruise, but that has yet to be decided.

skiingwife

01-06-2009, 12:08 PM

Hi Harry and family - Glad to have you aboard. I have 3 boys (16, 14 and 10) so our kids will have to meet up. They like sports of all kinds, video games, and working on their tan.

Funny that you are switching to this cruise from a 7 night eastern. I would love to switch FROM this one TO a 7 night eastern. I checked on the 7 night this same week and the rooms I wanted (connecting cat 7 or 6) are sold out. There are a couple cat 7's available, but not connecting or even nearby. So if this is what you happen to be canceling, let me know!

hmansure

01-06-2009, 07:28 PM

xolatinaxo

01-13-2009, 03:45 PM

DWFan4Life

01-13-2009, 05:02 PM

How I wish we can join this trip:sad1: , but hopefully we can finalized our planning and done by the end of the month, I can't wait to experience it again.

Have a safe trip coming closer. :)

hmansure

01-13-2009, 06:36 PM

Well it's official, we booked and can't wait to go. We booked a 3 day Disney/4 night cruise Land and sea. We arrive on Thursday Sept. 27, staying at the Polynesian Resort and then off to the cruise on Sunday. Going are my hubby, myself and our 2 kids, one teenager (15) and she can't wait to be at the Aloft. My son is (9) - and he already told me that he wanted to spend the whole cruise in the program. :thumbsup2

We are first time Disney cruisers but have cruised before with other ships.

We have a Category 5 room and are in deck 7 room 7582 and 7580 - we booked an ajoining room. Can't wait to meet everyone.

Hey there! Welcome. Our 9 year-old (who will be 10 by the cruise) spent a good amount of time in the Club on our last cruise and is looking forward to moving up to the Lab on this cruise :) Our kids never spent the whole time in the programs though - always ate with us, etc. I think both your kids are really going to enjoy the activities :)

bones

01-14-2009, 10:58 PM

love2pugs

01-20-2009, 06:52 AM

Hello everyone. My DH (Nick) and me (Tracy) will be on this cruise for our anniversary (19th). I'm feeling guilty as our children will not be on this cruise with us (DD -18 and DS - 14). Can we join in with the Fish Extenders? This will be our 2nd Disney cruise. Our first cruise was in 2004 (3 night land/ 4 night cruise). My DH and I will be driving from Ohio and we will be staying at Port Canaveral for two nights before the cruise.

hmansure

01-20-2009, 09:39 PM

Carys

01-22-2009, 05:48 PM

Looks like a few more new faces since I last checked in here! Going to Hong Kong Disney a couple of weeks ago has made me even more excited about this trip - love2pugs re fishextenders, the more the merrier!

debsters41

01-25-2009, 03:30 PM

Hello everyone and welcome new cruisers! I have been off the boards for some time as I had gone to Florida to see to my mom. She is at peace now, but it has been a dilemma for us whether we will be able to keep this trip. For now, we are in! But I noticed that some are no longer with us. Is anyone keeping a list for Fish Extender trade purposes?

Carnival time is approaching here in Greece, and so I have been searching for pirate costumes, but so far it would seem that pirates have fallen out of fashion :sad2: I can only hope that more costumes will come out as the holiday period comes closer!

Is anyone else thinking of dressing up? Maybe I should not be stressing.:lmao:

love2pugs

01-25-2009, 06:28 PM

Carys

01-25-2009, 09:26 PM

Is anyone keeping a list for Fish Extender trade purposes?

Hi Debbie! I’m so sorry to hear about your mum :grouphug:

I’ve just popped quickly through the thread, and here are the list of those aboard so far. This is my first cruise so not sure how these swaps usually work in terms of organization! Perhaps if people would like to join in a fish extender swap they could copy/paste the last version of this list into a fresh message, then copy/paste in this little fish after their entry: <*XX>< , and add in any other information they'd like included? I’ve probably missed some people off the list too, it was a very quick run through the thread. Also, some haven't posted in a while so may no longer be coming with us...

Current at 26 Jan 2009

Young Pooh (Sue) + DH (Bill) + DD4 (Evie) [United Kingdom]
Carys (Sandra) + DDad [Taiwan + New Zealand] <*XX><
Shasess + DH + DD + DD [Carolinas]
Silmarg + DW + DD7 + DD10 + SIL + SILDH + SILDS8 [New York]
Debsters41 (Debbie, 37) + DH (40) + DD15 + DD13 [Greece]
Happyj (Janet) + DH + DD20 [United Kingdom]
Shellyr25 + DD + DS11 + DD10 [New Jersey]
Skiingwife (Melissa) + DH (Steve) + DS16 (Spencer) + DS14 (Alex) + DS11 (Nicholas) [Michigan]
Nadinenurse + DH + DD17 + DS16 [New York]
Hmansure (Harry) + DW (Vicki) + DS14 (Tim) + DS10 (Jake) + DD5 (Keira) [New Jersey]
Xolatinoxo + DH + DD15 + DS9
Love2pugs (Tracy) + DH (Nick) [Ohio]

hmansure

01-26-2009, 07:28 AM

Perhaps if people would like to join in a fish extender swap they could copy/paste the last version of this list into a fresh message, then copy/paste in this little fish after their entry: <*XX>< , and add in any other information they'd like included?

Young Pooh (Sue) + DH (Bill) + DD4 (Evie) [United Kingdom]
Carys (Sandra) + DDad [Taiwan + New Zealand] <*XX><
Shasess + DH + DD + DD [Carolinas]
Silmarg + DW + DD7 + DD10 + SIL + SILDH + SILDS8 [New York]
Debsters41 (Debbie, 37) + DH (40) + DD15 + DD13 [Greece]
Happyj (Janet) + DH + DD20 [United Kingdom]
Shellyr25 + DD + DS11 + DD10 [New Jersey]
Skiingwife (Melissa) + DH (Steve) + DS16 (Spencer) + DS14 (Alex) + DS11 (Nicholas) [Michigan]
Nadinenurse + DH + DD17 + DS16 [New York]
Hmansure (Harry) + DW (Vicki) + DS14 (Tim) + DS10 (Jake) + DD5 (Keira) [New Jersey] <*XX><
Xolatinoxo + DH + DD15 + DS9
Love2pugs (Tracy) + DH (Nick) [Ohio]

silmarg

01-26-2009, 09:52 AM

Sorry I have been off this thread for a while...

We are still a go!

In fact we may have convinced another family to join us! WOO HOO!

As far a Fish Extenders go.. usually all you need to collect is the room numbers (that way we know where to deliver the gifts)!

Need to finsh some planning on an inpromptu WDW trip for Feb 14-21 (taking advantage of the buy 4 get 7 deal).

love2pugs

01-26-2009, 12:06 PM

debsters41

01-26-2009, 04:07 PM

Young Pooh (Sue) + DH (Bill) + DD4 (Evie) [United Kingdom]
Carys (Sandra) + DDad [Taiwan + New Zealand] <*XX><
Shasess + DH + DD + DD [Carolinas]
Silmarg + DW + DD7 + DD10 + SIL + SILDH + SILDS8 [New York]
Debsters41 (Debbie, 37) + DH (40) + DD15 + DD13 [Greece]<*XX><
Happyj (Janet) + DH + DD20 [United Kingdom]
Shellyr25 + DD + DS11 + DD10 [New Jersey]
Skiingwife (Melissa) + DH (Steve) + DS16 (Spencer) + DS14 (Alex) + DS11 (Nicholas) [Michigan]
Nadinenurse + DH + DD17 + DS16 [New York]
Hmansure (Harry) + DW (Vicki) + DS14 (Tim) + DS10 (Jake) + DD5 (Keira) [New Jersey] <*XX><
Xolatinoxo + DH + DD15 + DS9
Love2pugs (Tracy) + DH (Nick) [Ohio] <*XX>< - Stateroom number 6616

it sure does break the winter blues to see us planning like this:cheer2: bring on the frosty umbrella drinks!

Young Pooh

01-27-2009, 04:02 AM

Hi Sandra, Thanks for doing this - you saved me a job. I had just started to think about how best to do this when you posted. :)

Maybe nearer the time, perhaps when final balances have been paid, we could start to give out cabin numbers etc and plan how/when to give out the gifts.

Young Pooh (Sue) + DH (Bill) + DD4 (Evie) [United Kingdom] <*XX><
Carys (Sandra) + DDad [Taiwan + New Zealand] <*XX><
Shasess + DH + DD + DD [Carolinas]
Silmarg + DW + DD7 + DD10 + SIL + SILDH + SILDS8 [New York]
Debsters41 (Debbie, 37) + DH (40) + DD15 + DD13 [Greece]<*XX><
Happyj (Janet) + DH + DD20 [United Kingdom]
Shellyr25 + DD + DS11 + DD10 [New Jersey]
Skiingwife (Melissa) + DH (Steve) + DS16 (Spencer) + DS14 (Alex) + DS11 (Nicholas) [Michigan]
Nadinenurse + DH + DD17 + DS16 [New York]
Hmansure (Harry) + DW (Vicki) + DS14 (Tim) + DS10 (Jake) + DD5 (Keira) [New Jersey] <*XX><
Xolatinoxo + DH + DD15 + DS9
Love2pugs (Tracy) + DH (Nick) [Ohio] <*XX>< - Stateroom number 6616

Debbie, so sorry to hear about your Mum. :grouphug:
Will this affect your plans for the summer?

And finally, :welcome: to all the new families since I was last on here. Looks like we will have a nice bunch of people - we will need to sort out some meets nearer the time once everyone has finalised their plans.

hmansure

01-27-2009, 01:25 PM

Hi everyone! Looks like the list is starting to grow a bit :)

Trying to stimulate a bit of conversation here.... looking forward to getting to know a few people, etc.

This AM we booked our pre-cruise stay. We'll be staying at AKV for 4 nights pre-cruise. We hit our 7 month DVC booking window yesterday and I was pleasantly surprised that we got our first choice. Next week we'll give it a shot for our post cruise stay! Schools don't start here until after Labor Day so we'll be more than happy to hang around the WDW area a few extra days:)

Any other DVC members cruising here?

Young Pooh

01-27-2009, 02:05 PM

Hi Harry

We are DVC members too (home resort BCV). We had booked to stay at BCV before and after the cruise using our points but then got a great deal through Disney UK.

We have booked for 15 nights at SSR in a 1 bed (including the 4 cruise nights as it was cheaper this way), 14 day park tickets and free DDP. I have rented out my DVC points and the money from this pays for SSR with a little bit left over, and no tickets and DDP to pay for:cool1: :cool1:

If we had stayed with the BCV ressies then I don't think we would have done the DDP and would have ended up eating offsite much more:sad1: :sad1:

We arrive on Aug 26th and don't leave until Sept 10th so would be more than happy to meet up with anyone before or after the cruise (or both:rotfl2: ) to partake of a few cool, fruity numbers or the like.

Hopefully now we are getting nearer to the cruise, people will start to check in a bit more often and we can get some conversations going.

Bye for now.

hmansure

01-28-2009, 09:37 PM

14 day park tickets and free DDP. I have rented out my DVC points and the money from this pays for SSR with a little bit left over, and no tickets and DDP to pay for:cool1: :cool1:

That is excellent!! :thumbsup2

What part of England are you located in? My soccer organization hosts an annual camp each summer and our family hosts a coach from the UK so we've learned a lot about the UK over the last several summers (though we really haven't figured out England's obsession with Heinz's baked beans though?! :rotfl: ).... anyway, we became very close friends with one coach who has actually returned to US the last two summers just to visit and travel with us... Note that I said soccer, when I have now been "trained" to refer to it as football! :)

Any footy fans in your household?

Carys

01-28-2009, 11:23 PM

Sorry to jump in on the sports talk, but had to let you guys know I just this minute booked and paid in full my return tickets to Orlando - a painful but neccessary step :thumbsup2 I arrive the night before late on the 29th so will probably stay at the airport hotel, and then depart Orlando on the 13th. This of course means I'll be needing to extend my stay at Disneyworld for a further two nights - what a tragedy :sad2: :rotfl: I'm leaning towards booking back at POR because it was so relaxing there, but will wait to see what discounts come out before I decide for sure. Now back to the soccer discussion (football is a different sport where I come from ;) )

debsters41

01-29-2009, 12:55 AM

:cool1: on getting your tickets!!!! Now it is official!!::yes:: Just think, in about 200 days we will all be :beach: :hyper:

debsters41

01-29-2009, 12:58 AM

Debbie, so sorry to hear about your Mum. :grouphug:
Will this affect your plans for the summer?

It was being debated heavily :mic: mostly in my own head, whether I could handle it, both psychologically and financially, but I am pushing ahead thinking I will be able to deal with the credit card debt next year.:cheer2:

Young Pooh

01-29-2009, 07:23 AM

What part of England are you located in? My soccer organization hosts an annual camp each summer and our family hosts a coach from the UK so we've learned a lot about the UK over the last several summers (though we really haven't figured out England's obsession with Heinz's baked beans though?! :rotfl: ).... anyway, we became very close friends with one coach who has actually returned to US the last two summers just to visit and travel with us... Note that I said soccer, when I have now been "trained" to refer to it as football! :)

Any footy fans in your household?

We are in Yorkshire which is in the north east of England - nearest cities are Leeds and York. Yorkshire is the birth place of Harry Ramsden Fish & Chips (Epcot WS). I know what you mean about baked beans :rotfl: Most people over her love them but I can take or leave them. DH is the football fan in the family - he supports his home town team of Peterborough Utd (not one of the well known Premiership teams!).

Sorry to jump in on the sports talk, but had to let you guys know I just this minute booked and paid in full my return tickets to Orlando - a painful but neccessary step :thumbsup2 I arrive the night before late on the 29th so will probably stay at the airport hotel, and then depart Orlando on the 13th. This of course means I'll be needing to extend my stay at Disneyworld for a further two nights - what a tragedy :sad2: :rotfl: I'm leaning towards booking back at POR because it was so relaxing there, but will wait to see what discounts come out before I decide for sure. Now back to the soccer discussion (football is a different sport where I come from ;) )

Great that you have now got the flights. How was the Xmas cruise?

It was being debated heavily :mic: mostly in my own head, whether I could handle it, both psychologically and financially, but I am pushing ahead thinking I will be able to deal with the credit card debt next year.:cheer2:

Good for you. I think after everything that has happened a nice relaxing family holiday will do you the world of good.

hmansure

01-29-2009, 07:32 AM

Carys

01-29-2009, 08:14 PM

Just think, in about 200 days we will all be :beach: :hyper:

My dad has a count down ticker gidget set up on his Apple, I tend to start counting the sleeps about a month out (done that for trips ever since I was a young kid, never got out of the habit).

Great that you have now got the flights. How was the Xmas cruise?

I had family who came to stay here during that time so the cruise ended up not being feasible - this time I'm taking family With me so no fear of that again :thumbsup2

Congrats on getting your tix finalized! Would love to hear more about football from your neck of the woods...

_Soccer_ here is the spectator sport of those with esoteric tastes. Although a popular sport at school, by high school rugby takes over as the ultimate all important game and soccer somewhat falls by the wayside, unhelped by the constant losses of the professional teams (do we even have more than one professional team?).

I can't say that I really follow it, I can however vouch for their good looks. Years ago, I was out with friends in a minivan coming home from a weekend trip. We picked up a good-looking but stoically quiet hitchhiker off the side of the road and brought him back into town. I was stunned to see on the evening news that our hitchhiker was a foreign soccer player that had just been hired by a professional soccer team in NZ and arrived in the country only a few days earlier (they had footage from a press conference). There ends my knowledge of NZ soccer :lmao:

hmansure

01-29-2009, 10:00 PM

We are in Yorkshire which is in the north east of England - nearest cities are Leeds and York. Yorkshire is the birth place of Harry Ramsden Fish & Chips (Epcot WS). I know what you mean about baked beans :rotfl: Most people over her love them but I can take or leave them. DH is the football fan in the family - he supports his home town team of Peterborough Utd (not one of the well known Premiership teams!).

Everton fans here - mostly because our friend I've mentioned is a fan and their keeper, Tim Howard, is from NJ (my DS is an aspiring keeper)

http://i244.photobucket.com/albums/gg25/hmansure/100_6370.jpg

hmansure

02-01-2009, 01:18 PM

Hi all! Super Bowl Sunday! Our beloved Steelers are going for their 6th Super Bowl, too. Everyone here is decked out in black and gold and the party will be starting soon :cool1:

Extra bonus on this first day of February - it's 55 degrees here!! Unheard of for this time of year - a great day to be outside. But..... there's a coastal storm looming for Tuesday - no word on the expected accumulation yet.....

Hope everyone is having a great weekend :)

Young Pooh

02-01-2009, 02:09 PM

Hi Harry

Have a great time tonight and hope your team wins - I haven't a clue who's playing or even much about the sport. DH probably knows abit more then me!

Nice to hear that someone is getting nice weather. It is really cold her today - icy winds etc. The forecast is for severe snow to hit overnight from Russia. Can't wait for tomorrow!

NADINENURSE

02-02-2009, 08:39 PM

NADINENURSE

02-02-2009, 08:42 PM

So sorry, maybe next time I should spell check uggh

hmansure

02-02-2009, 08:56 PM

Just checking in , we had had horrible weather here in the middle of NY , we lost power and had a horrible ice storm in November, a week without electric, but we had a generator, then a pipe froze from the lack of heat, then weather below zero with wind chilss in the minus numbers for days.. then hughe snow storms.. it has been endless.. I am up for the fish extender and gifts and anything else.. but I too hav no idea what to do, just sign me up and tell me how and I will be there... My family will be at AKL, not the, villas, no money to buy in just yet, for 5 days pior to the crusie would love to say hi to anyone.. anyway.. will keep looking here for updates!!:thumbsup2

Frozen pipes are the worst - hope it didn't burst on ya, too... the weather folks here are being non-committal on tomorrow's storm - I guess that way no matter what happens they can say they got it right?! Then the forecast is calling for temps in the 50s again next weekend... Certainly won't complain about that - it's the up & down that's driving me crazy - just like the stock market! :rotfl:

love2pugs

02-03-2009, 07:46 PM

Hello everyone.

I have been looking on ebay for a fish extender as I do not sew! I am also working on magnets for our door. I have been reading the threads regarding gifts for the fish extenders!

Can't wait for the warm weather this weekend as we live the snow belt (30 miles east of Cleveland, Ohio) and we have had almost 41 inches of snow for January with all the winter storms for January.

Harry, I'm glad the Steelers won for you! My husband is Carolina Panthers fan! I was a Browns fan until I got married 19 years ago!!! We are big NASCAR fans.

Everyone have a nice evening.

hmansure

02-03-2009, 09:31 PM

Can't wait for the warm weather this weekend as we live the snow belt (30 miles east of Cleveland, Ohio) and we have had almost 41 inches of snow for January with all the winter storms for January.

:scared:

WOW! I guess the 5-6" we're getting now really pales in comparison?!

Carys

02-04-2009, 02:36 AM

I am up for the fish extender

Adding in a little fishie for you below :thumbsup2

Also, I am very happy to add "DM" to the list below as my mum has decided to join us for the cruise and then her first ever Disney World holiday :)

Young Pooh (Sue) + DH (Bill) + DD4 (Evie) [United Kingdom] <*XX><
Carys (Sandra) + DDad + DM [Taiwan + New Zealand] <*XX><
Shasess + DH + DD + DD [Carolinas]
Silmarg + DW + DD7 + DD10 + SIL + SILDH + SILDS8 [New York]
Debsters41 (Debbie, 37) + DH (40) + DD15 + DD13 [Greece]<*XX><
Happyj (Janet) + DH + DD20 [United Kingdom]
Shellyr25 + DD + DS11 + DD10 [New Jersey]
Skiingwife (Melissa) + DH (Steve) + DS16 (Spencer) + DS14 (Alex) + DS11 (Nicholas) [Michigan]
Nadinenurse + DH + DD17 + DS16 [New York]<*XX><
Hmansure (Harry) + DW (Vicki) + DS14 (Tim) + DS10 (Jake) + DD5 (Keira) [New Jersey] <*XX><
Xolatinoxo + DH + DD15 + DS9
Love2pugs (Tracy) + DH (Nick) [Ohio] <*XX>< - Stateroom number 6616

Carys

02-04-2009, 02:38 AM

:scared:

WOW! I guess the 5-6" we're getting now really pales in comparison?!

Wow, it sounds so cold there! Today's "wintery" high here was 72 degrees F...

love2pugs

02-04-2009, 11:46 AM

Hi Sandra!
Glad your mum will be on the cruise!

hmansure

02-04-2009, 08:30 PM

Wow, it sounds so cold there! Today's "wintery" high here was 72 degrees F...

I'll take just 10 of those degrees!!! :rotfl2: It's 22 degrees F here.. headed to around 10!! But like I said it will bounce back up to the 50s by the weekend.

We booked our post-cruise stay today... Beach Club Villas.... What are we down to now - 206 days?! :)

Young Pooh

02-05-2009, 09:35 AM

hmansure

02-05-2009, 06:24 PM

Hi Sandra, glad you're mum is coming too. Do you think she will become an addict too?:rotfl:

Hi Harry, good result for you at the weekend and Everton won last night against Liverpool.

Have you stayed at BCV before? This is our home resort and we love it.

Our first time at BCV. It's never available when we call, but this time it was so we grabbed it up. Dedicated 2BDR with 2 queen beds in the 2nd bedroom - perfect for us.

The Everton - Liverpool game was pretty good, but we're still on a Steelers high here!

debsters41

02-06-2009, 03:58 AM

Hello again all!

I don't know if it would apply to DVC, but for those of us looking into Disney hotels before the cruise, have you heard the latest? Rumor has it that Disney is expanding the buy 4 get 3 promotion through August 15. I am having my travel agent look into it for me, as I was planning on arriving in Orlando on the 15th. The original intention was a week off property and a week on. Now I just may have to switch that around! Keep your fingers crossed!

I also booked Hampton Inn Cocoa Beach for one night before cruise and three nights after. I may just stay the night of the 29th in Orlando and head out to the port early on the 30th and park there. It seems to come out even. What are the rest of you thinking? (or it still may be WAY to early to think about it, but this kind of planning is what is getting me through this rather bleak winter.

Oh, weather update: here winter hovers in the 50s, but we have been hitting 60s this week ;) Sorry about those of you freezing to death!:sad2:

Young Pooh

02-06-2009, 04:13 AM

Hi Debs

It does seem to be true about the 4 for 3 promotion - I had my Passporter newsletter earlier and they mentioned it in that.

Because we are at SSR for the whole 15 nights we intend to drive to the port early on the 30th - I want to get there for when it opens at 10am so we can hopefully get one of the early numbered boarding cards. At least this way, the car is nearby when we get back and we can hopefully be back at Disney for around 9.30/10am.

debsters41

02-06-2009, 04:20 AM

It does seem to be true about the 4 for 3 promotion - I had my Passporter newsletter earlier and they mentioned it in that.

I see we have the same sources!;)

happyj

02-10-2009, 01:21 PM

Hi everybody
It it so long since I have been here had a lot to catch up on.We have now confirmed our week before and week after at the BCV (which we love ) but am going to try for the last 3 nights at BLT .Where ever we will be happy .This is our first cruise and am up for anything .We are so excited.

Young Pooh (Sue) + DH (Bill) + DD4 (Evie) [United Kingdom] <*XX><
Carys (Sandra) + DDad + DM [Taiwan + New Zealand] <*XX><
Shasess + DH + DD + DD [Carolinas]
Silmarg + DW + DD7 + DD10 + SIL + SILDH + SILDS8 [New York]
Debsters41 (Debbie, 37) + DH (40) + DD15 + DD13 [Greece]<*XX><
Happyj (Janet) + DH + DD20 [United Kingdom]stateroom 6542
Shellyr25 + DD + DS11 + DD10 [New Jersey]
Skiingwife (Melissa) + DH (Steve) + DS16 (Spencer) + DS14 (Alex) + DS11 (Nicholas) [Michigan]
Nadinenurse + DH + DD17 + DS16 [New York]<*XX><
Hmansure (Harry) + DW (Vicki) + DS14 (Tim) + DS10 (Jake) + DD5 (Keira) [New Jersey] <*XX><
Xolatinoxo + DH + DD15 + DS9
Love2pugs (Tracy) + DH (Nick) [Ohio] <*XX>< - Stateroom number 6616
02-04-2009 02:31 AM
We have added our stateroom to the list
Janet

debsters41

02-10-2009, 03:36 PM

Welcome back Janet!! Good luck on the BLT! If you get it will you throw a 'homewarming' party?:laughing:

Update on the 4 + 3 deal... it was announced, but when the lovely people at Dreams checked out the price for me it was actually a bit more expensive than the 6 nights I already have booked for the week after. :confused3 Because of all the turmoil and expense during the holidays, I had been hoping for a super deal to keep us in a moderate, but it looks like I may just have to stay at a value if I want to be on property. There are great places off property... I don't know yet what I will decide. So, for those of you with DVC...:woohoo: :woohoo: for you!!!!!!!!!!:)

kylelover1

02-12-2009, 03:19 AM

Hi, I am not sure how to start a new post for me, but just wanted to say hi. Just need to know how to get started! What was I reading about chili peppers are we putting them on our door. Please let me know

hmansure

02-12-2009, 07:19 AM

Hi all! Just stopping by to say hello :)

happyj

02-15-2009, 10:21 AM

hmansure

02-15-2009, 11:15 AM

Hi all
We are now in the planning mode :surfweb: and as we have never been on a cruise or Disney cruise before we will have a lot of questions as we plan .:confused3
First one how soon can you arrive at the port we do not want to miss anything ..We have decided to take the car .
Janet :)

Hi Janet! I think the port opens at around 10AM, but actual boarding doesn't begin until around noon or shortly before that. You won't miss much so I wouldn't worry about being one of the first in line at the port! On our last two cruises we arrived around 11:30 - 12:00. There were tons of people to help with luggage, etc. and the check-in process went very quickly. We like to be on board, get lunch, check out our stateroom, and then hit the pools for a bit while some of the other people scramble around and make/change ressies and so forth. We've found that if you properly plan everything up front - Palo, excursions, kids club check-in, then there's really no need to have scramble around. Makes that first afternoon more enjoyable so the only decision is where to eat lunch - Parrot Cay or Beach Blanket Buffet? :)

Young Pooh

02-15-2009, 12:02 PM

Hi Janet,

We are in the same boat (:rotfl2: :rotfl2: ) as you - this will be our first cruise so we will be able to muddle along together. We are driving to the port as well and I have decided to try to get there as close after 10am as possible. I know that it means we will be hanging around for a couple of hours but I think that I will be so excited it won't matter - plus it means more time for photos of the ship etc.

Hi Kylelover1 - not sure from your post but assume that you are on our cruise? You don't need to start a new thread just join in with us on here - tell us a bit about yourself and what your plans are. We don't bite honestly.:laughing:

happyj

02-15-2009, 05:06 PM

Thankyou for the answers .:worship:
I will also be excited so will be ready to go as soon as I wake up .But yes we will arrive at 9.30.-10 so we can soak all the atmosphere and photos .:banana: :banana:
Janet

debsters41

02-19-2009, 03:16 AM

I am sure you all know about the lovely people who help make designs for cruise door magnets and t-shirts and stuff. Janet found one who makes lovely itineraries for the cruises and she had one made for our dates. I had never considered asking for one, thinking they were only nice for 7 day cruises. Well, as soon as I saw Janet's I was green ::yes:: :shamrock: :jumping2: :hmghost: with envy and I just had to ask for one for my family! I thought I would share the thread in case anyone else was interested.

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2088889

I have collected dozens of graphics for the purpose of making magnets. However, actually getting around to making any is another story altoghter:lmao:

Hope everyone is well!

happyj

02-19-2009, 03:40 PM

Hi :)
I am so impressed that someone could do that for us I:worship: do not know as yet where I can buy the paper . :confused3 I am sure one of my Dis friends will help me .What a community .:grouphug:
Janet

debsters41

02-19-2009, 03:45 PM

Hi again! I have just about given up on the idea of actually printing out on magnetic paper. There is none to be found easily in Athens, and even while I was in the US over the holiday period, I did not find any at the local walmart, target or Michael's. I do have a laminator, however, and have decided to just print on cardstock, laminate and glue magnets to the back. But like I said, actually getting around to doing stuff is not something I excel at!:rotfl:

happyj

02-19-2009, 04:03 PM

Hi
I like the idea of laminating .We have time on our side .:rotfl2: :rotfl2:
Janet

Young Pooh

02-20-2009, 03:30 AM

Hi Guys

I have just trawled through the thread and found Janet's itinerary - they are cool aren't they. I think I will have to get one too.

I have just had a quick look on Ebay and they have lots of magnetic printer paper - both matt and glossy - and it is not that expensive. I think I will get some from here - you can get packs of 10 or 5 sheets so plenty if we make mistakes. :rotfl2:

How big are these itinerary's and how easy is it to print them off? You two seem to be the creative experts so is there anything else I should be looking out for? I must admit I never look at the creative board but I think I will have a go at a fish extender as I haven't seen one like yet on Ebay.

I am thinking of writing a pre-trip report to post on the UK board so if I do I will post a link on here.

love2pugs

02-20-2009, 07:55 PM

I thought I would share the thread in case anyone else was interested.

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2088889

Hi Debbie,

Thank you for the thread who designs the cruise door magnets. :cheer2:

____________
Tracy

happyj

02-22-2009, 05:35 AM

Hi
Thankyou Sue for the magnetic paper help.I have never copied a thread on here and have just worked out how to do so .:confused3
I have been on you tube and watching disney cruise ,,when they sail away every time I hear the horns I get shivers ,what will I be like when it is real.:cloud9:

Can you help with the restaurants .We would like to eat in Palo if you do that do you miss one of the other restaurants .( We do not want to miss anything )
Janet

Young Pooh

02-22-2009, 05:47 AM

hmansure

02-22-2009, 09:36 AM

Hi Janet

There are the 3 main restaurants so you will get to eat in each one once and then on Pirate night you will repeat one of them - it is a special Pirate menu - which one depends on which rotation you are on.

Not sure if this will really help you as you will need to miss one if you do Palo. I suppose if you are not too bothered about Pirate night then do Palo that night - I think it is the night after Castaway Cay. You would still be able to join in the entertainment on deck - just miss the Pirate themed meal.

I have started a pre-trip report on the UK boards so will post a link on here later when I have added a but more.

Bye for now.

We love Pirate Night, but I guess you could skip the dinner and then just participate in the deck party if one chooses to eat at Palo.

There's always Palo Brunch - which we've done a couple times - it's excellent.

You could also do a dinner "double dip" Assuming you have the early dining assignment, go to your regular restaurant and eat a very light dinner. After dinner go to the show and then after that go to your late dinner at Palo. Guess it all depends on how much you like to eat! :)

happyj

02-22-2009, 11:03 AM

Hi :Thanks again for your help.thumbsup2
I would definately not want to miss pirate night pirate: and brunch also sounds good .mmmmmmmmmmmmmm choices and not to miss anything .

Oh happy days :cool1: Just got off the phone from member services we are booked for our last 3 days in Sept at BLT.:banana: :banana: :banana: Wanted MK veiw got bay lake veiw so am wait listed but very happy.:yay: :yay: :yay:
Janet

happyj

02-22-2009, 11:05 AM

Do all of you dress up for Pirate night
Janetpirate:

debsters41

02-22-2009, 02:29 PM

Do all of you dress up for Pirate night
Janetpirate:

pirate: I have a pirate hat, a pirate patch, and i just bought a foam pirate sword. My girls and husband say that if I wear them, they will 'disown' me. I figure they will let me out of the cabin with them if they see everyone else with them.:rolleyes:

happyj

02-22-2009, 03:25 PM

We love to dress up and have things from pirate and princess party so we will do something :laughing:
Janet

hmansure

02-22-2009, 05:42 PM

Do all of you dress up for Pirate night
Janetpirate:

We do - last time we found a bunch of good stuff on Ebay. They do provide a pirate bandana at dinner as well.

happyj

02-26-2009, 03:55 PM

I am learning my 2009 Birnbaum Cruise Line has just arrived .I am waiting for Passporter 2009 . Love all the information .:lovestruc
Also my magnetic paper arrived eady for my door .:cheer2:
Janet

hmansure

02-27-2009, 07:10 AM

I am learning my 2009 Birnbaum Cruise Line has just arrived .I am waiting for Passporter 2009 . Love all the information .:lovestruc
Also my magnetic paper arrived eady for my door .:cheer2:
Janet

Also looking forward to Passporter '09 here :)

debsters41

03-03-2009, 02:18 AM

We do - last time we found a bunch of good stuff on Ebay. They do provide a pirate bandana at dinner as well.

Hi all! Checking in again. Unfortunately, I have read that the bandanna is no longer provided :sad1:

happyj

03-03-2009, 07:34 AM

OH NO:sad1:
I will make extra effort now

hmansure

03-03-2009, 09:10 PM

Hi all! Just stoppin' by to say hello :) Looks like we're under the 6 month mark now!

Really looking forward to Spring here. Shoveled out of 10" of snow yesterday and tonight the low temps will be around 6 degrees F.... :scared1: Please send some warmth our way!!

happyj

03-04-2009, 05:05 AM

Cool :cool1: Under 6 months

debsters41

03-04-2009, 06:26 AM

snow :scared1:
six degrees :scared1:

here spring is in full swing, which for me is almost as painful as the snow you are facing... taking off my huge sweaters allows me to see exactly where the 15 kg (not lb) I have gained since Christmas have gone :scared:

hmansure

03-04-2009, 07:10 AM

debsters41

03-04-2009, 04:31 PM

OMG OMG

http://www.wdwinfo.com/holidays/halloween.htm

September 4 anyone???

HOW DO I BUY THOSE TIX???

silmarg

03-04-2009, 05:57 PM

OMG OMG

http://www.wdwinfo.com/holidays/halloween.htm

September 4 anyone???

HOW DO I BUY THOSE TIX???

WOW!!!! I bet the park will be empty that nite too... would be perfect to do a water park for the day... grab dinner and MNSSHP at nite.

I just may be in for this too.

Tix go on sale May 1.

But I doubt its a sellout... you may want to wait and buy tix at the gate (as these tix wont be refundable and you must go on the day u buy.. so if it rains you are stuck). Then again their will be an advance purchase discount...

hmansure

03-04-2009, 08:27 PM

OMG OMG

http://www.wdwinfo.com/holidays/halloween.htm

September 4 anyone???

HOW DO I BUY THOSE TIX???

You can buy them in advance on their website... we will be there that night as well and have never done this event so we're probably going.

silmarg

03-04-2009, 11:35 PM

You can buy them in advance on their website... we will be there that night as well and have never done this event so we're probably going.

Went to MNSSHP once several years ago. The parade is unique (headless horseman). Many patrons get dressed for Halloween. Candy is given out in several locations. There are no lines on most rides.

You almost don't need to do MK during the day if you are doing MNSSHP.

happyj

03-05-2009, 03:04 AM

debsters41

03-05-2009, 03:30 PM

WOW for us too .
Roll on 1st May.
WE went to pirate pirate: and princess party last year.It rained heavily all night ,but we are dis people and still had fun.Lucky for us it stopped just in time for the fireworks but some of the parade was missing .

Janet, I really think we are going to get along brilliantly! I like your way of thinking, come rain or shine, nothing is keeping me away from that party!!!!! I don't have any other day that I could go, as we are returning to Greece on the ninth. After the cruise we shall be staying in Cocoa Beach for a few days, and so what if I just 'forget' to tell hubby that we are driving back on the fourth for even more disney magic :rolleyes1 I think I will wait until we all meet on the ship and you all can convince him what fun it will be! :dance3: :cheer2:

happyj

03-05-2009, 03:34 PM

I have told mine how lucky we are to be able to go .!!:rotfl2: :dance3: :dance3:

Carys

03-06-2009, 02:31 AM

Checking in to our cruise central :)

I'm definately writing a note to myself to pick up tickets for the 4th MNSSHP - rain or shine. Although I'm staying at WDW for 11 nights (now until 14 Sep) there are only 2 parties during that time. Last year I purchased a ticket for one party, then ended up buying another ticket to go a second time towards the end of the visit. Therefore I'm definately going on the 4th in case I decide to go again on the 11th! Would rather that than just go on the 11th and wished I'd gone on the 4th too.

Last night here we had our first big thunder/lightening storm of the year. As this is typical summer weather here, it means we're slowly getting closer to cast-off! Can't believe it's already March.

Young Pooh

03-06-2009, 07:54 PM

hmansure

03-06-2009, 09:29 PM

Hi Guys.

Just been away for a few days (without laptop:eek: ) and just catching up with Dis.

Yippee:cool1: :cool1: :cool1: MNSSHP on Sept 4th.

I will definately be getting tickets for this one. I think DVC members also get them cheaper for certain dates.

We did this in 2007 (the first night) and it was torrential rain and thunderstorms - the parades were cancelled and much of the outdoor stuff. When we left the park they were handing out vouchers to get a free days admission to MK. Lets hope we get better weather this time.

Keeping our fingers crossed here that we will have superb weather - including the Sept 4 MNSSHP :)

As for the weather right now - Monday it was under 10 degrees F and we got 10 inches of snow... tomorrow it may hit 70 degrees F.... simply crazy!

love2pugs

03-13-2009, 12:12 PM

Young Pooh

03-16-2009, 08:32 AM

Hi Tracy

I'm not sure as this will be our first cruise. I'm sure Harry or someone else will know - hopefully they will be along shortly.

Sue

love2pugs

03-16-2009, 11:08 AM

Hi Tracy

I'm not sure as this will be our first cruise. I'm sure Harry or someone else will know - hopefully they will be along shortly.

Sue

Hi Sue,

Thank you. I keep going back and reading some of the trip reports and can't find my answer! Have a nice day!
__________
Tracy

silmarg

03-16-2009, 01:32 PM

Hello everyone.

I have a question. My DH and I have the second seating for dinner. I noticed that the stage shows start around 6:15 pm. Do we dress for dinner and go see the show or will we have time to dress after the show? I do not remember how long the shows last (our first cruise was in 2004).
_______________
Tracy

While I normally do 1st seating for dinner. Basically the way it works, is from dinner you go directly to the show. Those in second seating do the opposite.

So yes you should be dressed for dinner when you go to the show.

While you will have a few minutes between the show and dinner, you wont have enough time to change (unless you are really fast or dont care if you will be really late)

hmansure

03-16-2009, 02:34 PM

Hello everyone.

I have a question. My DH and I have the second seating for dinner. I noticed that the stage shows start around 6:15 pm. Do we dress for dinner and go see the show or will we have time to dress after the show? I do not remember how long the shows last (our first cruise was in 2004).
_______________
Tracy

While you may have time between the end of the show and dinner - why rush around?! I would get dressed before the show and then you can move at a leisurely pace before dinner.

We usually have 1st seating... we can then often be found in autograph lines before the show!! :rotfl:

love2pugs

03-18-2009, 05:06 AM

Thank you all for the answers. Have a nice day!
_____________
Tracy

debsters41

03-19-2009, 05:18 AM

Hello, checking in again!

I have changed my plans for the night before the cruise, so no 'night before cruise fruity drink by the sea with other dissers' for me:sad1:

But, I found a great deal for the night before at a place in orlando, enough of a good deal that with the money we save we can park at the port and avoid the whole "shuttle" scene, which my husband and daughter weren't too keen on in the first place.:)

We have main dining, but I was wondering of the repeat cruisers which seating do you prefer and why? I just want to know if maybe we should switch to later dining, since I don't have smaller children.

Thanks!

hmansure

03-19-2009, 07:25 AM

We have main dining, but I was wondering of the repeat cruisers which seating do you prefer and why? I just want to know if maybe we should switch to later dining, since I don't have smaller children.

I think it comes down to your personal preferences. We have done both the early and late seating in the past and each has it's positive & negatives. If I had to choose - I would say that early seating is our preference. We aren't overly fond of eating a big dinner after 8PM is basically the main reason. We like to eat dinner and then hit the evening show. We then can go on and do other evening activities.

As far as kids are concerned - obviously there are more younger children at the early seating. There are plenty of kids around for the late seating though. I've read where some people are looking to avoid the little ones, but on this cruise that's just not going to happen! :rotfl: :rotfl: When we had the late seating our youngest at that time was 3. He only fell asleep at dinner one night!! :rotfl:

Carys

03-20-2009, 03:20 AM

We decided to go for maining dining too for 3 reasons:

1. the late seating seemed a little late for dinner
2. we wanted to be able to sit and digest dinner while watching the shows afterward
3. pirate night - I've seen a few reports of people who had the later seating and then were too full to enjoy the dessert buffet.

Not sure how it will work out since it's our first cruise but the logic seems sound to us :)

happyj

03-20-2009, 09:52 AM

Hi all
with the £ doing better against the $ today we have paid off the cruise:yay: on our nation wide card .It is a gamble but so is life .:confused3

With the dining we thought we had booked to go late but reservation tells us main seating .We do not know which we would like as we are newbbies. :confused3

Young Pooh

03-20-2009, 10:50 AM

We are on the main dinner also - I don't think Evie would last until late seating and would end up having an early dinner somewhere else.

Janet, I have also been watching the $/£ rate avidly - still hopeful that it will go back up to $1.50 to the £ but I doubt it. I think I will have to base the cost of the cruise on $1.40 to £ and budget accordingly.:sad1:

Debs, what are your final plans - where will you be staying?

silmarg

03-20-2009, 12:39 PM

We are main diners as well...

for the same reasons noted above.

The big plus for late dining is the ability to tour ports of call for more of the day. There were some days on our repo cruise that I wished we did have late dining.

happyj

03-20-2009, 04:09 PM

silmarg

03-20-2009, 04:11 PM

:)
The only port of call we will be having is Nassau and from what I read on the Dis we are better off staying on the Wonder . I am happy :yay: with that although we might have a morning visit to Atlantis .

We are gonna probably rent a day room at the Comfort Suites in Nassau which give you full access to the Atlantis facilities (which are awesome).

But when I was on the Magic, I would loved to have seem more of Aruba, Cabo San Lucas and Cartagena. They were fabulous ports of call.

debsters41

03-23-2009, 02:54 AM

Debs, what are your final plans - where will you be staying?

final plans? :lmao::rotfl2: I doubt my plans are final as of yet. As a matter of fact, I just made a change again a couple of days ago! I can tell you my plans as they stand now....

a week in orlando off property, the week before the cruise at pop century, the night before the cruise at fairfield inn and suites in the mariott village in orlando and three nights after the cruise in the Hilton Cocoa Beach. I am not so sure about the last one, because the reviews on trip advisor are not stellar... but we shall see.

I will pay off the cruise next month, I just put discovery cove on the card this month:yay:

happyj

03-23-2009, 04:32 AM

I just love all the planning!:surfweb:
:banana::banana:

Young Pooh

03-23-2009, 05:25 AM

I just love all the planning!:surfweb:
:banana::banana:

Me too.:thumbsup2

I have got everything sorted now except what we will do each day and where we will eat.

The accomodation (SSR) and flights (VA) are booked and need to be paid at the end of June, the cruise needs paying just before. The car hire (Dollar) and travel insurance (Tesco) are sorted and paid for. We got a good deal on the car hire through VA as they were offering double or triple (:confused3) flying club miles and were coming out cheaper than everyone else such as US Rentacar etc. We went for a full size and will be picking it up from the Regal Sun Resort the day before the cruise and keeping it until we fly back.

We have booked Magical Express for the pick up from the airport - we haven't used this before but one of the people I rented my DVC points to used it last week and said it was very good. They were through immigration in 10 minutes (must be a world record:rotfl2:) and the bus journey to BWV only took 40 minutes and that was with 3 other stops.

All I have left to do now is book the Radisson at Manchester for the night before the flight and arrange airport parking and then get MNSSHP tickets when they are released and 1 day Seaworld tickets.

Then the fun bit starts.:cool1::cool1::cool1: I need to get a rough plan sorted of what we will be doing each day so that I can decide on restaurants. I think we will be having a couple of meals offsite so if anyone has any favourites then let me know.

debsters41

03-23-2009, 04:21 PM

I think we will be having a couple of meals offsite so if anyone has any favourites then let me know.

:yay: me too! me too!

hmansure

03-23-2009, 08:13 PM

:yay: me too! me too!

After eating all that food on the cruise I don't think we'll want to eat anymore.... awww, who am I kidding?! :rotfl: We rarely wander off-site to eat so I don't have any recommendations.... We don't have our sights set on anything big for this trip either... well, DS(9) "has" to eat at T-Rex so that's on the list, but that's about it right now. With the change from 180 to 90 days for ADRs we're not in planning mode yet here...

happyj

03-23-2009, 08:15 PM

Hi planners:rotfl2:
We have resorts (BCV BLT) and flights VA sorted.
We are hiring car through dollar ,got a very good rate 3 weeks ago .
Have decided to take on DDP so have the pleasure of deceiding where and when .We will be doing some 2 credit restaurants.
Also will be buying MNSSHP.May 1st :banana::banana::banana:
Will need to book Palos. :banana::banana::banana:
We also need annual passes as we always arrange to get 2 holidays in one year .This year 23 August next 23 July (already planning :rotfl:)
Not going to seaworld :sad1: as going on the cruise:) and will miss the manetee ride :sad1::sad1:.
Not going to Universal either .
But they will be in next years plans.:dance3:
Oh I love it all :cloud9:

silmarg

03-23-2009, 11:04 PM

final plans? :lmao::rotfl2: I doubt my plans are final as of yet. As a matter of fact, I just made a change again a couple of days ago! I can tell you my plans as they stand now....

a week in orlando off property, the week before the cruise at pop century, the night before the cruise at fairfield inn and suites in the mariott village in orlando and three nights after the cruise in the Hilton Cocoa Beach. I am not so sure about the last one, because the reviews on trip advisor are not stellar... but we shall see.

I will pay off the cruise next month, I just put discovery cove on the card this month:yay:

We stayed at the Cocoa Beach Hilton when we went on our 2007 DCL (our first). I got a free room (using reward points) and was nervous about staying there due to web reviews. While we did not use all the amenities and such (we did not check in until midnight and left by 10AM)... we thought the place was fine. I say go for it!

silmarg

03-24-2009, 03:10 PM

Strong Rumors about Disney offering Free Dining Aug 15-Sept 30.

WHO HOO!

debsters41

03-24-2009, 05:40 PM

Strong Rumors about Disney offering Free Dining Aug 15-Sept 30.

WHO HOO!

Oh oh oh oh... I have it written in my calendar to be on the look out for it.... oh please oh please :rotfl:

happyj

03-24-2009, 05:44 PM

Hi Debster:)
You only get free dining if you stay disney paying rake rate.
so can be expensive.:eek:

debsters41

03-24-2009, 06:16 PM

happyj

03-24-2009, 06:21 PM

I also agree with planning .:)
Otherwise I will say " where shall we eat tonight" I don't mind .
Shall we go .......... " no do not like it there "
What about ............
Do you see what i mean :eek:
So planning means no time wasted just pure pleasure .:dance3::dance3:
I also really enjoy the planning .:surfweb:

debsters41

03-24-2009, 06:30 PM

hmansure

03-24-2009, 09:39 PM

Hi Janet :goodvibes
I already have a budget in my head that I will go no higher than... I personally would like to have the discipline of having all my meals arranged because I know how my family can get....

I still wouldn't mind hearing about some off site choices, seeing as we are going to be there a whole other week:)

My sister recommends "Bahama Breeze" but I am just so afraid about my picky teenagers who have never eaten anything 'jerk' style....

I am planning on keeping an eye out for the half price entertainment books, too.

There is a Bahama Breeze near us... it's not too bad actually - my picky kids usually find something they like on the menu :rotfl: Good place for seafood and ribs are pretty good, too. You can get stuff jerk painted or just grilled.

debsters41

03-25-2009, 06:21 PM

There is a Bahama Breeze near us... it's not too bad actually - my picky kids usually find something they like on the menu :rotfl: Good place for seafood and ribs are pretty good, too. You can get stuff jerk painted or just grilled.

Thanks for the 411! ;)

debsters41

03-28-2009, 11:33 AM

Hi again all! Free Dining is out!:cool1: I of course am not a disney visa holder, being overseas, but my wonderful dreams agent has assured me that should the offer be made available to the general public, she will be right on it!:banana:

Carys

03-28-2009, 08:01 PM

Yes, hopefully it will open up in the next day or so to the wider public. I'll be taking advantage of it - we already have the bounceback free dining booked, but I need to change hotel, lengthen the stay and add my mum so I'm happy the free dining deal has turned up as widely expected. :cool1:

debsters41

03-30-2009, 08:28 AM

That means 10 days of gluttony! (six at Disney, four on cruise!) :lmao::cool1::banana::love::dance3::cheer2:

Carys

03-30-2009, 08:29 AM

And we're booked! 3-13 at POR with the discounted deluxe dining plan :cool1: Now to plan some sort of surprise for my mum on the first day of the cruise as it will be her birthday! Will definately have to get that birthday room decoration package with the cake and banner...

Young Pooh

03-30-2009, 08:46 AM

That means 10 days of gluttony! (six at Disney, four on cruise!) :lmao::cool1::banana::love::dance3::cheer2:

And we're booked! 3-13 at POR with the discounted deluxe dining plan :cool1: Now to plan some sort of surprise for my mum on the first day of the cruise as it will be her birthday! Will definately have to get that birthday room decoration package with the cake and banner...

Glad you both got it. We got it when they had the UK offer at the end of last year so we will have 15 days of feasting including the cruise - may need to buy an extra seat for the way home.:rotfl2:

Sandra, what about booking a spa treatment for your mum. It's a shame she will miss out on the WDW celebration gift but I am sure the cruise will make up for that. Have you noted her birthday on your reservations for both POR and DCL? I think if DCL know then they automatically do a cake in the restaurant on the night of her birthday and the waiters all sing happy birthday.

debsters41

03-30-2009, 03:58 PM

if we all arranged to meet on the first night of the cruise and sing happy birthday to your mom?? It would surely be a surprise, all these strangers wishing her a happy birthday!:rotfl::cheer2:

Young Pooh

04-03-2009, 05:59 AM

Well I bit the bullet yesterday and topped up our 2 prepaid Mastercards with some more $ - the rate had increased a bit due to the G20 thingy in London.
I now have enough in $ on them to pay off the cruise when it is due and not have to worry about what the exchange rate is on the day.

I keep checking out the DCL website for the current price as it has gone down slightly since we originally booked - we booked through DU so got it slightly cheaper than on the DCL website - the website is now the same price as we got from DU.

I checked the price a couple of months ago and it had gone right up - we could only get a cat 11 for the price we have for a cat 7.:scared1: It might be worth checking out to see if your price has gone down.

debsters41

04-03-2009, 06:04 AM

Hi again all!

About checking for a lower price, wouldn't DU do that for us automatically? I booked through them, so I am hoping that if the prices went down, the agents would tell us!

Young Pooh

04-03-2009, 06:17 AM

Hi Debs

Yes, DU do say that they check for price drops but being an obsessive planner I also check.:rotfl2:

Given the number of reservations they hold, I am not sure how often they check or what their system is.

Those that booked with DCL direct need to check themselves I think.

How's the planning going? Anymore changes or are you still sticking to the last plan?

We will have to start thinking a bit more about our FE exchange and meets (WDW and DCL).

happyj

04-03-2009, 07:14 AM

Hi all
I did not realise FE are so personnel.So I will have to take note on all who are joining in .
At the moment it is dining planning I am doing not long for the 90 days.
Janet

debsters41

04-03-2009, 11:03 AM

Young Pooh (Sue) + DH (Bill) + DD4 (Evie) [United Kingdom] <*XX><
Carys (Sandra) + DDad + DM [Taiwan + New Zealand] <*XX><
Shasess + DH + DD + DD [Carolinas]
Silmarg + DW + DD7 + DD10 + SIL + SILDH + SILDS8 [New York]
Debsters41 (Debbie) + DH + DD15 + DD13 [Greece]<*XX><
Happyj (Janet) + DH + DD20 [United Kingdom]stateroom 6542
Shellyr25 + DD + DS11 + DD10 [New Jersey]
Skiingwife (Melissa) + DH (Steve) + DS16 (Spencer) + DS14 (Alex) + DS11 (Nicholas) [Michigan]
Nadinenurse + DH + DD17 + DS16 [New York]<*XX><
Hmansure (Harry) + DW (Vicki) + DS14 (Tim) + DS10 (Jake) + DD5 (Keira) [New Jersey] <*XX><
Xolatinoxo + DH + DD15 + DS9
Love2pugs (Tracy) + DH (Nick) [Ohio] <*XX>< - Stateroom number 6616

This was the last update we had with the exchange list. I am not adding my stateroom number yet because hope springs eternal for an upgrade!:yay:

BishopFamily

04-07-2009, 01:14 AM

Hi everyone

We just booked this cruise.

We are actually on the 8/15 cruise on the Magic, then 8 days at WDW, and just decided to add this cruise at the after that. These would be our 10th and 11th cruises.

happyj

04-07-2009, 03:00 AM

Hi bishopfamily :wave:

debsters41

04-08-2009, 06:28 AM

Hello Bishop family! It is really saying something about DCL that you would choose to have one before and after your stay in Orlando! :cool1: How exciting for you!

BishopFamily

04-10-2009, 02:04 AM

well, there are no direct flights from PDX (Portland, Oregon) which is our closest airport. The flight to MCO takes about 8 hours plus we lose 3 hours for the time zone changes. I might as well do as much as possible in each trip.

Our last cruise was the back-2-back 15-night PC eastbound followed by the 5-night nassau+2 stops at CC. We missed one stop at CC because of weather but it would have been cool to be at castaway cay 3 times in the same week.

This is our 11th cruise with disney.

Anyone going to Atlantis (booking the comfort suite room option)? I've never done this but lots of people talk about it. I might be do it this time.

Carys

04-10-2009, 07:00 AM

Welcome aboard BishopFamily!

I'm not sure about the singing happy birthday to mum idea, I think she'd freak out for sure but unsure if in a good way, since she'll be jetlagged and tired from travelling in Europe beforehand!! :lmao::rotfl2: It's a very cool idea if pulled off, but I think it might be in the too hard and unpredictable basket!

I took a step toward fish-extenderdom today, with the purchase of various implements including *gulp* my first ever hot glue gun. Basically, not having a sewing machine, I'm taking a closet pocket hanger, covering it with winnie the pooh cut-outs from a cheap lime-green table cloth, and yellow ribbon and random sparkly things. I'll update with the final result when complete, but for now here are my raw materials!

http://i358.photobucket.com/albums/oo27/mouseearedkiwi/DSC05154.jpg