Girls Only Cocktail Sipping, Double Dipping Trip Report - COMPLETED...

[CustardTart]

Cast.
Me: Karen (a.k.a Kaz) 40-something. Loves all things Disney, a Kir Royale in Mizner's Lounge and spending DH's $$$...
Her: Sophie (a.k.a Soph) Slightly younger 20-something. Like her Mother, loves all things Disney. Like her Father, loves a Kir Royale in any Lounge and the exchange rate...

With only 4 weeks to go before Sophie and I return to the World, I thought I'd share some of the details of our upcoming trip. First of all, a little background... A few years ago, when my DD, Sophie, hit 21 and I crashed face first in 40, we decided that we should celebrate those milestones with a Girls Only trip together. After much brainstorming and Haribo StarMix we realised that, for us, the only place on earth was the Happiest Place on Earth and duly booked a vacation for May 2005 - a 3 night DCL cruise followed by a week in the Beach Club to experience the EPCOT's Flower and Garden Festival. To cut a long, rambling and rather girly story (of character photos, fine dining and excessive shopping) short, the trip was rip-roaring success and we promised ourselves another asap. Sadly life, university and finances got in the way but, finally, we were lucky enough to experience the delights of the Food & Wine Festival last October and enjoyed another top trip together!

But we really missed the Castaway Cay fix so when DCL released details of the 4 night Double Dip Wonder cruises for 2008, we knew we were just the ladies to spend a couple of days sunning ourselves on Serenity Bay so duly booked a stateroom and a Fly-Drive with Virgin as quickly as our fingers could type in the credit card numbers!! It also gave us the opportunity to try VWL (one of my home resorts) for the first time and to return to WDW at what remains our favourite time of the year...

Once again, my DD is paying her share and, as she had a fabulous year at work earning her first bonus (can you tell what a proud Mama I am?), we've opted to fly Virgin Upper Class!!! OMG I love this whole Mother thing - not only do I get to enjoy quality time with the most perfect travelling companion but I don't have to pay a penny to do so!!! I'm already savouring the prospect of sipping a Virgin Redhead in the Clubhouse whilst a beautician tarts up my tootsies...

So onto the itinerary:

Saturday May 3rd 2008: DH has kindly offered to drive us to LGW where we'll peruse the Duty Free emporiums and chill in the Clubhouse. I anticipate much Bellini-sipping over the Atlantic before we land in MCO and catch the Magical Express to VWL. Upon arrival, we'll explore the resort and maybe head for MK for a first whiff of WDW magic... Cocktail count: at least 2...

Sunday May 4th: The first park of this vacation is going to be the Hollywood Studios, so we're off there this morning to dip our toe into this particular den of Disney delights. Savour a Margarita at the Backlot Canteen... Can't dally too much as we need to get back and make ourselves pretty for our 9pm reservation at Victoria and Albert's! This will be Sophie's first V&A experience and I can't wait to see how much she loves it. We'll probably pop into Mizner's Lounge for a Kir Royale... Cocktail count: at least 2...

Monday May 5th: This morning we collect our hire car from the Dolphin and intend to hop to the shops for an early retail therapy fix. The plan is to flex our credit cards in Florida Mall and, for the first time, the Mall at Millenia! Neither of us have visited this up-market mercantile Mecca and TBH I can't wait!!! I know there's a handbag there with my name on it - just call me Chloe ...or Penny Prada ...or Daphne Dior... No ADR planned for today as we want to try an off-site restaurant for a change - possibly the Blue Martini Lounge at MaM... Cocktail count: at least 2 tho' as designated driver that will be of a Diet Coketail count...

Tuesday May 6th: Time to explore WDW and I'm desperate to get Sophie over to the Animal Kingdom so she can try my new fave ride, Expedition Everest! Also time for us to savour a Yak Attack cocktail... We have an 8.15pm Kona Cafe reservation and as well as enjoying a cocktail in the Tambu Lounge, I'm hoping to arrange a little surprise for my DD! My lips are sealed at the moment BUT I will divulge details at a later date... Cocktail count: at least 2...

Wednesday May 7th: I'm thinking today's the day we head off to Islands of Adventure/Universal Studios and squeeze one last visit out of our excellent value 2 year annual passes! Upon our return it'll be time to get ready for dinner at the Grand Floridian Cafe @ 8pm. I can't wait to order a glass of the Rosa Regale... Cocktail count: at least 2 - I'm relying on Sophie here...

Thursday May 8th: EPCOT and the Flower and Garden Festival today. Sophie and I both love EPCOT and the World Showcase is so stunning at this time of the year - must make sure we take lots of photos as we sample a selection of alcoholic beverages in and around the World... AKL and Boma @ 8.20pm... Cocktail count: at least 2...

Friday May 9th: This is our busiest day as we have booked the Adventure Segway Tour at Wilderness Lodge @11am. I don't know about my daughter, but I intend to chill at the resort this afternoon before preparing my piratical princess self for our 5.20pm ADR at the Liberty Tree Tavern Character Dinner Buffet. This is the start of our evening at Mickey's Pirate & Princess Party - another first for us... Cocktail count: not likely to be that high as "there will be no alcohol in the Magic Kingdom!" This quote is legendary in the Taylor household as it's what my DH was told by a CM when he asked for the wine list in Tony's many moons ago - I still giggle about it...

Saturday May 10th: The last full WDW day and I'm sad already! We'll possibly be up for an early morning trip to Hollywood Studios followed by a quick afternoon visit to the Animal Kingdom. We'll make sure we're packed and prepared for our departure before strolling to Artist's Point at 8.35pm for our final night dinner. Following dinner, we plan to pop over to the Magic Kingdom for a late night viewing of SpecroMagic... A fitting end to a fabulous stay in WDW... Sigh... Cocktail count: at least 2...

Sunday May 11th: This morning we'll be up bright and early in readiness for our drive to Port Canaveral where I've arranged yet another surprise!!! All I can say at the moment is watch this space!!! Get our photo taken as we board the Disney Wonder and experience the tingle as the Cast Member announces the arrival of the Taylor Family to the rest of the ship. Time for a little lunch at Parrot Cay (tho' we usually get directed to Beach Blanket Buffet) before heading to our stateroom and awaiting the arrival of our luggage. I'm hoping to arrange a little DISmeet in the Promenade Lounge before the lifejacket drill thingy and Sail Away but not sure how many takers there'll be. Ah well - another Razztini please barman!!! As it's Mother's Day in the US today, we've (OK, I've) decided to milk the celebration for all it's worth and have booked Palo's @ 8.30pm... Cocktail count: at least 2...

Monday May 12th: First stop at Castaway Cay. We'll head off to Serenity Bay before returning to try our hands at parasailing in the afternoon. Cocktail count: at least 2...

Tuesday May 13th: Nassau. Probably not going to get off the Wonder today but take advantage of the quieter pool area to sun myself and read a lurid crime novel. Hoping to get a stone massage at the Spa this afternoon but we don't want to miss the Wine Tasting session so I'm keeping my hectic schedule as free as possible... Cocktail count: at least 2...

Wednesday May 14th: Back to Castaway Cay. We've got the inimitable Palo's Brunch booked for 10.30am and I'm sure this will be the final highlight of this cruise! Again, this will be new experience for Sophie and just know she's going to love it... Bellies bursting, we'll saunter to Serenity Bay and drag a couple of chairs down to the shore line for a little sun, sea and sand solace!!! All too soon, it'll be time to head back to the Wonder for our last night... Cocktail count: at least 2...

Thursday May 15th: Up early to disembark and head back to Orlando for DTD check-In. Maybe we'll engage in a little last-minute shopping before driving to MCO, waving goodbye to our hire car and saying hello to the delights of the Delta Lounge... Before too long we'll onboard VS028, sipping Bellinis and snuggling down for as much sleep as we can manage before... Cocktail count: at least 2...

Friday May 16th: ...arriving at LGW! My DD is doing the usual straight off to work thing whilst I'll be driving myself and all our luggage back to Beckenham...

Th-that's all folks....

[nikkistevej]

Karen , this has got to be the best pre-trip report I've ever read!! I can't wait to read the post trip report!! Are you a writer, or were you in a previous life??:goodvibes

[kritter]

I love it Karen. I can not wait to read more....Kristin

[MephamKickliner09]

Karen-I can't wait to read more!!
~Samantha:cheer2:

[msteddom]

Wonderful Karen! Keep track of all the details for me. I'm three months behind you!

Melissa

[natalielongstaff]

Karen im sooooo jealous !! :rotfl2:

I just can't wait to take trips like this with my dd ...... sadly i will have to wait about 10 years.

Im looking forward to hearing more about your trip :thumbsup2

[Chilly]

Wonderful pre-trip report Karen! I hope you have a wondeful time and I cannot wait to read all about it on your return.

[mandymouse]

Aww Karen, this sounds like my perfect holiday, will you adopt me so I can come on these girly holidays ? :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

Great plans Karen, and I'm sure this will be an extra special trip ;)

I can't wait to hear all about your double dip Cruise, and when you're back I can book Palo (woohoo!!)

Have fun, I'll be thinking of you :thumbsup2

[jen_uk]

Sounds like a fab trip!! :banana: :banana: :banana:

[suzycute]

Looking forward to reading all about it!!

Have a fab time!

[Tammy Stringer]

Wow Karen - sounds like a fabulous trip.

Now if your daughter is ever unavailable to accompany you - please put me down for first reserve:rotfl: - I love your holidaying style

Tammy

[saratogagirl]

brilliant Karen, it sounds so perfect, I cant wait to hear all about it

[jjk]

sounds like you have a fabulous trip planned,looking forward to reading all about it:goodvibes

[Lizzybear]

All I can say is wow! I hope you both have a fantastic time, i'm sure you will :goodvibes

[Pinky166]

Wow Karen....that sounds amazing!

Can't wait to read more and find out what surprises you have in store for your DD. :goodvibes

[Beth__WDW23/6/02]

Oh my I am very jealous.
Sounds like a fantastic trip planned.:goodvibes
Cant wait to read more.:thumbsup2

[DisneyJo]

Sounds like a fantastic holiday, can't wait to do things like that with my girls :goodvibes

[Minniespal]

I just love the trips I take with my mum. Looking forward to reading more:thumbsup2

[mark&sue]

Sounds amazing. So love reading your reports and will be looking forward to reading all the instalments


susan

[arieljasmine]

Sounds like you have a fantastic trip planned, Karen. Looking forward to hearing what surprises you have in store for your daughter.

Laur's princess:

[jockey]

Great pre trippie :)

[CustardTart]

UPDATE!!!

Only one more sleep remains until Sophie and I storm the VA Gatwick Clubhouse demanding pedicures and Virgin Redheads - tho' not necessarily in that order. All documents are present and correct in their practical but pretty pink plastic A4 folder, the cases (resplendent with new Flying Club Gold tags) are ready to go and my dogs are on their way to kennels as we speak. It's almost here!!! So I guess it's time to spill the beans. You may recall earlier in the pre-trip report, I hinted at a couple of surprises I have up my sleeve for Sophie. As I'm confident she won't have time in her hectic schedule to check the DIS prior to leaving, I'd now like to share my secrets with you all...

Surprise Number One. So I have to confess that this isn't the usual Girls Only trip - because one of the Girls is actually a Boy!!! Fear not, gentle readers - there have been no sex-change shenanigans or trans-gender trickery in Taylor Towers! Let me explain. A couple of months ago, my DH was 99.99% decided he would be changing jobs and therefore taking advantage of the 3 months associated 'garden leave'. Intoxicated by the prospect of being (temporarily at least) a footloose and fancy free ex-employee, he begged me to join our trip and become a honorary 'ho' for the duration!!! Worn down by his perpetual pleading, I grudgingly agreed and added him to all our reservations. He's not flying out with us (something about "not missing Aston Villa's last home game of the season"...) but is joining the party on May 6th. Needless to say, Sophie has NO IDEA that her Pa's popping in and will be beyond excited to see him so I expect much supersonic squealing. Oh and for anyone who cares, DH didn't leave the company so actually has no garden leave after all. However he came up with a cunning plan and engineered a departmental change in the hope that no one's monitoring the number of holiday days he's used up so far this year. Bless...

So let's recap with a cast reminder...

Me: Karen (a.k.a Kaz) 40-something. Loves all things Disney, a Kir Royale in Mizner's Lounge and spending DH's $$$...
Him: Richard (a.k.a Dick) Slightly older 40-something. Loves a Kir Royale in any Lounge and the exchange rate...
Her: Sophie (a.k.a Soph) Slightly younger 20-something. Like her Mother, loves all things Disney. Like her Father, loves a Kir Royale in any Lounge and the exchange rate...


Surprise Number Two occurs a few days later when we head to Port Canaveral for the first Double Dip of 2008!!! When I originally booked this cruise, I had Sophie's budget firmly in mind and happily opted for the a Category 7 - the Navigator's Verandah stateroom. When Daddy Dearest decided to drop in, I felt we needed a larger stateroom and emailed my Travel Agent at Dreams Unlimited for info on what was available. Imagine my shock, delight, disbelief and general gob-smackedness when she revealed a Category One - yes, you read that correctly - was up for grabs. What can I say, I'm very grabby and I've now got the Roy O. Disney in my hot little hands!!! This is a one-off opportunity and I can't wait to enjoy the exclusive environment - I'm not 100% sure I'll be able to leave the suite when we return to Port Canaveral so check the Orlando Sentinal for headlines such as 'Crazy Brit Chick Chains Self to Roy O Disney's Bed' or 'Loony London Lady Lassooed to DCL Light Fitting'... But I digress. Sophie knows nothing of this development and I expect the noise level at the cruise terminal check-in to increase sharply as this surprise unfolds...

And there you have it. It's going to be a fantastic trip and I'm so happy to be sharing the experience with two of my favourite people. DH and I have never had a holiday with just our delightful daughter and this feels the perfect way to thank her for 25 years of outstanding offspringiness! Cheers, Sophie! We love you....

[tiggerwannabe]

OMG Kaz!!!!!! That's fantastic news!!!!

I am in awe of you at the moment my friend~

Please, please, please, take tons-o-pictures of the suite for me???

I am almost as happy that Dick is happy to be an honorary Ho ;) :lmao:

You guys are sooo cute~

I know you'll have an awesome time!

[mandymouse]

Karen, I am so excited for you. Thank you for sharing your little secret with me, I was really good, I didn't tell anyone :) I can't wait to see lots and lots and lots and lots (get the idea) of piccies of the Roy O. Disney Suite and I look forward to finding out how the first double dipping cruise goes

Have a fab time :thumbsup2

[PoppyAnna]

Have a lovely time Karen - cant wait to take girly trips with my girls (only about 15 years to wait).
Lovely news about Richard and the the Roy O. Disney Suite!
You go in style girl!
Beckenham will be a more boring place when you're gone ;)

[arieljasmine]

OMG, Karen, the Roy O Disney suite?! I want to hear every last little detail and loads of photos too! And great news that your husband is joining you for the trip :thumbsup2

Laur's princess:

[florida sun]

Wow!!Wow!!! Wow!!!!

I think I may have already missed you know, but you are going to have a wonderful trip and cant wait to hear all about it:goodvibes

[natalielongstaff]

Me and Mandy were talking about your trip yesterday.....have a great day checking in on the disney wonder Hun :hug:

[wilma-bride]

Wow Karen, I am beyond excited that you managed to snag the Roy O. Disney suite. Hope you have a fantastic trip and that your DH lives up to his role as honorary 'ho' :)

[mandymouse]

Karen, I am thinking of you, as you'll be boarding the Disney Wonder today. Have a fab Cruise, and I can't wait to hear all about it

[mandymouse]

Hey Karen

I hope you had a great sailaway. I was watching you on the webcams

Sorry the Port Canaveral webcam wasn't working, but here's a few for you

From the CocoaBeach webcam

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v491/MMM120/ship1.jpg

From twopalms

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v491/MMM120/ship2.jpg

I'll try and capture a piccie of you in Nassau tomorrow

Have a fab cruise :thumbsup2

[natalielongstaff]

Great pics Mandy :thumbsup2

[mandymouse]

Hey Karen

Well you said you were staying onboard the Wonder in Nassau, it looks lovely there today. I hope you're enjoying a Bahama Mama at the adult pool now (is 9.40am too early for a BM ?? :rotfl: )

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

Enjoy another day at Castaway Cay tomorrow :thumbsup2 and I hope you'll be making a start to your trip report at the weekend :rotfl2:

Enjoy the rest of your holiday :thumbsup2

[mandymouse]

I see you've arrived back at Port Canaveral

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

You'll be hearing that annoying announcement over the tannoy soon to let you know that you're able to disembark. I hope you've had a great time and that you've left some Bahama Mamas onboard for me for this Summer ;)

Have a safe journey home tonight Karen, and I can't wait to hear all about your trip

[mandymouse]

Hey Karen

I hope you're feeling OK :thumbsup2

Have you made a start on that trippy yet ? I'm dying to find out how your holiday went and to see some piccies :)

[CustardTart]

I'm just incredibly lazy, I'm afraid! I'll get on with it asap... ;)

[mandymouse]

I'm just incredibly lazy, I'm afraid! I'll get on with it asap... ;)

Thats OK Karen, as long as you're keeping well :hug:

I look forward to reading it ::yes::

[irongirlof12]

yes, get a shift on with the trippie!

[CustardTart]

Saturday May 3rd 2008:
Sophie and I arrived at Gatwick to see horrendous queues for the bag drop so decided to use the deserted Upper Class check-in line and let those helpful folk sort us out. Good idea - we were soon making our way through the Fast Track passport queue and heading straight for the Virgin Clubhouse. The Clubhouse was the busiest I've ever seen it as several flights were delayed (including ours) but we quickly found a couple of the retro comfy chairs and staked our claim before ordering breakfast.

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/WDW%202008/IMGP1286.jpg

With stomach's lined, it was time to sip a couple of the Virgin Redhead cocktails - OMG I love 'em - can you tell..?

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/WDW%202008/IMGP0013.jpg

Soon it was time to check-in for our complimentary pedicures. I went first and for some crazy reason opted for an over-the-top OPI orange shade!!! Mmm, let's just say tangerine tootsies aren't for me and I was pining for pink within 24 hours... Time ticked by - slowly enough for me to savour another couple of cocktails before our flight was finally called two and a half hours late!

The outward bound flights were superb - 6A/6K are wonderful seats and we received excellent service from the VA attendants. Food was good and the Bellinis even better! I rarely use the in-flight entertainment but prefer to bury myself in a good book and Friend Of The Devil by Peter Robinson worked well for me whilst Sophie opted for Joanne Harris' sequel to Chocolat...

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/WDW%202008/IMGP0016.jpg

And so the hours flew past. Despite enjoying a serious snooze, I managed to read most of my book before afternoon tea was served and finished it as we descended into Orlando International. I enjoyed seeing great views of the Florida coastline...

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/WDW%202008/IMGP0018.jpg

Immigration was a casual stroll-through, with our luggage ready and waiting for us as soon as we walked to the carousel. Magical Express was another breeze - I much prefer taking advantage of this method of transfer than picking up a hire car there and then. So Sophie and I clambered aboard, impatient to be off. We had to wait about twenty minutes before the bus finally pulled out of the parking area and headed for Walt Disney World. Our stop was second on the list so we sat patiently outside the Grand Floridian Resort, enjoying the spectacle of Cinderella's coach transporting a Fairytale Wedding couple around the grounds. Such a beautiful sight, it brought a tear to my eye tho' I wisely refrained from whining at my daughter how I wished she's get hitched at WDW! So I just waved at the happy couple and was delighted to receive a hand gesture in return - I think they were happy to see me..? Mmm, anyway, soon we were off again, and we both sat bolt upright, eager to catch our first glimpse of Wilderness Lodge...

The approach was wonderful! We even spotted a small deer at the side of the driveway before the bus stopped and we clambered off. After collecting our luggage, we headed to the lobby and checked-in. Wilderness Lodge is one of our home resorts and I can't tell you how happy that makes me. Prior to this stay, my fave on-site resort has always been the Polynesian but now I am in love with the Villas and definitely planning a return trip - looks like it'll have to be in 2010. After checking-in, we made our way to room 2511 with our wheelie cases, - a one bedroom villa with a small balcony overlooking the woods and pool area. Lovely! Sophie and I dumped our bags, freshened up and decided to head out to explore the resort. As we had the kitchen area, we decided to scope out the provisions available in the Wilderness Lodge Mercantile. Priorities firmly established, we opted for a bottle of white, a bottle of red and two half bottles of Baileys and Kahlua so Sophie could make her delicious variation on a White Russian - we were determined that our kitchen become a version of the concierge lounge we'd enjoyed in the past. We also popped into Roaring Forks for a couple of refillable mugs and servings of counter service food (burgers and salad) before heading back to the Villas to unpack, relax and enjoy a nightcap! More ice please, Sophie... Total Cocktail Count = 10!

[BRobson]

Woohoo a new trippie - Great start Karen :cool1:

I do love reading your trip reports :lovestruc

[jen_uk]

Great first day :thumbsup2

[CustardTart]

Sunday May 4th:

We had decided to make Hollywood Studios the first park of the holiday so were up and raring to go the next morning! I made some very poor coffee in the machine - think I'll stick with a refillable mug-full from Roaring Forks in future! We duly showered and made our way out of the Villas at a reasonable time, eager to board a bus. The temperature was perfect - hot but not humid with vivid blue skies and it felt good to have the sun on our faces. A bus quickly arrived and we sat in companionable silence as the bus headed off. Upon arrival, Sophie went to the Customer Services window to redeem her Annual Pass and purchase the Disney Dining Experience card. This all took moments and we soon we pushing through the turnstiles.

It's been a long time since we felt the need to take on the parks commando-style and nowadays much prefer to saunter around taking in the sights at a leisurely pace. With this in mind, we avoided the huge attractions - Tower of Terror and Rock n Rollercoaster. Instead, we focused on some of the less high profile activities - thoroughly enjoying The Magic of Disney Animation where we tried our hand at drawing Jiminy Cricket and Sophie had her photo taken with the main Mouse...

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/WDW%202008/IMGP0020.jpg

We also did the Studios Backlot Tour, Voyage of the Little Mermaid and sampled a signature cocktail in the Backlot Canteen. We both opted for a '180º Spin' - that's 1800 Margarita with Grand Marnier blended on the rocks to you...

After a brief browse of the retail opportunities, we whiled away a pleasant half hour examining the quirky artefacts in 'Sid Cahuenga's One-of-a-Kind' store - I saw so many fab original film posters (I collect them) that I had to really keep a firm hold on my credit cards - I didn't fancy trying to get anything shipped home. With purse strings tied tight, we made our way back to the bus stop and returned to the Villas. We whiled away an hour or so around the large quiet pool that was outside the Villas before returning to the room to wash and brush up in readiness for an extra-special evening of degustation and delight as we were off to Victoria and Albert's! We left our resort at 7.30pm and caught a cab to the Grand Floridian where we headed straight to Mizner's Lounge - one of my favourite haunts!!! We ordered a couple of cocktails from the lengthy list, a raspberry champagne for me and Sophie opted for some sort of martini - yummy!!! We had time for a couple of rounds before checking in at the Victoria and Albert's podium...

What an evening we had! This was Sophie's first V&A experience and it really didn't disappoint! The food was incr-edible (see what I did there?!) and we have our personalised menus to prove it.

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/WDW%202008/IMGP1479.jpg

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/WDW%202008/IMGP1481.jpg

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/WDW%202008/IMGP1480.jpg

We opted for the wine pairings to go with our food choices and, despite a promising "let's take it steady" start, we were well and truly stuffed n squiffy by the end! I'm not going to bore you senseless with our choices - truthfully, I can't remember! All I'm going to say is, if you think you might enjoy the experience and you have the chance to try V&A, go for it! I get to go to quite a few celeb chef/Michelin-starred restaurants (courtesy of DH's job) and the V&A is right up there as far as I'm concerned. The only difference is the value is outstanding! So it was that 3 hours later, we wobbled Wilderness Lodge-wards and crashed for the night... Cocktail Count = 6!

[CustardTart]

Monday May 5th:
Today our itinerary went to pieces! We woke up OK, but just couldn't get going so decided to have an early chill-out day! The weather was gorgeous. Perfect for lazing around the pool with frozen Pina Coladas and reading our books - tho' TBH Sophie just snoozed the day away!!!

After last night's food-fest, it took a l-o-n-g while for our bellies to rumble. Thus it was mid-afternoon before we decided to order room service as a late lunch/early dinner. So would that be dunch? Or linner?? Anyway, I realised we hadn't collected our hire car and was about to get ready only to discover that the Alamo office in the Dolphin closed at 4pm! Oh well, tomorrow then...?

Later, Sophie picked up a couple of DVDs from the WL store and we spent the evening watching Meet The Robinsons and sipping a Sophie Special... Cocktail Count - 4...

[Chilly]

YEAH!!! Trip sounds fabulous so far but I wouldn't expect anything less from you Karen. Can't wait to hear more.

[mandymouse]

Yay, another trippie :cool1: Great start Karen, all those cocktails sound delish ::yes:: I look forward to your next installment :thumbsup2

[Strommie]

Fabulous so far Karen! Love all your cocktail sipping, just my sort of trip :thumbsup2 We don't do the parks commando style anymore either. I much prefer wandering round and taking things slowly. Can't wait for your next instalment :yay:

[Tammy Stringer]

Great report so far Karen - what fun.

What's in a Red Head Cocktail in the Virgin Lounge?

Tammy

[UKDEB]

I missed this on its first outing (bad, bad moderator - of course I normally read all posts on this board :rolleyes1 ). I've been catching up with the pre-trippies and just have to comment on those ahead of starting to read the trip report proper.

Firstly (and I've said this before, but it's worth repeating), I just love your writing style. It's so descriptive, sucking you in and making you want to read more; it's charming and witty; entertaining...the list goes on.

Now, I'm not an envious person. I don't do jealousy, ever. I read the initial pre-trippy with nothing other than warm fuzzy feelings. The thought of you on Castaway Cay (my paradise on earth) - how lovely for you. Sipping cocktails in Mizners ahead of dinner at the best restaurant on property bar none - magical. Flying UC with Virgin (something we've only ever experienced courtesy of a free upgrade) - not the slightest twinge of a jealous bone.

Then I moved on to the last minute pre-trippy. Ahh, dh joining you - how lovely for you all. Oh, and look, an upgrade from Navigator's Verandah category to the Roy O Disney Suite. Well isn't that just... REWIND! THE ROY O DISNEY SUITE?! Let me tell you I have turned such a lurid shade of green that right now I could qualify as the DIS mascot! :rotfl:

I can't wait until you post that day's trip report. That's possibly a tad masochistic - I know you're going to do such a good job that I could be in danger of envy meltdown. And photos? That could be one step too far... ;)

Off to read the trippy now.

[UKDEB]

The Clubhouse was the busiest I've ever seen it as several flights were delayed (including ours) but we quickly found a couple of the retro comfy chairs and staked our claim before ordering breakfast.

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/IMGP1286.jpg
I'd always loved the look of this area, but never ventured inside it given that it was the designated smoking area. January was the first time we'd been in the Clubhouse since the smoking ban and we had this "room" to ourselves for most of our time in the lounge.

Total Cocktail Count = 10!
I like your style! :rotfl:

[UKDEB]

It's been a long time since we felt the need to take on the parks commando-style and nowadays much prefer to saunter around taking in the sights at a leisurely pace.
I'm so with you on this, Karen. I look back at how I used to be and realise what a nightmare it must have been for some of my travelling companions. Our upcoming trip in November will just be the two of us (only the second time Matt and I will have pulled this off in 18 trips) and we're so looking forward to just chilling out. Of course, we're sure to take in our favourite attractions, but that certainly won't be the priority.

After a brief browse of the retail opportunities, we whiled away a pleasant half hour examining the quirky artefacts in 'Sid Cahuenga's One-of-a-Kind' store
I love this store, as well as Starobilias at Dowtown Disney - both absolutely fascinating.

I get to go to quite a few celeb chef/Michelin-starred restaurants (courtesy of DH's job) and the V&A is right up there as far as I'm concerned. The only difference is the value is outstanding!
Again, I'm in total agreement. We've eaten at some fabulous, world-renowned restaurants and V&As truly is up there amongst the best.

[CustardTart]

Woohoo a new trippie - Great start Karen :cool1:

I do love reading your trip reports :lovestruc

Great first day :thumbsup2

YEAH!!! Trip sounds fabulous so far but I wouldn't expect anything less from you Karen. Can't wait to hear more.

Yay, another trippie :cool1: Great start Karen, all those cocktails sound delish ::yes:: I look forward to your next installment :thumbsup2

Fabulous so far Karen! Love all your cocktail sipping, just my sort of trip :thumbsup2 We don't do the parks commando style anymore either. I much prefer wandering round and taking things slowly. Can't wait for your next instalment :yay:

Thanks ladies! It's taken me a while to get started but now I've got my trip-report head on and it's all starting to come back to me... :goodvibes

[CustardTart]

Great report so far Karen - what fun.

What's in a Red Head Cocktail in the Virgin Lounge?

Tammy

I don't know for sure BUT I'm positive champagne and Bombay Sapphire gin feature... :rotfl: :rotfl2: :lmao:

Next time I partake (August) I will definitely write the ingredients down as it's sooo delish I'd like to attempt to recreate one - or several... ;)

[mandymouse]

Thanks ladies! It's taken me a while to get started but now I've got my trip-report head on and it's all starting to come back to me... :goodvibes

Hey, better late than never Karen ;)

I don't know for sure BUT I'm positive champagne and Bombay Sapphire gin feature... :rotfl: :rotfl2: :lmao:


:scared1: OMG, that sounds lethal http://bestsmileys.com/drinking/2.gif

[CustardTart]

...Firstly (and I've said this before, but it's worth repeating), I just love your writing style. It's so descriptive, sucking you in and making you want to read more; it's charming and witty; entertaining...the list goes on...

Awww, Debbie! You are too kind!!! :hug: I'm sooo happy (not to mention relieved) that you enjoy my self-indulgent musings... :goodvibes

...Oh, and look, an upgrade from Navigator's Verandah category to the Roy O Disney Suite. Well isn't that just... REWIND! THE ROY O DISNEY SUITE?! Let me tell you I have turned such a lurid shade of green that right now I could qualify as the DIS mascot! :rotfl:

I can't wait until you post that day's trip report. That's possibly a tad masochistic - I know you're going to do such a good job that I could be in danger of envy meltdown. And photos? That could be one step too far... ;)


I was trialing a new camera on this trip and I didn't really get to grips with it (suffice to say, it's going back!) so sadly I haven't taken anywhere near as many photos as I should've done. However, I did manage to take quite a few of the suite... ;)

[natalielongstaff]

:cool1: yay ! ive been out all afternnon and i get back to your trippie, fab start Hun

I can see you are going to drink me under the table in Cardiff :rotfl:

[Strommie]

I seriously can't wait for your next instalment, and more photos :thumbsup2

[CustardTart]

Tuesday May 6th:
I woke up to the sound of intermittent buzzing in my left ear. The bedroom was very dark and I lay there feeling disorientated. The LED display told me it was stupid o' clock so why, exactly, was I flippin' well awake?! I felt under my pillow and fished out my phone - sure enough I had a text message! It was DH informing me of his arrival at Gatwick - gee, thanks sweetie! As I settled back down the phone buzzed again - he was through security and in the Clubhouse. What does he want? A round of applause?? Tersely I pressed the 'off' button and snuggled down for some serious shuteye...

Later, much later, I turned the phone back on and waded through the text messages that took me, step-by-step, through his progress airside. Actually it was more about the lack of it, as his flight was delayed. However, by the time I sat quaffing coffee, he'd taken off and was no doubt in in-flight entertainment ecstasy. Using a complicated sum, I secretly guestimated his time of arrival and worked out we had several hours before we needed to be back in the room. So I asked Sophie if she fancied a little retail reconnaissance?! The sight of her shuffling speedily into the shower room gave me my answer and I adjourned to the en-suite to prepare my face for the day...

We caught the boat to the Magic Kingdom and picked up a bus to the Dolphin from there so we could collect the hire car. I had pre-booked an intermediate SUV but this was not available so the Alamo lady upgraded me to a 7 seater minibus!!! What????!!! Now I know we like to shop but purlease!!! TBH I nearly fainted - I was still an inexperienced Orlando driver and the phrase "minibus" greatly exacerbated my already knee-knocking nervousness. I imagined my tiny self, barely able to peer over the steering wheel of something akin to the Mystery Machine, enormous back end careering wildly out of control!!! But enough of my body hang ups... Anyway, I initialled the form in the appropriate places with shaking hands, took possession of the keys and waited for the valet to bring the monster truck around to the front of the hotel...

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Photos/060114-F-2185F-091.jpg

Except it wasn't a monster truck - or even what I would consider a minibus! It was just a Toyota people carrier that hugged the road (no careering back ends here) and was a pleasure to drive!

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/WDW%202008/2008-Sienna-3.jpg

So we were soon on the road and decided to head straight for the nearby Premium Outlets. OK, can I just take a few moments to wax lyrical about the excellent Orlando map created by Steve Munns?! I can? Excellent!!! The tourist map is quite simply inspired genius and I wish they were available for all my hoilday destinations. I only discovered his website earlier this year and it really enhanced our pre-holiday planning - let alone the actual in-situ driving experience. Buy one you won't regret it... Anyway, off we went. Before many minutes had elapsed, we were parked and limbering up for what I like to call 'The Outlet Mall Marathon'! Now I've found the Premium Outlet stores a hit and miss affair in the past but this time they definitely didn't disappoint! Sophie and I had a wonderful time and, as the hours passed, so our collection of shopping bags grew. And grew...

My favourite store on this occasion was the Gap outlet where I found a pair of lightweight cropped trousers that were very much my sort of thing - so I bought a pair in every colour! They also had a pretty broderie anglaise top which I nabbed in several colours. That was the good shopping. On a less successful scale, I'm ashamed to say I completely bottled it in the Fendi store. Despite falling deeply and passionately in lust with a dainty little red baguette bag that I knew to be an absolute bargain, I came over all cowardly in the credit card department and slunk out out the shop with just the assistant's business card in my clammy hands! Needless to say, I deeply regret it now but, ah well, there's always next time... ;)

When we could shop no more, Sophie and I staggered to the car and headed back towards WDW. But hang on a moment - is that a large CVS drug store I see before me??? It was so we decided to stop and stock up on huge pots of generic drugs!!! We spent ages in here. I don't really know why but I do recall buying a twin pack of microwaveable frozen savoury croissants and bottle of Pinot Grigio for less than $3!!! :confused3 Meanwhile I kept surreptitiously checking my phone to see if there was any news from DH. I was browsing the antacids when I received word that he was through immigration and about to board the Magical Express at MCO. I knew it was now time for us to return to the Villas and rounded up Sophie and our small trolley of delights. Checking out took a little while as we had (somehow) bought a ridiculous amount of stuff! Oh well, at least I now had a Sonicaire toothbrush charger and hot air brush to put in my Owners Locker... :lmao:

Burdened with our billion bags, we made it back to the room. Knowing who's arrival was now imminent, I was beside myself with excitement and had a couple of mad moments where I leapt around the living room!!! Fortunately my family are used to what they describe as my 'high-on-life' outbursts and Sophie didn't think there was anything out of the ordinary going on. She sat on the sofa, reading so I decided to try and follow her calming example. It wasn't easy so imagine my relief when, after I'd read the same paragraph for the tenth time, there came a knock at the door?! Thank goodness!!! "Who on earth's that?" hissed Sophie, irritably. I gave a confused shrug before gesticulating for to her to go and find out...

She looked through the peephole but couldn't see anything and cautiously opened the door... "I thought you'd need a couple of extra refillable mugs!" came her father's deep booming voice!!! And there he stood in the doorway, laden with luggage and a cheeky grin on his much-loved familiar face. He proffered the afore-mentioned mugs to our darling daughter who remained rooted to the spot. She seemed momentarily stunned before launching herself at DH and starting the supersonic squealing I had previously predicted!!! Richard dropped his cases and hugged us both as we were jumping around in the doorway. Realising we were making an exhibition of ourselves (so, what's new?!) I dragged DH and his baggage into the room. Sophie couldn't stop asking us questions: Did I know? When did we plan this?? How long ago had we planned this??? And so on. I answered her more pressing questions before asking Richard if he felt up to keeping our Kona Cafe ADR? He said he felt fine - apparently he'd glugged a a fair few glasses of wine with his lunch on the plane and then slept for around 5 hours! Mmm, classy... We headed down to the pier and caught a boat to the Contemporary so we could hop on the resort monorail to the Polynesian. This took somewhat longer than I'd anticipated and we had no time for a cocktail in the Tambu Lounge but had to immediately check in at the restaurant. We were given a pager and had just started walking to the shop when it went off. For some reason, it felt v-e-r-y cold in Kona Cafe which doesn't make for a convivial setting and the meal was the least enjoyable on-site experience I have had in ages! In hindsight I wish we'd opted for Ohana's but hey, it's easy to be oh-so wise after the event... Anyway, we ate up and tried a fruity cocktail or two before heading down to the lobby and catching a cab back to the hotel. Overall this was a bittersweet experience for me as I have long held the Polynesian Resort in high esteem and always appreciate any opportunity to spend time in it's environs. Tonight, however, I was less enchanted with the place - it just seemed so busy, noisy and cavernous! I was very happy to return to the more tranquil atmosphere of the Villas at Wilderness Lodge where Sophie rustled up a trio of White Russians and we settled down for a pre-bedtime discussion of what to do tomorrow... Cocktail Count = 9...

[kritter]

Karen,

Hi it is Kristin. I love reading your report and look forward to reading more it is AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[CustardTart]

Karen,

Hi it is Kristin. I love reading your report and look forward to reading more it is AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hey Kristin! :wave: Thanks for reading - glad you're enjoying it... :goodvibes

[mandymouse]

I was trialing a new camera on this trip and I didn't really get to grips with it (suffice to say, it's going back!) so sadly I haven't taken anywhere near as many photos as I should've done. However, I did manage to take quite a few of the suite... ;)

Oh what a shame, I hope you had some nice ones to remind you of your holiday :)

[Cocktail Count = 9...

What a great days shopping and a wonderful surprise for Sophie

These cocktail counts - are they per person ? :rotfl: :rotfl:

Another fab day, keep 'em coming Karen ::yes::

[CustardTart]

These cocktail counts - are they per person ? :rotfl: :rotfl:
Oh definitely!!! :rotfl2: :lmao: :rotfl: Cheeky!!! :eek: They're for all of us...

I think if I drank 9 cocktails in one day, I wouldn't be able to remember anything that happened - as it is, I struggle!!! :faint:

[mandymouse]

Oh definitely!!! :rotfl2: :lmao: :rotfl: Cheeky!!! :eek: They're for all of us...

I think if I drank 9 cocktails in one day, I wouldn't be able to remember anything that happened - as it is, I struggle!!! :faint:

I was just wondering :rolleyes1 :rotfl2: :rotfl2: It could've explained why you weren't very happy with your photos - y'know with your hands shaking :lmao:

[CustardTart]

Wednesday May 7th:
We'd gone to bed with a definite plan firmly fixed in our minds and hearts. Today was all about Universal Studios and we remained steadfast - despite being completely sucked in by a ridiculous film on the Lifetime Movie Channel called Deadly Relations. It starred a young Gwyneth Paltrow with Robert Urich as her murderous father! Basically he had been a war hero but found it hard to earn sufficient cash in civilian life. So he insured his daughters husbands for huge amounts then bumped them off - as you do! If I tell you that one of the hapless husbands included a pre-Friends Matthew Perry, you'll understand how riveting this drama was - maybe...? Anyway, back to reality. Despite such televisual temptations, we were ready in good time and out the door by ten. It was yet another beeootiful Orlando day and, as we stepped from the shade of the Villas into the sunlight, we all luxuriated in the warmth of the sun. It's definitely a feel-good factor I miss in lack-lustre London at the moment. So we piled into the Sienna, checked the map and drove off. It didn't take long down the I-4 and as this is my third time driving there in 8 months, I was pleased to feel the familiarity of the route. Sadly, this level of self-satisfaction didn't last as I managed to make a major fool of myself when parking the car. Oh well. It's not my forte... :rolleyes1

We usually make for the Islands of Adventure first but decided to opt for the original park on this visit. But first I had a little paperwork to attend to. We all have 2 year Annual Passes which are due to expire in August of this year, however I'd managed to lose both mine and Samuel's following our visit in December! Fortunately, replacing them proved to be very straightforward as I had photo ID for both Samuel and myself. And joy of joys - the replacement didn't have to have my photo on it!!! :woohoo:

We pushed through the turnstile and made for the Mummy! Last year I'd pre-purchased Front of Line passes for less than £11 per person but hadn't bothered today. Well, all I'm gonna say is there's a lesson learnt - if you can get them cheaply enough, those bad boys really make a difference! So we queued with the other mortals and after twenty minutes or so were reminded that "Death is just the beginning!!!" Oh how I love that ride - it's got everything from backwards rollercoastering to Brendan Fraser and so much more... :cloud9:

Next we tried the re-vamped Earthquake experience which has become Disaster! - a spoof-take on the disaster movie genre, starring the wonderful Christopher Walken. It has some great special effects mixed in with audience participation and a hilarious denoument. We all really enjoyed this attraction and look forward to returning in the not too distant future. Next, we moved onto the reason we were here - The Simpsons Ride! We are huge fans of the Simpsons and were huge fans of the Back To The Future ride so Universal had a lotta work to do as far as we were concerned! I'm not going to divulge much - suffice to say the queuing area is highly entertaining and the ride is simply fantastic!

By now we were getting hungry so decided to exit park one and try one of the restaurants on City Walk. We ended up at everyone's favourite, Margaritaville and had a fabulous lunch/dinner (Lunner? Dinch??) Sophie and Richard ordered a cocktail each whilst I stuck with the designated driver's Diet Coketail... Eventually we waddled off to Islands of Adventure so DH could get his thrill ride fix. We started off with the Spiderman attraction (as good as ever) whilst DH and I did Jurassic Park on our own. I haven't been on for a while and confess to getting more than a little creeped out by those naughty raptors... :eek:

We met up with Sophie and walked around to Duelling Dragons. I hadn't braved this coaster before - and I still haven't. Fingers crossed for Easter 2009, then! Richard went on alone whilst a beery single dad attempted to chat me up in the adjacent store!!! Eeeeuw!!! Fortunately DH was on and off quickly and we were able to scuttle away without too much trouble. What can I say? I'm a beery single dad magnet... ;)

Sophie and Richard decided they wanted to hit the Hulkcoaster so I took their bags and said I'd meet them in the Christmas shop. What a disappointment that store is after the wonderful DTD example! I struggled to amuse myself with the poor array of festive fancies but fortunately they were quick and we were soon quitting the park. We have had such good value out of those passes that every visit is a bonus so we are happy to pop in and out without having to ride everything. So we headed for the Sierra and, after carefully extracting the car from the space, I dutifully drove us all home again.

One of the (many) pluses about Wilderness Lodge is the vast amount of parking spaces at the resort. Last October, we stayed at the Yacht Club and I regularly struggled to find a space in the car park. No such worries here. I was even able to park the car in a shaded area before we pointed our tired feet in the direction of the lobby. Once inside, we picked up a room key for Richard and adjourned to the Territory Lounge for a post-park pick-me-up! I kept to my preferred raspberry champagne cocktail whilst the others drank I remember not what! We had a lovely evening chatting about the day plus topics as varied as US politics, house prices in London and the magic of the Glowtini ice cube - that's all I can remember anyway... Cocktail count = 11!!!

[mandymouse]

Another great day Karen. I'm looking forward to seeing Brendan Foster again ;) and riding the Simpsons ride for the first time in August ::yes::

[CustardTart]

...I'm looking forward to seeing Brendan Foster again ;)

Brendan Foster...?

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/images-5.jpg

...or Brendan Fraser...?

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/images-1-1.jpg

I guess you never see 'em in the same room.... :rolleyes1

[mandymouse]

Brendan Foster...?

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/images-5.jpg

...or Brendan Fraser...?

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/images-1-1.jpg

I guess you never see 'em in the same room.... :rolleyes1

OMG, what am I like ??? :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

One late night watching Lost, and my brain is frazzled :rotfl: :rotfl:

[CustardTart]

OMG, what am I like ??? :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

One late night watching Lost, and my brain is frazzled :rotfl: :rotfl:

Mandy, that's just brilliant!!! :lmao: :rotfl2: :rotfl: :rotfl2: :lmao:

[DisneyJo]

So many updates, sounds as though you're having such a wonderful holiday so far, you know how to do it in style don't you :goodvibes What a fantastic surprise for your DD!

[Strommie]

Yay some more fab instalments :yay: plus lots more cocktails :thumbsup2

[jen_uk]

Fantastic trip report, loving reading every bit of this :banana:

[CustardTart]

Thursday May 8th:
OK so I'm having a hard time remembering what we did today. I know Richard popped to Roaring Forks for copious coffee refills and a selection of breakfast platters for us to try - delicious! I'm pretty sure DH and I spent time by the pool plus I'm quietly confident Sophie went over to DTD for some shopping. Apart from that I can't be sure! I think Sophie returned with the second season of 'How I Met Your Mother' on DVD and we spent a ridiculous amount of time watching back to back episodes before getting ready to head out to the Animal Kingdom Lodge for our evening ADR at Boma...

We took a cab to the resort and were soon strolling through the awesome lobby. Now I was somewhat anxious about Richard's reaction as this was his first time visiting AKL. So what, I hear you cry!? Well, this is the guy who'd been so impressed by DVC's promotional material for Animal Kingdom Villas that he'd begged me for an add-on!!! Now I'm not the kind of woman to ignore a man's needs, so add-on we did. Right there and then... :eek:

But that was almost a year ago and men are such fickle creatures. But the Lodge's impressive lobby didn't disappoint and I watched my husband gaze in awe at the architectural features and artefacts. "Wow!" he whispered and I knew those dollars were well spent...

Sophie, Richard and I checked in at the Boma reception with a twenty minutes to spare and decided to spend some cocktail currency at the Victoria Falls lounge. We were just halfway through our beverages when the pager started flashing so we picked up our glasses and headed to the restaurant. Boma is a buffet and, as such, is all you can eat. Not surprisingly I found I could eat a lot! We ordered a bottle of delicious Pinotage that Sophie and I remembered trying at the South African wine tasting event last October. The food was incredibly yummy and we tried everything - sometimes twice! After the meal, Sophie explored the Zawadi Marketplace whilst Richard and I sat on one of the comfy sofas in the lobby. We requested a cab and within 5 minutes we were on our way back to Wilderness Lodge and bed. Zzzz... Cocktail Count = 3...

[suzycute]

Brilliant trip report - looking forward to the next intallments!! :thumbsup2

[jjk]

fantastic trip report,looking forward to reading more:goodvibes

[mandymouse]

It sounds like you had a lovely, relaxing day today Karen :thumbsup2

[natalielongstaff]

fab updates Karen :cool1:

I knew that those cocktail counts were NOT per person ;) :lmao:

[Chilly]

More updates YEAH! I LOVE THE MUMMY RIDE, I miss it so much!

[CustardTart]

I knew that those cocktail counts were NOT per person ;) :lmao:

Good girl! Some people (mentioning no names) are so silly... :rolleyes1 :rotfl: :rotfl2: :rotfl:

[mandymouse]

Good girl! Some people (mentioning no names) are so silly... :rolleyes1 :rotfl: :rotfl2: :rotfl:

Between the cocktail count and Brendan Foster - I'm a right numpty !!!! :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

[Tammy Stringer]

Great updates - can't wait for more.

Tammy

[arieljasmine]

Loving your trip reports, Karen, keep up the good work. I loved reading about your daughter's surprise when your hubby arrived :goodvibes

Laur's princess:

[CustardTart]

Friday May 9th:
I awoke bright n' early and sent Richard for more morning provisions from Roaring Forks - I knew there was a reason he was good to have along! No time for dilly-dallying however as we were all booked to do the Segway Tour at Fort Wilderness later that morning. We decided to drive to Fort Wilderness and catch the internal bus to get to the meeting point. Which is exactly what we did!

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/WDW%202008/IMG_0911.jpg

The Wilderness Back Trail Adventure was hosted by two great laid-back guys and we had a totally terrific tour! Sophie and I had enjoyed the Epcot Segway tour last October but this was Richard's first time - I loved watching his concentration as he steered the Segway through the cones and down a slope... So after a short safety film, a few practice manoeuvres and a rest room stop, we were off! Now this was a much more strenuous excursion than we'd previously experienced as we bounced, bobbed and buffeted along the trails. Again, I'm not going to go into too much detail - suffice to say, this exhilarating excursion is great fun and I can't wait until Samuel's 16 so we have an excuse to do it all over again...

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/WDW%202008/IMG_0913.jpg

After a couple of hours, we made our way back to the car and I drove to the Alamo desk at the Dolphin so we could add Richard onto the hire agreement. This hassle-free procedure took minutes and cost nothing - how often can you say that?! As we had nothing planned for the rest of the day until the Pirates and Princesses Party in the evening, it seemed like a great shopportunity had presented itself! So we returned to the Premium Outlets Mall as there were a couple of items wanted to pick up. Sadly I didn't go anywhere near the Fendi store :sad: but I did manage to buy a couple of pretty Coach bags as gifts for my girlfriends. Richard (not a natural shopper) spent waaay too long in the Nike outlet only to exit with a multi pack of trainer socks - sad really... :rotfl:

By mid-afternoon we were hungry and so it was time to do something we'd hardly ever done before - eat off-site!!! Courtesy of our tip-top tourist map, I was able to pinpoint a couple of feasible food outlets and we decided to try Red Lobster in the Crossroads shopping area! Good choice! As it was around 4.30, I doubted it would actually be open but it was and we had the most fabulous seafoody feast for so few dollars it seemed silly! Can't wait to return TBH... We also popped into a nearby liquor store and bought a bottle of Moet to take onboard for the Sail Away party - all in all a very satisfying afternoon...

Richard propelled us back to the resort where we prepared ourselves for the Pirates and Princesses Party with passion! Before long we headed out again, this time on foot to catch a launch to the Magic Kingdom. Dusk was falling and the skyline was a magical silhouette ...

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/WDW%202008/IMG_0878.jpg

Fortunately we didn't have to wait too long for a Friendship to show up and were soon chugging past the Contemporary towards Cinderella's Castle...

The evening started wonderfully well. We mingled with the crowds along Main Street, absorbing the atmosphere and savouring the oh-so familiar sights. I had the usual lump in my throat - what is it about this place that it can choke up such a cynical chick as myself...? Mmmm, anyway our feet were taking us to Adventureland and Pirates of The Caribbean - always a great start to any MK mission. We rode with Cap'n Jack a couple of times before heading to Big Thunder Mountain as the fireworks were starting. Riding BTMR continuously with pyrotechnics popping above your head is an absolute must-do IMO and we had a magical experience...

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/WDW%202008/IMGP0027.jpg

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/WDW%202008/IMGP0028.jpg

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/WDW%202008/IMGP0029.jpg

And that was where the evening's enjoyment ended for me. Next up, Splash Mountain. The three of us had a log to ourselves and we were soon heavily involved in following the plot and singing along... It was on that first short drop that I got a downright drowning! We are talking head to toe H2O!! A major marination!!! Oh how we laughed as we skipped off to scare ourselves silly in Haunted Mansion. I stopped laughing quite soon after as my sensitive skin started to feel increasingly irritated. Wearisome woman that I am, I have widespread severe psoriasis and despite attempting constantly to keep the condition under control, the most unexpected experience can cause a problem. I guess the chemicals in the Splash Mountain flume affected me adversely (tho' I've never experienced any such problem before) and, to cut a long, tedious and self-pitying story short, I'm still suffering several weeks later... :(

The evening was ruined for me and my general fed-up feeling was only exacerbated by the queue for Space Mountain (guys, we've paid extra, open up both sides of the attraction - PLEASE!!!) and a cockroach :eek: that got much too close for comfort as I waited on a wall for Richard to buy a bottle of water... :mad: We left just before midnight on a packed boat, my skin prickling and burning. Back in the room, I examined the damage and was horrified at the extent of the problem. Fortunately I had some cream with me. Unfortunately there wasn't much remaining. In an attempt to lift my seriously slumping spirits, Sophie made us all a night-cap and we retired to bed... Cocktail count = 4...

[mandymouse]

:hug: Oh what a shame your lovely day was ruined like that - I hope it didn't affect the rest of your holiday

Did you dress up for the Princess & Pirate party ?

[PoppyAnna]

Oh Karen, sorry you had a psoriasis flare-up, my best childhood friend had it and I know it used to get her down.
My Poppy was born with Eczema and it made her a miserable ickle baby, especially the four times a day cream up sessions! Luckily, at 18months it just disappeared.
Skin conditions can be really horrible.
Your trippie is entertaining from the start, I am waiting to hear your next installment - hopefully a good night sleep and all will be well.

[CustardTart]

Saturday May 10th:
I decided upon waking that, whatever the state of my skin, I was not going to let it ruin our last full WDW day! I purposefully proposed a "Three Parks In One Day" (TPIOD) plan which the others seemed to agree with - I don't know about you but I always assume a grunt signals acquiescence...

We showered and dressed before dashing out to catch a bus to Animal Kingdom. The rules of TPIOD demand that at least two headlining rides are enjoyed at each park and with that in mind we made our way swiftly to Expedition Everest to pick up a Fast Pass before joining a short queue at the Dino-Institute. Once again we successfully brought back the Iguanodon and before long were out in the fresh air and deciding to take a chance on Primeval Whirl! This was bone batteringly brilliant and we arrived back at EE ready to take on the Yeti! Richard and Sophie hadn't been to AK since the summer of 2006 and could barely remember this ride. I, on the other hand, had ridden it three times in succession with Samuel last December! Woohoo! Bring it on!! Within minutes, we boarded the train. Unfortunately, a rather large last minute single rider got in next to Sophie and not only squashed her but also attempted to engage her in conversation! Poor girl! Still, we all agreed the ride was fantastic and if we hadn't been on a marathon multi-park mission, we'd have picked up another round of Fast Passes... But time was ticking. We walked to the bus stops, intending to get on whichever carriage came first. And as a "Hollywood Studios" hot-rod was waiting, that's where we went next...

Once inside, we quickly conquered the Tower of Terror and Rock n Rollercoaster! And so it was that within the hour we were on a boat, EPCOT-bound...

I love entering EPCOT at the World Showcase entrance - I don't know why, it's just so tranquil and nothing like what you expect from a theme park. But then I love the World Showcase and visiting during the Flower and Garden Festival is always a treat... So we strolled to France and decided to enjoy a couple of drinks along the way. I opted for champagne - I bet that surprised you! Richard ordered a glass of red whilst Sophie decided to try the Grey Goose slushie! Delighted with our choices, we wandered the World, watching street performers and savouring the sights and smells of the F&GF...

Suddenly peckish, thoughts turned to food and, as we were in Morocco, the consensus was to try the Tangerine Cafe. Oh my - the food here was so yummy! I definitely want to go here again...

But Italy was inviting us over, so we jumped Japan and side-stepped the States! I had a purposeful glint in my eye as we made our way into La Bottega. For there, in all it's glory, lay bottle after bottle of the truly remarkable Rosa Regale Brachetto d'Acqui - that's sparkling wine to you!

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/WDW%202008/IMGP1482.jpg

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/WDW%202008/IMGP1484.jpg

Now, dear reader, it's time for me to get serious. Please raise your right hand and repeat after me: "I swear on the DIS that the next time I go to the World Showcase, I will glug a glass of Rosa Regale!" Well done - I'm sure you won't regret it. Anyway, this is a delicious deep red bubble-fest that is tastes like the best champagne cocktail. Bizarrely I have had no joy locating it here in the UK so I bought a bottle in "Italy" and it sits in my pantry as we speak - I'm intending to pop the cork on my birthday...

Richard had never tried this nectar before but was so impressed he suggested another round and we sat in the sun, enjoying both the spectacular gardens and The World Showcase Players performing Romeo & Juliet... But hang on - what about the rides?!!! In a Maelstrom minute we had finished our flutes and were nearing Norway, having jumped Germany and eschewed China. I always get the giggles on Maelstrom - it's something to do with the facial hair, I think... :rotfl2: Anyway we ducked the film and marched straight to Mexico for the Gran Fiesta Tour Starring the Three Caballeros - I just love the bit when you sail past the San Angel Inn - I can't stop myself from wildly waving at the diners... ;)

Before long, we found ourselves in Future World where Sophie and I introduced Richard to Club Cool! He sampled everything before pronouncing Beverly his favourite - it's his Italian genes, I guess... We checked the waiting times for the remaining attractions and everything was crazy so we decided that, to conclude our whistle-stop tour, we'd visit the re-vamped Spaceship Earth. Which we did and loved! From the dulcet tones of Dame Judi Dench to the interactive time-machine! All agreed this was a grand way to end a great day as we walked slowly to catch the bus back to base...

We spent a pre-dinner hour packing before ambling to to Artist Point for the final WDW meal of this vacation. We managed to squeeze in a round of Kir Royales before being seated and examining the menu. I particularly like this restaurant, not least because it has an excellent Pacific North West wine list and yet again it didn't disappoint. During the meal, conversation turned to the up-coming cruise and Sophie began speculating what the Navigator's verandah would be like...

Richard and I looked at each other and he nodded, so I said, "I don't think you're going to find out!" Sophie eyed me quizically and asked, "Why?" "We-elll," I began and proceeded to explain that actually we weren't going to be in a Category 7, 6, 5 or 4. "A suite?!!!" she spluttered and we nodded. I was going to leave it there but I'm ashamed to confess that once the blabbing starts it's impossible to stop so...

"Not just any suite - the Roy O Disney suite, baby!!!" I shrieked!!! And we all started whooping, much to the amusement (I hope) of the staff and diners alike! "I can't believe it!" our daughter declared repeatedly - and she couldn't. Especially the part where I'd managed to keep my lips well and truly zipped for almost 4 months! Actually, I find that tough to take in but, hey, it's gotta be good when you can still surprise yourself after almost 45 years... :rolleyes1

Buzzing with booze and cruise news, the three of us strolled around Wilderness Lodge for one last look at the resort before returning to the room for a final night-cap... Cocktail count = 7...

[CustardTart]

..Did you dress up for the Princess & Pirate party ?

We just wore our Pirate Night tops, Mandy - tho' we saw plenty of people in full regalia! And the number of grown-up 'princesses' was something of a surprise... ;) :rolleyes1

...Your trippie is entertaining from the start...

Thanks, Joanne - just glad you're enjoying my self-indulgent ramblings... :goodvibes

[UKDEB]

I've had that experience with Splash twice now. The first was during a MNSSHP night. I was strongly opposed to making it the first ride of the evening, but I was outnumbered 7:1. Sure enough, as I'd predicted, I got drenched, but I made them all suffer. Moaned all night long.

More recently, during a trip with the Stringers and the Oklahoma contingent (precisely which trip escapes me), I'd threatened to pull a major tantrum if my painstakingly straightened hair became even slightly damp. No prizes for guessing that I got wet in places I didn't even know I had places (head to toe H2O - love that! :rotfl: ). Mr K Stringer of this parish has video footage of me in stitches of laughter as the ride draws to a close. He also has video footage of the rest of the party in stitches of laughter later in the day at my Crystal Tips impersonation. Luckily, I seem to have escaped the psoriasis gene in our family. My brother inherited the entire quotient.

[mandymouse]

["I swear on the DIS that the next time I go to the World Showcase, I will glug a glass of Rosa Regale!"

So before I swear on the Dis, tell me Karen, is this a sweet drink, like the Mimosa's from Palo, as I'm not really a champagne lover. I always have an Asti Martini in Italy, which Paul usually faints at the price of :rotfl2: :rotfl2: so will I need some oxygen for him at the price of this too ? :rotfl: :rotfl:

A great day, I'm pleased that your condition didn't stop you enjoying your day. I love Epcot too, and the food in the Tangierine Cafe is delish :thumbsup2

I can't wait to hear about the Cruise, I hope you've got lots of piccies

Thanks again for sharing Karen ::yes::

[UKDEB]

I've been known to partake of the odd Rosa Regale or three. Mind you, the same could be said of most of the alcoholic beverages on offer around World Showcase. :rolleyes1

Try as I might (and I'm trying pretty damn hard), I can't begrudge you your moment of revelry in the big reveal. I'm sure the green-eyed monster will be back in fine fettle once you actually reach the ROY O DISNEY SUITE! Man, it's painful just to type it. Seriously, this is the bit I'm looking forward to. Regular embarkation is exciting enough, but it must be so thrilling to board as a genuine VIP. I hope they made a BIG fuss.

[CustardTart]

So before I swear on the Dis, tell me Karen, is this a sweet drink, like the Mimosa's from Palo, as I'm not really a champagne lover. I always have an Asti Martini in Italy, which Paul usually faints at the price of :rotfl2: :rotfl2: so will I need some oxygen for him at the price of this too ? :rotfl: :rotfl:

OK Mandy, it's you I really want to try this as it's actually quite sweet - definitely more of an Asti than a Champers! :thumbsup2 I can't recall the price - I'm afraid the prospect of a glass plays havoc with my mental faculties... :crazy:

[mandymouse]

OK Mandy, it's you I really want to try this as it's actually quite sweet - definitely more of an Asti than a Champers! :thumbsup2 I can't recall the price - I'm afraid the prospect of a glass plays havoc with my mental faculties... :crazy:

:rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

"I swear on the DIS that the next time I go to the World Showcase, I will glug a glass of Rosa Regale!"

OK Karen, I'll give it a whirl, and I promise to have one when I'm in Epcot in August and I'll raise my glass to you ::yes::

[CustardTart]

I've had that experience with Splash twice now. The first was during a MNSSHP night. I was strongly opposed to making it the first ride of the evening, but I was outnumbered 7:1. Sure enough, as I'd predicted, I got drenched, but I made them all suffer. Moaned all night long.

More recently, during a trip with the Stringers and the Oklahoma contingent (precisely which trip escapes me), I'd threatened to pull a major tantrum if my painstakingly straightened hair became even slightly damp. No prizes for guessing that I got wet in places I didn't even know I had places (head to toe H2O - love that! :rotfl: ). Mr K Stringer of this parish has video footage of me in stitches of laughter as the ride draws to a close. He also has video footage of the rest of the party in stitches of laughter later in the day at my Crystal Tips impersonation...

Usually it's my eldest DS who gets 'Splashed' - I can't begin to count how many times I've laughed and pointed at his plastered pathetic figure! Ah well - that'll learn me... :headache:

...Luckily, I seem to have escaped the psoriasis gene in our family. My brother inherited the entire quotient.

Only good thing my end is I don't see any signs of it on the children - yet. I was 15 when it started so I'm crossing everything I've got that my youngest DS (he turned 15 on Sunday) has a flake-free existence...

And on that note, time to exit as I'm off to see the dermatologist at the Sloane Hospital - it's so bad at the mo I have no alternative but to go back on methotrexate... :(

[CustardTart]

:rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

"I swear on the DIS that the next time I go to the World Showcase, I will glug a glass of Rosa Regale!"

OK Karen, I'll give it a whirl, and I promise to have one when I'm in Epcot in August and I'll raise my glass to you ::yes::

:thumbsup2 :thumbsup2 :thumbsup2

[Tammy Stringer]

Suddenly peckish, thoughts turned to food and, as we were in Morocco, the consensus was to try the Tangerine Cafe. Oh my - the food here was so yummy! I definitely want to go here again...


Now, dear reader, it's time for me to get serious. Please raise your right hand and repeat after me: "I swear on the DIS that the next time I go to the World Showcase, I will glug a glass of Rosa Regale!"

I love the food in the Tangerine Cafe and I'm looking forward to trying a glass of Rosa Regale next visit.

What a great day you had and well done for managing it all when you must have felt sore from your reaction to the water in Splash.

Can't wait to read all about your wonderful suite

Tammy

[arieljasmine]

I can sympathise on the skin, Karen. I am a long time eczema sufferer and water can be particularly nasty for my skin too, especially salt water. I hope it didn't spoil the rest of your trip - I had trouble with the recycled water on the cruise (but it wouldn't put me off going again). I am so excited to find out more about the Roy O Disney suite!

Laur's princess:

[KayleeUK]

Just catching up :) Great trippie.

[BRobson]

Loving your trippie Karen :lovestruc I will definately partake in a glass or two in Italy. My best friend is coming out to WDW a week after us and we are having an evening in World Showcase ( it was probably your last trippie that gave me the idea)

Cant wait to hear all about the cruise ::yes::

[DisneyJo]

What a great idea to do 3 parks in one day, sounds like you got tons done :)

[CustardTart]

I love the food in the Tangerine Cafe and I'm looking forward to trying a glass of Rosa Regale next visit...

I would expect nothing less, Tam! :goodvibes BTW if you're a chocolate lover, have an accompanying little Italian dark choccie - delish!!! :worship:

[tony64]

Hi Karen
Just catching up on your report, doesn't look like our paths have crossed so far on this trip, but there's still time.

[CustardTart]

I can sympathise on the skin, Karen. I am a long time eczema sufferer and water can be particularly nasty for my skin too, especially salt water. I hope it didn't spoil the rest of your trip - I had trouble with the recycled water on the cruise (but it wouldn't put me off going again). I am so excited to find out more about the Roy O Disney suite!

Laur's princess:

Thanks, Laur's! :hug: Sorry to hear about your eczema - it's no fun is it!? Out of interest, have you found it any worse during pregnancy?

It definitely didn't affect the rest of my trip too much - I may have the occasional down day but I never let my skin hamper my holidaying! :rotfl2:

[CustardTart]

Just catching up :) Great trippie.
Thanks Kaylee... :goodvibes

Loving your trippie Karen :lovestruc I will definately partake in a glass or two in Italy. My best friend is coming out to WDW a week after us and we are having an evening in World Showcase ( it was probably your last trippie that gave me the idea)

Cant wait to hear all about the cruise ::yes::

Good girl! :thumbsup2 Glad I could help... :rolleyes1

What a great idea to do 3 parks in one day, sounds like you got tons done :)

Would you believe Sophie and I did the original (and some might say the best) Four Parks in One Day back in 2005!!! :scared1:

[Chilly]

Just catching up. Love the sunset photo. Sorry SM put a dampener on your night. Your TPIOD adventure sounded great, must try for the FPIOD next time I go. Can't wait to hear about the cruise.

[arieljasmine]

Thanks, Laur's! :hug: Sorry to hear about your eczema - it's no fun is it!? Out of interest, have you found it any worse during pregnancy?

It definitely didn't affect the rest of my trip too much - I may have the occasional down day but I never let my skin hamper my holidaying! :rotfl2:

Thanks, Karen :hug: I was concerned about it being bad as I am not allowed to take any antihistamines (which I used to take every day) but I have been pretty lucky so far. In fact I was even a bit spotty at first which was a novelty for me :rotfl2: Glad to hear that your skin didn't spoil your enjoyment.

Laur's x

[CustardTart]

Sunday May 11th - Part 1:
The day began, like so many others before it, with hot coffee and a scramble for the shower. Once we were rinsed and robed, It didn't take long to finish off our packing or secure the big purple Owners Locker which was duly despatched into the care of Bell Services to await collection. I ensured we had all the appropriate DCL paperwork to hand before sending Richard off to bring the car round. Sophie and I had one last lingering look around the wonderful one bedroom villa before following DH down with a our wheelie cases...

And so we waved a wistful 'au revoir' to Wilderness Lodge - we'll definitely back! Well, as soon as we accumulate enough points, we will... :rotfl:

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/WDW%202008/IMG_0902.jpg

But right now Port Canaveral was calling and we made a beeline for the Beachline Expressway... The journey was uneventful - smooth and swift, taking just about an hour. We soon saw the Wonder on the horizon and before long we were dropping off our appropriately tagged luggage and parking the car. There was a short queue to get through security but it didn't take too long and were soon approaching the small red-carpeted check-in for Concierge guests...

A Cast Member immediately called us over and within minutes our paperwork was complete and we were being ushered through a roped off section which allowed us to by-pass the queue and enter the Mouse Ears immediately. We had the customary picture taken (not sure why I look so bonkers!)...

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Cruise%202008/sc000fc973.jpg

...before finally boarding the Wonder and being announced! "The Taylor Family" had most definitely arrived!!! We were surprised to discover that our suite was all ready and waiting for us - even though it had only just gone midday! So without further ado we made our way to Deck 8 and stateroom 8350...

This was my third DCL cruise - first time Sophie and I stayed in a Category 9 on the 2nd floor whereas last September Richard and I enjoyed a Category 3. I guess I expected this suite to be a variation on the Category 3 - bigger and more imposing perhaps, but a Category 3 at heart. Actually it wasn't. At all...

To be continued... ;)

[arieljasmine]

Arrrggghhh, Karen, how can you leave it there?! I am desperate to hear all about the suite!!!!!!

Laur's princess:

[CustardTart]

I know, I know! I'm just waiting for Photobucket to upload a few more photos!!! Patience, my dear... ;)

[mandymouse]

[. We had the customary picture taken (not sure why I look so bonkers!)...

I'm not saying a word :rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl:

Yay ! This is what I've been waiting for, I can't wait to read some more ::yes::

[CustardTart]

I'm not saying a word :rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl:


Dontcha think it's very brave of me to post such a horrid photo!!! :lmao: :lmao: :lmao:

Yay ! This is what I've been waiting for, I can't wait to read some more ::yes::

Not long now, Mandy! Tho' PBucket is being incredibly s-l-o-w... :faint:

[mandymouse]

Dontcha think it's very brave of me to post such a horrid photo!!! :lmao: :lmao: :lmao:

Not long now, Mandy! Tho' PBucket is being incredibly s-l-o-w... :faint:

What's wrong with the photo ? It's not a bad one :thumbsup2

C'mon photobucket, don't you know that I'm here with a cup of tea, waiting for the next installment !! ;)

[CustardTart]

Sunday May 11th - Part 2 (the one with the photos...):
We swiped one of our gold KTTW cards and opened the door. First impressions were of a dark highly polished wood-panelled corridor leading to a lounge area...

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http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Cruise%202008/IMGP0039.jpg

A framed photo of Roy O Disney hung on the left wall above a ornate marble console table...

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A door to the cloakroom was on the right...

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Cruise%202008/IMGP0036.jpg

Further down were doors to the master bedroom closet on the left and the butler's pantry on the right. The lounge are was bright, spacious and attractively furnished...

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Cruise%202008/IMGP0047.jpg

It was split into three sections - the dining area...

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Cruise%202008/IMGP0052.jpg

...seating area with gorgeous inlaid marquetry...

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Cruise%202008/IMGP0045.jpg

...and the main TV/DVD watching, board game playing, Navigator perusing area...

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Cruise%202008/IMGP0051.jpg

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Cruise%202008/IMGP0050.jpg

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Cruise%202008/IMGP0046.jpg

...and wet bar...

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Cruise%202008/IMGP0048.jpg

The Master Bedroom (adjacent to the seating area) was plush and luxurious...

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Cruise%202008/IMGP0040.jpg

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Cruise%202008/IMGP0043.jpg

...the en-suite bathroom boasted double sinks, a whirlpool bath, separate shower - even a retro Sony portable TV!

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Cruise%202008/IMGP0062.jpg

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Cruise%202008/IMGP0061.jpg

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Cruise%202008/IMGP0060.jpg

Meanwhile, the twin bedroom (adjacent to the dining area) was cosy and had it's own walk-in wardrobe and en-suite...

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Cruise%202008/IMGP0054.jpg

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Cruise%202008/IMGP0055.jpg

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Cruise%202008/IMGP0053.jpg

The balcony was big - great for relaxing on...

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Cruise%202008/IMGP0070.jpg

...and we could even see our car!

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Cruise%202008/IMGP0071.jpg

Overall, the attention to detail was amazing and the high quality interior was a delight to this Art Deco fan - just look at this exquisite cornice... :love:

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Cruise%202008/IMGP0057.jpg

[mandymouse]

What can I say Karen ? "WOW !!" it looks amazing

I'd probably feel embarrassed to bring my old, battered, well travelled suitcases into that fab suite, so I'd probably feel a bit out of my depth with the poshness of it

Though if I won a Cruise staying in there - I wouldn't say no ::yes::

Great photos and a great room too :thumbsup2

[arieljasmine]

OMG!! That looks so amazing - I am ashamed to say that I was sat here in the office with my mouth open at that bar, and the whirlpool bath! Thanks for sharing your piccies so quickly, looking forward to reading more.

Laur's princess:

[CustardTart]

Sunday May 11th - Part 3:
Once we'd explored the suite, we decided to head upstairs to the Beach Blanket buffet for a quick bite and a cocktail of the day (Bahama Mamas for three please!) before meeting up with the Concierge team in Diversions... Jerome and Tawanda were charming guys and quickly reserved a wine tasting slot for us in addition to confirming all our other reservations. This is where we probably don't make as much use of concierge as maybe we could - we're independent, can-do, sort-it kinda people who've pre-booked everything online weeks in advance so there's never much we absolutely need to make our vacation pass smoothly by. Except for one thing. One small thing. One tiny, easy to obtain and deliver to a room with minimal fuss and effort thing. I'm talking about ice. You know, frozen water?! ;) In the concierge meeting, we were asked if there was anything we needed. Mindful of the bottle of Moet nestling in my hand luggage, I asked Jerome if we could get an ice-filled ice-bucket (with ice in it) delivered to the room asap. "Of course," he said. "Right away," he said. "Great!" I said and we stood up, shook hands and dashed from Diversions to the Promenade Lounge in order to meet up with whatever DISers popped by. We thought no more about the ice - tho' we were a little puzzled to notice the absence of a bucket of the stuff when we went to grab our life jackets for the drill. Richard rang the concierge desk and left a message. "Ice would be nice!" he said... Drill over, we returned to the room, just about ready to crack open that bottle of fizz. No ice. :faint: (I love that smilie!) Fortunately, I'd had the brains to wedge the bottle into one of the mini fridges earlier and it was adequately chilled. We tried one more time to obtain an elusive bucket but got bored with the hassle - maybe if we'd had more than one bottle of champagne, but we didn't so we let it go... :headache:

But back to the good stuff. Remember when I said we'd popped into the Promenade Lounge to meet any unsuspecting DISers? Good! Glad to see your paying attention... ;) Richard, Sophie and myself plonked ourselves down in what we considered to be a prominent seat and ordered Kir Royales all round! It was a little before 3pm and we couldn't see anyone else - quite frankly the place was deserted! So we settled in with our drinks and starting chatting amongst ourselves - never let it be said that the Taylors don't know how to talk! Time ticked by and it became obvious no one was coming - TBH I hadn't really expected much of a turnout but I'm always happy to be in the Promenade Lounge so I just sat back, enjoyed my fizz and my family... Suddenly, a lady approached us. "Are you CustardTart?" she asked cautiously. I agreed I was and so it turned out that a group of DISers were sitting in the corner - I couldn't see them due to the cursed combination of a high-backed banquette and a short-necked Kaz! Seems they weren't sure it was me because of the presence of a third party male on what was supposed to be a girls only gathering!!! :rotfl:

For some reason, I chose that moment to accidentally smash my half-full glass of Kir, creating an embarrassing stir in the Lounge! And Sophie wonders where her clumsy genes come from..?! So we left our sticky, littered-with-glass-shards table and joined the slightly larger group! Melissa from Seattle was the lady who had approached us and also in situ were Jojo and her husband and son, fellow Brits from Newcastle! So we sat and chatted for a while. Melissa and her family were enjoying the cruise courtesy of the Make-a-Wish foundation - here's (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1804638) a link to her trip report...

All too soon it was time to pick up our life jackets and head to the deck for the drill. We accomplished this with minimal bother and maximum efficiency - apart from the fact that I unintentionally gave Sophie a child's life-jacket! Honestly, the fuss she made! What can I say, there were about a million piled up in the pantry area of the suite and I just grabbed the nearest... Anyway, she looked hilarious and once I realised the mistake, I couldn't stop laughing! Actually, I'm laughing now - it's always the little things... :rotfl2: We were speedily released by the crew and ran back to Roy, eager for chilled champagne and petits fours! I don't mind telling the world that I love chocolate covered strawberries and there were quite a few on the little tiered plate that afternoon... So we clinked glasses, ate a choccie strawberry or two and perused the Navigators some more until Sail Away...

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Cruise%202008/IMGP0066.jpg

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Cruise%202008/IMGP0078.jpg

...which was fab! We saw plenty of pelicans and dolphins as we majestically sailed to the Atlantic Ocean. Sadly, we could also see a wild fire burning in the distance...

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Cruise%202008/IMGP0069.jpg


But life's too short to stand and stare - so we decided to go and - er - wander the Wonder! Actually it wasn't so much a wander as a full blown shopping expedition. We mooched around Mickey's Mates and toured Treasure Ketch buying baubles, pins and t-shirts! Upon returning to our suite we decided to unpack and get ready for the evening's main event - Palo's! In our absence a little gift had arrived for me! No, not ice ;) but a gorgeous floral display from Sophie saying Happy Mother's Day! Awww! Bless her... :hug:

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Cruise%202008/IMGP0063.jpg

Finally, all dressed up, we made our way to Deck 10 Aft for an evening of Palo pleasure! We had a fantastic time - our server, Luigi, was a sweet Italian guy from Sardinia with a very dry sense of humour which we loved. We started the meal with aperitifs - what else, Kir Royales of course! And spent considerable time perusing the menu. Richard meanwhile was studying the wine package literature and spotted another tipple from what appeared to be the same vineyard as the redoubtable Rosa Regale! We unanimously agreed to give it a try and placed our order with Luigi. He returned with, yes, you've guessed it - a bottle of Rosa Regale!!! :woohoo: We were ridiculously over-excited by the reappearance in our lives of this awesome alcoholic beverage but we had more pressing menu matters to attend to - and this is what we chose...

Sophie's Choices: Antipasto Freddo; Melanzane al Funghetto; Grilled Sea Scallops with Borlotti Beans & Pancetta; Chocolate Souffle with Vanilla Bean & Chocolate Sauce...

Kaz's Choices: Antipasto Freddo; Sicilian Pesto Marinated Grilled Shrimp Salad; Garlic Roasted Rack of Lamb; Chocolate Souffle with Vanilla Bean & Chocolate Sauce...

Dick's Choices: Antipasto Freddo; Tuna Carpaccio & Lemon Oil Dressing; Beef Tenderloin "Palo"; Sweet Pizza with Vanilla Olive Oil Sauce...

What can I say?!! Fabulous food, fabulous wine, fabulous company!!! Finally, able to eat no more, we sat back in the banquette with our bellies bulging - sipping a delicious digestif and contemplating a walk around the deck before heading back to the suite.

Eventually we returned to Roy and discovered we'd been turned down and a pretty display had been left by Budi, our steward.

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Cruise%202008/IMGP0084.jpg

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Cruise%202008/IMGP0085.jpg

Thank you and goodnight... Cocktail count: 12!!!

[Chilly]

I like the cruise photo!

Wow thats a pretty impressive suite although a bit too much wood for my taste, I wouldn't say no to staying in it though.

[Chilly]

How hard is it to get some ice!

Lovely flowers.

[mandymouse]

What a great day Karen. The flowers that Sophie got you are beautiful.

Reading all that wonderful food from Palo, makes me so excited for our August Cruise - I can't wait ::yes::

Glad to see that you had at least one Bahama Mama today :thumbsup2

Thanks for sharing another great day Karen

[Strommie]

Wow Karen, just been catching up. The suite looks fantastic!! Plus, the more I hear about your beloved Rosa Regale, I just know I will be trying it on my next trip :yay: Love love loving your reports by the way, you do make me smile when I'm reading them :goodvibes

[Tammy Stringer]

Wow Karen what an impressive suite - absolutely beautiful.

Lovely photos.

Tam

[KayleeUK]

What a lovely suite :)

[DisneyJo]

OMG that suite is amazing and so huge!!!!

How sweet of your DD to arrange flowers to be delivered and how weird that they didn't get you any ice :confused:

[CustardTart]

What can I say Karen ? "WOW !!" it looks amazing

I'd probably feel embarrassed to bring my old, battered, well travelled suitcases into that fab suite, so I'd probably feel a bit out of my depth with the poshness of it

Though if I won a Cruise staying in there - I wouldn't say no ::yes::

Great photos and a great room too :thumbsup2

Mandy, I never thought about the luggage! We've got hilarious purple flowery stuff that's seen better days BUT is easy to spot on the carousel!!! :rotfl2: :lmao: :rotfl:

[CustardTart]

OMG!! That looks so amazing - I am ashamed to say that I was sat here in the office with my mouth open at that bar, and the whirlpool bath! Thanks for sharing your piccies so quickly, looking forward to reading more.

The bath was fab - I think it was slightly shorter than the usual (like myself!) and I really loved using it...

I like the cruise photo!

Wow thats a pretty impressive suite although a bit too much wood for my taste, I wouldn't say no to staying in it though.

:thumbsup2

Wow Karen, just been catching up. The suite looks fantastic!! Plus, the more I hear about your beloved Rosa Regale, I just know I will be trying it on my next trip :yay: Love love loving your reports by the way, you do make me smile when I'm reading them :goodvibes

Excellent, excellent!!! :goodvibes

Wow Karen what an impressive suite - absolutely beautiful.

Lovely photos.

Tam

Thanks, Tam... :hug:

What a lovely suite :)

It most definitely was a great experience... :cool2:

[CustardTart]

How hard is it to get some ice!

It was a hoot! Dontcha just love situations that you can turn into a funny story - this is an absolute classic... :rotfl2: :lmao: :rotfl: :lmao: :rotfl2:

[CustardTart]

What a great day Karen. The flowers that Sophie got you are beautiful.

OMG that suite is amazing and so huge!!!!

How sweet of your DD to arrange flowers to be delivered and how weird that they didn't get you any ice :confused:

She's an absolute sweetie - I'm very lucky to have such a darling daughter who's also a fab friend... :cloud9: :love: :hug:

[CADZNYCHC]

Awesome Kaz!!! I haven't read it all yet - but what i've read so far & the photos were amazing!!!! Girlfriend...we are SOOOOOO missing you on the NYE cruise!!!!
btw - i'll be in Paris for 6 hours on 6/17 (layover enroute to Rome) - are you in Paris then by any chance????

[arieljasmine]

What a wonderful day. I love Palo :lovestruc Your flowers are beautiful, so thoughtful of Sophie.

Laur's princess:

[CustardTart]

Awesome Kaz!!! I haven't read it all yet - but what i've read so far & the photos were amazing!!!! Girlfriend...we are SOOOOOO missing you on the NYE cruise!!!!
btw - i'll be in Paris for 6 hours on 6/17 (layover enroute to Rome) - are you in Paris then by any chance????

Aww Brenda! I miss you all too!!! And I'm still so sad not be sailing on the NYE cruise... :sad:

And I can't make the Paris date either - cue more tears!!! :sad: Samuel is performing in an end of term concert that day and I'm under strict instructions to attend as I'm the appalling parent who failed to put in an appearance at his recent parent/teacher conference thingy... :confused3

[nikkistevej]

Karen- I love your trip report, you write so well!!!

[PoppyAnna]

Style all the way:thumbsup2
Richard looked very at home in the suite, all that was missing in his photos is a large habano.....:smokin:

[UKDEB]

Well, having finally admitted to myself that I could avoid the inevitable no longer, I deigned to open up the dreaded post :rotfl: . Of course, I've seen photos of both the Walter E and the Roy O before, but it's somehow more real when they've been taken by someone you "know". I have to say that I prefer the darker wood of the Roy O (is it walnut?) - classier and more sophisticated, I say. Whatever it is, I love it. I can see why it wouldn't be to everyone's taste, but I'm an Art Deco fan too and I think it's glorious. The only thing I might have been a tad disappointed with is the balcony. I imagine it's fairly long, but from the photo, it seems a bit on the narrow side.

Matt's first port of call when checking in to any room, land or sea, is to scope out an ice source! Can't be doing with warm champagne/wine/beer/cocktails (insert your own alcoholic beverage of choice). :rotfl:

[wilma-bride]

Wow Karen. Just got all caught up on your trippy and I have to say that I'm green with envy. I love, love, love the suite. The walnut finish looks so classy. Roy O Disney suite aside, your pictures of the sail-away and your descriptions of the ship have made me long to be back there. No chance of the Roy O for us but I am hoping to persuade DH to agree to another 3 night next October :goodvibes

[saratogagirl]

Karen honey, I have neglected you, but I have just read from start to finish and wow, wow, and wow, you write brilliantly, what a wonderful suprise for Sophie when Richard arrived, the suite is beautiful, the flowers must have been a lovely suprise for you, what no ice ???? brilliant report, I am loving it x

[CustardTart]

Monday May 12th:
Flakes alive! My skin was in head to toe melt-down when I awoke on the first Castaway Cay morning and I knew I had to spend the day giving it some love. Yawn! So I gathered the gang together in the dining area for a bit of Beach Blanket Buffet brekkie (Richard had been on a restaurant raid) and discussed our options over a Bucks Fizz. The afternoon parasailing excursion had already been cancelled due to the weather being way too windy and, as we were inside the 24 hour cancellation period, I also decided to forgo our Couples Choice Spa Villa appointment of the following day. DH called the Spa and changed the booking to a solo Stones Massage treat for himself - suits you, sir! Apart from seeing the new Toy Story show later in the day, I now had no pressing engagements, so opted to stay in the suite covered in cream and protective clothing whilst Sophie and Richard headed off for a spot of sun, sea and Serenity Bay...

I spent most of the morning/early afternoon on the veranda, reading the current Lee Child page turner. Budi popped in and tidied the suite but apart from that, I enjoyed my own company... I was just starting to feel a little peckish when the beach bums returned bearing gifts - a Sting Ray (don't worry, it was the Drink of the Day!) for yours truly! Thank you, my people... Richard was now taking my lunch order (I love his hunter/gatherer persona) so I chose the healthy roast turkey and vegetables option from the buffet - I can't recall what the others had but I'm sure fries, pizza and mainlining carbs were involved... :laughing:

After eating, we felt it was time to get competitive and bring out the board games! This was the start of the great 2008 Scattergories Skirmish!! We played several rounds whilst watching a decidedly dodgy film on TV called "Mad Money" in which three female employees of the Federal Reserve (Diane Keaton, Queen Latifah and Katie Holmes) steal dollars that are about to be destroyed... Mmmm, anyway, let it be known that I am the sovereign of Scattergories!!! Yeah, I whipped them in the world of word games - but, like I've said before, I'm not one to crow... ;)

Our dining rotation was PTTA but we decided to give Tritons a miss tonight and take advantage of room service for the evening. We had to order before a certain time and we made our choices before popping out to see the early Toy Story show. I looked a leetle bizarre, clutching a Bahama Mama in my coverall clothing but I figured once the lights were down, who'd see me?! I'd been really looking forward to this show - Toy Story 1 & 2 are a couple of my fave Pixar movies and I thought the oversized "toys'" concept would really work on stage. By and large, it did - BUT TBH I didn't enjoy this re-hashing of the first movie! The toys were OK (tho' it bothered the uptight Kaz that Woody wasn't significantly taller than Buzz) but the two actresses playing the Andy and Sid didn't work for me at all - I positively cringed at Sid's song!! It's such a shame as Hercules the Muse-ical was a great production... Ah well, back to the sweet suite for dinner and another "How I met Your Mother" marathon...

Before we re-enter Roy, dear reader, I'm going to take this opportunity to show you my door magnets. I don't think I've shared Kreative Kaz with you before so prepare to be amazed at what a middle aged woman with too much time on her hands can do with Waltograph font and Photoshop!!! :rotfl2: :rotfl: :lmao:

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Cruise%202008/Welcome.jpg

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Cruise%202008/CastawayCayMay.jpg

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Cruise%202008/111.jpg

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Cruise%202008/112.jpg

Repeat after me: "Oooh!" "Aaah!"

Here's the overall effect...

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Cruise%202008/IMGP0131.jpg

OK you can go in now - no shoving... ;)

Dinner arrived shortly after we returned to the suite and here is what we ate...

Sophie's Choices: Smoked Duck Breast with Cabbage & Prune Pie; Mixed Garden Salad; Roasted Beef Tenderloin Provence, Burgundy Wine Sauce; Baked Apple & Almond Cream Tart...

Kaz's Choices: Escargot; Normandy Salad; Halibut Parisienne, served with Sauce Homardine; Cherries Jubilee...

Dick's Choices: Shrimp Medley; Tomato & Basil Soup; Duck Fricasee Bordelaise; Chocolate Cheesecake...

All washed down with a very enjoyable bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon from the Napa Valley...

We relaxed for a couple more hours, watching DVDs, reading and chatting before deciding to go to bed at about 11pm - party animals, or what!?!! I checked my skin and it seemed a little calmer so I crossed all my fingers and hoped tomorrow would be a more "normal" day... Goodnight! Cocktail Count = 9...

[Boss Hogg]

what no ice ???? I know Jules - unreal isn't it, surely ice (along with bacon) should always be on hand:thumbsup2

Karen fantastic report so far, albeit I am little concerned at your cocktail count. Need to work on it as it is waaayyy to low - unless it is just a count for the mornings;)

[mandymouse]

:hug: Oh Karen, what a shame that your skin flared up again. I hope you're not allergic to cocktails or champagne :faint: :rotfl:

I'm not sure if I'm going to bother with the Toy Story show, I love the films, but I really not too sure about this :confused:

Love your door signs, did you make them yourself ? I've got some designed by Kristine on the DCL forums and a few some of the girls I'm sailing with have sorted out for me

I hope you're OK tomorrow :)

[CustardTart]

Karen- I love your trip report, you write so well!!!

Thanks Nikki, that's very kind of you! :hug:I'm just glad you're enjoying it...

Style all the way:thumbsup2
Richard looked very at home in the suite, all that was missing in his photos is a large habano.....:smokin:

:lmao: :rotfl2: :rotfl: :rotfl2: :lmao: He just looks good in any form of reclining pose, Joanne! Seems he can relax anywhere... :rolleyes1 I need to test out that cigar theory tho' - maybe that's why a trip to Cuba seemed like a good idea for November 2009... ;)

[CustardTart]

Well, having finally admitted to myself that I could avoid the inevitable no longer, I deigned to open up the dreaded post :rotfl: . Of course, I've seen photos of both the Walter E and the Roy O before, but it's somehow more real when they've been taken by someone you "know". I have to say that I prefer the darker wood of the Roy O (is it walnut?) - classier and more sophisticated, I say. Whatever it is, I love it. I can see why it wouldn't be to everyone's taste, but I'm an Art Deco fan too and I think it's glorious... I agree - I think it's walnut in the Roy and maple in the Walt. I got into a bit of state (maths never was my strong point) imagining how much it must've cost!!! :scared1: It was very high quality, most of it quite a thick veneer and hard wood like that just isn't cheap... Come to think of it, the amount of marble/granite in the suite was pretty substantial too!

...The only thing I might have been a tad disappointed with is the balcony. I imagine it's fairly long, but from the photo, it seems a bit on the narrow side...

At the end of the trip report, I plan to discuss the highs and lows - the balcony was undoubtedly a disappointment but I'll save my conclusions until the end...

...Matt's first port of call when checking in to any room, land or sea, is to scope out an ice source! Can't be doing with warm champagne/wine/beer/cocktails (insert your own alcoholic beverage of choice). :rotfl:
Good man! It's like I always say, everyone needs a Matt... :goodvibes


Wow Karen. Just got all caught up on your trippy and I have to say that I'm green with envy. I love, love, love the suite. The walnut finish looks so classy. Roy O Disney suite aside, your pictures of the sail-away and your descriptions of the ship have made me long to be back there. No chance of the Roy O for us but I am hoping to persuade DH to agree to another 3 night next October :goodvibes

Sorry to make you green , Joh! Fingers crossed your DH says "yes!" :)

[CustardTart]

Karen honey, I have neglected you,

Yes, well, I've been choking back the tears... :sad:

...but I have just read from start to finish and wow, wow, and wow, you write brilliantly, what a wonderful suprise for Sophie when Richard arrived, the suite is beautiful, the flowers must have been a lovely suprise for you, what no ice ???? brilliant report, I am loving it x

Thanks, Jules! And I'm enjoying writing it - tho' my life's at a standstill, the house looks filthy, the dogs haven't been fed in 3 days and there's just 3 rashers of bacon plus half a tomato in the fridge!!! Ah well, at least there's ice... :rotfl2: :lmao: :rotfl2:

[natalielongstaff]

Wow Karen. Just got all caught up on your trippy and I have to say that I'm green with envy. I love, love, love the suite. The walnut finish looks so classy. Roy O Disney suite aside, your pictures of the sail-away and your descriptions of the ship have made me long to be back there. No chance of the Roy O for us but I am hoping to persuade DH to agree to another 3 night next October :goodvibes

Im hoping you do as well :lmao:



At the end of the trip report, I plan to discuss the highs and lows - the balcony was undoubtedly a disappointment but I'll save my conclusions until the end...


Please don't talk about the end :worried: i am enjoying your trippie too much for it to finish !

[CustardTart]

I know Jules - unreal isn't it, surely ice (along with bacon) should always be on hand:thumbsup2

Karen fantastic report so far, albeit I am little concerned at your cocktail count. Need to work on it as it is waaayyy to low - unless it is just a count for the mornings;)

I know, Matt! Seems I just talk a good game - I really thought I drank more than that... :worried:

[Aisling]

I totally love it that Dick surprised Sophie when he showed up at the door! I admire your ability to keep a big secret, Kaz!

[CustardTart]

:hug: Oh Karen, what a shame that your skin flared up again. I hope you're not allergic to cocktails or champagne :faint: :rotfl:
OMG, woman!!! Wash your mouth out this minute, Mandymouse!!! :scared1: Seriously, there are all sorts of potential 'triggers' and I've been tested for them by my dermatologist. Alcohol didn't cause much of a reaction but too much dairy can play havoc... :cool2:

...I'm not sure if I'm going to bother with the Toy Story show, I love the films, but I really not too sure about this :confused:

If you don't fancy it, don't go - you can always watch it in your stateroom (as I found out after making the effort to go out and look an idiot! I really didn't enjoy it... :(

Love your door signs, did you make them yourself ? I've got some designed by Kristine on the DCL forums and a few some of the girls I'm sailing with have sorted out for me

Yes, I made them all with my own fair laptop! I just printed them out and DH got them laminated at work. I then just stuck magnetic tape on the back - instant magnets! :woohoo: I've designed some awesome ones for our Mexican Riviera cruise... :surfweb:

[PoppyAnna]

Yes, I made them all with my own fair laptop! I just printed them out and DH got them laminated at work. I then just stuck magnetic tape on the back - instant magnets! :woohoo: I've designed some awesome ones for our Mexican Riviera cruise... :surfweb:

:rotfl2: :rotfl: My Richard refused to do my [disney related] laminating at work after a while - didn't think it look good, such a very important businessman :lmao: :lmao::rotfl2: doing my laminating for DD's. So I bought a tesco's value laminator (Karen,I had to venture to Purley Cross to get it) for about ten pounds and now I laminate everything and anything.....whoooosh - don't hand me anything to look at, I'll laminate it!!! It's fantastic -can't stop myself...

[CustardTart]

I totally love it that Dick surprised Sophie when he showed up at the door! I admire your ability to keep a big secret, Kaz!

It was a most magic moment, Aiz! :cloud9: And I'm still bragging about my sensational secret keeping! Maybe I really am secret agent/super spy material after all... :lmao: :rotfl2: :rotfl: :rotfl2: :lmao:

[mandymouse]

OMG, woman!!! Wash your mouth out this minute, Mandymouse!!! :scared1: Seriously, there are all sorts of potential 'triggers' and I've been tested for them by my dermatologist. Alcohol didn't cause much of a reaction but too much dairy can play havoc... :cool2:

Phew !! that's a relief - imagine if you had to give alcohol up :scared1: :scared1: It doesn't bear thinking about :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

[CustardTart]

:rotfl2: :rotfl: My Richard refused to do my [disney related] laminating at work after a while - didn't think it look good, such a very important businessman :lmao: :lmao::rotfl2: doing my laminating for DD's. So I bought a tesco's value laminator (Karen,I had to venture to Purley Cross to get it) for about ten pounds and now I laminate everything and anything.....whoooosh - don't hand me anything to look at, I'll laminate it!!! It's fantastic -can't stop myself...

Too funny, Joanne!!! I got a whole speech from my Richard about how he was new in the department, didn't know who to ask, wasn't sure it was a sensible use of resources, blah, blah, blah!!! :faint: Purlease!!! If I hadn't been keeping secrets from Soph, I'd have gotten her to do it so he had to put up or shut up... I can see the attraction of your very own laminator tho - maybe I should venture to Purley Cross myself... :drive:

[nskjerven]

Kaz:

How did I not register that you and I were on the seas at the same time??? Okay, yes I'm self PC absorbed. :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

Mother's Day on a Disney Ship was the best place to be, we scored CC that day, it was heaven on earth:goodvibes

Can't wait to meet up with you all in August in Dland. Fun times :cool1: :thumbsup2

Loving the TR, keep those pictures coming.

Nan

[CustardTart]

Kaz:

How did I not register that you and I were on the seas at the same time??? Okay, yes I'm self PC absorbed. :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

Mother's Day on a Disney Ship was the best place to be, we scored CC that day, it was heaven on earth:goodvibes

Can't wait to meet up with you all in August in Dland. Fun times :cool1: :thumbsup2

Loving the TR, keep those pictures coming.

Nan

Hey Nan! Listen, being on the Repo was a big enough deal - I didn't expect you to realise I was on THE FIRST DOUBLE DIP OF 2008!!! ;) Seriously, how awesome to be on CC on Ma's Day... :beach:

I'm soooo looking forward to August - I gotta l-o-n-g summer to get thro'...

[PoppyAnna]

[B]Melissa and her family were enjoying the cruise courtesy of the Make-a-Wish foundation

:offtopic:
Forgot to mention, I think is sooo cool. I love this charity.
My DD's tiny primary school is only five years old (so they only have upto year four so far) and they set aside a week every year (in May) where they focus some of their time on doing and making (and selling) to raise money for charity - this year the Make-a-Wish foundation was their chosen charity. She made book marks (with my laminator :bitelip: ) and little baskets to sell popcorn in, every child in the school (all 125 of them) had to declare their wish (my DD's was that there would be no more litter :cutie: ) and they decorated the hall with them. They had a special assembly where they presented the PR director of the Foundation with a chq for over £500!!! I'm so proud of her and her schoolmates, I think it's a lovely charity..... :thumbsup2
Lovely that you met somebody that is benefiting from the efforts of others, if my DD and her schoolmates pay for one flight for one child - it was worth it!

[CustardTart]

My DD's tiny primary school is only five years old

Equally :offtopic: Is that the school in the Langley Park district, Joanne??? Once a teacher, always a teacher... :goodvibes

[PoppyAnna]

Equally :offtopic: Is that the school in the Langley Park district, Joanne??? Once a teacher, always a teacher... :goodvibes

:thumbsup2 Indeed! It's a lovely little school, really well run, thoughtful and caring. Thank goodnes she got in, otherwise we'd be forking out for St Christopher's as the other local state schools are too big, in my opinion.
Didn't know you were a teacher, Karen. Interesting.
Don't let me detour you from the point on the thread - we want more trip info popcorn::

[pamouselover]

OMG that suite was sweet!!!!!!!!!
You must have been in heaven.......:cloud9:

[caitlinsdad]

Karen,

another great trip report

Thank you

[arieljasmine]

Wow, your magnets are brilliant, Karen, you are one talented lady. Sympathies again about the skin. I loved the Hercules show, and was gutted when I heard it had been replaced - the Toy Story one sounds not so good.

Laur's princess:

[Chilly]

Love the door art. Sorry your skin was bad but at least you were in the best suite relaxing!

[KayleeUK]

Sorry to hear about your skin :( Have a cocktail to cheer you up ;)

[Nubbedy]

I'm so glad to have caught up with this trippie - what a fantastic read - loving your DH surprising your DD, the Roy O Disney suite, the cocktails... so looking forward to more.

Sara. :)

[CustardTart]

Tuesday May 13th:
Funky Nassau was the port of call today and although Richard and I had no intention of getting off the Wonder, Sophie had a plan to try on as many gigantic gemstone rings as her diminuitive digits could deal with!!! She munched her room service Eggs Benedict, showered and set off on her mission. Richard's Stone Massage was booked for mid-morning so I planned a relaxing whirlpool bath while I had the suite to myself... I really enjoyed the bath - it seemed quite a compact whirlpool and quickly filled up (tho' it made an incredible noise and I wondered if it could be heard in the stateroom below!) Eventually, I emerged clean, clothed, coiffured and keen to face the day - but the suite was still empty so I snuggled up with Lee Child on the balcony and waited for my family to show up...

Sophie returned first - not especially laden with trinkets but unexpectedly delivering the Drink of the Day to this grateful gal! Today's offering was Planters Punch which reminded me of the fab Bajan beverage we always enjoy in Barbados - and I've been known to sink a fair few those! Not today, however! I was saving myself for a spot of wine-tasting later that afternoon... Richard returned looking chillaxed to the max and suggested we head up for a bite at the Beach Blanket Buffet - which we did! Having been cloistered in the cabin for most of yesterday, I was eager to stretch my legs so we strolled along the deck and soaked up the sunshine. And yes, we may have enjoyed a Bahama Mama by the adult pool before returning to the suite for a quick freshen up en route to Palo's and the wine-tasting...

This is the third time I've attended a DCL wine tasting and I'm happy to say we've tasted different wines at each session. Actually I'd probably be happy if we sampled the same specimens as long as wine was involved! But hey, that's just me... This was a fun session as Dick and I disagreed on whether or not we liked many of the tasters. TBH I always enjoy a spot of spousal sparring - I think it's key to a happy and prosperous partnership... ;) All too soon the tasting was over and we decided to drop by the Promenade Lounge for a 'mid-afternooncap' - my variation on the more traditional 'nightcap'... Sophie however had somewhere to be as she'd booked a special port day hair and scalp treatment at the Spa... Richard and I returned to the room and decided to re-enact our Scrabble Challenge of the 2007 cruise. So we whiled away an hour, hunched over the coffee table playing with those little wooden tiles! I emerged victorious and, for once, behaved graciously towards the loser - I only sang "Eye Of The Tiger" once...

Sophie returned from the Spa with luxuriant locks and it was soon time for us to attend the Concierge Cocktail Reception on the deck outside of the Beach Blanket Buffet! We each sipped another Planters Punch and chatted with Jerome and Tawanda on topics as diverse as working onboard a cruise ship and Premiership football!!! The weather was beautiful so we sat back in the sunshine and enjoyed the sensational view of the Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island...

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Cruise%202008/IMGP0091.jpg

We had a great holiday there back in 2002 and my youngest DS is very keen to return at some point - apparently he has a yen to stay in this funny 'bridge' part of the resort! Dream on, Samuel... :rolleyes1

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Cruise%202008/IMGP0092.jpg

We suddenly noticed that the Deck 7 below us was decorated ready for a wedding/vow renewal...

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Cruise%202008/IMGP0094.jpg

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Cruise%202008/IMGP0095.jpg

...and this brought back some very Magical memories for DH and myself! Remember this couple from 2007..?

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Cruise2007/toast.jpg

The ceremony started shortly afterwards and we all cheered the bride and groom as they became man and wife. The reception started to wind down so the three of us drifted down the other end of Deck 9 as DH had carelessly kept his locker key from his earlier Spa session. Key duly dropped off, Sophie then returned to relax in the Roy as we decided to take a leisurely look at the Art Auction before getting ready for dinner and Pirates In The Caribbean Party...

Dressed in our most piratical attire and the trio hurried to Triton's. Sophie was particularly nervous about meeting our tablemates as she was still haunted by our "Dining with the Newly Weds" experience of 2005! I was less troubled - our wonderful DIS tablemates on the Magic last September had dispelled many of those demons! Richard had no such anxieties - as long as there's plentiful food and free-flowing wine, he'll talk to/at anyone... So we approached the Head Server and asked him where our table was located. He welcomed us warmly and directed a hovering server to take us to the table. I steeled myself for an hour or so of small talk and small mouthfuls but, wait a minute - no need!!! We were ecstatic to discover we were sitting at a table set for three!!! :woohoo: Now I had requested this via the concierge contact email but really hadn't expected it to be possible! It made Sophie's evening as we were able to just relax and be ourselves - large talk and even larger mouthfuls were on our menu... :rotfl:

We put on the bandanas that lay a-waiting and began perusing the menu. Our servers Wayan and Rewat were lovely. They couldn't have been more helpful, bringing additional tasters of every course for us to try. I swiftly chose a bottle of Valpolicella and we enjoyed a fab meal.

Sophie's Choices: Black Beard's Jumbo Crab Cakes; Jerk Chicken Salad; The Black Pearl's Oven Roasted Beef Tenderloin; Floating Island of Tropical Treasures...

Kaz's Choices: Black Beard's Jumbo Crab Cakes; Caribbean-Style Spicy Vegetable Gumbo Soup; The Black Pearl's Oven Roasted Beef Tenderloin; Walk The Triple Layered Chocolate Gangplank Cake...

Dick's Choices: Pearls of the Caribbean; Chilled-to-the-bone Honeydew Melon & Mango Soup; Captain Hook's Macadamia Dusted Mahi Mahi; Shiver-me-Timbers White Choc Cheesecake...

Soon it was time for us to head towards Deck 9 for the Pirate Party and the all-important fireworks! We decided to move up to Deck 10 and had a great view of the event. We danced, sang and whooped it up like kids! I attempted to photograph the proceedings but to no avail - seems my new camera just didn't cut it in the firework photo department so I was disappointed with the output. This is the best of a bad lot...

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Cruise%202008/IMGP0122.jpg

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Cruise%202008/IMGP0123.jpg

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After the fireworks, we stopped by Cadillac Lounge for a nightcap. The rather smooth Kenne was performing a tribute to Ray Charles so we sat down to enjoy the sounds. Sophie and Richard ordered a couple of Martinis whilst I had the usual - or so I thought! Actually what I got was a Kir Royale Martini!!! How does that even work???? It was waaay too hardcore for me so Richard returned it and I rapidly received the real deal - phew! Crisis averted...We listened to the piano man plink plonk away some more before deciding we were too tired for a second drink. Time to climb those stairs to Deck 8 and head for bed... Cocktail Count = 15!!!

[natalielongstaff]

What a fabulous and relaxing day :thumbsup2 and how lovely to see another vow renewal.

Nice job on the cocktail count as well :thumbsup2

[mandymouse]

Another fab day Karen, it sounds like you had a nice, relaxing time ::yes::

Could you tell me about the wine tasting ? It may surprise you, but I haven't tried this before.

Thanks :)

[DisneyJo]

It must be gorgeous watching the fireworks, what a lovely day :goodvibes

So is the wine tasting included or an optional extra? Or is that a silly question? :rotfl:

[tiggerwannabe]

I am lurking and reading Kaz, not quite caught up yet...

Just wanted to let you know I am here and thoroughly enjoying your trippie~

:wave:

[Boss Hogg]

Glad to see the cocktail count creeping up, but, still needs some work there young lady - keep at it:thumbsup2

What's the bets that Richard snaffled the erroneous cocktail away whilst stood at the bar arranging the replacement? It would only go to waste otherwise wouldn't it, can't see the bar chap wanting it:confused3

[florida sun]

Karen

I have just spent a lovely hour reading through your wonderful trip report from start to finish (so far), and it all sounds wonderful. What a fab stateroom the Roy O is and Im sat here a little green with envy right now;)

You really do have my sympathies about your skin complaint hon, both my mum and my sister have the same condition since they were born and both from head to toe, the years of Tar treatment, bound bandages, PUVA, and steriod creams have been a nightmare for them both.
My mum has now been on Neo -Tigason for over 15 years and has helped no end, but I know it has some side effects in the beginning and they wont yet give it to my sister due too her age, but mum is now mainly free apart from some occasional flare ups. I do hope yours clears up for you soon:hug: :hug:

Wonderful writing and cant wait for you to post more:goodvibes

[Pinky166]

Hi Karen...Have just caught up with your entire report in one go...I have been slacking lately!

Wow what an amazing trip....It was so lovely reading about your DH's arrival. I am so excited hearing about your stay at Wilderness Lodge as me & DH are staying their in December...I can't wait to see it for the first time.

I really want to do a Disney Cruise but am having trouble convincing my DH (he is not Disney obsessed like me!) Thanks for posting the photo of Atlantis....I got married there in 2001. :love: :cloud9:

Can't wait to read the about the rest of your trip.

[jjk]

another wonderful day,the vow renewal looks lovely its given me a few ideas
off my own. Ive never been sure about a cruise before but your reports are changing my mind DH is starting to panic:rotfl:

[CustardTart]

OMG that suite was sweet!!!!!!!!!
You must have been in heaven.......:cloud9:

:cloud9: :cloud9: :cloud9: ::yes:: ::yes:: ::yes::

Karen,

another great trip report

Thank you

Hey, Ed! :wave: Thanks for reading...

[CustardTart]

Wow, your magnets are brilliant, Karen, you are one talented lady. Sympathies again about the skin. I loved the Hercules show, and was gutted when I heard it had been replaced - the Toy Story one sounds not so good.

Laur's princess:

Thanks Laur's! :goodvibes

Love the door art. Sorry your skin was bad but at least you were in the best suite relaxing!

Yeah, I definitely got my money's worth out of Roy! :thumbsup2

Sorry to hear about your skin :( Have a cocktail to cheer you up ;)

Cheers, Kaylee! You buying????????:rotfl2: :lmao: :rotfl2:

I'm so glad to have caught up with this trippie - what a fantastic read - loving your DH surprising your DD, the Roy O Disney suite, the cocktails... so looking forward to more.

Sara. :)

Thank you, Sara! Glad you enjoyed it so far... :goodvibes

[CustardTart]

What a fabulous and relaxing day :thumbsup2 and how lovely to see another vow renewal.

Nice job on the cocktail count as well :thumbsup2
Glad to see the cocktail count creeping up, but, still needs some work there young lady - keep at it:thumbsup2

What's the bets that Richard snaffled the erroneous cocktail away whilst stood at the bar arranging the replacement? It would only go to waste otherwise wouldn't it, can't see the bar chap wanting it:confused3

We did try harder that day - I'm glad our efforts are appreciated! :lmao: :rotfl: :rotfl2: DH certainly had a substantial swig as he returned the martini to the bar, Matt - I saw him! Wouldn't be surprised if he necked the rest... ;)

Another fab day Karen, it sounds like you had a nice, relaxing time ::yes::

Could you tell me about the wine tasting ? It may surprise you, but I haven't tried this before.

Thanks :)

It must be gorgeous watching the fireworks, what a lovely day :goodvibes

So is the wine tasting included or an optional extra? Or is that a silly question? :rotfl:

The wine tasting is booked at Guest Services when you board and costs $12 per person. It's informal yet informative and most importantly, fun! I'd be lying if I said we don't plan to do it again on the Magic in August... :rolleyes1

[saratogagirl]

loving the door art, and the cocktail count is rising well done honey, I meant to ask how was the purple box, purple box buddy ?

[CustardTart]

Karen

I have just spent a lovely hour reading through your wonderful trip report from start to finish (so far), and it all sounds wonderful. What a fab stateroom the Roy O is and Im sat here a little green with envy right now;)

You really do have my sympathies about your skin complaint hon, both my mum and my sister have the same condition since they were born and both from head to toe, the years of Tar treatment, bound bandages, PUVA, and steriod creams have been a nightmare for them both.
My mum has now been on Neo -Tigason for over 15 years and has helped no end, but I know it has some side effects in the beginning and they wont yet give it to my sister due too her age, but mum is now mainly free apart from some occasional flare ups. I do hope yours clears up for you soon:hug: :hug:

Wonderful writing and cant wait for you to post more:goodvibes

Thanks, Sue! :hug: :hug: :hug: So sorry to hear about your Mum and sis. That's pretty much my history with the condition too - creams, pastes, bandages, PUVA, UVB. I'm about to start Methotrexate - an immuno-suppressant drug which helped last year - so it's back to no alcohol, weekly blood tests and joint pain but at least it'll bring some respite... TBH I've not heard of Neo-Tigason - that's one to ask my Dermo Doc about when I see him next week... :thumbsup2

[CustardTart]

I am lurking and reading Kaz, not quite caught up yet...

Just wanted to let you know I am here and thoroughly enjoying your trippie~

:wave:

Take yer time, Tigg... ;) :goodvibes :thumbsup2 :surfweb:

[CustardTart]

Hi Karen...Have just caught up with your entire report in one go...I have been slacking lately!

Wow what an amazing trip....It was so lovely reading about your DH's arrival. I am so excited hearing about your stay at Wilderness Lodge as me & DH are staying their in December...I can't wait to see it for the first time.

I really want to do a Disney Cruise but am having trouble convincing my DH (he is not Disney obsessed like me!) Thanks for posting the photo of Atlantis....I got married there in 2001. :love: :cloud9:

Can't wait to read the about the rest of your trip.
IMO, a Disney cruise is ideal for less Disney-obsessed people, Claire! :thumbsup2 There's just so much to do that doesn't revolve around the Mickey and the gang. If your DH likes good food, great service and relaxing - cruising with the Mouse is for him! :goodvibes

another wonderful day,the vow renewal looks lovely its given me a few ideas
off my own. Ive never been sure about a cruise before but your reports are changing my mind DH is starting to panic:rotfl:

:lmao: :lmao: :lmao: Why not try a 3 night cruise - then you'll know for sure... ;)

[CustardTart]

loving the door art, and the cocktail count is rising well done honey, I meant to ask how was the purple box, purple box buddy ?

Hey Jules! Happy Saturday to you! I shall be talking a little more about the purple box business in my conclusions - so patience, lady!!! ;)

[saratogagirl]

Hey Jules! Happy Saturday to you! I shall be talking a little more about the purple box business in my conclusions - so patience, lady!!! ;)

Happy Saturday, I am a woman of little patience - so crack on :rotfl:

[florida sun]

Thanks, Sue! :hug: :hug: :hug: So sorry to hear about your Mum and sis. That's pretty much my history with the condition too - creams, pastes, bandages, PUVA, UVB. I'm about to start Methotrexate - an immuno-suppressant drug which helped last year - so it's back to no alcohol, weekly blood tests and joint pain but at least it'll bring some respite... TBH I've not heard of Neo-Tigason - that's one to ask my Dermo Doc about when I see him next week... :thumbsup2

Karen:hug: :hug: :hug:

Spoke more to mum about it this morning and thats the chemical name for it, its actual name is Acitretin. Mum calls it her miracle tablet, but she can not drink with it, because it can cause liver damage, and she has to have Blood Tests every 3 months. In the begining her hair went very thin and she had cold sores on her mouth but this only lasted a few weeks. Hope this helps

[CustardTart]

Wednesday May 14th:
Morning again and today I was planning to actually getting off the Wonder! Wow, what a turn up!! But first our tummies had a trouser tightening appointment - yes, I'm talking about Palo's Brunch!!! This was Sophie's first belly-bursting brunch experience and I knew she'd love it. Luigi was our waiter again and we spent a few moments chatting with him about the cruise before he showed us a round the incredible amount of food that consisted of the buffet. This is where things got a little odd. As Luigi walked us through the selection, he repeatedly told Sophie she wasn't allowed this, that and the other! I thought he was joking in a "moment on the lips, lifetime on the hips" kinda way but I could tell Sophie was starting to get irritated... Luigi brought three Bellinis to our table before letting us loose on the food! And what fun we had! I was determined not to overdo it but got caught out by the hot Chef's Lunch Entree selections - OMG the Saltimbocca was sensational! We also tried delicious pizzas - including the sweet variety DH enjoyed at Palo's earlier in the cruise. Luigi, was rather dismissive of this option - seems real Italians don't eat sweet pizza! He'd no doubt be horrified then with my personal pizza topping paradise which consists of black olives, anchovies and pineapple - I guess there's no accounting for taste. Or mine, at least...

Sated with savouries, we headed back to the buffet to sample the desserts. We returned to the table with a selection and Luigi came over with another round of drinks. He saw Sophie's dessert platter and looked concerned. Now I was irritated - was he intent on proposing and didn't want her piling on the pounds before the wedding??? No time to challenge him, however as I realised I'd not picked up one of the lovely little shotglass servings of tiramisui so beetled back the buffet where I was hailed by another DISer from our Cruise thread! Hey Brandi, it was lovely to meet you! :wave: Hope you and your husband had a fantastic vacation... :hug:

I returned to the table - and to an explanation of Luigi's bonkers behaviour! Seems he'd confused Sophie with another family's egg allergic daughter! Hence the string of "Not for you!" comments. The amount of egg-based offerings our daughter was consuming prompted him to re-check his roster. And that's when he realised his mistake. Apparently he was very embarrassed so we received a complimentary round of Bellinis - salute!!!

As we'd now consumed enough food for Luigi to allow us to leave, the three of us set off for the suite with the intention of getting glam in our finest beach attire! It was an absolutely beautiful day in Castaway Cay and it felt good to be stepping off the Wonder into this tropical paradise. I apologise in advance for the lack of photos - I'd got more than a little pee'd off with my camera by this time and we weren't speaking...

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Cruise%202008/IMG_0932.jpg

We walked to the second bus stop and quickly caught a tram to Serenity Bay. The three of us strolled along the beach, sandals in hand before spotting a cluster of chairs, parasol AND hammock all available for the Taylors to take over!!! Sophie occupied the hammock whilst DH and I dragged a couple of chairs down to the waters edge...

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And there we stayed for hours - reading, talking, watching the pelicans dive for fish and generally relaxing in this little corner of Shangri-La. An obliging waiter kept us in Konk Koolers and I really think they are my fave cocktail of the trip - what wouldn't I give for one right now...? :cloud9:

At around two o clock Sophie felt she'd had enough sun and set of back to the Wonder. DH and I stayed a while longer before also making the short trip back to the ship. En route we stopped at the "She Sells..." store and I bought a couple of the special Double Dip pins. I think DH bought a tee-shirt but that might be the Konk Koolers talking. I took a couple of photos on the way back to the Wonder, including this extreme close of the Flying Dutchman - spooky eh..?

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s84/cheztaylor/Cruise%202008/IMGP0129.jpg

Anyway, once back onboard, we thought we'd better make a start on the packing. IMO there's nothing more deflating than this - but I refused to be downhearted as tonight we were going to be in Animators Palette and I wanted Sophie to finally enjoy the entire experience - without the distraction of troublesome tablemates! Once we felt we were on top of the packing predicament, Sophie, Richard and I relaxed a little and played another few rounds of Scattergories!* Sophie popped up to Deck 9 for a round of the Drink of the Day which was Malibu Breeze and we whiled away the late afternoon in Roy O Disney style... All too soon, we had to get ready for dinner and before long we were heading down to Deck 4. We quickly found our table and decided to order a last night celebratory bottle of the Fairytale Cuvee champagne - what a way to start the evening!!! We examined the menu and Wayan took our order...

Sophie's Choices: Wild Mushrooms Risotto & Porcini Wafer; Creamy Butternut Squash Soup; PanSeared Veal Chop with Medjool Date, Sultana Raisin & Veal Farcis; Chocolate & Peanut Butter Pie...


Kaz's Choices: Seafood & Avocado Wrapper; Creamy Butternut Squash Soup; Grilled Fillet Mignon, Seared Scallops with Port Wine Demi Glace; Strawberry Shortcake...

Dick's Choices: Wild Mushrooms Risotto & Porcini Wafer; Smoked Salmon & Trout with Goat Cheese Salad; PanSeared Veal Chop with Medjool Date, Sultana Raisin & Veal Farcis; Peach & GInger Cheesecake...

Wayan brought out extra courses for us to sample and chatted with me about Manchester United's prospects in the upcoming Champions League final. As a fellow fan, he ensured my glass stayed topped with Fairytale fizz... Good man - a sure way to ensure a top tip! ;)

I love Animators Palette and tonight it really didn't disappoint! Our table was wonderfully situated to experience the whole "change" effect and as it was the final night, there was something of a party atmosphere. The Head Server stopped by and asked us for our feedback. He particularly wanted to know what we thought of the Double Dip experience and urged us to use our comment cards to request more, more, more of the multi-Castaway Cay stop cruises as, despite their popularity, there are none scheduled for 2009... :confused3

After dinner we returned to the room where the concierge guys had popped by and left a wonderful limited edition 'Ducky' Williams lithograph as a reminder of this Double Dip...

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This goes beautifully with the magical one we received last September...

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We finished the packing and put our cases outside the door as we fancied popping out for another evening with Kenne in Cadillac Lounge! Tonight he was supposed to be doing "Legends Joel, John and Diamond" but I gotta tell you I didn't hear anything by Elton. We had a couple of final cocktails, sang along to "Sweet Caroline" and "My Life" and ambled arm in arm to the suite for a final night of serene slumber and sweet dreams. Except it didn't quite work out that way...

We'd had a warning earlier in the evening of high waves on the high seas and tonight was certainly rough. TBH I quite enjoyed the Rock n RollerWonder (but then I'm the weirdo who enjoys turbulence) and once I'd got used to the creaking and stopped our sliding door from slamming, the motion swiftly sent me to sleep! Zzzz... Cocktail Count: 18!!!! :woohoo:


*I won - again... :goodvibes

[CustardTart]

Happy Saturday, I am a woman of little patience - so crack on :rotfl:

Oh OK *sigh*...

[saratogagirl]

I so want to be at Serenity Bay right now, it so relaxing, Rock N Roller Wonder LOL

[DisneyJo]

Thank goodness the waiter mistook her, rather than almost telling her she was fat :rotfl:

OMG those waves sound horrid, I would have been feeling sick for sure :rotfl2:

[CustardTart]

I so want to be at Serenity Bay right now, it so relaxing, Rock N Roller Wonder LOL

Thanks for getting my feeble attempt at humour - I shall of course be entering in the next season of DISers Got Talent... :rotfl2: :lmao: :rotfl2:

Thank goodness the waiter mistook her, rather than almost telling her she was fat :rotfl:

OMG those waves sound horrid, I would have been feeling sick for sure :rotfl2:

I did hear tales of heave ho horror!!! We were mid-ship so not as bad as other areas...

[mandymouse]

one of the lovely little shotglass servings of tiramisui

OMG Palo Tiramisu - heaven !! ::yes::

An obliging waiter kept us in Konk Koolers and I really think they are my fave cocktail of the trip - what wouldn't I give for one right now...? :cloud9:

Oh, an icy, rummy, Konk Kooler - Mmmm

Cocktail Count: 18!!!! :woohoo:

Now that's more like it :thumbsup2

I'm so pleased that you were able to enjoy the 2nd stop at Castaway Cay, it sounds like you had a perfect day (apart from the dreaded packing :()

I am sooooooooo looking forward to Palo Brunch followed by CC - note to self, get some of those double dip pins

Thanks again Karen :thumbsup2

[msteddom]

Thanks for the preview Karen! 77 days until I cruise!

Melissa

[Pinky166]

IMO, a Disney cruise is ideal for less Disney-obsessed people, Claire! :thumbsup2 There's just so much to do that doesn't revolve around the Mickey and the gang. If your DH likes good food, great service and relaxing - cruising with the Mouse is for him! :goodvibes




Thanks Karen....I will remember this little bit of advice for a month or two! DH is taking me to DLRP for my birthday next week and I've also got the 2 weeks booked for December...so I am biding my time before I put pressure on for a cruise/WDW trip for next year! :rotfl2:

[CustardTart]

Thanks for the preview Karen! 77 days until I cruise!

Melissa

My pleasure, Melissa!!! :goodvibes Only 9 weeks till we're in your little bit of Disney heaven... :thumbsup2

Thanks Karen....I will remember this little bit of advice for a month or two! DH is taking me to DLRP for my birthday next week and I've also got the 2 weeks booked for December...so I am biding my time before I put pressure on for a cruise/WDW trip for next year! :rotfl2:

Good idea, Claire! Have a great time in DLRP - it's been a while since we've been but I'm definitely planning a long weekend there next year... :woohoo:

[natalielongstaff]

Rough seas :scared1: say i aint so !!!!

[CustardTart]

Thursday May 15th:
The alarm awoke Richard and I at 7.30am. I padded around to Sophie's room and knocked at her door. She was up already and in the bathroom - good girl! Richard swiftly showered, shaved and shoved off in search of proper coffee from Cove Cafe. My turn to get ready and enjoy the exquisite en-suite for a final time...

By 8.30am, all three of us were gathered in the living area and taking a moment to give the suite one last lingering look around. Everything leftover from packing had been shoved in a large holdall and we really were ready to bid Roy a final goodbye... :sad:

Outside, I realised the door was still decorated with my magnetic masterpieces so I slipped them into a side pocket of the holdall as Richard closed the door for the last time and we walked towards the stairs on our way to disembark...

There was quite a queue to leave the Wonder and we stood in line for the best part of fifteen minutes before starting to shuffle forwards. We let a porter collect our Tinkerbell-tagged luggage as we stood in another line for immigration back into the USA. It didn't take long and once we were through, we headed for the car and a few minutes later were back on the road, returning to Orlando. So there we were, with the Wonder behind us, and a few hours to kill before returning the car and ourselves to Orlando International. Fortunately we had a plan. First stop IHOP and a slap-up brekkie! In less than an hour, we were pulling into the car park of one of the International House of Pancakes emporiums. There was a short wait to be seated but we didn't mind - DH and I knew the pancakes were worth it! Sophie and I both chose omelettes with side orders of pancakes. Richard had a more traditional breakfast platter with swedish crepes. And the coffee kept coming! Our food was fresh, flavoursome, fantastic and I wish I was there right now!!! This was Sophie's first IHOP experience and, suffice to say, it won't be her last! But we didn't want to dally as it was time to put the next part of our plan into action - a last minute shopping spree at Florida Mall! As we had our cases in the car, we decided to take advantage of valet parking which, it turned out, was free that day! What a great omen! :woohoo:

Sophie and I had previously put together a shopping list and we were raring to go... We walked through the Saks 5th Avenue entrance and headed straight for the Creme de la Mer counter as we both needed to stock up. Today Saks were doing a cool cashback offer - spend a certain amount and receive a voucher redeemable against future purchases. So I spent $500 and gave Sophie the $75 voucher for her to use against her la Mer purchases - brilliant!

Off to a flying start, it was time to split up - Richard and I were double teaming around the Mall whilst Sophie shopped solo! First stop for us - Abercrombie & Fitch as eldest DS Matty had requested a new hoodie. We successfully ticked the item off and swiftly acquired new work shoes for Richard, DVD box sets, the just-released Death Cab For Cutie album and promo T shirt, more Oakley sunnies, an MTV t-shirt for youngest DS Samuel before meeting up with Sophie at Sephora. We browsed the cosmetics whilst Richard sat outside on the phone to work - he was easing himself back in ready for his return the following morning... ;)

Once the spend-fest was finished we picked up the car from the valet and drove to quieter area where we parked up and re-packed the cases with our purchases. It was a very smooth operation and an excellent use of our time on that last day - there's every chance we'll be doing that again. :thumbsup2 But for now we had to move on to MCO! The car return was smooth and speedy. The hardest part was transporting our many cases to Virgin Atlantic's check-in but we managed it without too many slip ups. The queue was long but the Upper Class line was empty so we staggered forward, glad to get rid of our cumbersome cases... We were quickly checked in and received our pre-booked seats of 6A/K and 7A - yay! :yay: I love that moment when, having deposited your luggage, you turn away from check-in, with just hand luggage and boarding passes in hand - I always feel so liberated! :goodvibes

Now it was time to run amok in the airport shops before braving security and settling down in the Delta Lounge with a glass of wine and a good book. Which is exactly what we did! The lounge was PACKED but after a short while an internal US flight to Chicago was called and the throng thinned somewhat. We snagged a sofa and comfy chair towards the back of the lounge and relaxed for a couple of hours, just chatting, reading and people watching - it was a wonderful way to wind down before the flight. Which was delayed as usual. Eventually we were called and gathered our bags together before strolling to the gate. We boarded quickly and were soon sitting in our seats, sipping a Bellini or two and toasting the fabulous holiday that was so nearly over. Richard and Sophie changed into their sleepsuits and snuggled down soon after the meal. They wanted to catch as much shut eye as possible before going to work once we landed. I read my book before feeling a little tired and converted the bed intending just to rest my eyes for a while. I awoke to the sounds of breakfast - seems I'd been in the land of Nod for over 5 hours and we were now about to begin our descent! I quickly quaffed a couple of cups of tea, freshened up in the bathroom and felt ready for a day back in Britain...

Landing was uneventful and immigration was deserted. So far, so good. The baggage claim carousel number popped up and we were soon taking possession of a couple of our cases. Then we waited... And we waited... Oh how we waited!!! Slowly, piece by piece, our remaining bags trickled through and I could tell Sophie was getting more than a little stressed as one of the reasons she and DH like to fly Upper Class is the speed of baggage reclaim. Eventually, all the cases were accounted for and we pushed a couple of laden trolleys through to the car park. I like to park in short stay if possible and have discovered that, by pre-booking/pre-paying well in advance, you can do this for around half price! :thumbsup2 So DH's monster truck was nearby and we were soon on the road, hitting rush hour on the M23! What a welcome home!

As Richard had forgotten to pre-book a car to take him to work, he decided to drop me home, freshen up, then drive himself and Sophie up to Canary Wharf. And that's just what they did! I know they arrived just before 10.30am and spent the day getting back into the swing of things. In fact, Sophie went on to go out with her friends that evening whilst DH returned home looking no more tired than usual for a Friday...

So our holiday was well and truly over but the memories remain. One of the reasons I love writing a trip report is it gives me the opportunity re-live so many of the magical moments that make our family time together so special. This particular WDW/DCL party will stay will us for a long time. It was fab to be solely Sophie's Ma & Pa for once - she may be a 25 year old grown woman with a mortgage who left home six years ago but she's still our delightful daughter and we adore her! :love:

And now it's time to terminate another Taylor travelogue. Goodbye, dear reader. Hope to hang out with you again soon... :wave2:

[CustardTart]

Rough seas :scared1: say i aint so !!!!

"It ain't so!" But it was so, sorry Nat...

[irongirlof12]

what an amazing trip. thank you for sharing in such animated detail- you sure can tel 'em. :thumbsup2 I would love to do a cruise. :boat: it all looked amazing.

[mandymouse]

Thanks for sharing your fab report with us Karen. I was so looking forward to hearing all about the first double dip cruise, the Roy Disney suite and the surprise of your hubby turning up too :thumbsup2

Thanks again for getting the ships Navigators for me (they're looking a bit worn now :rotfl: )

I look forward to hearing about your next trip

Thanks :thumbsup2

[KayleeUK]

Thank you for sharing :) I hope you are doing a trippie for the girlie weekend LOL!!! ;)

[sandshal]

Thank you for sharing your wonderful holiday with us, I thoroughly enjoyed every day of it ..... was a little disappointed with PE last year but have always vowed to travel UC when the kids are a little older! Certainly seems worth it for 5 hours sleep.

Looks like your next trip's much the same time as ours so might see you there, hadn't planned to do much Disney this time but that said, have just purchased 14 day Ultimate's so may be at the DIS meet after all.

Sharon

[CustardTart]

This was yet another fantastic trip and we were lucky enough to enjoy an absolute medley of memorable experiences. Having had time to reflect on our vacation, I would like to share my thoughts on a couple of the elements, namely our DVC and DCL accommodation...

DVC...
We bought our points early last year and have three home resorts - SSR, AKV and VWL. This was our first time staying at VWL as well as Sophie and Richard's first time staying in any DVC accommodation. We opted for a one bedroom villa. Before buying our points, we had always stayed in the WDW on-site deluxe resorts and particularly enjoyed concierge level. TBH we had our doubts that DVC would feel as good as that but, from a financial point of view and given the great exchange rate, we just couldn't argue with the logic of purchasing points as a way of pre-paying for future holidays.

I'd already been amazed at the quality and spaciousness of the 1 bed villa at SSR last December so was interested in how this older resort would feel. Needless to say, it felt absolutely fine and, once again, we appreciated the extra space and added amenities of the accommodation. Given our love of the concierge lounge in other WDW resorts, Sophie and I decided to create our own for the duration of the stay. We purchased wine and after-dinner liqueurs as well as snack items which we kept in the kitchen area. This worked brilliantly and we will definitely repeat this in future. We also enjoyed the freedom of not having daily maid service as we were perfectly able to keep the place tidy and didn't feel awkward if we decided to hang out in the room...

The Owners Locker big purple box will be a wonderful addition to our future DVC vacations and I absolutely recommend the service to others who visit WDW regularly. Firstly, the drop-off and pick-up procedure is simplicity itself and secondly, the box is big enough for lots of essentials. We decided to add items that would further upgrade our DVC experience - so we bought a couple of bathrobes as I really miss not having those. I think we may add a single airbed on our next trip as well as larger, more cost effective, bottles of liqueurs... ;)

We're staying at the BWV in October and at AKV next Easter and are really looking forward to trying other resorts. Becoming DVC members has made excellent financial sense for us - when we compared the initial outlay to the predicted cost of future vacations, we calculated we should have broken even the end of 2011. So it appeals to our heads as well as our hearts. My husband's reaction to VWL/DVC has been equally positive - and he's the sensible one! In fact, he's eager to buy additional points at the Contemporary resort if/when that's announced! :goodvibes

DCL...
If shelling out for DVC points continues to make sense to Richard and I, not so the expense of the Category One suite we were able to book for this cruise. I can definitely say this is a vacation experience we won't indulge in again. The suite itself was beautiful but the cramped veranda really let the overall quality feel down. Sometimes its not so much length as width that really matters. ;) In addition, the extra plush furnishings and deep-piled carpets seemed to aggravate my sinuses! I was a lotta fun to have around on this trip, I can tell you... As far as the veranda was concerned, even tho' we could just about fit out there, we were unable to spend much time enjoying it as our neighbours smoked. They weren't chain-smokers by any means but even the slightest puff proved very unpleasant in the enclosed veranda space wherever we sat - and that area was the width of three staterooms! I'm no anti-smoking evangelist BUT it proved frustrating that we couldn't enjoy the outside space...

So if we wouldn't rebook the Cat 1, where would we choose to stay? Without a shadow of a doubt, I would try and get one of the Cat 3 suites that are at the back of the ship. These are set aside for disabled cruisers but sometimes become available as the sail date nears. The verandas are spacious and open so are a little lacking in privacy from Topsiders/Beach Blanket Buffet which is directly above but that's really the only downside as far as I'm concerned. We sailed in one on the Magic last September and will be repeating the experience this August. If unable to snag one of those, then I'd suggest we simply settle for a lower category altogether, maybe forking out for two adjacent rooms if one or more of our offspring were travelling with us. The limited cruise concierge facilities aren't really worth the extra cash as far as we're concerned and I would be more than happy with a smaller stateroom - there's so much going on that, skin flare-ups notwithstanding :faint: , you don't tend to spend much time in your room...

I apologise if the above sounds a little negative as in truth I am delighted we were able to book the Cat 1 with greater ease than we'd ever imagined! It was definitely an experience and I'm happy to know that I don't have to save our $$$ to do it again...

[CustardTart]

what an amazing trip. thank you for sharing in such animated detail- you sure can tel 'em. :thumbsup2 I would love to do a cruise. :boat: it all looked amazing.

Glad you enjoyed it! :thumbsup2

Thanks for sharing your fab report with us Karen. I was so looking forward to hearing all about the first double dip cruise, the Roy Disney suite and the surprise of your hubby turning up too :thumbsup2

Thanks again for getting the ships Navigators for me (they're looking a bit worn now :rotfl: )

I look forward to hearing about your next trip

Thanks :thumbsup2

You are very welcome, Mandy! I can't wait to hear about your Double Dip with the Bahama Mamas in August... :goodvibes

Thank you for sharing :) I hope you are doing a trippie for the girlie weekend LOL!!! ;)

I doubt I'll be able to remember any of the details, Kaylee! :rotfl2: :lmao: :rotfl2:

Thank you for sharing your wonderful holiday with us, I thoroughly enjoyed every day of it ..... was a little disappointed with PE last year but have always vowed to travel UC when the kids are a little older! Certainly seems worth it for 5 hours sleep.

Hi Sharon! I'm happy you had fun reading my trippie. I do love travelling UC - we compromise on other things in order to afford it and I never regret it. One of the plus points is that I find that none of us suffer with jetlag anymore...

Looks like your next trip's much the same time as ours so might see you there, hadn't planned to do much Disney this time but that said, have just purchased 14 day Ultimate's so may be at the DIS meet after all...

Our next trip is in August but we're hitting the West Coast this year - cruising the Mexican Riviera with DCL as well as spending a week in Disneyland... :cloud9:

Have a fab time in WDW and enjoy the DIS meet... :thumbsup2

[Tammy Stringer]

A brilliant report Karen - I really enjoyed reading it. Thanks so much for writing such a detailed, informative trippie

Can't wait for you to go again so you can do another!

Tammy

[Kevin Stringer]

Thanks very much for the report Karen, I enjoyed reading it enormously.
It's funny, but we spent the evening with Deb and Matt last night and we were saying how small the balcony on your suite looked. Disney have certainly missed a trick there. It was still interesting to read about it and see the photos.

Kev

[jtlover]

Really enjoyed your report - I would like to do UC one day - I might just have to find out what it will cost for my next trip:rotfl:

[jjk]

fantastic trip report,really enjoyed reading:goodvibes

[natalielongstaff]

oh im gutted your trippie has come to end :worried: its been a great read Karen x x

[DisneyJo]

Thanks for another great TR Karen, it was really interesting hearing your views on the stateroom, you would have thought that one of the best bits about the cat 1 should be the balcony :confused3

[PoppyAnna]

Lovely trip report Karen :goodvibes Your holidays have a great balance, and how nice your were able to go away with your girl!
One thing is certain in life and that's my inability to travel on water! Sadly, I don't think I will ever do a cruise. It has been lovely to hear about yours.

[Pinky166]

Thanks for sharing your trip report with us Karen. It has been a very enjoyable read...I look forward to reading your next one. :goodvibes

[Strommie]

Loved your reports Karen, sorry they've come to an end. They've been brilliant to read :thumbsup2

[CustardTart]

A brilliant report Karen - I really enjoyed reading it. Thanks so much for writing such a detailed, informative trippie

Can't wait for you to go again so you can do another!

Tammy

fantastic trip report,really enjoyed reading:goodvibes

oh im gutted your trippie has come to end :worried: its been a great read Karen x x

Thanks for sharing your trip report with us Karen. It has been a very enjoyable read...I look forward to reading your next one. :goodvibes

Loved your reports Karen, sorry they've come to an end. They've been brilliant to read :thumbsup2

Thank you one and all for your kind comments. :hug: :hug: :hug: You really should be careful what you wish for tho' guys - I've already started a pre-trip report for August SO there's no escaping my rambling prose! You've created a trippie monster!!! :rotfl2: :lmao: :rotfl: :lmao: :rotfl2:

[Chilly]

Oh no it can't be over :sad: another wonderful report Karen, thanks for sharing :)

[Nubbedy]

Really enjoyed reading about your experiences - looking forward to the August trippie.

Was devestated to hear about the water turbulance you experienced. As a bad traveller, I would love to do a Disney cruise, but really don't think there's enough Stugeron in the world for me to be able to. :(

Thanks again for an enjoyable read.

Sara. :)

[arieljasmine]

Thanks for really entertaining trip reports, Karen. I have loved reading about your adventures and will look forward to the next one.

Laur's princess:

[UKDEB]

:worship: :worship: :worship: :worship: :worship:

Nuff said!

[Minniespal]

Thanks for such a wonderful trippie Karen. It's Tom's 40th next year and I'm in the very early stages of planning a fantastic trip to mark such a milestone. I've been thinking about the Roy O suite or the Walter E. After your nice reviews I think I might actually leave that for the girls only crusin:thumbsup2

I laughed outloud at your choice of pizza topping. I've always been ridiculed for my fav, garlic base, black olives and anchovies:goodvibes

Thanks again for such a brillant read:yay:

[wicket2005]

Thank you so much for keeping me entertained this windy, cold Saturday and for uploading all those lovely photos. I am so pleased you all had such a fantastic time.:)

[CustardTart]

Thank you so much for keeping me entertained this windy, cold Saturday and for uploading all those lovely photos. I am so pleased you all had such a fantastic time.:)

Thank you for taking the time to read!!! I love writing the trip reports as it keeps the holiday alive for me - it's such a bonus if someone else enjoys reading... :goodvibes

In a shameful act of self-promotion :rolleyes: , here are links to others I've written... ;)

Fun with Dick and Kaz - The Cruisin', Vow Renewin' Trip Report... (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1550668)

Girls Only Fabulous Food & Wine Fiesta! (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1559841)

Another Cheeky, Sneaky Week in WDW - the Quickie Trippie... (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1998043)

[wicket2005]

I certainly did enjoy it. There is a shortage of reports at the moment so having to bump old ones back.:goodvibes

[CustardTart]

I certainly did enjoy it. There is a shortage of reports at the moment so having to bump old ones back.:goodvibes

It's also reminded me that I haven't put fingers to laptop and written a trippie for last summer's Cali/DCL trip... :surfweb: Oh well, that's a project... :goodvibes

[wicket2005]

Sounds good to me when you have a minute.:goodvibes

[torsie24]

I just read this report, Karen. :)

FABULOUS!!

You write so well, and you're so lucky to ahve had such a luxurious cruise! What a shame the smokers were next door, and the balcony was surprisingly small for a cat 1.

Maybe the new Dream suites with the whirpool on the balcony will be worth a try for you!! ;)