WLV BCV OKW DCL - May, 2009

[ehagerty]

Yup - that's me - just the facts (and acronyms, and pictures), m'am - and an occasional opinion.

I haven't written a trip report in 6 years - we'll see how far I get!!

Anyway, if you're ready this, you probably already know that I am mostly about pictures and you won't probably find any touching stories here. It's not "how I am", but it IS "how I communicate."

In any case, I don't have a catchy Title for the thread - at least not yet, partially because the experience seems so vast and diverse, even for us, that I haven't thought of a unifying theme.

Anyway, this will be the "index" thread - containing links to specific topics (so as not to violate the "right thread in the right category" guidelines.

For the first time since 3rd grade, I will wander through topics of interest in no particular order (much less chronological or topical order) and see if there is a re-org opportunity at the end! Better yet - let me know what you're interested in, and I will use THAT to help queue topics!

Here are some of the topics to be developed / posted (replaced with real links over time), all new and specific to this trip...

If the words below are underlined, they are a LINK:


Ft Wilderness - Horse Barn (http://disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2200410)
Ft Wilderness - Archery (http://disboards.com/showthread.php?p=32220515#post32220515)
Victoria & Alberts (http://disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2201398) - DS turns 21
WLV (http://disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2197852)- when you forget to specify your room requests
Artist Point - dinner with Izzi
Magic Kingdom - focus on musical entertainment
California Grill (http://disboards.com/showpost.php?p=31916454&postcount=340)
Canon D10 water camera - Typhoon Lagoon (http://disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2180470), Stormalong Bay, Tortola scuba
Epcot Flower Power - Jose Feliciano
Tables in Wonderland - Monthly Dinner at the Wave (http://disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2200542) May 21st
DCL - Castaway Cay (http://disboards.com/showthread.php?p=32390460#post32390460) (weird clouds - May 29th)
DCL - Castaway Cay - Parasailing (http://disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32256371&postcount=17)(May 29th 10:30 am - Canon D10)
Dave Mullins - animating director of "Up!" on DCL
DCL - food
DCL - Entertainment - Pub Night (http://disboards.com/showpost.php?p=32661547&postcount=28)
DCL - Spa Villa Experience (http://disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2208189)
DCL - pictures around the ship
DCL - Palo Brunch, Part #1, (http://disboards.com/showthread.php?p=32459979#post32459979) Part #2 (http://disboards.com/showthread.php?p=32459996#post32459996)
DCL - Palo Tea
DCL - Palo Dinner - Part 1 - Appetizers (http://disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2218709)
DCL - Palo Dinner - Part 2 - Entrees & Dessert (http://disboards.com/showthread.php?p=32523393#post32523393)
DCL - Wine Tasting, Beer Tasting (http://disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2199651), Martini Tasting (http://disboards.com/showthread.php?p=32177143#post32177143), Cognac Tasting (http://disboards.com/showthread.php?p=32222538#post32222538)
DCL - Tortola, the Baths (http://disboards.com/showthread.php?p=32274558#post32274558)
DCL - St Johns snorkeling excursion (http://disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2207375)
DCL - Basketball Tournament 3-on-3 (http://disboards.com/newreply.php?do=newreply&noquote=1&p=32149205)

[AR81]

Can't wait!!! Wilderness Lodge is my dream resort....

[ehagerty]

Can't wait!!! Wilderness Lodge is my dream resort....

Wilderness Lodge is my "most favorite" - although all of the DVC resorts are very close seconds.....

I had another thread with many WL pictures - that became unlinked when sonyimagestation went out of business. I can see that I need to link them to the new site. Stay tuned for that.

As for THIS trip...

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Given that I've been in DVC since '92, you'd think I would know by now to check my reservation for room preference. But, no. Because the Ironman triathelon was being held at Ft Wilderness the upcoming weekend, room preferences were limited to (a) a handicap room (second floor, halfway down the long, carpeted hall) or (b) a room with THIS view:



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My thoughts on the rooms (which I will bundle up for the DVC - they really do listen):

(a) Handicap room - I don't have much experience with these rooms. I have requested them at OKW, but no other exposure.

First of all, I was surprised that a handicap room was halfway down a long carpeted corridor. Having personally pushed 6 different people around WDW for a week at a time, I would not have liked ending my walk to the room pushing through a well-padded carpet down a long hall. I would have expected them closer to the elevator. I'm sure some are - but a long, carpeted corridor could be a challenge if you are not in an electric device.

Secondly, I didn't care about not having a bathtub - but I didn't realize that nearly ALL of the closet / storage space was used for the handicap modifications. We had 4 people and enough luggage to get through a week-long cruise without doing laundry and no place to store hardly anything. The closet by the door and "half occupied" by a vacuum cleaner, folded-up baby-bed, half-ironing board and iron. Pretty limited storage.

It wasn't going to work for us - so, back to the desk - to accept the LAST room on a long hall, with the "dumpster view". We actually had the room across the hall during our first stay, and thought I'd learned my lesson. I guess I got too comfortable with my "room by the elevator" preferences and got careless with reservation checking.

Random thoughts how what to do about the "dumpster view" rooms:

(1) Provide a "point rebate" to people who accept these rooms - a unilateral (not use year bound) "credit" to anyone who accepts them. Clearly they have the computing capability to categorize room inventory - if the front desk offers this room early in the check-in day (and they always will....), then at least give them the bargaining chip of offsetting the view with something other than an apology. Apologies never change the view.

(2) Provide a "cover" for this "stage." Find a way!

(3) Build a small parking lot adjacent to the "end of the long hall" room (say, the last 4 rooms at the end of each hall) that is accessible only to those rooms via card key. I wouldn't mind being at the end of the hall, if it meant SOME advantage, like having easy access to my car. There is enough room there for a small parking lot....

If any of you have ideas, post them here. I will be bundling all suggestions to guest communications in a couple of weeks.

[ehagerty]

Pictures first, details later...

This was the second martini tasking - the first involved gin - I didn't even know there were two different ones (not that it would have mattered). I did this more for the experience than from any love of vodka or martinis - as a matter of fact, they taste smell like the alcohol we used to keep under the bathroom sink to clean blemishes.

The CM conducting the tasting.....

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The complement of martinis, shakers etc.

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First martini - classic, with olive - one sip was enough for me (no offense, just personal taste)

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Cosmo martini - this I could drink

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The other two - one was a "toblerone" martini, including Baileys, Kahlua, Godiva (this was most edible) and the other was citrusy, contained lemoncella (sp?) - pretty good.

In short, I enjoyed the experience, but am not a martini convert (would never choose one over wine).

My once-every-30-years luck broke through the barrier this day - I won two things. In my left hand, a tropical martini (at that point, without a place mat to provide cues, I couldn't tell you what was in it) - which I WON - by answering this question - "What is the best martini?". The presumed correct answer (for all the tastings) is "The one you like." I prefer my answer, which was "THAT ONE!!".

In left hand (on the right side of the picture) is one of 4 promotional backpacks given out during a presentation by the directing animator of "Up" (Dave Mullins - different, upcoming thread). I walked in during the last 5 minutes of the presentation (had gone to one earlier in the week), received a raffle ticket, one, got it sign by Dave and made it to the martini tasting only a couple of minutes late!!

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There, now you know what the person behind the camera looks like - a tad overweight, slightly inebriated!!


The experience was fun, reasonable, I recommend it is if fits into your interests and schedule. $12

[ehagerty]

Presented by Jelena in Diversions, 4 different brands / types (Stella Artois, Sam Adams, New Castle, Guiness - thank you CajunGirl2)::

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Participants enjoying the fun:

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Three samples, in various stages of consumption (the right one is definitely Guiness):

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Brian turned 21 - he'll drink to that!!

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As mentioned by TDC_Nala, the beer tasting was quite fun - I think it naturally attracts a more boisterous crowd.....

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[podsnel]

I loved both those CMs on the Magic- lots of fun! Congrats on winning!!:banana:

[ehagerty]

I loved both those CMs on the Magic- lots of fun! Congrats on winning!!:banana:

It was your trip report that inspired me (I need pictures) to try the Spa Villa - have some pictures of THAT, too!

[ehagerty]

Heard about the new archery lesson / option at FW - probably through allearsnet and booked it for a low key day during the WLV portion of our stay. I walked over to FW, spent a little time in the horse barn (pictures, soon), then met up with my post-exam-week, late-sleeper sons.

A little background - with 2 boys - and a karate instructor husband - well let's just say I haven't spent much time in a dance studio! DS21 is a decent marksman (Eagle Scout) and we are all martial artists. Doesn't mean we love weapons, but we aren't afraid of them, either. (Actually DS fashioned a Glock pistol and a rifle out of Legos when he was about 10 - will have to take picture...) .

DSs checked in (forget the name of the building - middle of FW, near the new pool), and waiting (Mom hoofing it across the bridge to get them caffiene ASAP):

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The "event" is lead by two cast members - the same ones who conduct the FW Segway tours. It is very well thought-out and safe. They practice all dimensions of the mini-routine, using drumbeats (so as not to confuse the lifeguards, who are within earshot at the new FW pool, with shouts / whistles / bells). Here is a picture of the "rules":

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... and some tips (get, it? "tips"?)

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Everyone picks up his/her bow (I was the only "her") from the rack and returns it after each "round."

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There are a series of 3 firing lines, and everyone shoots from the same line:

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The CMs walk up and down the line, couching with reminder tips up; tips for safety and accuracy / form:

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... picture of an example of "form" - the "finish" of the right hand by the ear - much like the "finish" form in bowling, or a golf swing.... now I know what that statue at the Adventurer's Club was doing....

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Each person retrieves, his (I'm just dropping the "her" for the rest of this report) arrows and returns them to the "quiver" - together, properly removing the arrow by the appropriate place ON the arrow:

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Some do better than others - and make funny faces for the camera:

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Conclusion:
Would we do it again? YES - boys had low expectations and really liked it.
Would we recommend it? YES - if it aligns with your interests and you are nearby.

Tips:

Bruises are possible - as a black belt, I finish my punches with a straight, locked down armed. I have little upper body strength at this point, but good form. This form does NOT work for archery - my elbow was directly in the path of the bow-string when the arrow is released. Quite a bruise - didn't really bother me - just mentioning it, so you know. Nothing like a little life lesson to improve my archery form quickly.

I am relatively good aerobic condition, but not much strength. I did about 80% of my arrows, and could have finished, but elected to let DSs use my arrows for 2-3 rounds. Worked for all of us, and the CMs were OK with it.

My right middle fingertip was quite numb for a few days. Was expecting a callous, but it did not materialize. I kept looking at it and rubbing it, though - which may have confused onlookers! My right shoulder, which I was expecting to be sore, was not at all.

[ehagerty]

I didn't take a collection of pictures here, just added a couple "something new, different" from the ones I already have,

Context - I have only ridden a horse once - in 1980, at FW. I think horses are beautiful, but haven't had much exposure to them. Still, I talk a walk to the horse barn whenever I am WLV - it gives me a purpose and end-point for exercise.

I lucked out today - this nice lady was giving this Clydesdale a buzz cut for summer. I stood awhile - I had time before the archery appointment - and she very pleasantly chatted with me.

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Things I learned, that I did not know:
- there are 90 horses at WDW
- there are 2 equine vets, and 19 other vets at AK
- for surgery, horses are transported to Gainsborough
- horses are trained NOT to urinate on pavement - there are special, turf areas near parade sites where the horses can relieve themselves
- it takes about 2 hours to do this job
- not every horse needs a cut
- she trims everything BUT the "feathers" on the back of the leg (a forelock, maybe?) - and I do mean everything (THOSE pictures were deleted out of respect for the horse!)


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[ehagerty]

This was the last of our beverage tastings for this cruise. It was held at the Cafe Cove, hosted by Rodolfo. In this picture, you can see Rodolfo, his map, his swirling technique, along with fellow disboarders. We met the fellow on the right at a Tables in Wonderland dinner at The Wave (Contemporary) on May 21st. We discovered, sitting across from him, that he, his wife and a couple friends would be on the same cruise a couple of days later. After that, we saw quite a bit of them. He seemed to know as much - or more - than Rodolfo about the cognac.

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We learned that whoever orders that last drink from the bottle at a bar gets to keep the bottle. Apparently, there are people who seek out the bottle wherever they go, because this bottle, empty, is worth $300. In that light, the $109 per shot charge would be a no-brainer. I think. Unfortunately, there were still 6 shots left in THIS bottle. We did not buy.

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In this cozy setting, there wasn't much room to maneuver - it isn't artistic, but you get the picture. Four "shots".

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Closing thoughts:

Would I do it again? Probably. I've lost my taste for stuff this strong a little. But I really liked it at one time.

Would I recommend it? - definitely, IF you like cognac

Is it worth it? - there are multiple way of analyzing "value for the dollar". This is my random thought for the moment:
The wine tasting was $12, and you got about DCLBar$10 in wine.
The beer tasting was $12, and you got about DCLBar$6 in beer
The martini tasting was $15 (pretty sure), and you about - I don't know, I don't drink martini's - break even, maybe?
The cognac tasting was $20, and I estimate was got about $50 in cognac (if you bought 4 shots at the DCL bar). I hope that doesn't ruin everything and result in higher prices for the next guy, but that's how I saw it.

Anyone else have an opinion?

Did anyone keep a placemat? Have the "listing"?

[ehagerty]

Living in the north, we cannot usually participate in the special dinners offered by Tables in Wonderland. I've read about them. I've received email invitation (but, apparently, not all of them). But this is the first time I've been able to participate.

This was the email invitation content:
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The Wave’s Discovery Dinner

Celebrating Beef and Corn

Thursday, May 21, 2009

The Wave Restaurant is delighted to offer a special series of dining events for the Tables in Wonderland Members. The third event will celebrate beef and corn. Hank Scott, President of Long & Scott Farms, will host the dinner with Chef Frank Brough and Area Manager Stephen Shepherd. We will also be featuring a winemaker from the New World with a great selection of wines paired to each course.

Hank Scott represents the third generation of the Scott family's farming tradition. Long & Scott Farms was established in 1963 by Billy Long and Frank Scott, Jr. who were childhood friends from the Eastern Shore of Virginia. Billy, who had been a Zellwood "muck farmer" for years, talked Frank into joining him in Florida where the farm was established on 100 acres of land. For the next 30 plus years Frank expanded Long & Scott Farms to 1,200 acres as they produced Zellwood Sweet Corn, pickle cucumbers and both red & green cabbage, along with a variety of other produce. Hank, who has worked on the farm since he was a boy, returned to the farm full-time after graduating from the University of South Florida. Following the sale of the Apopka muck farms in 1998, Billy Long moved on to retirement, while Frank Scott retired and Hank took over the management of the farm. Hank's son, Sonny, is the fourth generation to join the family operation and the Scott's remain proud of their farm and land which they have overseen for more than 45 years.


Wave Lounge Reception


Carpaccio of Florida Heirloom Tomatoes with Corn Nectar

Confit of Beef Short Rib with Zellwood Corn and Sweet Vidalia Onion Relish

Wild Rock, “Infamous Goose” Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough


Appetizer

Butter and Bacon Poached Sea Scallops with Vidalia Onion Soubise

Coldstream Hills, Pinot Noir, Yarra Valley

Entrée


3 Medallions of Tenderloin


Veal with Green Peppercorns

Beef with Horseradish Crust and Whole Grain Mustard Demi-glace

Pork with Hard Apple Cider Sauce


Penfolds, Bin 138, South Australia

Salad

Hydroponic Greens with Micro Onions and Red Mustard. Zellwood Cucumber Vinaigrette

Leasingham, “Magnus” Riesling, Clare Valley

Dessert

Warm Skillet Pudding with Raspberry Sorbet and Sweet Corn and Strawberry Champagne Bellini

Yellowglen, “Pink” (Strawberry Bellini), Australia

Cocktails: 7:00 p.m. Wave Lounge at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, First Floor

Dress Code: Casual Evening Attire

Dinner to follow in the Restaurant

$92.00 per person, includes tax and gratuity


FOR RESERVATIONS, PLEASE E-MAIL rosa.flores@disney.com with your interest to book, and the number of your party. You will be notified on a first come first serve basis and your credit card will be taken over the phone. The event will be limited to 50 Guests.


SAVE THE DATES:

The Wave will continue its Tables in Wonderland Dinner Discovery Series dinners on the following dates:

* June 18 -Santa Sweet Tomatoes from Plant City, Florida

* July 16
==========================

[ehagerty]

We arrived at the appointed time.....

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Graciously offered the first wine.....

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Served in stemless, customized wine glasses......

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A better look at the label......

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The confit of beef short rib tasted good, but did not photograph well - here's the picture anyway:

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The heirloom tomatoes, a little better picture, very tasty.....

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Meeting and Greeting with Chef Frank and his team...

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.....and Hank Scott (featured local farmer, supplier to Disney) - right of Chef

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Hank 'n Frank chatting it up.....

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Brian turned 21 - into trying samplers and flights - he really liked this beer flight from the Wave bar (not part of the dinner)....

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This concludes the Wave Lounge Reception - time to move into the dining room!

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[ehagerty]

There was a wine paired with each course - I don't have the most sophisticated wine palette, but we thought all the wine VERY good.

There were two wine experts / enthusiasts / salesmen explaining each wine as it was being poured.

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As well as the Wave's courteous staff.....

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[ehagerty]

The table - there were about 50-60 people, at 4 tables. Here you can see Hank on the left, and my guys on the right.

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Appetizer......

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A cheerful waiter, serving bread

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Two views of the medallions of Tenderloin

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A little bread, a little wine.... you can see that each glass was a generous "pour"

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Chef Frank explaining each course....

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and chatting with Hank.....

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Hank tells us a little about his farm....

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My family sat directly across from Hank and Anna and chatted with them. I got to know my neighbors and took pictures:

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Dessert

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and the final toast

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And amusing aside....

I am a gray-haired anomaly (then again, I don't live in Florida) - women stop me regularly to ask about how and why I had the courage to let my hair stay gray. I don't think much of it, but at this event, from a short distance, my own family would mistake me for the woman sitting next to me

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It is not so much that we look alike, as they don't normally have to think twice about which person is me in a crowd!


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[ehagerty]

We really enjoyed this experience. In addition to the food and wine, there was a very pleasant social dimension. Many of the participants know each other from other Tables in Wonderland (TiW) dinners and share an appreciation of this type of dining experience. Apparently, these events can occur a few times a month (at different sponsoring restaurants). I hope I get to do another on a future visit.

[ehagerty]

I couldn't stay away - we were so enchanted with our dinner in January (click here for THAT report (http://disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2058516)) that I really wanted to find an excuse to return for our May (annual, official) family vacation. I didn't have to look far - DS only turns 21 once - and that day would be the day, the justification for "V&A, Part 2".


Planning Theory

Tables in Wonderland discount = 20%
Dinner for 3
One wine pairing


Today was a travel day. Normally I would not plan anything special on travel day, as it can be a looooong day, on too little sleep, with non-Disney experiences (although Southwest is always good - the service they provide for the prices they charge = amazing). The only other time I tried this - when DS turned 5, at Chef Mickey's (at the Marketplace), we didn't get there in time (American Airlines - flat tire - 1993 - I cried - we rode first class from the layover to Orlando.) Since today was the actual birthday, and Southwest is so reliable, I made the reservation. I'll go back and punctuation when I have time.

We took the boat from WLV over to the MK, planning to catch the boat launch to the GF. Missed that by a moment and moseyed up to the monorail. While waiting for the monorail, we timed the launch. It takes 4 minutes for the launch to reach the GF dock. Twenty minutes and three monorail stops later, we checked into our 5:30 V&Z reservation - at 5:31.

I don't actually remember how Israel arranged the menu - I think we just told him we had no allergies, liked everything, and left ourselves in his and the Chef Scott
's remarkably capable hands (you get to meet them later, during the kitchen tour).

I mention that, because there are no pictures to illustrate some of the wonderful moments that make V&A so special. I never gave the menu another thought - and what a wonderful meal unfolded over the course of the next 3+ hours - perfectly paced, perfectly presented, perfectly enjoyed.

Now, for the pictures (that goodness they provided me with a detailed menu - no WAY I would be able to remember all this):


Dinner setting:

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A toast to DS21's 21st birthday:

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Yes, he was proofed. He seemed to be pleased. The champagne was delightful. The menu says Pommery Royale Brut NY





Amuse Bouche

A collection of wonders

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Item listed on the menu that must not have turned out as pictures (if I find them later, I will modify the post): Trout Custard Baked in Shell - back left.





Heirloom Tomato-Fennel Cream

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Knock-out.

I had my fill of Cambell's back in the day - tomato soup with grilled cheese, tomato soup with buttered crackers, tomato soup on Friday - I had it so much - and my mother was so creative at making it appealing, that I actually grew to like it, in the spirit of nostalgia and comfort food. I haven't voluntarily had it since. My point? Don't think "tomato soup, eeeeh" - think "something exquisite I've never tasted before."




Sesame Crusted Big Eye Tuna - two views

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http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v7/p149194374-4.jpg

Once again, I have to say it - EDIBLE ART!!


So delicious. I suppose if there is "no way" you could ever consume rare fish, you wouldn't be able to like this. But DS19 is not a sushi fan, and he likes it. DS21 and I LOVE it.




To stay tuned, subscribe to the standalone thread.......
Click here for the full V&A Picture Trip Report (http://disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2201398)



.

[ehagerty]

I am making up narrative to accompany these pictures, which were shot by DS19, using the Canon D10. Once posted, he may be able to provide more commentary....

This tour is very convenient - you walk off the ship, a short way down the pier, and board a boat. There were two tours on May 29 at 10:30 (for those who might be able to find themselves in the pictures).

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p605708410-3.jpg




You take a short ride - one boat stays on the beach side, the other goes around the Magic and uses the space on the "other" side (where your can see a construction crane doing something - forgot to ask what - presume it has to do with the new requirements for the Dream / Fantasy). While in transit, you can get cool, one-of-a-kind shots that you cannot get from any other vantage:

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p919519673-4.jpg





Parasailors are launched, and retrieved, from the boat. No getting wet, if you don't want to. You are offered the option to get a little "dunked" on your way back into the boat - toes, legs, not sure what the third option was. I left the crew members' arm on the left so that you have some sense of perspective:

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p878920329-3.jpg




and here is someone getting "dipped"

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p901495426-4.jpg





This is the view, from the boat, of another parasailor. You can see the Magic in the lower left corner (for scale / perspective):

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p996748206-3.jpg




Another view:

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p876545759-4.jpg






http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p833894690-3.jpg





Perspective from the air - check out the fuzzy - I mean, FUNNY legs!!

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v1/p957537455-4.jpg





More opportunities to get unique photos:

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p970489068-4.jpg





This looks like "maximum height", based on the taut-ness of the rope:

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p926666068-4.jpg





This contains a little of everything - the ship, the height, the weather, the apparatus, the person:

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p1017415635-4.jpg





Miscellaneous unique shots:

Magic, from the water, from the front:

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p988775626-3.jpg





The Magic

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p999144075-4.jpg







The Magic, looking like it is trying to pull away from the dock (like a horse...)

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p735414325-4.jpg




.

[ehagerty]

It was a dark and gloomy day - wait - Florida's days of rain and gloom followed us to the Caribbean?

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p1020008167-3.jpg




Yes, it followed us on our ferry ride from Tortola to the Baths. Ferry ride was pleasant enough.

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p646634720-3.jpg




And remained with us through the "open air taxi" ride, stopping for pictures before heading to the Baths. Here is the islands landing strip (a miniature of La Guida.....). It looks like a driveway slightly left of center of the picture.

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p919964465-3.jpg





A scenic beach on the Caribbean side

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p1040089435-3.jpg





The Atlantic side (more "wind-swept" and barren, with cactus) - across the street:

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p623834284-3.jpg






The Baths

You disembark the open air taxi at the top of the hill, and walk down the trail and steps. Once at the bottom, there is a bathroom where you can change. There are only two stalls for the women. My recommendation is to wear your bathing suit so that you don't have to occupy a stall trying to change (and if the plumbing jams like it did on our excursion, it will be a very odoriferous 5 minutes). I also recommend a two piece if you are a two-piece suit person, so that it is easy to use the facilities.

Anyway, once at the bottom, you begin to explore the beach and boulders.

Everyone in these pictures is from the DCL first excursion of that day. There are interesting descriptions and explanations for the geology of the Baths (google). Pictures here are for scale and wonder.

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p980602611-3.jpg





Lots of people climbing on rocks (still no sunshine):

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p821585104-3.jpg





Catamarans visible through boulders - another way to get to the Baths:

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p817751832-3.jpg





Nice beach - posted the picture mostly so that people who were on the excursion may be able to have a picture of themselves:

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p929751395-3.jpg





DS19 on the boulders

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p771458910-3.jpg





Snorkelers

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p648410516-3.jpg





The most interesting part of the excursion, the self-directed walkthough the path of boulders - very interesting, unique

It starts out easy - walking on sand, sufficient head clearance.

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p876183117-4.jpg




http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p708549666-4.jpg





Sometimes you walk through water

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p869670675-4.jpg





Sometimes you walk on rock (with the aid of a rope)

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p610211471-4.jpg





Sometimes you get a beautifully framed view

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p743204244-4.jpg




and finally, you make it to Devil's Beach

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p561149259-4.jpg






From Devil's Beach, we walked through this opening to see what was on the other side:

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p779457013-4.jpg




...another, small beach - clearly someone was here before us (not today):

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p722608829-3.jpg





On our return, another nice view

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p826692182-3.jpg





We took the long way back, arriving shortly after the buffet was scheduled to start:

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p901717972-3.jpg




Name of the facility:

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p695569915-3.jpg




Picture of "freshwater pool" referenced in sign

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p778887444-3.jpg




View from the top

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p902032064-3.jpg






==============================================

Summary - copied from my original commentary. I thought about "integrating" the text with the pictures above, but prefer to move onto another thread.

Simply, Tortola is new to the whole tourism-destination on a cruise-scale thing - and it shows in many ways. Random thoughts, to be followed with a separate thread of MANY pictures (in process of uploading) at a later date:

1. DS21 did SCUBA on both Tortola and St Thomas. He thought St Thomas scuba was infinitely superior and Tortola "not worth it." He said the St Thomas dive team was very professional, that Tortola was not as friendly, informative, safety-oriented. He also thought the "view" (visibility, variety of marine life) and short dive (mentioned by WiscBill) on the Tortola dive not as interesting. I have pictures of Tortola dive - he didn't take the camera on the ST dive.

2. DH, DS19 and I took ferry / taxi / baths / lunch excursion $89/pp

2a. Ferry ride was OK, but after experiencing a sail to St John the next day, I would not ferry again.

2b. Delay - waiting for ferry return to return us to the Magic - our designated ferry wasn't working and a replacement one was sent. It couldn't dock, so they tethered them together and helped us cross two rocking boats (not bad, but not exactly smooth). I did not mind this, I am just describing EVERYTHING so the reader - especially the readers with arthritis (which I do not have - actually, I have good balance, as I am a black belt in karate - but a black belt carrying an expensive camera in one hand at all times - which makes me more conscious of balance issues - you'll see this theme throughout this post)

2c. While waiting for replacement ferry, another ferry arrives with passengers. The boat is a good 1.5 to 2 feet BELOW the dock. Two excursion people LIFT every single person out of the boat by their arms (I took pictures because I couldn't believe it at first). I'm saying to my family - "Wow, that couldn't be a Disney boat - they would never contract with an excursion company that can't even dock right" - then I started seeing the Castaway Cay lanyards...... I have to believe some of them had comments on THAT - not that anyone was visibly upset, but that had to be uncomfortable for most of them.

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p997372628-3.jpg





2d. Aside - when debriefing with a fellow passenger that evening, he noted that the natives were pleasantly puzzled by the Disney passengers - they said "what does Disney do that their passengers are so nice".....

3. Taxi ride - open air, per excursion description. Pleasant enough. Enjoyed view of Atlantic side and beach shot (you'll see), but not sure it was worth the time. You do have to climb UP into the taxi - again, no big deal but worth knowing if you have mobility limitations.

4. The Baths - truly a unique and enjoyable site / beach (the pictures will save a thousand words) ABOVE

4a. Path DOWN to the Baths - not a problem - stairs, uneven surfaces, but no steep grades. HOWEVER, you need to PAY ATTENTION to where you are stepping. I consider this not terribly physically taxing if you use stairs often. And still, I scrapped my shin on one of the steps... No big deal, just reporting the facts.

4b. Path UP to the Bath - we took the long way up from Devils Bay - and really enjoyed the experience. However, it did require stepping down from rocks to sand. In my attempt to avoid a rock buried in the sand while stepping down (about 24 inches) and protect my camera, I landed on one knee in the sand - which scraped a 1 inch by .5 inch swath on the center of my knee (still weeping today). This would not have happened if I had taken more precautions (hand off the camera, put it away, etc.) - but I can't imagine my mother, with one arthritic knee, doing any of this. Just FYI - this does take longer than the main path - we were rushing a little to return in time for lunch. Turns out, we were in good shape time-wise, but we couldn't tell how far away we were to pace ourselves. You're not at risk for getting lost - but you don't know where you are exactly, either.

4c. Path from beach to beach - we crossed from main beach to Devils and whatever the beach beyond Devils was. It was all fascinating, but challenging for someone with mobility issues - you have to duck, crouch, climb, wade through narrow passages, use rope (one), etc.

5. Toilets on the beach - two stalls for women - some blockage while we were waiting to use it - horrible smell - but unclogged just as we were walking away.

6. Excursion description promised "delicious lunch". It wasn't bad, but it wasn't delicious either.

6a. One drink - rum punch (served by scooping punch from an open air container - if there was rum in it, I couldn't tell), can of Coors lite, cup of soft drink.

6b. Buffet - fish, macaroni, similar to picnic fare - I didn't study it or take pictures.

6c. Top of the Baths restaurant - was cute, had a little pool that some of the kids were enjoying, pleasant surroundings, lovely grounds, beautiful view.

7. Snorkeling - the description said snorkeling was available. I thought, for $89, it was included. DS19 was a little disappointed, but it wasn't a huge deal.


In summary, applying what I learned and am reading from others, IF I were to return to Tortola:
(a) it would be to see the Baths again
(b) I would like to snorkel (another family brought their own equipment - $29 at Target - and were pleased with the fish they saw in the caves; easier to do if you are driving than flying)
(c) I would avoid the ferry and the up/down hike, and SAIL to/from the island, swimming to shore
(d) I would try to be back on board for lunch.

AND it is worth knowing that Tortola is not a seamless, end-to-end Disney experience (yet). I suspect Disney will either get the experience in line with their cruise "brand" or cease to port there.....

8. The Town - we walked through town after our return. We are not shoppers, but we wanted to see what it was like. They have basically set up a "tent city" to sell stuff to tourists. I suspect it will be more like St Thomas over time - permanent stores, nicer walk to it, etc.

[ehagerty]

Let me summarize our Castaway Cay day:

10:40 am, on the way TO the beach:

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p430591199-3.jpg




12:40 pm, on the way TO the ship

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v1/p126695603-3.jpg




In those two short hours, DS19 parasailed, the rest of us snorkeled....

DH in the foreground

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p267909297-3.jpg




Already posted elsewhere, but CGI couldn't have done better a better job at creating threatening clouds.....

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p343370303-3.jpg




Fortunately, this was not my first - or last - opportunity to experience CC and get pictures.

[ehagerty]

My little D10 goes where my SLR fears to tread - atop Crush-n-Gusher....

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p125574826-3.jpg




....allowing me to take pictures of fun, memorable locations (even when there are not artistically interesting)

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p363525312-3.jpg




....and venturing into the waves...

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v0/p404620843-3.jpg



...and under the waves...

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p425714386-3.jpg




...or, ignoring the waves (for the sake of an amusing picture)

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p530847168-3.jpg




...or, only the wave

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v0/p350342881-3.jpg




...or, surfing the wave

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v1/p328287114-3.jpg




Lazy River shots

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v1/p526654866-3.jpg



http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v0/p350863489-3.jpg



http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v0/p80195315-3.jpg


...looking pretty good, even with a water spot on the lens

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p392536291-3.jpg



The view near the top of Humunga Kowabunga

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p397802406-3.jpg



.... and the bottom

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v0/p460004786-3.jpg



Shark Reef - sun behind clouds

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p342228462-3.jpg


http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v1/p77080862-3.jpg


http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p300054017-3.jpg


... and how it does with a normal, sunlit, out-of-water experience

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p415256152-3.jpg


And that concludes our 2 hour, first use of our Canon D10. We plan to improve with experience (and use of something other that "auto"), but are very pleased with the camera so far! Not bad for a "underwater" camera!

[ehagerty]

I did not take quite as many pictures this time as I did in 2008 - no need to repeat what I already have, unless it is different, or the people are different, etc.

To see the pictures from 2008, click on these links:

Click on this link for 2008 - Part 1 (http://disboards.com/showpost.php?p=28013741&postcount=14)

Click on this link for 2008 - Part 2 (http://disboards.com/showpost.php?p=28013666&postcount=15)



Getting started - a toast to vacation

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p7215-4.jpg




The food is arranged in 5-6 "stations", grouped by theme - seafood, dessert, pastries, cheese, etc.





Flowers, in the middle of the station area:

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p351808196-3.jpg





This station was centered around an ice-carved basket containing fresh flowers. Below the flowers, slightly washed out by the camera's flash, is a unique "pegboard" - metal, curved, with slots for spoon handles. Each spoon contains the same tantalizing tidbit. In 2008, it was a very thin slice of ahi tuna with lemon and caper. I forget what it was this time, but I might have a closeup further down the thread.

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p62847524-3.jpg




Appetizers

Melon and Prosciutto

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p252540547-3.jpg




http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p483617759-3.jpg




Tomato and fresh mozzarella

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p389048211-3.jpg




Marinated Scallops

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p252677221-3.jpg





Shrimp

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p877076419-3.jpg




Stone Crab Claws

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p563693896-3.jpg






Ham and Asparagus

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p297834653-3.jpg




Grilled Vegetables

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p318562925-3.jpg




DH's appetizer plate, with shrimp arranged for me!

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p774734676-3.jpg





Various cheeses from the cheese station:

Brie

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p304174168-3.jpg




The cheese with no name - rather, the cheese I forgot to photograph its name

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p384309621-3.jpg




http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p31128959-3.jpg




Pretty sure this was a Stilton

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p127174114-3.jpg




Breads

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p105435058-3.jpg




Pastries

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p225672422-3.jpg




http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p331254633-3.jpg




http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p81271512-3.jpg




Entrees

You can preview, near the kitchen. Here are representative plates, so that you can observe them before you order. On this side of the kitchen, the traditional breakfast options - eggs, pancakes

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p15051691-3.jpg





Close-up of the pancake, which appealed to me because of the description of the filling (something to do with whipped cream and orange). DS21 ordered it, I tasted it - and decided to get it next time. Others on the disboards have not been as enthusiastic about the pancakes (I think the word "gritty" was used), but I really enjoyed the one bite I had

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p140926840-3.jpg


To the right of the kitchen is the day's offering for fish, veal, etc.:

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p847303961-3.jpg




.

[ehagerty]

Dessert

Chocholate pots

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p226656221-3.jpg




I-forget-the-name, in Palo china (looks like a creme brulee, but doesn't make sense because they wouldn't be able to caramalize the sugar)

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p123850290-3.jpg




Tira Misu

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p81798670-3.jpg




Looks like mini-triffle

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p60009395-3.jpg




Petit fours

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p213376903-3.jpg





....with a close up of what looks like a caramalized sugar decoration

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p464812323-4.jpg




Items we ordered

Someone ordered a variation on Eggs Benedict - looks like spinach and asiago

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p1026037629-3.jpg




Strawberry flatbread

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p960407146-3.jpg




Grape and blue cheese flatbread

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p772235685-3.jpg





Fish

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p777564089-3.jpg





The Dis-famous Stollen (toasted) with whipped cream and berries

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p753185272-3.jpg






People we met

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p947722233-3.jpg





http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p942153309-3.jpg





http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p849352887-3.jpg





Bruce, Chef (Gordon?) and PJ (Maitre d')

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p772471970-3.jpg




http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p1045805637-3.jpg






.

[BigEeyore]

Happy to see a new post today! I am really enjoying your TR - lots of great pictures. Really nice food presentation on the cruise! :goodvibes

[ehagerty]

I did not do justice, pictorially, to this meal. I still think that Palo is "somewhere between the California Grill and Victoria & Alberts. I have no menu notes. Next time, I'll ask for a menu copy!

Just a word - we like small portions and a lot of variety - after a couple of dishes, we started asking for half portions so we could try more dishes. They were very accommodating, but it was a challenge for poor chef in the middle of the dinner rush. We didn't realize it until our waiter appeared a little flustered - then we changed gears. My point - besides the great food and customer service - is that some of the portions you see here may not be representative of a normal portion. That's all

Waiting for DS21

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p964102983-3.jpg





Walking by the open kitchen - I think his name was Chef Gordon ...

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p964753116-3.jpg





... but I didn't capture the name tag

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p841338645-3.jpg





The view from our table

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p928701572-3.jpg





The menu and table flower

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p559264843-3.jpg





Frederick - our wine steward from the 2008 DVC cruise - was on duty again here. The bottle = "Purple Angel" ...

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p752578736-3.jpg





... poured from this lovely decanter ...

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p831285304-3.jpg






... and a toast to DS21's birthday (again) and our good fortune to be here ...

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p645113690-3.jpg






Bread Dips ... Mayo-something, olive tapenade, roasted red pepper....

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p569241882-3.jpg





Antipasto

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p841283241-3.jpg





Ahi Tuna (thin slices)

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v7/p854738572-3.jpg





Portobella Mushroom something (Risotto? Mousse?)

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p585351755-3.jpg





Calamari

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p824615080-3.jpg





Gnocchi

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v7/p892842603-3.jpg





Ravioli so good, we ordered another

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p921047598-3.jpg





Linguini with seafood something (tasted better than it photographed)

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p966626487-3.jpg




Something rigatoni

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p953578586-3.jpg




Mushroom risotto

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p1032592058-3.jpg




Ravioli?

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v7/p808320794-3.jpg





.

[ehagerty]

Click here if you want to view Part 1 - Appetizers
(http://disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2218709)

Fish

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v7/p819235754-3.jpg





.. and a different fish, with polenta

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p904857118-3.jpg





Palette cleanser - lemon ice

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p607767469-3.jpg





Lamb

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p742873298-3.jpg




http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p585077408-3.jpg





Filet

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p916848763-3.jpg





Veal

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v7/p802560419-3.jpg





Chocolate Souffle

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p723447600-3.jpg






Pane Cotta

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p864744670-3.jpg




Tira Misu

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p713123619-3.jpg




Limoncella chasers

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p1039965901-3.jpg




.

[ehagerty]

This was my first time participating in either activity. One of the fun parts of delivering FE gifts is the opportunity to see how everyone decorates their door. I realize, at the end of my distribution run, that I might want a picture of my own door, however plain it might be. It would appear from the ones I saw that some others have been evolving their "door decoration collection" over time - kind of like Christmas Tree ornaments (dates of prior cruises, etc)

Anyway, here is my plain door, with cruise line logo magnets (thanks to fellow disser) for each of us, along with a couple of 8.5x11 magnet prints of my pictures (used to test the magnetic paper print in preparation for creating FE gifts):

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p120012793-3.jpg




The FE was bought on ebay - reasonable price ($2) with relatively unreasonable shipping ($8?). Turns out "granny" something on ebay is shipping from Hong Kong. No surprise there, eh?


.

[ehagerty]

Thought I would post this here. The pictures are not the greatest, but it is worth noting that - at least on the 7 night cruise - they organize fun stuff, like this 3-on-3 basketball tournament. Also thought that you might recognize one of your own from the cruise in the pictures.

The ref providing rules

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v1/p55995318-3.jpg




My crew (two of whom rarely play b-ball) playing against a b-ball couch and his two sons. Guess who won!!

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v1/p448509762-3.jpg




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[ehagerty]

Normally, I would not be attracted to something called Pub Night, but people on the DIS recommended trying it, so we did.

The first song was fairly "traditional" - something they said was sung in Irish pubs.

I don't recall how many they did, but they became progressively funnier, including David's rendition of the Beer Song, captured here, in crib note style, for those who didn't take notes, but want to impress their friends, sung to the tune of "Do, a deer...." from "The Sound of Music."

Do - what I buy beer with.....
Ra - the guy I buy my beer from
Me - the guy I buy my beer for
Fa - the distance to the store
So - I'll have another beer
La - la la la la la BEER!
Ti - No, I'll have a beer
Do - what I ran out of

The finale was very amusing - I can't recall the lyrics, but the execution was very funny, especially the tennis guy.

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p928527436-3.jpg




David, the house manager for Rockin' D, in his pink tutu

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p934204431-3.jpg




He was very good, by the way. If his career goal is Cruise Director, he is definitely earning his stripes.


p.s., Pictures are "clarity challenged" because we are not allowed to use flash....
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[ehagerty]

DS21 went on this excursion (as he is the only certified scuba member in the family). I don't have a lot of commentary, but will enhance after the fact.

This was the kind of weather-day we'd had the entire week before the cruise, and pretty much persisted on and off until we got back to port. Not complaining, just explaining.

Also, these pictures were taken with the Canon D10, just for reference.

Tortola, in port, from the ship

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p612522539-3.jpg




Boarding the scuba boat

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p590526596-3.jpg




Meeting fellow DCL-scuba folks

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p895738145-3.jpg




Getting the spiel

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p865891887-3.jpg




Looks like the Baths, from the scuba boat

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p606128707-3.jpg




Scuba - in fairness to the D10, we didn't remember to turn on the "underwater" setting until we got home (the down side of having the camera show up the day before we left - we skimmed the manual, but didn't retain enough). I have provided a link to another post at the end if you want to understand better what the D10 is capable of, with the proper setting (which, basically, eliminates the "green cast", and shows color better)

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p860720304-3.jpg




http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p563479836-3.jpg





http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p646438696-3.jpg




http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p753455497-3.jpg




http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p932411686-3.jpg




http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p967452184-3.jpg




http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p746130506-3.jpg





http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p843842323-3.jpg




http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p591491266-3.jpg




http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p598862265-3.jpg




http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p1041586994-3.jpg/img]




[img]http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p1005234719-3.jpg




http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p598205945-3.jpg



-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sample Canon D10 - Same shot without, then with, the underwater setting, from different disser = Pooh_Friend#1:

In the water:
Forgot to put it in underwater mode:
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b241/Heidpally/Girls%20first%20cruise/IMG_0150.jpg

Switched to underwater mode:
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b241/Heidpally/Girls%20first%20cruise/IMG_0163.jpg


Click here to read full discussion thread about underwater cameras (if interested): (http://disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1935015&highlight=D10)



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[ehagerty]

We were having tea during our January, 2008 visit, when my son texted a college friend who stays at the GF regularly - sending a picture and message - something to the effect of "Look where I am". She texted right back, saying she had just walked by the GF tearoom. Neither knew the other was coming!

This visit, Brian KNEW his friend would be there, so we arranged to meet for tea on the only day our vacations overlapped.

Here we are, approaching the tea room:

http://ehagerty.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p1019133646-3.jpg

If you were hoping for a more comprehensive report about the details of the tea itself, click here (http://disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1514791).