Jan 9, 2010 Western Magic

[Fawn]

OK, who's going? We are just a small party at this point.

Mom - Joanna
DD - Samantha - 20
DD - Ashleigh - 19

Anyone else?

[tow-mater-1]

Yea! I'm so glad you started this. We are first time cruisers, myself Char, hubby Nathan, DS-21 DD-18 DS-13 DS-5 and DS turning 4 on the cruise!

[Fawn]

Yea! I'm so glad you started this. We are first time cruisers, myself Char, hubby Nathan, DS-21 DD-18 DS-13 DS-5 and DS turning 4 on the cruise!

Hi Char! First time on Disney or first time on any? You are in for a treat! If you have any questions, please ask. I don't always get online a lot, so be patient with me.

We have kids around the same age. They may want to meet up online sometime before cruise...they all seem to love that!

Alright....let's get some cruisers!!

[tow-mater-1]

Hi Joanna, yes this is our first cruise ever! I see you've been on 15, Wow! Yes I will be hitting you up for some tips. I love these boards for that!! That is great that you have kids around the same age. That would be cool if they could meet up on-line. My daughter thinks she will be bored having to hang around us the whole time.lol

[Fawn]

Ask away...we are Disney cruise fanatics, obviously! :dance3:

Our cruise this year was the first time the girls weren't in the clubs. They were afraid they'd be bored...and I thought maybe this was our last year to go. We ended up having the best time. They got to go to the adult only shows and bars, so it was a brand new vacation for them in a way!

Your kids will love it, Char!

[Tatiana]

Hey guys!

I’m hoping to join you on this cruise, along with my parents. This is our second attempt to cruise, the first was scheduled for Jan 10 ’09, but my mother got diagnosed with cancer and we had to put it off. We’re booked for this cruise, but it is tentative; my mother has gotten rid of her colon cancer, but now she’s getting treatments for liver cancer. Here’s hoping we’ll be with you…

Fawn – I think we were scheduled to be on the last cruise together :)

[tow-mater-1]

Welcome Tatiana!
That would be great if your family will be going on this cruise, and a fellow Canadian I see!:thumbsup2 I'm from London Ont area. We have family in Ottawa, it's one of my favourite cities! Hope all goes well with your mom and we'll pray that she is healthy for the cruise.
Have you cruised before or am I the only newbie? Well, Joanna here is an expert cruiser:worship: so I know I'm in good hands... right Joanna!

[Fawn]

You absolutely are, Char! :banana:


Tatiana...so sorry about your Mom...prayers and pixie dust her way!!! pixiedust: Hopefully this year will see you all safe and happy on the cruise together!

So our little crowd grows...s.l.o.w.l.y.... :dance3:

[Tatiana]

Welcome Tatiana!
That would be great if your family will be going on this cruise, and a fellow Canadian I see!:thumbsup2 I'm from London Ont area. We have family in Ottawa, it's one of my favourite cities! Hope all goes well with your mom and we'll pray that she is healthy for the cruise.
Have you cruised before or am I the only newbie?


Hey tow-mater-1! We're new to cruising too, so dont worry, you're not the only newbie :goodvibes

[tow-mater-1]

Ok...did anyone else wake up to SNOW! :scared: ENOUGH ALREADY..geesh! Jan 9th cannot come soon enough!!!

[Fawn]

No snow, but I honestly can't say I remember a winter I was so "cabin crazy" as this year! It just seems to have gone on forever...and ever...and ever...

I keep looking online, thinking I really wish I could take another cruise sooner! :rolleyes: Ah, dreams....

[SheriB]

I'm so glad someone started a thread for this cruise. This is our second Disney cruise(1st 7 night), and it seems some of us have adult kids the same ages! We are myself, DH, DD22 and DS18. My kids are worried about what they're going to do,even though they had a lot of fun on the last cruise . We are going with my sister, her husband, and their kids, who are 12 and 9. Needless to say, our kids are worlds apart as far as age. We are doing the cruise at this time of year, because we've never been able to before, and both kids will be on winter break from college, so we figured, why not? Hope to talk to you all some more!

Sheri

[Fawn]

I'm so glad someone started a thread for this cruise. This is our second Disney cruise(1st 7 night), and it seems some of us have adult kids the same ages! We are myself, DH, DD22 and DS18. My kids are worried about what they're going to do,even though they had a lot of fun on the last cruise . We are going with my sister, her husband, and their kids, who are 12 and 9. Needless to say, our kids are worlds apart as far as age. We are doing the cruise at this time of year, because we've never been able to before, and both kids will be on winter break from college, so we figured, why not? Hope to talk to you all some more!

Sheri

Welcome, Sheri! This is turning out great for our college age kids! My girls managed to find a couple their age this year, and had a great time. This cruise there are already 6 of them!

Of course, they have just as much fun hanging out with Mom and partying... Mom being so cool and all! :rotfl:

I'm sure they'll want to exchange facebooks/aims/emails before the cruise. Sure is a small world these days!! :surfweb:

[tow-mater-1]

Welcome Sheri, yea more cruisers!:cool1: My middle son was happy to hear that your sisters kids are his age. He was beginning to feel left out.

Of course, they have just as much fun hanging out with Mom and partying... Mom being so cool and all! :rotfl: :surfweb:
See now...that's what I keep telling my kids!:rotfl2:

[Fawn]

They'd be lost without us, Char! I always tell them there's no way they'd want a stodgy old boring mom. :dance3:

[SheriB]

It's turning into one, big happy family! Please forgive me if I don't check in often; sometimes I'm on these boards every day, and sometimes not for days at a time. I look forward to getting to know you all! We've got 274 days to get aquainted. Wait till you see how fast that goes by!

Sheri

[Fawn]

It's turning into one, big happy family! Please forgive me if I don't check in often; sometimes I'm on these boards every day, and sometimes not for days at a time. I look forward to getting to know you all! We've got 274 days to get aquainted. Wait till you see how fast that goes by!

Sheri

I'm the same way, Sheri...I'm never consistent with how often I get online. As you said, we have a long time to get acquainted!

So since you are all new cruisers, what made you decide to take the plunge? And pick Disney??

[tow-mater-1]

Is it just me...or does anyone else get giddy when the ticker goes down a month?:cheer2: It doesn't take much to make me happy... oh just a Disney cruise...or when kids always clean up after themselves...oh oh and I can't leave out CHOCOLATE!!:rotfl2:
Oh and Joanna to answer your question... I LOVE LOVE Disney so it wasn't a hard decision.

[Fawn]

Is it just me...or does anyone else get giddy when the ticker goes down a month?:cheer2: It doesn't take much to make me happy... oh just a Disney cruise...or when kids always clean up after themselves...oh oh and I can't leave out CHOCOLATE!!:rotfl2:
Oh and Joanna to answer your question... I LOVE LOVE Disney so it wasn't a hard decision.

We celebrated the 9 month day on the ticker! :cheer2: Is that how it feels when your kids clean up after themselves? Who knew?? :rolleyes1

As for chocolate...well, that goes without saying!!

[newbydisney]

Just booked this cruise..switched from..a November Double DIp to this one..better time of year for us ...hope its warmer than last year tho..did the Eastern Jan 5 last time....looking forward to meeting all of you and unfortunately we cannot bring our adult children because ...well we don't want to!!! Not really they are in college and cannot make it.

[Tatiana]

Just a quick hello to the newbies of the thread! :wave2:

Hope everyone is doing great! :)

I booked our original cruise a year ago this weekend... hopefully the rest of the wait will fly by just as fast! :woohoo:

[Fawn]

Just booked this cruise..switched from..a November Double DIp to this one..better time of year for us ...hope its warmer than last year tho..did the Eastern Jan 5 last time....looking forward to meeting all of you and unfortunately we cannot bring our adult children because ...well we don't want to!!! Not really they are in college and cannot make it.

Welcome to you. One question. How the heck did you arrange to take a cruise without your kids?? Mine would kill me if I planned one during a college term! Not that I'm not tempted, mind you... :rotfl2:

We were on this same cruise this year in January, and it was lovely. It's our fav week to go...not too hot, not too cold!

So where is everyone from? We're in PA...the Philly side.

[tow-mater-1]

Welcome newbydisney, well if your feeling left out with the kid thing we have an abundance of kids we could lend you:rotfl: Just doin my part to be helpful. So where is everyone from? We're in PA...the Philly side.

Well Joanna, we live minutes from Lake Erie, smack dab in-between Toronto and Detroit.

[Fawn]

Welcome newbydisney, well if your feeling left out with the kid thing we have an abundance of kids we could lend you:rotfl: Just doin my part to be helpful.

Well Joanna, we live minutes from Lake Erie, smack dab in-between Toronto and Detroit.

Lending our kids!! Why didn't I think of that?? Char, we're gonna be great friends! :thumbsup2

You're in the cold region...a January cruise will be extra special for you guys! :cheer2:

[newbydisney]

for a quick picture maybe!! We sent our youngest to WDW for Spring Break...she should be happy with that for I dunno 10 years maybe...

[tow-mater-1]

for a quick picture maybe!! We sent our youngest to WDW for Spring Break...she should be happy with that for I dunno 10 years maybe...

by all means.. they are very photogenic if I do say so myself;). We took our kids to WDW a year ago this week... we went back just my hubby and myself in Oct. and we haven't heard the end of it!

[Fawn]

for a quick picture maybe!! We sent our youngest to WDW for Spring Break...she should be happy with that for I dunno 10 years maybe...

Absolutely...just name the time and place! Although Char has younger kids which may go with a Disney theme more than mine! :laughing:

[Tatiana]

Hey, just thought I'd share this digital edit with you guys - the photo is from when I had a suprise party for my parents to tell them I was talking them on this cruise! Then I used photo shop to expand the photo a bit :D

Here's a link to the photo:
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=4176972&l=526af06273&id=515250441

:jumping1:

I hope everyone is having a great weekend! I've got an extra long one since I booked mon and tue off work (beause tue April 21 is my birthday!)

[newbydisney]

We should all meet up on Friday nite cruise chat one of these weeks..

[Fawn]

Hey, just thought I'd share this digital edit with you guys - the photo is from when I had a suprise party for my parents to tell them I was talking them on this cruise! Then I used photo shop to expand the photo a bit :D

Here's a link to the photo:
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=4176972&l=526af06273&id=515250441

:jumping1:

I hope everyone is having a great weekend! I've got an extra long one since I booked mon and tue off work (beause tue April 21 is my birthday!)


I love that pic!! :rotfl2: Happy Early Birthday!!pixiedust:

[tow-mater-1]

Hey, just thought I'd share this digital edit with you guys - the photo is from when I had a suprise party for my parents to tell them I was talking them on this cruise! Then I used photo shop to expand the photo a bit :D

Here's a link to the photo:
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=4176972&l=526af06273&id=515250441

:jumping1:

I hope everyone is having a great weekend! I've got an extra long one since I booked mon and tue off work (beause tue April 21 is my birthday!)
:thumbsup2Great Pic! By the way..tell your parents they have very attractive legs!! :lmao: Oh and... :rockband:Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday Tatiana ..Happy Birthday to you!party::bday:

[tow-mater-1]

We should all meet up on Friday nite cruise chat one of these weeks..

That sound cool!... but how do you do it:confused3... I'm new.

[Fawn]

Here's where I should be all pro-cruiser...but I've never done one of the cruise chats! lol

There's probably a link that will be posted on the night of the chat, you click and you're there?

[newbydisney]

on Friday evening ( assuming you have nothing better to do.... that would be me) click on CHAT at the top of the screen here in the red bar..it will ask you to log in which is the same name and password you use to get on the boards,,then you are there!!at chat. Friday at I think 9 pm est ..try 8 pm tho as I am not sure..pretty sure its 9....the first hour is Cruise Chat although anything goes usually. ..if its real busy which it won't be cuz now the weather is better ..but if it is we can open a private window and just chat amongst the group if you want...anyone want to try it out?..let me know I will try to be there.

[Fawn]

on Friday evening ( assuming you have nothing better to do.... that would be me) click on CHAT at the top of the screen here in the red bar..it will ask you to log in which is the same name and password you use to get on the boards,,then you are there!!at chat. Friday at I think 9 pm est ..try 8 pm tho as I am not sure..pretty sure its 9....the first hour is Cruise Chat although anything goes usually. ..if its real busy which it won't be cuz now the weather is better ..but if it is we can open a private window and just chat amongst the group if you want...anyone want to try it out?..let me know I will try to be there.

I will forget this by Friday, so someone please post a reminder Friday during the day?? I'll try to be there!

[tow-mater-1]

:goodvibes Count me in.... he he I'm excited!

[lilofan]

Hi NEWBY--Its us, again!
Hi everyone--just shifted from April to January--7th cruise--all before have been Easterns so this will be new for us. We are DH 62 and DW of indeterminate age. Our kids are staying home on this on--They've been with us several times.
Looking for some ideas on excursions for Grand Cayman.
::MickeyMo::MinnieMo

[newbydisney]

We just keep ending up on the same MAGICAL cruises!! So glad to see you on the thread....we are kicking around a Friday night cruise chat ..seems to be a mature crowd we are sailing with this time ...we should fit right in!! ( We are mature right?..not just old??)

[lilofan]

Mature? I resent that accusation. Ask me again on Pirate Night!!pirate:

[tow-mater-1]

Mature? I resent that accusation. Ask me again on Pirate Night!!pirate::lmao: Welcome lilofan! I'm with you. It doesn't matter how old I get, I hope never to be mature.:rotfl:

[Tatiana]

Mature? I resent that accusation. Ask me again on Pirate Night!!pirate:

ROFL :lmao:

Good to have you on board! :thumbsup2

[lilofan]

If I was all that mature would I absolutely love the movie "Enchanted". Maturity is extremely important when driving a car!

[tow-mater-1]

K that was hilarious. That was my first EVER experience in a chat room:lmao:My dh and dd were laughing at my inadequacies. My hubby thought that would be right up my alley with my ADHD and all. Maybe next time I'll skip the wine. Or maybe wait till after:rolleyes1 Then you will all be amazed at my fast typing and being able to follow 10 conversations at once.:rotfl2:

[newbydisney]

...and fun ...be sure to log in to CHAT every Friday night for cruise chat..hey you can even log in other nights for non-cruise chat but beware Wednesday is really fast chat ...I can't keep up with that group!!
Thanks for stopping in Mater and Fawn!!

[Fawn]

I can type very fast, but the screen moves so fast, it's hard to read everything! And then I get confused...without wine!! :confused3

It was fun though to chat! Is the room open every night for people to wander around in?

[Fawn]

So how is everyone's weather? We have been in the high 80's for a few days. Just three weeks ago it was below freezing at night still!

It seems that every year, Spring and Fall get shorter! We hop from Winter straight to summer...yuck!

[tow-mater-1]

We have had pretty nice weather here as well. We've been mid 80's this past week.:cool1: The kids are on us to open our pool but I think we will wait a few weeks.

[Fawn]

We have had pretty nice weather here as well. We've been mid 80's this past week.:cool1: The kids are on us to open our pool but I think we will wait a few weeks.

Same here. But as soon as I open it and it gets cold again, they will want the heater on! I'm waiting a couple more weeks at least!

[Tatiana]

In Ottawa Ontario we had a beautiful day of 16C (60F) with pure sunshine and a soft breeze... it was marvelous, exactly my kind of weather! :sunny:

[Fawn]

See, that's what I'm talking about...Spring weather! The rest of this week is rain for us, which is good for the flowers and grass...and I do love the smell of a Spring rain!

What do you all think about this Swine flu business...will it be done by January?? I would hate to have to go to Nassau, and we love Cozumel!

[newbydisney]

If it's not done by then we may be only going to Key West!.
It is spring here today ..tomorrow ..more winter...

[newbydisney]

SO what do you think are we the only one's on this cruise?

[Fawn]

SO what do you think are we the only one's on this cruise?

I think we may be!! Not that that's a problem! More food, drink and service for us! Woohoo!! :thumbsup2

Maybe we have to have a cool name like some of the other cruises. Is that where we went wrong?? :confused3

[tow-mater-1]

Well I've been going into Dis-withdrawl lately :rotfl2: I've been busy sewing my daughters prom dress which is only 11 days away and I finally finished.:banana:
So are we an unusually small group:confused3

[newbydisney]

I think this is a very quiet thread and no one has started any T-Shirt or fish extender, secret shopping or whatever madness so far as near as I can remember anyway.....perhaps the ship will be very quiet for our cruise ...can you imagine ..a quiet dinner in Parrot Cay ...no won't happen.... :0)

[Fawn]

My one daughter just had prom last Friday. I counted...thisIwas my 12th prom thru the years!! I'm just about prom'ed out!! ;)

I've had cruise threads that were hopping, and ones that started slow like this. One thing I've never had is an empty ship, though! :rotfl:

[tow-mater-1]

My one daughter just had prom last Friday. I counted...thisIwas my 12th prom thru the years!! I'm just about prom'ed out!! ;)

I've had cruise threads that were hopping, and ones that started slow like this. One thing I've never had is an empty ship, though! :rotfl:

12 PROMS :scared1: How many kids do you have!?!

So..I know what a fish extender thingy is but what's the T-shirt and secret shopping thing. I like madness, obviously...I have 5 kids!:lmao:

[Fawn]

12 PROMS :scared1: How many kids do you have!?!

So..I know what a fish extender thingy is but what's the T-shirt and secret shopping thing. I like madness, obviously...I have 5 kids!:lmao:


Well, my late husband and I adopted 5 children. Then I remarried and ended up with a few more stepkids...didn't keep the husband, but one of my step-daughters stayed with me! :thumbsup2 I don't even want to count the foster kids! :cool1:

My one daughter, 19, has made a career of proms...this was her 4th one...and she was homeschooled!

I haven't heard about the t-shirt or secret shopping thing?? :confused3

I need a Magic fix...bad!!! :dance3:

[tow-mater-1]

Well, my late husband and I adopted 5 children. Then I remarried and ended up with a few more stepkids...didn't keep the husband, but one of my step-daughters stayed with me! :thumbsup2 I don't even want to count the foster kids! :cool1:

My one daughter, 19, has made a career of proms...this was her 4th one...and she was homeschooled!

I haven't heard about the t-shirt or secret shopping thing?? :confused3

I need a Magic fix...bad!!! :dance3:

Wow!:worship: and I thought my house was chaos with my gang, I can't even imagine having more! Now I know why your favorite excursion on Castaway Cay is drinking conch coolers on the beach! I'll be sitting next to you sista!:lmao:

[Fawn]

QUOTE=tow-mater-1;31843962]Wow!:worship: and I thought my house was chaos with my gang, I can't even imagine having more! Now I know why your favorite excursion on Castaway Cay is drinking conch coolers on the beach! I'll be sitting next to you sista!:lmao:[/QUOTE]


We will be the happiest Mom's on the beach!! :dance3:

I know what it's like to have that large age spread...keeps things busy, don't it??

Summer is here, and with it means an influx of 18 to 25 year olds using my pool and backyard as their unofficial "club" 24/7. Doesn't matter how old they are, you never get any "un-busier"! Ah well, it keeps us young!! :hippie:

[cmclaura]

We're confirmed for this cruise. Family of 3, myself, husband, and DD who will be 16 when we cruise.

It took ages....we'd booked ahead on our last cruise but then, on the last day of the cruise, decided to take the plunge and become DVC members. It seemed to take forever to get things sorted out, but sorted out they are.

This will be our third cruise (2008 - Wonder 3 day Bahamas, 2009 - Magic 7 day Eastern Caribbean) but is the one we wanted to do initially 7 years ago (needing a new boiler in the house put an end to thoughts of a vacation for a couple of years!). So, we're finally going to do it, YAY!

I see a neighbor of mine started this thread -- hello! We're in Phoenixville, not too far!

[newbydisney]

And aboard!

[Fawn]

We're confirmed for this cruise. Family of 3, myself, husband, and DD who will be 16 when we cruise.

It took ages....we'd booked ahead on our last cruise but then, on the last day of the cruise, decided to take the plunge and become DVC members. It seemed to take forever to get things sorted out, but sorted out they are.

This will be our third cruise (2008 - Wonder 3 day Bahamas, 2009 - Magic 7 day Eastern Caribbean) but is the one we wanted to do initially 7 years ago (needing a new boiler in the house put an end to thoughts of a vacation for a couple of years!). So, we're finally going to do it, YAY!

I see a neighbor of mine started this thread -- hello! We're in Phoenixville, not too far!



Hey...welcome aboard, Neighbor!!! For the rest of you, she is no more than 10/15 minutes from me...Talk about a small world!! :thumbsup2

You're going to love the Western, it's our favorite!! :yay:

Seems like we're going to have a pretty empty ship at this point, but hopefully that will change as it gets closer!

[tow-mater-1]

Welcome cmclaura. Yay our group is growing!:banana:

[Fawn]

This is still such a small group?? Has anyone checked online to see availability? We always cruise this week, and it's usually pretty full. :dance3:

Anyone into fish extenders? We've never done it in all our cruises, but it sounds like fun...maybe?? :confused3

[DreamsComeTrue22]

hey everyone, i am thrilled to be reading that you have college aged children cruising with you to the western caribbean. this is my 4th disney cruise i have done the 4 day the 7 day eastern and western and now am very excited to be going back to the western!! I love key west. I am 22 soon to be 23 and will be sailing with my parents and my boyfriend who is 21. In past cruises i've met a few people my age but not that many. There seems to be a lot more college aged people on the ship this time around from reading all of your posts...finally people to hang out with at night !! see you all on the ship :)

[Fawn]

hey everyone, i am thrilled to be reading that you have college aged children cruising with you to the western caribbean. this is my 4th disney cruise i have done the 4 day the 7 day eastern and western and now am very excited to be going back to the western!! I love key west. I am 22 soon to be 23 and will be sailing with my parents and my boyfriend who is 21. In past cruises i've met a few people my age but not that many. There seems to be a lot more college aged people on the ship this time around from reading all of your posts...finally people to hang out with at night !! see you all on the ship :)

Hey...welcome! My daughters are happy, also, that there will be some "young" people on the cruise. However, I warn you, I was the one dragging them to the club and closing the place down every night! Age is only a number! ;)

Just saying... :rotfl2:

BTW, just added it up...so far 8 between the ages of 18 and 23! Very nice!

[tow-mater-1]

Welcome dctrue22! We just found out that my son's girlfriend will be joining us:cool1:. She will be 23 by the time we cruise. They are actually doing a little side trip to Disney on there own in Aug. I'm very jealous!
Joanna I know you mentioned fish extenders earlier, sounds like fun.

[DreamsComeTrue22]

thats cool, your son's girlfriend is the same age as me and your son is the same age as my boyfriend :) it seems that we have quite a crowd on the ship to date so it will definetly be a great time!! we are going with my parents and are going to disney for 5 days before we cruise and staying in the new bay lake tower dvc resort I cannot wait!! Hopefully it will be nice weather when we go since were not really getting any summer weather here in RI now its been raining for like a month !!



Welcome dctrue22! We just found out that my son's girlfriend will be joining us:cool1:. She will be 23 by the time we cruise. They are actually doing a little side trip to Disney on there own in Aug. I'm very jealous!
Joanna I know you mentioned fish extenders earlier, sounds like fun.

[Fawn]

Char

Yes, I did mention fish extenders! Can you imagine that in all our cruises, we've never done one??

It could actually be interesting, bc the majority of our roll call so far are adults or older teens. Have to be a little more creative here. Hmm...

Anyone else interested in FE's? If so, I can start a list of people, ages, cabin numbers so we can be all organized! I suppose this means I'll have to dust off (find??) my sewing machine! lol

[Tatiana]

:sunny: Hope everyone is enjoying summer! :cool2:

Does anyone know if the pools on the ship are salt water or fresh water? :fish:

[Fawn]

You know, we don't swim very much, but I should still know this one. Must have had one too many Bahama Mama's while sitting out there!

Summer is finally great here. After all the weeks of cold rain, about a month ago it cleared and the weather has been gorgeous! We're spending most of our days floating in the pool, and our nights sitting on the front porch sipping cold drinks and watching the sunset.

How's everyone else's summer going??

[DreamsComeTrue22]

summer is flying by ...... it seems to get shorter every year. so far up in RI we have had a pretty rainy month of june and half of july it started to finally get nice all last week so i spent that on the beach/sitting in traffic haha i guess thats what i get for living less than a mile from the shoreline. anyways i was wondering if anyone is interested in doing the 5k run on castaway cay???

[newbydisney]

I am very interested in doing the 5 k run...only my body is completely unwilling to even hear of it ...5K ? how far is that exactly??..if it's further than like to my mailbox I would never make it....I will cheer for you tho if I see you!! We got upgraded to a SPH room! OK well we paid for it so we got a better room. This is our usual room but someone else had it ..they must have canceled and I just happened to be checking to see how full the ship was ..( pretty full but not close to sold out) and noticed it was available!!! Score!! Glad to be in our usual room ...5020 stop by if you are in the neighborhood.

[Tatiana]

I am very interested in doing the 5 k run...only my body is completely unwilling to even hear of it ...5K ? how far is that exactly??..if it's further than like to my mailbox I would never make it....

:rotfl: I'm the same - I only run in life threatening situations :rotfl2:

[Fawn]

summer is flying by ...... it seems to get shorter every year. so far up in RI we have had a pretty rainy month of june and half of july it started to finally get nice all last week so i spent that on the beach/sitting in traffic haha i guess thats what i get for living less than a mile from the shoreline. anyways i was wondering if anyone is interested in doing the 5k run on castaway cay???

I'll tell you what. I'll find a place along your path, and be the person who hands you drinks as you run by! But being as this is Castaway Cay, you won't get water, you'll get a Conch Cooler!

Now how's that for being a friend! :thumbsup2

[DreamsComeTrue22]

I believe that you can also walk the 5 k as well and everyone can go at their own pace it is not a race. I remember reading that somewhere. The thing that intrigued me about this is the fact that since everyone meets at the gangway at 830, you suddenly become one of the lucky few who get to step out onto the island first before the rest of the cruise ship does. It would definetly give you a different perspective of the island before the crowds come, and also first advantage of staking out a good beach spot as well!!!

[newbydisney]

8:30 hmmm now you've got my attention

I read on another thread that someone got an upgrade to the Walt suite for only $1800.00.....I really think that would be worth it ... a once in a lifetime opportunity...I am going to try to do it..you all are invited over if we get it .
Does anyone play the piano?

[lizardman]

We will be joining all of you on this cruise! We originally were going in October '09, but were forced to switch because of my job. DS 10 and DD 13 will be joining me. This will be our first Disney cruise. I am sure there will be kids their age, but I have my doubts after reading the ages of all of your kids! HAHA Looking forward to meeting all of youpirate:

Ryan

[newbydisney]

Welcoma Aboard Lizardman..I am sorry to tell you that only passengers at least 18 yrs of age are allowed on Disney Cruises...new rule... HAHAHA Only kidding!! but you may well have the only children on board!!

[Tatiana]

:earboy2: Welcome lizardman! Good to have you joining us! :cheer2:

[Tatiana]

:sail: Does anyone know what the bug situation is like at the ports for the Western Caribbean? My parents and I were trying to figure out if we should bring bug repellent and stuff like that. :confused3

[cmclaura]

Seems like we have more of a college age group on this forum but rest assured there will be plenty of kids of all ages on board the Magic.

We did the Eastern this year from January 17 and my daughter, who had just turned 15, had so much fun in The Stack that we hardly ever saw her. She'll turn 16 in December and we expect we'll have to drag her to do things with boring mom and dad this cruise as well.

We were extremely lucky in that Disney paired us with the most wonderful table partners ever, the nicest people with whom we had so much in common, and our daughters were just a year apart, so they got on like a house afire. I'm hoping that they do likewise this year as well.

Young kids will have fun and make friends in whatever children's group they go to and they may never want to spend time with parents! There is so much to do onboard. I feel there's never enough time to even try to do half of everything!

Laura

[newbydisney]

We have never seen any bugs ..I think it's too cold by their standard.

[newbydisney]

We got ours anyone else get theirs?

[DreamsComeTrue22]

got our packet today!! getting excited :)

[Tatiana]

We got our packet a while back... then again... we booked in April of 2008 :goodvibes

[Angelia'sthree]

We are taking our first "big family" cruise~!

Me, Hubby and three daughters. Ages 13, 12 and 2 1/2
Mom
Sister, BIL and their two kids. Ages 9 and 2

Hope we have fun~!!

[taswira]

Hi everyone! I'll be joining you on this sailing, along with my mother. It will be my 12th DCL cruise (the graphic in my sig is for my 13th) and my mom's 2nd.

I've never had kids and my mom will be 87, so I'll probably have to hang out with her during the cruise unless she meets some interesting senior citizens, but hopefully I'll get to at least say hello to all of you. ::MinnieMo

Shari

[newbydisney]

Welcome Taswira and Angelia'sthree. We were starting to wonder if this ship was sailing 1/2 full!

[NYhorsefarm-mom]

We coming on the Jan 9th cruise. We recently moved from the Jan 23rd (scheduling issues). We are so excited. We were on the Magic in Jan of 2005 and we loved it (Eastern). Our kids are more excited than we are - DD9 & DD6 We have done other cruise line but Disney does everything better.

[Tatiana]

:tinker: Welcome to all of you new to this board! Looks like the ship is starting to fill up! Great to have you here! :grouphug:

[newbydisney]

Welcome NY Horse Person(s) We always take this early sailing to be home in time for the Horse SHows in Thermal ( formerly Indio) California.

[tow-mater-1]

Look what happens when I'm away from the boards for a while. The ship fills up!:cool1: Well here's a welcome to all the new peeps of this thread. That's what happens over the summer with 5 kids and only one computer, it's never mom's turn:sad2: Well the kids go back to school in 13 days:teacher:... not that I'm counting or anything:rolleyes1 heehee. I may be just as excited about back to school as I am the cruise.;) Ok, so that may be a slight exaggeration.:laughing: Actually it's quite lonely that first week but I manage. Well, I'm looking forward to to chating and getting to know everyone.... in 13 days.

[taswira]

Today I received my "Welcome Back Aboard" letter from DCL with the "My Cruise Travel Kit" info package. Have others here received theirs yet? Seemed to arrive sooner than I recall from past Disney cruises. Makes the sailing seem that much closer! http://www.primateprojections.com/travel/magicaldisney/emoticons/emotshipcaptain.gif

[taswira]

I suddenly realized the reason it seems like I got that packet so early is because I booked so late! I have always booked about a year or more ahead, but this time it's just over 4 months out. I think I need to get my head on straight about this one! :simba:

Have a great weekend everyone!

[tow-mater-1]

Today I received my "Welcome Back Aboard" letter from DCL with the "My Cruise Travel Kit" info package. Have others here received theirs yet? Seemed to arrive sooner than I recall from past Disney cruises. Makes the sailing seem that much closer! http://www.primateprojections.com/travel/magicaldisney/emoticons/emotshipcaptain.gif

Hey we just got a call from our TA today saying that our package arrived. This is getting very exciting.:cheer2: AND we just booked our pre-cruise night stay at Pop Century. Now all that's left is our flight home and transfers!:banana:

[NYhorsefarm-mom]

I was just looking at Pop Century... Is that a good "on property" hotel? If you book a week at WDW and buy food and park hopper passes and souveniers and etc... is it cheaper than a cruise? We all want to go on the cruise but we are trying to determine if it would be wise to postpone the cruise and do something more economical.

[cmclaura]

NYHorsefarmMom -- trying to compare a visit to WDW to a Disney Cruise is apples and oranges. Both are great, but totally different. Good luck with whichever you choose!

[cmclaura]

Whirlwind week! Arranged trip insurance as we're DVC members and it's no longer a clickable option when booking.

Have some hopefully money-savings ideas for those who need them. Been wheeling-dealing to get the best rates for everything else (frugality now means more drinkies and extras on board!). A couple of weeks ago I was able to book airline tix from Philly to Orlando for the day before the cruise (tired of waking up at 4.30am to make the 9am flight day of sailing -- last time we were so exhausted we fell asleep and missing the sailaway party). Southwest was only booking til January 8, so squeaked in and got $79 fares.

Yesterday, they opened their reservation window til mid-March, so got the return trips -- again at $79 each. I will keep checking to see if they lower it at all (a few years ago we did PHL-MCO for $49 each!) before we go; with Southwest, you can bank the difference and use it toward another flight).

If anyone is looking to book with Southwest, they're currently having a sale which I think ends tomorrow (9/3). Prices may fluctuate before the cruise, but I like knowing I've got the lowest available. Last year I changed them 3 times as prices dropped....from an original $149 to $79, whew!

We're staying at the Orlando Vista on Apopka-Vineland the night before. Walking distance to Downtown Disney and only $62/night inclusive (AAA members get the upgrade of a balcony for free). It's ironic to me that I used to live just 15 minutes up Apopka-Vineland......

Has anyone ever been to the Disney outlet store that's nearby (I think just off Palm Pkwy)? I usually frequented the one off Kirkman near Universal Studios (used to be called Belz Outlets) when I lived in Orlando. Would buy things there for 1/3 of the price I'd see them for at the Parks!

Car rental is booked (and I will keep checking the rates, as I've had them drop before and if you adjust the reservation, you can save $$$; right now they've gone UP UP UP so I'm sitting pretty). We're using Thrifty as their Orlando operation is E-Z. Cape Canaveral not so good, but we wrote a letter last year about the lack of service and we have some gift certifcates to use against this year's rental.

Only thing left to do is book Palo dinner, Palo brunch, Palo tea, excursions, etc., when they open in October. Yay! Did anyone hear about the latest improvements they're making to Castaway Cay? Probably won't have all of it up in time for our cruise, but it should all be in place by June 2010.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cpt6kJrGFbA

Does anyone know if you can book a character tea (children's) in advance? Or the best way to do it once you get onboard? We missed that one last time and my daughter (16 but she still wants to do it; why not, everyone is a kid on a Disney cruise!) won't let me make that mistake again!

Is everyone getting excited??? I wish some more families with teens would sign on here!

Laura

[taswira]

I was just looking at Pop Century... Is that a good "on property" hotel? If you book a week at WDW and buy food and park hopper passes and souveniers and etc... is it cheaper than a cruise? We all want to go on the cruise but we are trying to determine if it would be wise to postpone the cruise and do something more economical.
I agree with cmclaura. It's apples to oranges. No comparison. I've done more cruises than I have stayed on property at WDW, but I think there's a higher likelihood of spending more on a WDW vacation than on DCL. You can economize on either, but since I'm not a fan of organized excursions and since I usually explore the port but return to the ship for meals, I think cruising is a better deal . . for me anyway.

And keep in mind that after the improvements are completed at Castaway Cay and after the new ships are sailing, prices are likely to skyrocket! I'm cruising while I can. :sail:

cmclaura - Sounds like you're really getting organized! :thumbsup2

[cmclaura]

I am one of those planner types. It makes my family crazy that I have everything planned before we go. But then why do they drive me crazy by asking me questions each and every day of the cruise as to what they should be doing next? Sheeesh!

I was still mulling over the WDW vs the DC question and I agree that I do think going to WDW may cost more than doing the cruise, even with buying meal plans, etc. I have never stayed on property, either, as it just wasn't worth the extra $$$ to me. I tend to just sleep in the hotel, not enjoy the amenities, pool, etc. Plus, I like to see other things besides the resort destination when I go places. And, I think the cruise is more relaxing.

Maybe look into a 3/4 day split and do both? Enjoy the best of both worlds! But I strongly recommend doing WDW first and then the cruise. Traipsing around WDW is very tiring and physically draining and the cruise, while still offering a number of things to do (more than you can really do, actually) is somehow much more tranquil and refreshing.

But then, maybe that's attributable to all those hours I spent hogging one of the recliners in the Rainforest part of the Spa. I just love that.

Maybe all the ladies on here should get together for one of the Ladies Spa Days as a meet-up?

Laura

[taswira]

I've stayed at Pop, AK Lodge (3 times), the Contemporary, and Coronado Springs. Each time, I spent a lot more throughout my stay than I expected. I keep going back to DCL as the best value for the money. In my case, it's very expensive when I sail solo as I often have, but when someone is with me (as this time) so I don't have to pay the outrageously high solo rate, it's a great value. :goodvibes

Laura - I'm a compulsive organizer myself. Put it this way: I am pretty much packed already! Today I received my renewed passport, so I can finally stop stressing. :cool1:

[luvsTink]

Count us in!
Me (Anne), DH, DD - Jordan, 12 and DD -Taylor, 10.

This is our second DCL cruise and we will be bringing with us a family of newbies (2 adults, 3 kids).

The plan is to do the WDW half marathon in the morning and board the Magic afterwards! I will definatley be looking forward to the spa!

TTFN
Anne

[newbydisney]

Cost I think is a cruise is more economical and easier to control spending.

I have never stayed at POP and do not plan to. We always stay at Port Orleans. It's very quiet there.

A cruise to me is a vacation...going to the parks is more like work. If you don't need a rest then you may prefer the park(s) and all those activities. Personally, I need a rest and guaranteed warmth. It can be chilly in Orlando in Jan..but the cruise by day 2 you are very warm.

That's my 2 cents worth..I hope you cruise with us!..you could always just do a day at the parks on your way down or back..that's what we do. We try to do a park the day before we board...massages are 30% off generally on day one..and after the park ..I need it!! ( well just my feet)

[newbydisney]

Count me in anyone want to follow it with tea at Palo?

[tow-mater-1]

Hey everyone, I'm having a serious anxiety about booking our flights returning home and need some advice. We have had our flights to MCO booked for a while now though Southwest and got a great price at $59. Now returning there are two direct flights with Southwest one at 5:30pm for $62, and one at 1:20 for $96. Now my hubby feels (and I agree) that being in an airport with 6 kids for 8 hrs:scared1: makes it worth the extra to leave early. So I decided to look at other airlines. Now Airtran has flights for $64 leaving at 10:43. YIKES...I know. I realize that Disney says that flights should not be booked before 12:30 BUT January is a down time right? Which means that airport security lines are probably not as long. So I'm wondering what some of you seasoned travellers think. Any thoughts would be great:)

[taswira]

...Now Airtran has flights for $64 leaving at 10:43. YIKES...I know. I realize that Disney says that flights should not be booked before 12:30 BUT January is a down time right? Which means that airport security lines are probably not as long. So I'm wondering what some of you seasoned travellers think. Any thoughts would be great:)
I would play it safe and go for the 1:20 $96 flight. There is simply no way that taking the chance on the early flight would be worth it to me. If you have early dining you should be among the first off the ship (and those with early flights can always let them know), BUT on rare occasions the process can be stalled like peak freeway traffic due to a problem clearing customs - for either the ship or individual passengers. In eleven prior cruises with Disney, I have seen this happen only twice. For me, trying to save the dollars would not be worth the stress.

I have never flown in for a cruise since I live less than an hour from the port, but I used to be a Disney specialist travel agent. DCL tells you not to make it earlier than 12:30 . . for a good reason. Good luck whatever you decide!

[tow-mater-1]

Thanks Taswira, we took your advice and we are now booked for the 1:20! When I added it all up it's like $155 ruturn AND since we don't have to pay for luggage it's like another $30 off right. So it's actually like $125 return with any other airline. My hubby is alot happier with the later flight and less stress...Me I like livin on the edge.:rotfl:
Welcome luvstink! Hey my uncle is doing the Goofy, so my daughter and I were thinking if we couldn't sleep we would go and cheer him on. Maybe we'll make a sign for you too.:cheer2:
Did someone say spa!! Count me in!:thumbsup2

[Tatiana]

:beach: I had a fun shopping day - trying to check a few things off my "need for cruise" shopping list! I found the best 12.1mpix digital camera with a 24X OPTICAL zoom for only $369CND!!! :woohoo:

:sail:It will be perfect for spotting Mermaids or watching out for approaching Pirates pirate:

:cool1: I'm so excited already! I can't wait till January! :mickeyjum

[NYhorsefarm-mom]

Thank you all for the input on the cruise vs. WDW. I would rather cruise but we thought we would have more of it paid for by now. I think we could easily over spend at WDW. Our new plan... We have decided to book the 4 day leaving Jan 10th. That helps with the money situation and still gives us a lovely cruise. The down side... getting off after 4 days. Have a great 7 day cruise everyone.

[tow-mater-1]

Thank you all for the input on the cruise vs. WDW. I would rather cruise but we thought we would have more of it paid for by now. I think we could easily over spend at WDW. Our new plan... We have decided to book the 4 day leaving Jan 10th. That helps with the money situation and still gives us a lovely cruise. The down side... getting off after 4 days. Have a great 7 day cruise everyone.

Aw, :sad1: we're sorry we're going to miss you. I'm sure you'll have a great time though on your cruise.

[actuarian]

DW and I will be joining all of you on this cruise! We were originally booked on the Royal Caribbean Freedom of the Seas but switched our res. to the Magic last weekend. This will be our third time on the Magic but our 19th cruise. We are also spending three days at SOG (Shades of Green), the military resort in WDW. Is there anyone else in this thread who works for the military or who will be at SOG? Looking forward to meeting all of you.

Dave

[taswira]

DW and I will be joining all of you on this cruise! We were originally booked on the Royal Caribbean Freedom of the Seas but switched our res. to the Magic last weekend. This will be our third time on the Magic but our 19th cruise. We are also spending three days at SOG (Shades of Green), the military resort in WDW. Is there anyone else in this thread who works for the military or who will be at SOG? Looking forward to meeting all of you.

Dave
Welcome! I don't work for the military, but my DH is a retired Air Force fighter pilot. I was in the Air Force long ago. He won't be sailing with me though. It will just be my mom and I - Her 2nd DCL cruise (first on the Magic) and my 12th.

Will this be your first stay at SOG? My DH and I have not stayed there, but are considering it in the near future.

Shari

[Tatiana]

:welcome: actuarian! :wave2: Wow, 19 cruises! You must be a pro! I'm coming onboard with my parents, and we're all first time cruisers!

[actuarian]

This will be our second visit to SOG. I am a Civilian employee (actuary) of the Coast Guard. Several of the people who work with me at CG headquarters are Air Force veterans. If you enjoy WDW, SOG is the best place to stay; the rooms and service are comparable to Disney Deluxe such as the Contemporary or the Polynesian (but without the monorail service) while the $131/night price is only a fraction of what those resorts charge. Also, there is no room tax or sales tax at SOG since it is a federal property. The location is perfect, directly across the road from the Polynesian. Have you actually been on the Magic 11 times before or were some of those on the Wonder? (Of our previous 18 cruises, 7 were DCL but 5 of those were on the Wonder.)

Regards, Dave

[actuarian]

Tatiana, as a first time cruiser, you will love the magic. Our first two cruises in 2003 were on DCL (first on the Wonder and second on the Magic) and DW and I agree that it is the best cruise line for first timers. We liked the first cruise so much that we booked the second right on the Wonder, debarking from the Wonder on a Thursday and embarking on the Magic two days later on Saturday! We had planned to spend the second week of that vacation at a Disney hotel but Disney let us transfer our prepayment from their hotel to the cruise line.

[taswira]

This will be our second visit to SOG. I am a Civilian employee (actuary) of the Coast Guard. Several of the people who work with me at CG headquarters are Air Force veterans. If you enjoy WDW, SOG is the best place to stay; the rooms and service are comparable to Disney Deluxe such as the Contemporary or the Polynesian (but without the monorail service) while the $131/night price is only a fraction of what those resorts charge. Also, there is no room tax or sales tax at SOG since it is a federal property. The location is perfect, directly across the road from the Polynesian. Have you actually been on the Magic 11 times before or were some of those on the Wonder? (Of our previous 18 cruises, 7 were DCL but 5 of those were on the Wonder.)

Regards, Dave
Dave - I live an hour from WDW and am an annual passholder. Have stayed at Contemporary, Animal Kingdom Lodge, Coronado Springs and Pop Century. I like the look of SOG and its convenient location. However, the price is based on rank so sometimes a discounted rate at a WDW deluxe resort is comparable. I'd still like to try it though. And "no tax" always helps! :)

About half my DCL cruises were on the Wonder, including my very first cruise which was "Disney Cruise College" onboard training for travel agents/consultants in 2002. I used to sail on the Wonder often . . until I got hooked on the 7-night cruises. :goodvibes

[actuarian]

Taswira, you are correct that rates are based on rank. However, those rates only apply to active duty service people. Retired service people and civilian employees of the services pay the highest rate, which is currently $131/night for most rooms, $141/night for poolside rooms and $250/night for suites. Even with the annual passholder discount (which I used to have, although I am no longer an annual passholder), rates at a disney deluxe resort are over $200/night + tax for the least expensive rooms in the resort. Over the years I have been visiting WDW (since the 1970s), I have also stayed at all of the hotels you mentioned plus the Yacht Club, the Beach Club, the Grand Floridian, Port Orleans and the Boardwalk Inn. Of those, only the Contemporary and the Grand Floridian have rooms that are as large as the rooms at SOG. As for room quality, that is subjective. However, I would rank SOG as number 2, behind the GF. The Unofficial Guide ranks it #6 out of the 27 resorts that are on property, behind the 3 monorail resorts and 2 of the Vacation Club villa resorts. --Dave

[taswira]

Dave - The appeal of SOG to my DH from what he has seen is that he thinks it would not feel quite as "Disney" to him - lol - which oddly is how he would want it. To each his own. I love the atmosphere of the AK Lodge, only due to the theming. Otherwise, I like the Contemporary for its monorail convenience. I do think I would enjoy SOG though, and my DH certainly would. I'm sure we'll give it a try sometime. Thanks.

So you were on the Wonder in 2003? My 4-night Wonder cruises that year were May 25th and Sept. 28th. Were you on either of those?

Getting too off-topic here I guess, but at least it's bumping up the thread. ;)

[actuarian]

Taswira, SOG was built as a Disney resort. It was "Disney's Golf Resort" before Disney sold it to the Department of Defense. Nevertheless, it is not "themy" and probably never was. My 2003 cruises were in winter, just like this one will be. For those of us who are not lucky enough to live in Florida, winter is the best time to get away!

[taswira]

Dave - Yes, I know that SOG was originally built as Disney's Golf Resort. That was part of my College of Disney Knowledge training, way back when - lol. But it is supposed to be the least "Disney themed," and that idea appeals to my DH, as he somehow thinks the characters are just for kids. Unfortunately for him, I am a serious character fan. To see how much, try clicking on the graphic for my Dec. 2010 cruise in my sig. :lmao:

[actuarian]

Taswira, you are right that SOG is less themed than the other resorts. DW and I love the characters too. However, the Polynesian is right across the street from SOG and the money we save by staying at SOG will pay for quite a few breakfasts at 'Ohana with Lilo, Stitch, Mickey and Pluto!

[taswira]

I am SO thrilled! DCL officially announced their NEW Castaway Club benefits today. Since I am Platinum level, today was the day I could start making reservations for Palo dining and such. My mother and I have 10 a.m. Palo Brunch on Sunday, Key West day, and 7 p.m. Palo dinner on Wednesday, Grand Cayman day. Since she is elderly and we won't be doing excursions, those are ideal days and times for her. Anyway, we are happy. :cool1:

[Tatiana]

:tinker: Hey!
Did anyone else get their flight information today?! I just got an e-mail with all my flight times and transfer points! I didn't think we would get that info till December! Works out perfect for me since I'm a compulsive planner :cool1:

[tow-mater-1]

I am SO thrilled! DCL officially announced their NEW Castaway Club benefits today. Since I am Platinum level, today was the day I could start making reservations for Palo dining and such. My mother and I have 10 a.m. Palo Brunch on Sunday, Key West day, and 7 p.m. Palo dinner on Wednesday, Grand Cayman day. Since she is elderly and we won't be doing excursions, those are ideal days and times for her. Anyway, we are happy. :cool1:

Congratulations:thumbsup2. I can't believe that we are getting that close to be making resies already! Although I will have to wait another 7 weeks:sad1:, hopefully there will be spots left for palo for newbies like Tatiana and myself. We were going to do the REAS but we decided against it when we had to do some unexpected house renos, although I heard that they weren't offering it anymore anyways.

[tow-mater-1]

:tinker: Hey!
Did anyone else get their flight information today?! I just got an e-mail with all my flight times and transfer points! I didn't think we would get that info till December! Works out perfect for me since I'm a compulsive planner :cool1:

So did you book your flights though Disney? We booked our flights ourselves just last week. It's a beautiful thing to have everything in order, I hear ya about being a compulsive planner. My family always teases, So are ya going to schedule a pee break in there for us. I just sigh and say I try and work it in if I must but I'm not makin any promises. :rotfl2:

[taswira]

Congratulations:thumbsup2. I can't believe that we are getting that close to be making resies already! Although I will have to wait another 7 weeks:sad1:, hopefully there will be spots left for palo for newbies like Tatiana and myself. We were going to do the REAS but we decided against it when we had to do some unexpected house renos, although I heard that they weren't offering it anymore anyways.
Thanks! I'm sure there will be spots left, especially if you are willing to stay up late for the moment you are able to start making the ressies online. Even if not, on the 7-night sailings there is of course more availability. When I've done the shorter cruises, getting ressies was sometimes a nightmare! Yet another reason I prefer the 7-night. ::MinnieMo

[Tatiana]

So did you book your flights though Disney? We booked our flights ourselves just last week. It's a beautiful thing to have everything in order, I hear ya about being a compulsive planner. My family always teases, So are ya going to schedule a pee break in there for us. I just sigh and say I try and work it in if I must but I'm not makin any promises. :rotfl2:

Yep, I booked my flight and ground transportation through Disney! I'll also be staying at the Hyatt Orlando hotel the night before the cruise :)

[actuarian]

When I've done the shorter cruises, getting ressies was sometimes a nightmare! Yet another reason I prefer the 7-night.
I assume that everyone on this cruise prefers the 7-night; that is why we booked the Magic. However, those of us like me who are only gold or those of us like Tatiana who are newbies could get to be platinum in half the time by taking the shorter cruises. If you spend the same 7 days and approximately the same expense on back-to-back cruises on the Wonder, you get credited for 2 cruises instead of 1 (and you get 2 days at Castaway Cay instead of 1)! --Dave

[tow-mater-1]

I assume that everyone on this cruise prefers the 7-night; that is why we booked the Magic. However, those of us like me who are only gold or those of us like Tatiana who are newbies could get to be platinum in half the time by taking the shorter cruises. If you spend the same 7 days and approximately the same expense on back-to-back cruises on the Wonder, you get credited for 2 cruises instead of 1 (and you get 2 days at Castaway Cay instead of 1)! --Dave

I have to admit that I didn't pay too much attention to the new tier system since this is our first cruise and figured it will be a looong while if ever before we get to gold. However I was reading a thread and someone implied that since they have to get two cabins it counts as two sailings. Do you know if this is the case? If it is, all I would have to do is book a back to back with my huge family which would equal 4 cruises plus this one which is 2 and I would be gold right? We had discussed booking while on board but didn't know which itinerary we would choose but since we are coming from Canada it would definitely have to be at least 7 days. We never considered a back to back. Thanks for giving us another option to think about!:thumbsup2

[mancub]

Cannot believe that we have waited so long to look up this site - just finished ready all of the previous posts, catching up on everyone. This will be our second disney cruise - the first being a 4 nite (sept.28-Oct.2, 2009), but our first 7-nite. SO excited!!:cool1: DH, DS, age 13 and DD, age 11 will be joining me - more kids! We also have two other families(with similar aged children) cruising with us, but they are not the disney "freaks" that we seem to be. Read earlier talk about the fish extenders and DD is excited to do this again on this cruise, if anyone else is interested. Emails or facebooks for the kids would really excite them so they know even more people when they get to the cruise.

Happy cruising!
amy:yay:

[tow-mater-1]

Welcome mancub! My DS13 is very happy more kids are coming:thumbsup2

[Jusacuz]

Hi everyone. My daughter and I will be joining you all! :) This is the second time I've changed our cruise date, but I'm done changing it. lol. We were going on the 4 night on the 10th because I was going to do the marathon, but I've decided that I'm not ready to commit to a full marathon yet. I did the half last year and don't really want to that again either.

My daughter will be celebrating her 17th birthday on the 12th. This is her 3rd cruise, my 4th. Our first on the Magic. We can't wait to see some different ports.

Is there a fish exchange going on because we'd love to sign up? I saw it mentioned earlier in the thread, but didn't see any final word on it. :)

[lulu1996]

Our family will also be taking our first cruise with Disney and our "kids" are also on college winter breaks (daughter is in graduate school and will be 23 in Nov, son is 20). We are wondering if we should book shore excursions that include snorkling or if should wait until when on ship and have a better idea what the weather and water temperatures will be like---do many of the excursions "fill up" before we would "set sail"?

"lulu1996":cloud9:

[taswira]

Our family will also be taking our first cruise with Disney and our "kids" are also on college winter breaks (daughter is in graduate school and will be 23 in Nov, son is 20). We are wondering if we should book shore excursions that include snorkling or if should wait until when on ship and have a better idea what the weather and water temperatures will be like---do many of the excursions "fill up" before we would "set sail"?

"lulu1996":cloud9:
Hi, Lulu! I'm the one who replied to you on that "other board," but you'll probably get more variety of answers here. ;)

Good to see you on the DIS! :thumbsup2

Shari

[lulu1996]

Shari--thank you for telling me about this discussion board, I wasn't aware of it but a quick search got me here! I'll hope for some additional replies :)

[Tatiana]

:welcome: to all of you new to this board! Looks like we have a good size group coming together!:grouphug:

[newbydisney]

Welcome to the new folks!

We have snorkeled at St Johns before in January. Water was fine. But St. Johns I believe is further South than anywhere this cruise goes. Feel free to correct me...I haven't studied the that map carefully..
The first year we went it was warm enough to swim and snorkel at castaway Cay..the second year it was not. The air was warm but the water was quite cold.
We have had excursions that we wanted to go on sell out...but I think usually there are non Disney excursions available.
I think you should be able to get the information you need for a specific location from a website ..as they say try googling it!

[cmclaura]

Hi everyone. My daughter and I will be joining you all! :)

My daughter will be celebrating her 17th birthday on the 12th. This is her 3rd cruise, my 4th. Our first on the Magic. We can't wait to see some different ports.


I am delighted to see that there's going to be at least one other teen close to my daughter's age (she turns 16 in December). Will your daughter be going to the Teen Club? Keighley loves it!

Please contact me if you're interested in having the girls email before the cruise. CMCLaura@aol.com

This will be our 3rd Disney Cruise.

[cmclaura]

I cannot believe there's something I knew nothing about! I am devastated, lol.

Can someone please explain to me the different ratings and what prizes (lol, okay, privileges) one gains from each level? Or where I can find this info?

I'm sitting here, stunned, that I didn't know this. My day job is to be a know-it-all and get the answers to everything.

Laura

[taswira]

Laura - I just sent you an e-mail.

[Kstinkfan]

Hi! We have been booked for a while now, but I just came out of lurker-mode:cool1:We are a family of three: dh (40), me (40) and ds (10). We are also travelling with my FIL, MIL, and BIL w/family. There will be 11 of us in all, but I am the only one that has (a touch of) DOCD.

This is our fifth cruise (fourth Disney), my parent in-law's third, and my BIL's family's first. We are soooo excited, that we had to book a short trip to WDW in November just to tide us over.

Anyway, we are really looking forward to getting acquainted with all of you!

[taswira]

:welcome: Welcome, Kstinkfan and family!

[Tatiana]

:smickey: Hi Kstinkfan! Great to have you and your group joining us for this magical cruise!

[tow-mater-1]

Welcome Lulu1996 and Kstinkfan!:thumbsup2

[Kstinkfan]

Thanks for the warm welcomes!

[Tatiana]

pirate: Hey! pirate:

Is anyone else planning to dress up for Pirate Night? I found a few pirate costumes for my parents, and a bar wench costume for myself (which is perfect for pirate with a few small alterations!) Here's hoping we wont be the only ones actually wearing more then just a bandana on pirate night! pirate:

Halloween is the perfect time of year to get lots of great costumes, or waiting till just after Halloween can be useful to get all the discounted pirate stuff!

[taswira]

Although I doubt my mom and I will be wearing pirate attire, it's only because we don't have any and don't want to spend money on that right now, even though as you pointed out there should be great discounts after Halloween.

But don't worry - Usually MANY entire families get decked out for Pirate Night, and those of us not in costume enjoy seeing their outfits. pirate:

[taswira]

... Here's hoping we wont be the only ones actually wearing more then just a bandana on pirate night! pirate:
Forgot to add - - I hope EVERYONE will be wearing more than just a bandana on Pirate Night . . and every night! :rotfl2:

[tow-mater-1]

pirate: Hey! pirate:

Is anyone else planning to dress up for Pirate Night? I found a few pirate costumes for my parents, and a bar wench costume for myself (which is perfect for pirate with a few small alterations!) Here's hoping we wont be the only ones actually wearing more then just a bandana on pirate night! pirate:

Halloween is the perfect time of year to get lots of great costumes, or waiting till just after Halloween can be useful to get all the discounted pirate stuff!

My 3 youngest are dressing up for sure, 2 of them dressed up as Jack Sparrow for halloween last year so they are really excited. My older kids may and as for myself I think I will be pirate-ish. Pirate night happens to be on my little guys 4th birthday:banana: AND they switched the days for GC for that day which is really cool since we had already planned to do the pirate excursion. It will be a very piratey birthday!pirate:

[Jusacuz]

I am delighted to see that there's going to be at least one other teen close to my daughter's age (she turns 16 in December). Will your daughter be going to the Teen Club? Keighley loves it!

Please contact me if you're interested in having the girls email before the cruise. CMCLaura@aol.com

This will be our 3rd Disney Cruise.

My daughter will definitely check out the club the first night and then decide how much time she wants to spend there. In the past, she's tried to find an activity each night to do. She's not into the drama & romantic connections she saw on the last cruise we were on, which caused her to spend more time with me than we were expecting. Hopefully with a longer cruise, she'll find more to do and more kids like her. She said she'd be interested in emailing with your DD before the cruise. I'll email you her info. :)
----
For those of you planning on dressing like pirates...YAY! We won't be dressed up, but we love to see everyone dressed up on pirate night. It really makes the night more interesting. :)

At the risk of being repetitive, I also was curious if it was decided as to if we'll do a FE exchange or not. We're getting so close to the date and I want to plan accordingly. I know someone volunteered way earlier in the thread to keep a list. Of course, I can't find that post so I'm not sure who it was. :confused3

[tow-mater-1]

At the risk of being repetitive, I also was curious if it was decided as to if we'll do a FE exchange or not. We're getting so close to the date and I want to plan accordingly. I know someone volunteered way earlier in the thread to keep a list. Of course, I can't find that post so I'm not sure who it was. :confused3

It was actually Fawn that had mentioned it. I PM'd her the other day cuz I haven't seen her on here lately:confused3. I think there is definitely enough interest to do it. I know my group of 8 are in. I suppose we could just keep track of all who want in for Joanna if she still wants to do it, and if not we have all the info. What does everyone think?

[Tatiana]

:fish: My group and I would be interested in doing Fish extenders too :fish:

[Kstinkfan]

pirate:We plan on being decked out in pirate arrrtire (pirate pun.) I will need to hit the sales for my son, he has grown out of his old costume. My husband and I have pirate shirts that I made (maybe borderline dorky). We usually wear them with capris/slacks. I promised my son that he wouldn't have to wear the parrot this year, though:). That is the extent of our pirate wear. I hope, like you, that we won't be the only ones dressed up! pirate:

[Kstinkfan]

We would be up for fish extenders!

[mancub]

Hey-hey-hey
Finally back on the boards!
Let's start an FE list:

Mancub - 2 adults, 2 children (13, 11) cabin 7035

Was there any other information we needed to know? I will try to keep a running list of who all is interested.

Also, we will definitely be dressing in some pirate attire for pirate night - we do the after Halloween discounted costumes or throw together our own "dollar" finds:banana:

Send in your info for the FE list and I will update at least each week, hopefully sooner, as others let me know!!

Happy cruisin':dance3: Amy

[Jusacuz]

Hey-hey-hey
Finally back on the boards!
Let's start an FE list:

Mancub - 2 adults, 2 children (13, 11) cabin 7035

Was there any other information we needed to know? I will try to keep a running list of who all is interested.

Also, we will definitely be dressing in some pirate attire for pirate night - we do the after Halloween discounted costumes or throw together our own "dollar" finds:banana:

Send in your info for the FE list and I will update at least each week, hopefully sooner, as others let me know!!

Happy cruisin':dance3: Amy

Thanks for being the list keeper. :)

We're in. 1 adult, 1 child (16/17) no room # yet.

You may want to keep a private list and add the stateroom numbers that way. A few people may not want to have that information on the board. Sounds like you'll have a quite a list. :)

[actuarian]

Hey-hey-hey
Finally back on the boards!
Let's start an FE list:

Mancub - 2 adults, 2 children (13, 11) cabin 7035

Was there any other information we needed to know? I will try to keep a running list of who all is interested.

Also, we will definitely be dressing in some pirate attire for pirate night - we do the after Halloween discounted costumes or throw together our own "dollar" finds:banana:

Send in your info for the FE list and I will update at least each week, hopefully sooner, as others let me know!!

Happy cruisin':dance3: Amy

Actuarian - 2 Adults, cabin 7120. Thank you for maintaining the list.:teacher:

[tow-mater-1]

Hey Amy, Im room 6540 we have myself, dh, ds-5 and ds-3 turning 4 on the cruise and in room 6541 we have ds-21 ds girlfriend-23 dd-18 and ds-13. Thanks for keepin track!:thumbsup2

[DreamsComeTrue22]

we will be up for the FE also we are myself (Sarah) 23, my boyfriend Derek 21, and my parents Stephen and MaryJane and we will be in room 7124.

[actuarian]

we will be up for the FE also we are myself (Sarah) 23, my boyfriend Derek 21, and my parents Stephen and MaryJane and we will be in room 7124. I assume that you will not all be in 7124. That room is a Cat. 7 so it only sleeps 3. DW (Jackie) and I (Dave) will be two doors down in 7120.

[lulu1996]

I may have read about it somewhere but do not remember---can someone please explain the FEs (I did figure out from your posts that stands for fish extender but not what it is actually is....) Thank you!

lulu1996

[taswira]

I may have read about it somewhere but do not remember---can someone please explain the FEs (I did figure out from your posts that stands for fish extender but not what it is actually is....) Thank you!

lulu1996
THIS THREAD (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=33184281) here on the DIS covers the basics, and HERE (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1219607) is a lengthier thread on the topic. :)

[DreamsComeTrue22]

I assume that you will not all be in 7124. That room is a Cat. 7 so it only sleeps 3. DW (Jackie) and I (Dave) will be two doors down in 7120.


my boyfriend got another room right across the hall, we are just all going to be homebased out of our room 7124 ( we really need the extra bathroom spaces since we are all a little high maintence getting ready)

[lulu1996]

thank you for the FE link----looks like fun:)

[newbydisney]

ok you guys are going to have to come back to cruise chat again. Last Friday absolutely no one was there that have ever even cruised!!! SO come on now and come to chat.

Also who on this cruise has also reserved the Panama canal Cruise Jan 2011??..
We should have a meet-up as we have booked that as well.

[tow-mater-1]

ok you guys are going to have to come back to cruise chat again. Last Friday absolutely no one was there that have ever even cruised!!! SO come on now and come to chat.

Also who on this cruise has also reserved the Panama canal Cruise Jan 2011??..
We should have a meet-up as we have booked that as well.

Darn :headache:We will be out that night for hubbys big birthday. We are going to dinner and then to the casino, so we're hoping for some pixie dust:thumbsup2 Maybe just enough to cover some excursions, palo, maybe a spa treatment or two.:laughing: So newby, do you go on cruise chat often? It was fun the last time we did it (my first time EVER in a chat room). It was a family affair here, I need my dh and dd to read the 10 conversations at once while I typed. Maybe by the time the cruise comes I will be competent on my own in a chat room!:rotfl2:

[phred52]

YEA! :woohoo: We'll be joining you guys!!


Its myself and DH, please sign us up for the fish extenders!! That was SOOO much fun on our last trip!!
we've got a gty room, no number yet.

Can't believe it! Got to pinch myself!

[tink576]

Yea! Sign us up for the fish extenders too!

It'll be my sister (19) and me (21) ... Can't wait to meet the other college aged Disers on the cruise!

[tink576]

Wow! I just counted and there's a total of 13 college aged people from the dis already signed up (I'm going under the assumption that the 18yr olds are in college). On my last cruise there were a total of 4 college aged students on the entire ship! I am so excited now!

[DreamsComeTrue22]

I can't wait this cruise is going to be so much fun and there are so many of us around the same age, my boyfriend was just commenting on that the other day!! Most of the previous cruises I've been on with Disney only had a few of us like one or two around the same age so I am excited, anyone want to be facebook friends before the cruise??? Also is anyone going to Panama-LA Repo cruise on the Wonder? My parents just booked it a couple weeks ago and I am super excited for that however I've been reading the boards for that and I'm seeing really little kids sailing and elementary aged kids with their families and I have not seen any posts about any 20-somethings on the ship at all so I really hope thats not the case.

[tink576]

I'm all for facebook friending before the cruise! I'm so excited for it! I'll send you a pm and anybody else feel free to pm me!

[Kstinkfan]

Please sign us up for the FE exchange. We are DH-adult, me-adult, DS-10.

Thanks

[Tatiana]

Hey All - My group has 3 - Me (adult daughter), Mom, and Dad - we are all in room number 6576 :cool1:

[lulu1996]

Is there a link that explains the other abbreviations being used---such as those for members of your families/groups (DD, DS, DH, etc.)?

Does anyone know if wetsuits are available for rent at the ports? or if they are included in any of the excursion fees?

I read a post somewhere about a 5k family run at Castaway Cay, does anyone know if that is a regular offering? My husband and daughter are planning on running the 5k in WDW before our cruise and would be interested if another one is organized at Castaway Cay.

Thank you for any information or links to threads that you can share!

[newbydisney]

I didn't even realize we were that close..anyone book anything??..I could not get High Tea....but something will open up I am sure...Post what you booked and why to give thee rest of us ideas..anybody doing any Dolphin Encounters??

[Jusacuz]

Is there a link that explains the other abbreviations being used---such as those for members of your families/groups (DD, DS, DH, etc.)?


Does anyone know if wetsuits are available for rent at the ports? or if they are included in any of the excursion fees?


I read a post somewhere about a 5k family run at Castaway Cay, does anyone know if that is a regular offering? My husband and daughter are planning on running the 5k in WDW before our cruise and would be interested if another one is organized at Castaway Cay.

Thank you for any information or links to threads that you can share!

Here's a long list of abbreviations: http://disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1660743

I don't know about wetsuits because I have never done any water sort of excursion that would need one, but someone on the main cruise board could probably answer.

Here is a thread about the 5k on Castaway Cay. There are others, but this was the most recent I could find that had a lot of info: http://disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2224788&highlight=castaway+5k

[tink576]

Hey Everyone! Has anyone taken charge of organizing the fish extenders and arranging a cruise meet at the beginning of our trip? I'd be willing to start that up if it hasn't been started yet!

[Jusacuz]

Hey Everyone! Has anyone taken charge of organizing the fish extenders and arranging a cruise meet at the beginning of our trip? I'd be willing to start that up if it hasn't been started yet!

On page 11 of the thread Mancub (Amy?) said she'd keep the list, but I haven't seen any other posts about it. You may want to PM her to make sure it's being kept up with. It would be nice to have an update/count. :)

[tink576]

On page 11 of the thread Mancub (Amy?) said she'd keep the list, but I haven't seen any other posts about it. You may want to PM her to make sure it's being kept up with. It would be nice to have an update/count. :)

Thanks!!! I PM'ed Mancub, we'll see where it goes from here! :thumbsup2

[DreamsComeTrue22]

Is there a link that explains the other abbreviations being used---such as those for members of your families/groups (DD, DS, DH, etc.)?

Does anyone know if wetsuits are available for rent at the ports? or if they are included in any of the excursion fees?

I read a post somewhere about a 5k family run at Castaway Cay, does anyone know if that is a regular offering? My husband and daughter are planning on running the 5k in WDW before our cruise and would be interested if another one is organized at Castaway Cay.

Thank you for any information or links to threads that you can share!






I posted about the 5k on the island, it is held every cruise first thing in the morning and you get the special treatment of being among the first people to be cleared onto the island i believe it starts around 8-830 am. You are allowed to walk or run they allow everyone to go it at their own pace.

[tink576]

It would be nice to have an update/count. :)

There are currently a total of 84 people signed up on this thread for the cruise!!! I'll post a count to give an idea for fish extenders kids vs. adults tomorrow!!!

[Fawn]

OK, sorry for being away so long everyone...it's been a rough Fall so far. Welcome to all the new members of our cruise!!!

I went thru the pages I missed, and added onto my list. Here is my current estimates.

13 "kids" from 18 to 23 - 4 boys, 9 girls

19 kids from 17 down - not sure of boys/girls on all of them

Lots of fun adults!! :dance3:

How about this. If you are interested in fish extenders, go ahead and private message me your names and ages (and m/f bc some of the names are confusing) of everyone in your party interested and their cabin numbers, and include an email address for me. I have a lot of this info already, but go ahead and do it anyways so I'll make sure to have it correct. Then I'll make a master list and send it out as we get closer to the cruise. Let's set a date for ending the FE. It can get tough to add on extras at the end, and with the holidays and all...how about Dec. 1?

I have 20 actual families who have posted, but they mention lots of extended families coming with...if they are interested, I need that info, also. And I think someone on my list decided not to go, but not sure where I read that. If you know, please tell me. Thanks!

I am more ready for this cruise than you can begin to imagine!!!!!

Joanna

Oh, and if someone else wouldn't mind planning the meet and greet, that would be great!

[Fawn]

Let me add that I've also been keeping track of where everyone is from and how many Disney cruises and cruises overall they've been on. If you want that info posted on the spreadsheet, include that also! Thanks!

Not sure if this will work, but if you are on facebook, go to groups and search for Disney Magic January 9, 2010 Western Cruise. Join up!!

[lulu1996]

I didn't even realize we were that close..anyone book anything??..I could not get High Tea....but something will open up I am sure...Post what you booked and why to give thee rest of us ideas..anybody doing any Dolphin Encounters??

I signed my daughter (will be 23) for the "Extreme Dolphin Swim" and my son (20) for the Dolphin Encounter; my husband & I will be "Dolphin Observers". I'm still investigating wetsuits in case the water is cold in January. (If anyone has participated in these encounters before and has advice please let us know). thank you!

[lulu1996]

Thank you for sharing the threads--they are very helpful!

[mancub]

Hey - Hey. I agree with Fawn about this being a hectic fall already - so with that - I will pm fawn with the FE info I have already compiled and let her take over. Thanks tink576 for emailing me also, I will send the info to you also and the two of you can decide who will be in charge. I just cannot get on the dis as much as I would like!! Dec. 1 sounds like a good date for the deadline for the FE - I may have two more families interested and need the deadline to make sure I contact them. It looks like we have 10 cabins already committed!! This is going to be so fun - will the meet and greet just be a time and a location on the first day? If so, we can just throw out a place and time - any ideas!?!

Happy Cruisin'!!:yay:

[newbydisney]

HI all and LuLu

The first year we went ( 2 years ago)..we swam at CC, which is the furthest point North, so of course all the points further South were fine.

Last year the water at CC was much colder..but everyplace south of CC was ok. They year before everyplace South was great.

I would think if you needed wetsuits they would be provided..I am betting you don't. But hey I live in Seattle the water is just above freezing here most of the time, and yes people swim in it.

[tow-mater-1]

JOANNA!! It's good to see you back :banana: I was getting worried about you! I thought you may have bailed on us.

[lulu1996]

Apparently we have to have 10 posts to become eligible to send private messages or emails--I'm getting close but was rejected when I tried to do so.

Based on the abbreviations list, my family has
DW 54-1st Disney cruise
DH 56-1st Disney cruise
DD 23-1st Disney cruise
DS 20-will be second Disney cruise (1st was with grandparents 6 yrs ago)

we will be in stateroom 6555

thank you!

[Fawn]

JOANNA!! It's good to see you back :banana: I was getting worried about you! I thought you may have bailed on us.

Hi Char! Bail on a Magic Cruise...I don't think so!! :laughing:

Been a little busy around here lately, so I'm really going to need this cruise by January!!

Someone asked me if they could have the list even if they don't do the FE. Of course! I will put everyone who signs up on the list, and highlight in another color the ones who are doing the FE...that way everyone at the meet and greet will know each other!

[tink576]

How about this. If you are interested in fish extenders, go ahead and private message me your names and ages (and m/f bc some of the names are confusing) of everyone in your party interested and their cabin numbers, and include an email address for me. I have a lot of this info already, but go ahead and do it anyways so I'll make sure to have it correct. Then I'll make a master list and send it out as we get closer to the cruise. Let's set a date for ending the FE. It can get tough to add on extras at the end, and with the holidays and all...how about Dec. 1?

I have 20 actual families who have posted, but they mention lots of extended families coming with...if they are interested, I need that info, also. And I think someone on my list decided not to go, but not sure where I read that. If you know, please tell me. Thanks!

I am more ready for this cruise than you can begin to imagine!!!!!

Joanna

Oh, and if someone else wouldn't mind planning the meet and greet, that would be great!


Fawn,
I'm glad that you are still doing the fish extenders, since you had been of the boards for quite a while I wasn't sure if you were actually organizing the FE's etc... Thanks for the work organizing that you are putting in!

[tink576]

Oh...And my sister can't go anymore ... :sad: ... but my brother can! So now it'll be me (21) and my brother (13), we are so excited all the other 13 yr old boys already registered!!!!!!

[Fawn]

Fawn,
I'm glad that you are still doing the fish extenders, since you had been of the boards for quite a while I wasn't sure if you were actually organizing the FE's etc... Thanks for the work organizing that you are putting in!


Hey, no problem...and I'll take all the help I can get! Still waiting to hear on a lot of people their information and whether they want to be part of an overall list or the FE.

[Fawn]

Hey guys...Tink thought it might help to see the list I have so far for everyone. That way you will know what I'm missing and can PM me the information. I need to know cabin numbers and if you want in on the FE. Remember, names are important because some people do personalized items. On the final list, I'll just put ages for up to...let's say 25. After that it will be A for Adult. If you want the spreadsheet mailed to you after Dec. 1, I will need your emails, also.

And a reminder that I posted a link for our Facebook page...sign up, guys!


Fawn Joanna-A, DD Samantha (20), DD Ashleigh (19) 8032

Tow-mater-1 Char-A, Nathan-A, DS-21 (DDIL-23), DD-18,
DS-13, DS-5 and DS turning 4 6540/6541

Tatiana Tatiana, DMom, DDad 6576

SheriB Sheri, DH, DD22 and DS18
Sister, DH, C12, C9

newbydisney newby and DH

lilofan DH 62, DW ~?

cmclaura Laura, DH, DD-16

Dreamscometrue22 MaryJane, Stephen, Sarah-23, Derek (BF)-21 7124

Lizardman Ryan, DS-10, DD-13

Angelia's Three DM, DD, DD-13, DD-12, DD-2.5
Sister, Brother-in-law, 9 and 2

Taswira Shari and DM-87 7628

NYHorsefarmMom DW, DH, DD-9, DD-6

LuvsTink Anne, DH, Jordan-12, Taylor-9

Actuarian DH, DW 7120

Mancub DH, DW, DS-13, DD-11 7035

Jusacuz Jessica, DD-17

lulu1996 DH, DW, DD-23, DS-20 6555

Kstinkfan DH, DW, DS-10

Phred52 DW, DH

tink576 DD-19, DS-13

[tow-mater-1]

My parents just decided to join us for this cruise and officially booked! My group just keeps growing :woohoo: Well the more the merrier I say:dance3:

[tink576]

Fawn...in my cabin is me (21) and DB (Dear Brother?) 13 ...My sister (19) is unable to join us anymore

[Fawn]

Fawn...in my cabin is me (21) and DB (Dear Brother?) 13 ...My sister (19) is unable to join us anymore

Sorry, Tink, I got it. See what I mean....I need all the help I can get!!! :surfweb:

[Tatiana]

OK, sorry for being away so long everyone...it's been a rough Fall so far.

Welcome back Fawn! :grouphug:

[Kstinkfan]

Please sign us up for the FE exchange. We are DH-adult, me-adult, DS-10.

Thanks

:rolleyes1
Jeez - I forgot the room number. We are in 6616.

[Fawn]

Welcome back Fawn! :grouphug:

Thank you!!

[Fawn]

I just read something interested on the forum. If anyone has any allergies, please let me know and I will put this on the list. I'm thinking things like peanuts, in case someone gives candy?

Just thought I'd put that out there!

[mancub]

This is so exciting!! The FE list is growing!! I pm'd tink576 and tow-mater-1 about getting the 13 year old boys in contact with each other prior to cruising - if anyone is interested in daughters contacting, also, i have DD11 who likes to know lots of people on the cruise ship. Let me know if anyone else has DD who would like to "talk" before the cruise. :thumbsup2

We made reservations for Palo for brunch - if anyone has done this, let us know what to expect - we didn't do this on our first cruise, but decided not to miss it this time. Any info would be great - thanks!!

Happy cruisin':yay:

[taswira]

Just want to clarify that even though I gave our stateroom number, my mom and I will not be doing the FE. I gave our location in case we have other DISers nearby that we may be running into in the corridors. ;)

mancub - I bet you'll love the Palo brunch! I enjoy it more than Palo dinner. There's a lot of variety and it's all great. My only regret was not having the room (in my stomach - lol) to try everything, so making choices is difficult.

When is your brunch res? My mom and I will do Palo brunch on Key West day (Sunday) at 10:00 am, high tea on Monday at 3 pm, and an early dinner on Wednesday at 7 pm. She has never been to Palo and can't eat much at a time due to diabetes, but I know she'll enjoy it anyway.

[tow-mater-1]

Hey Joanna, I was just reading over the list of people and just wanted to let you know that NYhorsefarmMom changed her cruise so will not be joining us. Nice work btw on the FE list :thumbsup2

[Fawn]

Hey Joanna, I was just reading over the list of people and just wanted to let you know that NYhorsefarmMom changed her cruise so will not be joining us. Nice work btw on the FE list :thumbsup2

Thanks, Char, I knew there was someone I'd read wasn't coming, but couldn't remember who! LOL

Shari, I have you down as no FE on my list, no worries!

[cmclaura]

I have been unable to get on this board -- it seems I have to redo my password each and every time I log on. Frustrating!

Anyway....I went online on October 11 (first day for us to book Palo and excursions) and have found that there are no High Tea bookings. While I realize the previous groups may have snatched them all up, I find this highly unlikely, as there are still plenty of brunch and dinner reservations available.

Does anyone have any idea what's going on? High Tea was the least well attended Palo event on our last cruise, so I thought this very surprising.

I did manage to get everything else I wanted, so YAHOOOO!!!!

[taswira]

That's odd. Even though I am Platinum, I didn't book high tea until a couple of days ago (sort of an afterthought and that was after the 11th) and there was plenty of availability at that time. As you said, it doesn't seem to be too popular. Unless some huge group snatched up all the ressies, I'd expect it to still be available. :confused3

[cmclaura]

I checked it earlier today and no reservations are available -- unless they're just blocking me. I knew I ate too many scones last time.............

If anyone else can get in, please let me know if it's just me they're blocking out.

Thanks,

Laura
cmclaura@aol.com

[tow-mater-1]

I did manage to get everything else I wanted, so YAHOOOO!!!!

Congratulations:thumbsup2 I can't wait until Sunday night when we can book our ressies. That's funny about the high tea, I think newby mentioned last week that she couldn't get high tea.

[newbydisney]

Still no Tea....weird...well I will be on board early to book it .....anyone want to meet for tea ..or maybe a girl's tea?..( adult girls of course!)..there is entirely too much football in January...

[mancub]

Another party in our group wants to be included on the fe list:

cabin 7037 2adult 2 children(10, 9)

Our Palo brunch is either on day 3 or day 6 (an 11:00) ressie - we are using a day at sea day, but I can't remember which one I decided on. Good luck with the high tea ressies, hope it goes through for you soon!!

Have to run -

Happy cruisin'!!:yay:

[taswira]

I think they must be holding back a certain number of Palo ressie spots (including for high tea) for onboard booking. Don't give up hope. Best of luck to everyone. pixiedust:

[Fawn]

Another party in our group wants to be included on the fe list:

cabin 7037 2adult 2 children(10, 9)

Our Palo brunch is either on day 3 or day 6 (an 11:00) ressie - we are using a day at sea day, but I can't remember which one I decided on. Good luck with the high tea ressies, hope it goes through for you soon!!

Have to run -

Happy cruisin'!!:yay:

No problem. Boys or girls? Names?

[cmclaura]

I simply can't understand this tea debacle. It was the last subscribed on our last cruise -- when we attended, many of the tables were empty.

We became DVC members last cruise -- I wondered if others not being able to get tea reservations might also be members? Perhaps they have something else scheduled for us at tea times and are blocking us?

It's very odd, for sure.

Laura

[tow-mater-1]

Still no Tea....weird...well I will be on board early to book it .....anyone want to meet for tea ..or maybe a girl's tea?..( adult girls of course!)..there is entirely too much football in January...

I'm all for a girl's tea :)

[cmclaura]

A girl's tea would be great fun -- I know my husband enjoyed the food last time but I know that high tea is not in his Top 10 of things to do, lol!

Laura

[Fawn]

I'm not much for Palo's high tea...however, I'm in just for the fun aspect! :grouphug:

[newbydisney]

OK well lets get a head count and figure out how to make a ressie...anyone else ...day and time anyone??

[Tink113sMom]

Hello...

DH, DD, DSIL, and I will be on this cruise. DH took his first cruise in May '09 and LOVED :love: it so much we rebooked while aboard for the two week return from the Med in Sep '10. DD is now expecting :cloud9: and baby will be too young for that sail date so we are jumping on this one to celebrate both DD's birthday and DH's and my 41st wedding anniversary!

We had a teriffic group :grouphug: from last May. It was wonderful getting to know people before the trip!

It is exciting that this is coming up so soon... It will be here before we know it! :cheer2:

I will be lurking and I am sure DD will join in as well as DSIL...

Carole

[Fawn]

Hello...

DH, DD, DSIL, and I will be on this cruise. DH took his first cruise in May '09 and LOVED :love: it so much we rebooked while aboard for the two week return from the Med in Sep '10. DD is now expecting :cloud9: and baby will be too young for that sail date so we are jumping on this one to celebrate both DD's birthday and DH's and my 41st wedding anniversary!

We had a teriffic group :grouphug: from last May. It was wonderful getting to know people before the trip!

It is exciting that this is coming up so soon... It will be here before we know it! :cheer2:

I will be lurking and I am sure DD will join in as well as DSIL...

Carole

Hi Carole...welcome to our little cruise party! It is always fun getting to know people before the cruise, isn't it?

Are you interested in being part of the FE? If so, I just need names and cabin numbers for your group.

[Tink113sMom]

YES! We definitely will do FE's again. :banana: I think that was one of the highlights for most of us... We traveled as a family of 10 :dance3: last time including both DS's, DDIL, 2 DGS, DS's girlfriend. DDIL will be delivering our 3rd grandson sometime between now and mid Nov so they would not be eligible to cruise yet... :laundy:

Carole
Bob
Amanda
Jason

[tow-mater-1]

Welcome Tink113sMom:cheer2:
Joanna could you add my parents to the FE list. No room # yet. Thanks:)
As for the ladies tea you can count me and my mom in :thumbsup2. Now tomorrow night at midnight I can start making my reservations, should I try for tea and make enough for all the adults in my group..do the names have to match up..so Joanna maybe you could be my daughter for the tea?:rotfl2: I'm not sure how this whole process works:confused3. When it shows availability does it show how many spots? I know cmclaura checked out an excursion availability for me (thanks again Laura:flower3:) I can't wait to book. So ladies let me know what you think about the tea as far as date and time and I'll see what I can do.

[Fawn]

Welcome Tink113sMom:cheer2:
Joanna could you add my parents to the FE list. No room # yet. Thanks:)
As for the ladies tea you can count me and my mom in :thumbsup2. Now tomorrow night at midnight I can start making my reservations, should I try for tea and make enough for all the adults in my group..do the names have to match up..so Joanna maybe you could be my daughter for the tea?:rotfl2: I'm not sure how this whole process works:confused3. When it shows availability does it show how many spots? I know cmclaura checked out an excursion availability for me (thanks again Laura:flower3:) I can't wait to book. So ladies let me know what you think about the tea as far as date and time and I'll see what I can do.

I put your folks on the list! Add me in for ladies tea anytime.

Tink113sMom, I have you on the FE list definitely for 4 people. I need your room number, also. If anyone else in your group wants to join in, just let me know by Dec. 1.

[tow-mater-1]

Just wondering if anyone has got Tom to make name tags for them and how it works? Any help would be great, thanks.

[Fawn]

Just wondering if anyone has got Tom to make name tags for them and how it works? Any help would be great, thanks.

Just go on his thread and make your request. He posts them within a few days usually. I had mine done ages ago! :banana:

[tink576]

Just wondering if anyone has got Tom to make name tags for them and how it works? Any help would be great, thanks.

You post your names and he usually responds within a couple days as Fawn said...then you print them up and slap a magnet on the back! They are amazing!

[newbydisney]

well still no ability to book tea....I am going to call and see what is going on..I am assuming we will have more interested parties than they will allow me to book..I know the max supposedly per table at Palo is 8 but we have exceeded that before...I will call...all interested parties should post right away number of people and day and time preference ..then I will see what I can do

I have 2 ladies in my group and Day 3 any time works for me.

[newbydisney]

I called and they cannot tell if it is a website problem or if it's actually booked solid...I will get to Rockin Bar D as early as I can..if anyone wants to meet me there that would be great...I may need everyone's stateroom numbers or something to book....after we get sort of a list established we could meet in chat and/or exchanges emails.

I apologize if this has already been covered but do we have a plan for being able to quickly recognize each other on board or at the Port? I think it's fairly easy and economical to make a nametag out of lime green mickey heads. I would be willing to wear a bright green shirt and bright green visor ..( ok I wear that everyday anyway) if anyone wants to try to meet at Rockin Bar D or in the port.

[Fawn]

I can add onto my master list who is doing the tea...just requires another column.

The only problem will be I'm not able to post a spreadsheet on this board. I still need personal emails if anyone wants to receive it before the cruise. I will have copies to hand out at the terminal that morning.

I'm up for tea anytime.

[taswira]

The only problem will be I'm not able to post a spreadsheet on this board. I still need personal emails if anyone wants to receive it before the cruise. I will have copies to hand out at the terminal that morning.
Fawn - I don't know if you are a registered user of Google, but if so, you can use Google Docs (http://www.google.com/google-d-s/intl/en/tour1.html) to share spreadsheets or other documents online, and can control who can view them. Just a thought . . .

[newbydisney]

Fawn, I was unable to PM or email you perhaps you have a contact method you would prefer us to use?
I have a "public" email I don't mind sharing if anyone wants to email me and I can get emails and PMs on the boards...my email is havefunjump@yahoo.com

[Fawn]

OK, try this link. Let me know changes.

Not sure why you can pm me. I was having issues logging on and posting yesterday, too, but I'm fine today...try again?

http://docs.google.com/Doc?docid=0AQ7tEF_6FHrFZHA2bjM1Y18wZmhiaG40bTk&hl=en

[taswira]

Worked fine for me! :thumbsup2

It may be a good idea to remove the email addresses from it though. Unless you set up Google docs to restrict it to certain viewers, any email addresses listed will be public and could increase our spam levels.

[tow-mater-1]

Well I stayed up last night and made my ressies. I booked brunch for the Sun and I booked dinner for Friday. I also got the pirate excursion in GC for my little guys 4th birthday. :cool1: AND I also booked a pedicure for myself on Thurs so I will beautiful feet for CC:cloud9: hehe. I am soo excited! I left day 3 open for our tea. Newby, I'll try and meet you at Rockin Bar D for our tea (as long as I don't get lost) AND as long as there are not too many people wearing bright green shirts and visors! :rotfl2:

[Fawn]

Char...is your whole family doing the pirate encounter? We did it a couple years ago, and felt it was one of the best excursions we ever did for the price. You get to "walk the plank" and swim for awhile....very fun!

I can take the emails off the google doc if you want. You can only reach the document if you have the specific link, and I only posted it here. So...not sure if it will be found by anyone else??

A word of caution for the manis/pedis at the spa. I did the pedi once, my cousin a mani/pedi. Hands down, one of the worst I ever had!! I'm trying to remember...I guess they rubbed your feet/hands a little and dipped you in wax maybe? But they don't dry the polish, and I don't think it lasted more than 24 hours tops. So...fun maybe if you never do it...

[newbydisney]

I also had a mani in the spa on board and it was pretty poor....the massage therapist however were great...at least the one I had..I tried to do the ALone Time thing but with the sliding door and being up so high I got queasy...also the therapist was a little off and that put me off ...they let me leave though at no charge so that was very nice...I might have been ok with the curtain shut but that is the whole idea is to have the view I guess..
Well I am going to try to book the Tea again right now..will let you know how I do!.

[newbydisney]

OK, try this link. Let me know changes.

Not sure why you can pm me. I was having issues logging on and posting yesterday, too, but I'm fine today...try again?

Worked great ..there must be more that want to join our tea??..and this is our 3rd Cruise by the way..

Thanks for making the Spreadsheet!

[tow-mater-1]

Thanks so much for the heads up on the mani/pedi. I will be cancelling that right away! I had actually booked a mani as well for my DS girlfriend because it's her birthday next week and that was going to be her present. Well I guess now I'll have to go shopping:sad2:
And Joanna, yes the whole fam is going on the pirate encounterpirate: I can't wait, my little guy is pirate obsessed!

[taswira]

I can take the emails off the google doc if you want. You can only reach the document if you have the specific link, and I only posted it here. So...not sure if it will be found by anyone else??
Fawn, unless you set it up for restricted viewing (Google has a way but I forget at the moment), true, anyone who visits this thread and sees the link can view the emails. Keep in mind that ANYONE with Internet access can view this thread. They don't have to be a member unless posting. But similarly to the way we use a search engine (type words in a Google search and get results), there are automated "mail bots" searching the web for email addresses that are "out there." That's one of the ways they collect email addresses for spam lists. So unless there's a reason for publicly posting the addresses (and there shouldn't be since we have messaging on the DIS), it's probably a good idea to remove them. Thanks, and thank you for doing the list! :thumbsup2

[Fawn]

Thanks so much for the heads up on the mani/pedi. I will be cancelling that right away! I had actually booked a mani as well for my DS girlfriend because it's her birthday next week and that was going to be her present. Well I guess now I'll have to go shopping:sad2:
And Joanna, yes the whole fam is going on the pirate encounterpirate: I can't wait, my little guy is pirate obsessed!

We may be there with you....we really enjoyed it!

[Fawn]

I originally was getting emails because I didn't know about the google docs. But now that I have that there for everyone to see, you're right...I deleted all the emails!

Check it out, people, and let me know any changes/additions!

http://docs.google.com/Doc?docid=0AQ7tEF_6FHrFZHA2bjM1Y18wZmhiaG40bTk&hl=en

[taswira]

Looks good, Fawn. Thanks! I think this is a good way for everyone to always see your latest updated list, without you mailing it out to each of us. Easy to bookmark, click and view. :)

[tow-mater-1]

Hey Joanna, I just wanted to add that my mom and I are also in for ladies tea if you can add that to the doc. :thumbsup2

[Fawn]

Hey Joanna, I just wanted to add that my mom and I are also in for ladies tea if you can add that to the doc. :thumbsup2

Done! Anyone else?? Tea? FE? Room Numbers? Names??

[lulu1996]

Hey guys...Tink thought it might help to see the list I have so far for everyone. That way you will know what I'm missing and can PM me the information. I need to know cabin numbers and if you want in on the FE. Remember, names are important because some people do personalized items. On the final list, I'll just put ages for up to...let's say 25. After that it will be A for Adult. If you want the spreadsheet mailed to you after Dec. 1, I will need your emails, also.

And a reminder that I posted a link for our Facebook page...sign up, guys!


Fawn Joanna-A, DD Samantha (20), DD Ashleigh (19) 8032

Tow-mater-1 Char-A, Nathan-A, DS-21 (DDIL-23), DD-18,
DS-13, DS-5 and DS turning 4 6540/6541

Tatiana Tatiana, DMom, DDad 6576

SheriB Sheri, DH, DD22 and DS18
Sister, DH, C12, C9

newbydisney newby and DH

lilofan DH 62, DW ~?

cmclaura Laura, DH, DD-16

Dreamscometrue22 MaryJane, Stephen, Sarah-23, Derek (BF)-21 7124

Lizardman Ryan, DS-10, DD-13

Angelia's Three DM, DD, DD-13, DD-12, DD-2.5
Sister, Brother-in-law, 9 and 2

Taswira Shari and DM-87 7628

NYHorsefarmMom DW, DH, DD-9, DD-6

LuvsTink Anne, DH, Jordan-12, Taylor-9

Actuarian DH, DW 7120

Mancub DH, DW, DS-13, DD-11 7035

Jusacuz Jessica, DD-17

lulu1996 Larry DH, Karen DW, Sarah DD-23, Jason DS-20 Stateroom 6555

Kstinkfan DH, DW, DS-10

Phred52 DW, DH

tink576 DD-19, DS-13

I updated my listing -- do not have enough posts yet to be able to list my email so will send that later

[lulu1996]

I originally was getting emails because I didn't know about the google docs. But now that I have that there for everyone to see, you're right...I deleted all the emails!

Check it out, people, and let me know any changes/additions!

http://docs.google.com/Doc?docid=0AQ7tEF_6FHrFZHA2bjM1Y18wZmhiaG40bTk&hl=en

should we be able to make additions to the google page? (I couldn't figure out how to do so), thank you!

[tink576]

We've got another room to add to my group! My Aunt is coming and doesn't seem to be getting on here so I'll register for her. So It'll be her, my grandmother, and DD9!!! So excited! We are down to about the 10 week mark!

[Fawn]

should we be able to make additions to the google page? (I couldn't figure out how to do so), thank you!

No, you let me know, and I'll make the changes.