February 12, 2011 - 7 night Eastern

[Tisti]

Hi!

I'm booking this week...I can't wait to go!

Me: Kristi - single mama
Her: Grace - 4 (3/17/2005)

[IrishCowboy]

I have added your thread to the cruise meet list :thumbsup2

[mrbudyhed]

I know, I can't wait either. Course, I feel like I'm just wishing a whole year away, but 365+ days isn't too long, right? It'll be me, Michelle, husband, Rodney and daughters Zoe and Gwen, who'll be 7 and 4 at the time. :yay:

[ilovedevin]

Hello, my name is Julie. My husband Kavin and our son Devin who will be 5 by time we sail are going on our first cruise. We are so excited especially myself! I feel as I did as a child waiting for Christmas LOL. pirate:

[capitalmom]

We just booked a few nights ago (after planning and talking about it for ages)... I'm Danielle, and will be travelling with hubby, Noel and our two girls -Laura (almost 6) and Amy (who'll celebrate her 2nd birthday while we're on the cruise). We've cruised a few times before but this is our first Disney cruise - can't wait!! :)

[noelk]

Yes, we're counting down. 329 days to go!!!

As Danielle mentioned, our family of four will be looking to escape the cold and snow of a Canadian winter next February for the Caribbean sun with Disney.

This will be our second cruise with kids...our first was in January 2010 on the Carnival Glory. It was good - a bit of a challenge with our baby (who was just 11 months old at the time) - and while Camp Carnival was OK for our older daughter, it didn't meet my expectations of a kids program. She just loves Disney, and after our trip to WDW in 2008, I have no doubt she'll love the cruise too! It's probably not a fair comparison, but in some ways I'm looking at this cruise as being an alternative to WDW - something that has the characters and magic of Disney, but better suited to travel with a two-year-old.

Cheers,
Noel

[gullyEARS]

Hi All!

Our family (six of us) will be going on our third Disney Cruise...we have a 13, 10, 3, and 1 yr old.

Nice to meet you all...also...anyone in San Diego, CA here?

S.

[ilovedevin]

Where did everyone go? Wondering if everyone is interestedin doing the FE exchange I have been reading about it and it sounds like fun. So far everyone on here has kids and I think it would be really fun for them.

[mommyofthreeboys]

DH and I booked this cruise! I am worried about the weather...DH likes hot weather...so DH thinks I should switch it to March or April but I don't want to pay the price difference.

Even though we are 2 adults, I would love to participate in the FE exchange!!! It's so much fun!

[capitalmom]

DH and I booked this cruise! I am worried about the weather...DH likes hot weather...so DH thinks I should switch it to March or April but I don't want to pay the price difference.


I like it hot too, but we cruised a similar route in mid-January last year (including Bahamas & St. Thomas) and the weather was beautiful... And St. Maarten is paradise any time of year, so no worries!

We're Disney cruise newbies but I've read a little bit about the FE thingy on these boards and it sounds like fun (I'm sure our girls would love it!), but is there a more experienced Dis-cruiser on here who can give us some guidance? :)

[ilovedevin]

I glad to hear about the weather I was a little worried as well and I agree with needing guidance with FE's but it sounds like so much fun.

[Beck K]

Hi everyone! Looking forward to meeting you all on the cruise!

This will be the first cruise for my family! We have an 8 year old son and a daughter who will turn 6 the day we leave MN (Feb. 11). We are SO excited and like you guys, I will spend the next year planning and counting down. Afterall, isn't that what makes it worth the expense... looking forward to it!

Sounds like some of our kids may be hanging out together in the kids club while we relax by the pool too!!? Looking so forward to that part as well!

I'm always open to any tips that you cruising veterans can share... especially for kids our ages.

Thanks! :)

[Beck K]

Also... not sure what an FE is? Interested though! Anyone cruising with a 6 year old girl and 8 year old boy!?

[noelk]

Welcome Beck K! :welcome:

Sounds like you're planning an escape from the ice and snow just like us! We'll also be travelling with our two kids: our older daughter, Laura, will also be six years old when we're on the Magic (she turns six in three weeks, how time flies!). It's an interesting in-between age, where she still loves princesses, but is also starting to get interested in some of the disney channel franchises for 'older kids', such as High School Musical. Meanwhile, our baby will turn TWO during the cruise, and right now she's determined to run after her sister and climb up everything!

As for "FE"s, I havn't read much about them, but I understand they mean "fish extenders"...there's a bunch of theads about them here on disboards...

[ilovedevin]

Check out e-bay for Fish extenders "gradysmoomy" makes them for those of us who can not sew. For those of you who can, you get an idea from her's. As well as the several post on the thread's that fellow Disser's have posted. http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2438099

Basiclly you hang it on the fish outside your stateroom and other Disser's put gifts into them. http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1980639 show's some wonder pic's of past gifts.

This is what I have learned thus far. MOST IMPORTANT!!!! All gifts are welcome there is no such thing as a cheap gift!

Second you decide if you want to give out one gift per state room or per person

Third you can buy or make your gifts. So if you think you make the best chocolate chip cookies feel free to give those as your gift;)

Hope this helps???

[Beck K]

Thanks all! So many fun ideas for these cruise's! I made a request for our door magnets this week, so excited to see those as well!

Noelk - yes, escaping the cold weather is the name of the game! Even if it's only 60 degrees it will be a huge warm up from MN to head on this trip! And it sounds like our daughters are in the same boat (no pun intended!) Mine won't be 6 until the day we leave for our trip, but she still loves princesses, while also loving High School Musical and iCarly! Fun age... and I think she will love the princesses on board the ship. Maybe they can hang out in kids club! :)

These boards add so much fun to the planning/excitement!
Happy April all! 10 months to go!

[mommyofthreeboys]

I made a request for our door magnets this week, so excited to see those as well!


They are so fun to make!!! And even more fun to decorate your door with.

If you participate in the FE exchange, it is so fun to see everyone's magnets. :goodvibes Also makes it easier for you to find the door!

[ilovedevin]

I have already made my door magnets and now I am making part one of my FE gifts. I know I have 10 month's but I am too excited not to get started now even thou I have no idea how many I have to make. Plus they are time consumming and since I work full time out of the home and take care of my DS when I am home I don't get much down time so it will prob. take the next 10 months to finish.

[capitalmom]

Hi everyone! It's so great to see how active this thread is so far in advance! When Noel and I took our first cruise (on Carnival) back in 2008, we met such a terrific group of people online (on the Roll Call on that "other" cruise site that I'm probably not allowed to name) and it really added to our cruise experience (and helped get us hooked on cruising ;) ). We haven't been as lucky with the Roll Calls for our last 2 cruises, so I'm so excited to find this group. I'm heading back to work on May 3 after an extended maternity leave, so the planning and excitement around this vacation will definitely keep me going!!

Just to get the party started, here is the list of who we are so far - it will be fun to see how this list grows over the coming months:

Tisti - Kristi and DD Grace (5)
mrbudyhed - Michelle & Rodney, and DDs Zoe (7) and Gwen (4), Cleveland, OH
ilovedevin - Julie, Kavin, and DS Devin (5), Michigan
capitalmom & noelk - Danielle & Noel, DDs Laura (6) and Amy (1), Ottawa, ON Canada
gullyEARS - S.'s family of 6, kids ages 13, 10, 3 and 1, San Diego, CA
mommyofthreeboys - Christina & DH, Indiana
Beck K - family of 4 (?), DS (8) and DD (6), Minnesota

I haven't started on FE gifts or magnets... yet (but I have lots of ideas brewing :idea: ). However, on the weekend, my mom and I took a quick trip across the border to upstate NY where I found some cute Mickey and Minnie fabric at Joann's for my mom to make our FE (she's the seamstress in the family - I have zero talent there).

Anyway, hope spring is in full bloom wherever you are, and look forward to getting to know you all!

D.

[mrbudyhed]

You are one organized mom, capital mom!

[ilovedevin]

I ordered our FE from Gradysmommy off e-bay I am so excited I can't wait to see it! Our son will be 5 by time we go so hopefully we will get more people on here the closer we get so that we can get some more boys for my ds and Beck K's 8 year old son.

[Beck K]

I am a little concerned about whether or not my kids will willingly want to go to or stay in the Kids Club, so it would be great to meet up with some families with kids our ages when we get on board the ship... to warm them up! I believe we'll tour the Kids Club as soon as we get on board, but does anyone have any other advice on how to reassure them that all of the fun for kids happens there!??

[ilovedevin]

On the DCL website there are videos and slide shows of the kids rooms that are pretty cool that may get them excited. It's funny how different people are, I am worried as to how to get my DS to not want to be in there all the time!:laughing: He is Mr. Social.

[Beck K]

Thanks for the tips! We have watched the video's on the site and the one we got in the mail on DVD... and that did help and they seemed excited about it. My kids can just be tentatives sometimes, so I hope they give it a chance. But, we definitely plan to try! Thanks again... looking SO forward to this trip! :cheer2:

[capitalmom]

We got our little "welcome aboard" package in the mail today - very exciting stuff!! I go back to work on Monday after 15 months at home with baby, so it will be nice to have this trip to look forward too... Over the last few weeks, we've actually been toying with the idea of changing our cruise dates to fit better with DD's school breaks, but we've finally decided to just keep things as they are, so it looks like you're stuck with us :woohoo: Beck K - our two girls are totally extroverted (especially the 6 year old) so I'm sure they'll do their best to bring everyone out of their shell... It would be nice if we could meet up early in the cruise though - maybe after sail away, so that when they get to the kids' club they'll see a few familiar faces. I'm not sure how it works on Disney, but on Carnival, on the first night they had an open house at the kids club for kids AND parents, so that was also a good way to introduce them to it, with mom and dad close by... anyway, I'm sure they'll be fine - by the end of the cruise, we'll probably have to drag them out of there! Anyway, just wanted to check in and say hello before I disappear back into the "real world" next week, but whenever I need a pick-me-up, I'll be sure to check in here :)

Danielle

[ilovedevin]

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The Fish Extender
What is a Fish Extender? Where did it come from? What does it mean to me? What if I am terrified of fishes? All these questions and more answered in this episode of SOAP.

Background
A fish extender is a “secret Santa” of sorts. The idea is that a group of DISers exchange gifts during a cruise. The first Fish Extender Exchange is said to have been started during a Panama Canal repositioning cruise. It is called a “Fish Extender” because outside of every stateroom there is a fish mounted on the wall. It was put there by DCL as a way to deliver notes without entering your room. Now DISers use it to hang their Fish Extenders. The actual extender is like increasing the size of your mailbox, if you will.


The idea behind fish extenders is: Share some magic with your fellow DISers.Also known as, its better to give that to receive.

Tell Me More
Fish Extenders have all sorts of looks to them, depending on the cruisers tastes, size of family, specific event, and character.








Important Details
Requirements for your Fish Extender are:
•you are able to hang it from the Fish in the hallway (size requirements and zip ties later)
•it has a pocket or pouch to hold the gifts you will receive
That’s it. Breathe. Relax.

Where Do I Get a Fish Extender?
Some folks make their own Fish Extenders.
Some buy Fish Extenders from places like e-bay.
Others find creative things to use as Fish Extenders.


Here are some instructions for sewing your own 'traditional' Fish Extender: Sew it yourself Fish Extender.
Here are some instructions for people that don't/can't sew so well: No-sew Fish Extender

Specifications
The wall that the fish extender is hung on is roughly 8” wide. If you make your extender much wider, it will stick out into the hallway and/or hit your stateroom door.
The fish to hang your extender from is about 5’3” off the floor. When deciding upon a length for your extender, be sure you keep in mind that you will hang it from the fish, which will add overall length to your extender.

What’s With This Zip Tie Business
A zip tie (or cable tie) is a handy piece of equipment to secure your fish extender. We don’t want any fish extender nappings. Let’s face it, even on a Disney Cruise; there are people out there that have deviousness running in their veins. The zip tie helps to deter this. This is an explanation from a fellow DISer:
“If you look at the ribbon on any fish extender (that is what you place over the fish) that is how the "extender" hangs on the fish. It is very easy to just remove the extender by just un-hooking it from the fish. So, you take your zip tie and cinch it around both of the ribbons that are hanging from the fish on both sides... and you cinch the zip tie so that the two ribbons squeeze around the fish making it impossible to remove the extender.”
“The zip-tie goes around the ribbon or string that attaches to the fish... and you place it just under the fish... it actually scoots itself up to the fish as you tighten it... the trick is to leave it NOT so tight so that you can get your scissors or nail clippers thru it when you are ready to take it down.”

Think about it like a Club except instead of securing your cars steering wheel, it holds the strap your fish extender hangs from securely to the fish.

The Magic of Fish Extender Gifts
So what do people put in the Fish Extenders? How often do you deliver gifts? What about kids?
People give all sorts of stuff. Here are some pics of Fish Extender bootie.



Gifts can be regional in theme.
Gifts can be Disney related.
Gifts can be event specific.
Gifts can represent you.
Gifts can be almost anything.

Delivering your gifts can be a daunting task. The other people that signed up for the Fish Extender exchange will be all over the ship. Walking the ship isn’t too very tough. Walking the ship, carrying your gifts, trying to find specific staterooms—that’s a different story.

Gifts are delivered throughout the day and night, totally dependent upon your schedule. It did seem that there were a lot of deliveries on the first full day aboard the ship.

Some instances a gift is given to each individual. Sometimes it is given to the entire the cabin. Quite often children get special gifts just for them. If your cabin has a roommate situation, where you both are participating in the Fish Extender Exchange, but do not reside together in real life, please state that when you sign up. Each person would then be listed and each person would receive gifts of their own.

Some important things to remember about gifts:
•Some people have food allergies. (i.e. cinnamon, peanuts, coconut, etc.). If you do, please mention that when you sign up for the Fish Extender list.
•Be aware of how much space will be needed to transport your gifts to the ship (and then home again). I ended up shipping a box (15”x15”x15”) full of FE Stuff home.

Groups
Does the thought of purchasing, assembling, transporting and delivering a massive amount of Fish Extender gifts worry or frighten you? Joining a group may be just the solution to your concerns.

A Fish Extender Group is a group of DISers that pool their resources (money, time, creativity) toward a fish extender gift.

Groups do not need any formal association. They can be random DISers that want to join a group. They can be people from a certain state or country. They can be from a demographic (Redheads, Firemen, Teachers, etc.)

One person should act as a group leader, collecting and distributing input from the rest of the group. It is a good idea to e-mail everyone in the group about the group’s gift.

Once a group’s gift is decided upon, the total cost (don’t forget shipping) is divided between the members of the group.
Onboard, it would be easiest to divide up the total number of staterooms participating in the fish extender exchange between members of the group. For example, if there were 180 staterooms participating, and 12 members in your group, each person would deliver 15 gifts.

Miscelaneous
Signing up for the Fish Extender on your cruise should be relatively easy. Whomever is going to head up the task should be able to keep track of the changes throughout the thread and keep record of them, updating the list as necessary.
From time to time, peoples cabin number changes. If this happens to you, please post a note on the thread so the list can be updated. One of the first few posts of the thread should contain the list of participants, their cabin number, number of adults, number (and age) of children, allergies, and special notes.

If for some reason you cabin number changes close to the sail date, or you upgrade your cabin at the port, that information needs to be shared with the rest of the Fish Extender group. The easiest way to do this is to have an update list posted. Someone who signed up for the Fish Extender Exchange should volunteer to do this.
Now here are a few tips:
1) If you can ship your gifts ahead of time, do it - saves so much room in your luggage. Make sure you allow enough time for your package to arrive prior to the start of the cruise. You don't want to get to the ship and discover that your package did not make it to meet you.
2) Be sure you have room in your luggage for the goodies you will receive. I thought I would have so much room in my suitcase since I had given away the goodies I brought; however, I had just as much to take home!
3) If you are talented and can make your gifts - they are so appreciated. All gifts are awesome, and homemade ones are like icing on the cake! ((or the meringue on the pie!!)
4) Deliver your gifts a floor at a time - maybe one floor a day.
5) Plan your delivery - either map them or organize by number.
6) Trip personalized gifts are awesome - some of the coolest gifts were items that were personalized with our cruise dates or motto (pens, notepads, etc)
7) Fasten your Fish Extender to the fish with a zip tie - there was a report of a near Fish Extender napping on our cruise thread - I think personalizing the Fish Extender helps, too.
8) Make delivering the gifts a family affair. At one point I could hear a cute family whispering outside my door as they had the kids put the goodies in the Fish Extender.

Remember, when you do a Fish Extender you will be the envy of many on the ship! I was stopped a couple of times asking how we got one of those and how could they participate! Of course, those folks have now been informed of the Disboards!

[mommyofthreeboys]

How has everyone been doing? How is your planning?

Lately I have been checking out airfares. I think we want to fly in the day before in case it is snowing here in Indiana. I don't want to miss boarding!

Hope everyone is having a great summer!

[capitalmom]

Hello!! I was starting to wonder if anyone was still out there... We're also starting to look at airfare, but haven't booked anything yet - we'll also be flying in the day before, just in case... We're really looking forward to it, and I'm already into full-on planning mode - i.e. trying to figure out how much the girls will grow between now and then, to make sure they have enough summer clothes in the right size for the cruise. I was at H&M on the weekend and bought the cutest matching striped "Sailor Minnie" T-shirts... You'll be able to spot our girls in them on embarkation day :) Til then, let's enjoy the hot weather while it lasts!

Danielle

[ilovedevin]

Hello, hope everyone is enjoying summer so far! Those outfits sound so adorable! Tomorrow is the 7 month mark I am so excited, my husband say's that I am obsessed :laughing:, HUMMM DUH. When we purchased our airline tickets Delta was the cheapest, not sure if they still are but hopefully you will find a great deal.

[ilovedevin]

Christina,

I just read your trip report which by the way you never finished, it was hilarious:rotfl2: How was the POP? We are also flying in a day early and are thinking of staying there for the sole purpose of shoppind at DTD :woohoo: Both DH and I are generation X children and would love to stay in the 80's section. Would love your input!


Thanks,
Julie

[blessedmomofboys]

We are very excited to have just booked our cruise! Our trip is going to be a little crazy as we are traveling with my in-laws and sister-in-law and her family of 5. There will be a total of 6 kids in our group ranging from 1 year to 8 years.

I'm glad to hear that I'm not the only one that is planning so far out in advance. My husband thinks I am getting a ocd in planning. I am much more excited about it than anyone else in my family.

We are staying at WDW for 4 nights before the cruise and plan on doing Magic Kingdom and Epcot.

I want in on FE. Sounds like lots of fun!:)

[adventure_woman]

YIPPEE!! I am here to join everyone! This will be our first cruise. We are a family of four - me, DH Sam, DD Elizabeth - who will be a little over 4 and DD Natalie - who will be 9 months.

We are from Michigan and I think we are going to be flying in the day before and then going over to the Port and staying at the Radisson. If anyone would be interested in sharing a van from the airport to the port, let me know! (that way we don't have to rent a car or use DCL transfers!)

I am definitely in on the FE exchange!

CAN'T WAIT!!! I am so excited to begin planning and making decorations for our door!

[capitalmom]

Welcome aboard to both of you! This thread has been quiet lately so it's nice to see some new families joining us! Looking forward to meeting everyone...

Danielle

[ilovedevin]

Welcome, I am so happy to see new comers:cool1: question for blessedmomofboys, what are the sex of the twins and two year old? Working on my FE's and need to make sure I have enough girls and boys things. Just trying to keep up as new family join.

[Disneyhenry]

WOW this will be our 1st cruise and since I love Disney, well I decided that it will be a Disney Cruise!
Our little one's birthday will be 2 weeks prior (age 2) and our Anniversay is the 14th of Feb.
We reserved a Verandah and yeah I am pretty excited!!!

Any one else with a little one ages 2 - 3 ? Please email me and maybe we can meet up

[capitalmom]

Welcome Disneyhenry! Yes, we'll be travelling with our two girls, and our youngest, Amy, will celebrate her 2nd birthday on Feb. 16 while we're on the cruise! She's recently started full-time daycare and absolutely loves being around kids her own age, so its nice to know she'll have a playmate :) Our older daughter, Laura, is 6, turning 7 in May. We will definitely have to organize a meet-up for all the Disboard families and friends.

[mommyofthreeboys]

Sorry all. We won't be joining you on this cruise after all. We switched to a January cruise. Have fun!!

[Disneyhenry]

Yeah so this is our 1st cruise and I want to do the FE for sure, it looks like so much fun! How do I join in on this?

[adventure_woman]

My DD will be 4 1/2, so it will be great for her to play w/ little girls too! I just bought our trip insurance today....so we are definitely going!! (it's never totally real for me until we put in money that is non-refundable!!).

Anyone have a list going yet of who is going and the kids ages/sex for the FE?

[ilovedevin]

Fe Exchange:) Okay this is what I have so far. Anyone's have suggestions on a DIS-Meet please let me know.

ilovedevin: Julie, Kavin, and DS Devin (5), Michigan
capitalmom & noelk: Danielle & Noel, DDs Laura (6) and Amy (1), Ottawa, ON Canada
gullyEARS: family of 6, kids ages 13, 10, 3 and 1, San Diego, CA
Beck K: family of 4 (?), DS (8) and DD (6), Minnesota
Disney henry: family of 3 with a DS (2)
Blessedmomofboys: John, Heather, Carter (5), Preston (2), and Liam (1) also traveling with extended family twin boys
( 8) and a (2) year old girl
tiredof cold: Tom, Emma and Eva (6)Calgary, AB, Canada

Need the sex: of gullyEARS children

[adventure_woman]

Julie - my name is Stephanie. :goodvibes

[blessedmomofboys]

I've been driving myself crazy trying to decide how to make our FE! I thought about buying one off ebay but I think it will be more special if I make it but now I'm afraid it won't be cute. lol

I'm super excited that WDW has finally released their rates for 2011. Now I'm busy researching hotels and the best deals for a 4 night stay leading up to the cruise. Anyone else going to WDW beforehand?

The twins are boys and the 2 year old is a girl.

[ilovedevin]

Thak you for the updates:) Blessedmomofboys, we are planning on staying at the POP the night before, want to get in some shopping at DTD before we leave. We are not doing any of the parks this time around because DS's birthday is on Christmas and we are taking him to WDW for that. There is a couple threads on FE's to give you idea's...I bought mine from e-bay as I have no sewing skills at all. If you have skill I say go for it I'm sure it will be very cute!

[blessedmomofboys]

I'm going to attempt a no sew FE and if it fails then definitely going through ebay. I've seen some really cute ones.

We go to Disneyland every year when we visit family in San Diego but this will be our kids first time to WDW. DH and I haven't been since we were little. Not sure where we are going to stay yet. Can't decide between value or moderate. Which hotels would you recommend in those categories? I'm leaning towards all star music for value and not sure for moderate. We are planning on doing MK and Epcot and then a day to rest, do laundry etc beforw cruise. Want to do a downtown disney and chef mickeys. So much to do, so little time.

[adventure_woman]

My favorite value is ASMusic and favorite moderate is Port Orleans French Quarter. We usually always stay at value because I can't justify spending the extra money on the room, when I am just as happy to stay at Music. Music was also great, from about 2-9 everyday they have activities by the pool - movies at night, scavenger hunts, games at the pool, etc. My nephew had a blast (I was usually back at the room with a napping 2 yr old...).

[capitalmom]

Hey - this is very timely :thumbsup2. Noel and I were just starting to think about where to stay the night before the cruise, and were considering either Port Orleans Riverside, or one of the value resorts, or the Hyatt at the airport... The prices for the moderates in February do seem to be quite reasonable realtive to other times of the year (and for us, it is only one night).... decisions, decisions... We also haven't booked flights yet, so in part, it will depend on how early or late we arrive, but all advice/opinions are welcome. We'd also like to do a bit a pre-cruise shopping, probably DTD... our littlest princess could use a new princess dress, since big sister wore hers so much the hand-me-downs are in pretty rough shape, and the Disney store here closed last year :sad1: Also wondering how folks are planning to get to the ship? Are you using the Disney transfer or finding your own way? We usually rent a car in Florida as we like that flexibility, but dropping in off in Port Canaveral could be a pain... And thanks for the updated FE list! I really need to get going on that... :eek:

[ilovedevin]

We are renting a car. We arrive at 1130 am on the 11th and plan on going to Walmart for supplies we can't carry on an airplane and then shopping at DTD and having dinner at T-REX? Also want to leave early the 12th to get to port early LOL I am one of those people that hurry to get somewhere just to wait:rotfl:

[adventure_woman]

I'm thinking that we will be driving down :laughing: Hopefully the little one (now 3 1/2 mths) will start doing better in the car. We are going to be staying in the Cape at the Radisson for probably 2 nights before the cruise. DH isn't as much of a Disney fanatic as I am so, so this is our compromise on a 'non-Disney' trip. :goodvibes

[noelk]

As Danielle mentioned, we're starting to think a bit more - call it the early-planning phase.

I know some folks have already booked their flights - I've started looking at airfare...and hoping a seat sale comes around this fall! With a two year old, it will be so much easier to fly from Ottawa (20 minutes in the car to the airport and we're on our way)...but right now, taking early morning flights and such, that would run us $2500 round trip including taxes for four (!) ... it's the extra taxes, charges and fees that really make it add up!

The alternative for us it to drive the night before to Syracuse, NY, which has non-stop flights on JetBlue to Orlando...it's a 3 1/2 hour drive (300km/186 miles)...but the cost of the flights is just $1400 round trip for four. That's a savings of over $1000! Of course, if those flights from Ottawa go on sale, the savings wouldn't be so dramatic...

Anybody else drive significantly out of their way to save a lot on airfares?

[ilovedevin]

Just thought of one more thing we need eachother's cabin numbers

Kavin, Julie and Devin (5) room 6632

[ilovedevin]

Whoo hooo only six more months:banana:

[ilovedevin]

I am so excited I just booked our room at the POP.

[mrbudyhed]

Well, we are lucky--my mother-in-law lives in Cocoa Beach, so I have accomodations and chauffer service all set! :goodvibes We go to Florida every year and I watch airfare prices all the time. I am convinced that the prices will go down much more from the $336 (Cleveland to Orlando) that they are now. But, boy I can't wait to buy the tickets--then everything seems "set", know what I mean? I'm not sure I want to be an on the FE thing--it sounds fun, but also kinda stressful too--just one more thing I have to think of. But if everyone is gonna have a "DIS-meet," I would be interested in that!

Michelle :)

[ilovedevin]

Sorry to hear that you don't want to participate in the FE, I am sure when it get's closer to the crusie that we will set up a DIS-Meet. Good luck with the airfare.

[ilovedevin]

Just got our room at the POP for $77.63 total for the night before the cruise

Disney Value Resort Hotels 25%
Disney Moderate Resort Hotels 30%
Disney Deluxe Resorts* 25% - 40%
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*Save 30% at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.
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1/1/11-2/16/11

[mrbudyhed]

What a good price!:cool1: Am most jealous that you get to be immersed in Disney starting on Friday. Oh well, "Chez Mother-in-law" is cool too. ;)

[ilovedevin]

*****FE UPDATE*******

Could everyone who is participating in the FE exchange send me a PM of your room number I will make a list and PM everyone with the information. Also a few families have shown interest in a DIS-Meet looking for idea's as to when and where?



Thanks,
Julie:)

[TiredOfCold]

And I was wondering why the other forum roll call was so quiet! Everyone is on here!! Looking forward to meeting everyone.

I think it would be nice for my daughter to meet a few girls her own age before heading into the kids club - and it looks like there are a few on here already!

Interested in the FE thing for my daughters sake - but it might be more than I can handle! How many gifts are we talking about? Do you just deliver 1 gift to each cabin on the list or is it one gift per/person? I'm assuming they would then have to be customized based on the individuals gender and age?
Do you just do this once or is it a daily thing?

I am definitely interested in a meet though - that sounds much less complex. hahahaha

We will likely stay 1 night pre-cruise close to the port and are looking at booking 3 nights post-cruise at WDW. We haven't booked our flights yet - I will be booking two on points just have to wait for next month when I will have enough points!
I agree that the taxes and fees from Canada are crazy! If we were closer to the US we would most likely do the drive...

[ilovedevin]

for those of you who may not know, just came out today. I just called and now Devin is FREE:cool1: I am so excited!!!!!


Kids Sail Free on Select 7-Night Caribbean CruisesChildren ages 17 and under traveling with 2 full-fare Guests in the same stateroom sail free on most 7-Night Caribbean cruises from January 8, 2011 through March 5, 2011, excluding the February 19, 2011 sailing. Government Taxes and Fees and Port Adventures not included.

Beginning in January 2011, set sail aboard the Disney Magic on an unforgettable Disney Cruise Line 7-Night Eastern Caribbean cruise or a 7-Night Western Caribbean cruise—and save! On the eastern cruise, drop anchor in sunny St. Maarten—with its many boutiques, café and white-sand beaches—before making your way to historic St. Thomas/St. John, once a destination of choice for real-life pirates. The western cruise finds you experiencing the sun, sand and surf of Grand Cayman, Key West and stunning Cozumel, home to the ancient ruins of Xcaret Eco Archeological Park and the sprawling shoreline of Playa San Francisco Beach. Both itineraries boast a stop at Disney's private island hideaway, Castaway Cay, exclusively available to Disney cruisers.

How To Book
To take advantage of this offer, book online at disneycruise.com, call (800) 951-3532 or contact your Travel Agent. Be sure to indicate booking code "KFO" at time of booking. Guests under 18 years of age must have their parent or guardian call this number.

Important Details
This offer is only available to residents of the U.S. and Canada. Offer applies to verandah stateroom categories (excluding suites and concierge). This offer cannot be combined with any other offers, discounts or onboard credits. Number of staterooms allocated for this offer are limited. Must mention booking code KFO. See Disney Cruise Line website for details and applicable Terms and Conditions.

[ilovedevin]

tiredofcold :welcome:. As for the FE it is whatever you decide. You can deliver one gift per stateroom or per person or just the kids. Target, Michael's and the dollar stores all carry $1.00 Disney items sometime's even less than that. You can buy your gifts or if you creative you can make your gifts, once again it's whatever you decide.

[mrbudyhed]

Yay!:cheer2: I saw someone post on Disboards that kids sail free just became available for my cruise. I just called Disney and they applied the kids sail free code to my booking and now I have $1,400 less I have to save until Feb.! See, it pays to suck time away on the disboards instead of cleaning the house or something. :rotfl2:

[Disneyhenry]

Oh Thank you mrbudyhed, I am going to call tomorrow and have that special applied to my room

[adventure_woman]

Well..good and bad news folks! The great news is that I got the KSF promotion so we now have a VERANDAH room! The bad news is that I will not be sailing on 2/12 with you...I will be departing 1/29! Everyone have a great trip!!

Stephanie

[TiredOfCold]

Well - I guess I better get posting because apparently I can't even reply to PM's until I have at least 10 Posts! hahaha

So... to ILoveDevin... our room number is 6152

Thanks for taking the lead on this!
As for DIS meet - I have never cruised Disney before so I don't really have any suggestions. I would think the earlier in the cruise the better? I would like Eva to meet a few kids close to her age before I take her to the Oceaneers Club.

[capitalmom]

Welcome TiredOfCold - nice to see some fellow Canadians on board! We live in Ottawa (but originally from Newfoundland - me, and Toronto - DH). How old is your DD? Our two girls are 6 and 18 mos (will turn 2 on the cruise) and both are very outgoing. Anyway, we're looking forward to meeting you! As for the cruise meet, on past (non-Disney) cruises, we usually arranged a meet with online cruise board types somewhere on the main deck/pool area, after muster drill and sailaway, but I'll leave it to one of the Dis experts on here to suggest a good place and time to meet :-)

And to everyone else, congrats on the kids sail free savings :thumbsup2 - that sounds like an awesome deal! We were seriously tempted to upgrade, but having already cancelled and rebooked last week to take advantage of the 25% off for Canadian residents offer (which saved us $650 :cheer2:) we figured we'd leave well enough alone and enjoy our SPH stateroom, and leave the balcony for another time, when our extremely active toddler is a little older and we won't have to worry so much about her going overboard! You'll understand when you meet her - she's a force of nature!

Danielle

[Disneyhenry]

We didn't up grade on our cruise but because of our cruise discount I got I changed from the Movies to the AKL, my dream vacation is going to happen!!!!
capitalmom ~ my son turns 2 Jan 31st just before our cruise, yeah we must meet!

THIS IS GONNA BE SO MUCH FUN!!!!!

[babymaeby]

Just booked this one today. That Canadian resident rate is tooo good to pass up. This is our 2nd cruise. The first being a 7 day western in Jan 2008. It's been too long. Can't wait - only 163 days to go. Don't forget November 29th....will we all be staying up late that day??

[babymaeby]

BTW, we have a GTY room. Has anyone with GTW been given their assignment yet? Any nice surprises?

[TiredOfCold]

CapitalMom - Our daughter is 6... and I totally understand what you mean by your 2 year old being a force of nature! When Eva was that age her daycare workers used to call her "circus baby"... she also managed to dislocate my elbow when I was trying to change her diaper. Very glad that she has calmed down at least a little bit, although she is still like a shark... never stops moving (or talking)!

[Disneyhenry]

Tiredof cold, glad to know that I am not the only one with what you call a "circus baby" I have an adventourus boy! 1st set of stiches on fathers day at age of 16 months, 1st black eye at 18 months. He is a climber, a runner and loves to explore....

any hows I can't wait to meet everyone!

[noelk]

Hi folks -

I hate to be the bearer of bad news...

We just got a new confirmation from DCL today...as my DW (CapitalMom) mentioned, we rebooked last week to take advantage of the Canadian resident discount...so DCL sent a new confirmation in the mail with our new confirmation number, price, etc.

So, the "bad news" part is, on the lower part of the page where it describes the cruise, for Wednesday (Feb. 16) it says we now says "St. Thomas: Ashore 7:45am; Onboard 3:30pm - Tender...so this seems to suggest we've drawn the short straw and will be tendering in to Charlotte Amalie.

I've read on other boards and threads that due to the large number ships calling on St. Thomas, they no longer have room at the various piers, and that each cruise line takes a turn tendering. I also checked cruisett.com...there will be five other cruise ships in St. Thomas on the 16th (including two huge ships: Freedom of the Seas and Norwegian Epic).

The silver lining in all of this, from what I've read, is that the tenders take you right into downtown...no taxi ride from the pier.

Anyway, I think we may serious consider staying on board in St. Thomas...we were there on our last cruise, and the recent violence is a bit disturbing...

TiredofCold - welcome aboard...I noticed you elsewhere too (I'm aka SensFan11)....it's great our daughters are the same age...you gearing up for grade one too?!?

babymaeby - glad to see yet another Canuck here...are you from that big metropolis to the southwest of us?

Disneyhenry - great our babies are within two weeks of each other...and that's a great upgrade from a value to a deluxe resort! There's some great prices for staying at WDW pre-cruise...post-cruise, things will be kinda busy and expensive there with the President's Day weekend...we're still trying to decide whether to head straight home after we disembark on February 19, or spend one extra night in Orlando. I keep telling myself to extend, seeing as Monday is a holiday in Ontario too (well, at least for the kids...kinda ironic that the schools and daycares are closed, but both myself and my DW have to work!)

adventure_woman - glad you got that great discount...but very jealous that you'll get to sail two weeks earlier than the rest of us! Take good care of the Magic...

[capitalmom]

Well, if we do stay on the ship, Feb. 16 also happens to be Amy's 2nd birthday, so we'll find somewhere on the ship to throw her a little party and invite all of you for cake :)

And as for her active nature, no injuries to report yet, but she certainly does tend to bully her much older sister - she's definitely the stronger of the two and we usually have to intervene to keep the little one from hurting the big one. And I love the "Circus baby" nickname :laughing:. The staff at A.'s daycare call her "Happy Feet" becuase she never stops moving. However, it's the 6 year old who never stops talking. We joke that Amy will never bother learning to talk because she knows that Laura will never let her get a word in edgewise anyway!

Anyway, look forward to getting to know you all better as the clock ticks down to our big adventure!

Danielle

[Jax]

Hello!

I have officially confirmed my reservation and will be sailing with you guys on the Feb 12 cruise.... :cool1:

Sailing in our group we have myself (Jackie), my friend (Laurie) and her 2 daughters Elizabeth (1o) and Alison (8).

So excited about the trip, and getting to know everyone before hand and meeting people onboard.

[prittfamily98]

We are finally going on a cruise! February 12-19 It is for my 40th birthday.
I am scared to death. Not of sailing but of the entire experience.
My husband is a oil worker so he is on the water 60 days at a time. This is nothing new to him.
:worried:I do not want to spend a fortune but I do want to relax and have fun.
I have been a DVC member for 2.5 years. I can do a week at WDW for $200 for my and the kids. This is a lot of money.
We got 2 inside staterooms next to each other cheaper than a outside stateroom that sleeps 5.
How can I enjoy the spa, have private time with my husband and still have fun with the kids and celebrate my 40th birthday and RELAX???
:worried:

[prittfamily98]

our family is sailing FEB 12-19. Who can participate in the FE? I am interested.

[ilovedevin]

Hi, my name is Julie and sorry I have been busy but was going to PM you about the FE exchange. It is open to anyone who want's to participate:) I am working on a spread sheet with everyone who is going on the cruise with us and who does and does not want to participate in the FE along with everyone's stateroom number. We are leaving it up to everyone as to how you want to hand out your gift's ie, one per stateroom, one per person just kids or all of the above also when you chose to hand them out.

Once again sorry took so long,
Julie

[Disneyhenry]

Hi, my name is Julie and sorry I have been busy but was going to PM you about the FE exchange. It is open to anyone who want's to participate:) I am working on a spread sheet with everyone who is going on the cruise with us and who does and does not want to participate in the FE along with everyone's stateroom number. We are leaving it up to everyone as to how you want to hand out your gift's ie, one per stateroom, one per person just kids or all of the above also when you chose to hand them out.

Once again sorry took so long,
Julie

Hey thank you so very much

[ilovedevin]

:banana::banana: only 5 more month's to go

[TiredOfCold]

So last week I went to the dollar store and spent $60 on potential FE items. I figure if I don't use them for the FE gifts I can always stick them in DD's birthday goodie bags for her friends.

I'm still a bit perplexed by the FE thing - but I'm thinking I will leave each child a few little gifts in their pouch and maybe 1 small gift for the adults in the cabin?? I don't want to spend a million dollars, but I also don't want to be too cheap.... for eg. if I left each child a pen/pencil, notebook, small confectionary item and a magnet would that be an "average" gift? I am aiming for average... hahaha.

Today I laminated some artwork and bought some magnetic sheets from Michaels so we can decorate our door. First Disney Cruise and I want to participate as fully as possible!

[TiredOfCold]

NoelK, I am on a few other boards with this name. I have been on the "large" general travel board for years and recently joined the cruise section of it - I think that is where you likely saw me as I remember your daughters age and your location (excited to see a fellow Canuck with a daughter the same age!)

Eva started grade 1 a few weeks ago - she isn't 6 until November, so is one of the younger ones in her class. She speaks French and English and has friends ranging in age from 4 to 8 so I'm excited for her to meet up with everyones children!

This trip is going to be a blast....

[ilovedevin]

Tiredofcold, you are so funny. Don't stress yourself out, there is no such thing as too cheap. The purpose of the FE is not to spend an arm and leg, it's just a little fun thing to particiapte in with your fellow cruisers. By the way all the items you listed all sound really nice. In question of your adult gift, gift's from your place of residence is always a cool idea ie, smarties:), postcards, refridgerator magnets, again nothing is too cheap.



Julie

[TiredOfCold]

Thanks ILoveDevin.... I'm going to try and relax a bit...
I started buying stuff already, I'll probably end up with an entire suitcase full by February...:rotfl:

[ilovedevin]

Tell me about it lol, I booked our cruise on Jan 28 and shortly afterwards found this site. Now I have a ton of magnets, t-shirts made for DH, DS and myself and thinking I need more for DS there are just so many creative DISer's on here with too many cute designs for shirt's I can't stop. Then for the FE's I knew right away what I wanted to make for the stateroom gift and at the time that was all I was going to do, but now I have a two stateroom gift's, one per person and one for the kids:rotfl:


Julie

[ilovedevin]

So I posted an inquiry about DIS-MEETS and received several response's most saying that the best place to meet is at the promenade lounge at 3:00. According to everyone it is out of the heat, easy to find and a good time since it will be after lunch and before the saftey drill.

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll27/kavinandjulie/DISmeet.jpg


Please let me know if this doesn't work for any of you.
Julie

[Jax]

You guys are started to get me all excited again, especially since it is a cold miserable day out (TiredOfCold we are also from Calgary).

I have created our designs for our magnets now I just need to get them printed off and ready to go.

Have created designs for our t-shirts. The 2 girls I am traveling with have no idea about the cruise. We are making matching t-shirts for everyone which we will give the girls the day we leave for the cruise and see how long it takes them to clue in. So now I just need their mom to pick the designs and then I can get those made (also want to make us shirts for pirate night so need to finish those designs).

I have started planning our FE gifts, I just need to make a decision what I am going with. I have never done FE so excited about that.

Woo hoo, logged into to my TA site and was told 149 days! :cool1:

[mrbudyhed]

Thanks for doing all this leg work, Julie. 3:00pm to meet and the location sounds fine to me! (Course, I've never been on a cruise before, but I'm sure we'll find the spot--Got plenty of time to study the ship map before that!) :teacher:

[TiredOfCold]

Yes - thanks Julie that meeting spot works for us - sounds like it will be easy to find.

I know Jax!! This weather is soooo depressing... we never even had a summer and now they are calling for snow on Thursday. Gotta love Calgary, not!:sad1:

[capitalmom]

OK, you Calgarians are not exaggerating... I was there this past weekend visiting family en route home from a business trip and it was cold!! My relatives there were all complaining about what a yucky summer it's been. First time I've worn a jacket since April - never thought I'd say this but it was nice to get home to Ottawa to be warm! Beautiful city though and great shopping ;) And it'll just make you appreciate those warm sandy beaches even more... Keep warm and let's hope the snow stays away for a bit longer!

Danielle

[Disneyhenry]

I was wondering if anyone else was form the Pacific Northwest?

I am gonna make some beaded wrist band and necklaces for the FE, also hitting the dollar store and any after xmas specials. :santa:

It is sprinkling outside and I needed a little reminder of things to come, it is always great getting on here and seeing everyone's ideas!

~Thank you and can't wait until Feb!!! I will get to meet a great group of people :grouphug:

[noelk]

NoelK, I am on a few other boards with this name. I have been on the "large" general travel board for years and recently joined the cruise section of it - I think that is where you likely saw me as I remember your daughters age and your location (excited to see a fellow Canuck with a daughter the same age!)

Eva started grade 1 a few weeks ago - she isn't 6 until November, so is one of the younger ones in her class. She speaks French and English and has friends ranging in age from 4 to 8 so I'm excited for her to meet up with everyones children!

This trip is going to be a blast....

Yes, Laura started grade one last week and so far so good...after two years of kindergarden, she was defnately ready for full day school! She's in French immersion, and like us, can't wait!

Our overall planning continues apace..like others here, we've added a pre-cruise night at WDW (Port Orleans FQ), and while we'll probably hit downtown Disney, we won't venture into the parks. Still no flights booked for us...waiting for a seat sale! Also will need to book a rental car for the day to pickup at the airport and drop in Port Canaveral.

[TiredOfCold]

NoelK - we haven't booked our flights yet either... also waiting for that seat sale. They just released sale fares up to December 16th yesterday so I'm hoping in 4-6 weeks we should be good to go. We are going to book a couple of the tickets on our Avion points so we will only have to pay for one ticket. Airfare is currently running around $700 return from Calgary.

I booked a car rental with Budget using the DIS board discount code. It's not a pre-pay so we could cancel at any time and it's a great rate - $33 (taxes in) for an intermediate car for 24 hours, pick up at airport and drop off in Cape Canaveral.

Still trying to decide if we will do a few days pre-cruise at WDW or post-cruise so we haven't booked hotel yet. Will most likely do the parks post-cruise but I recently realized that we are disembarking on President's Day Weekend - YIKES! Should make for an ugly scene at WDW....

And... just spent another $40 at the dollar store today - hahahaha. I don't even know how many children (or what ages and gender!) I am buying for so my shopping is somewhat random! I figure I'll fill in the gaps shortly before cruise date when our FE list is finalized. :idea:

[MonicaW]

We just got back from our back-2-back cruise, booked Alaska for August 2011 and now I am ALREADY planing another. There is a 25% off sale for us Canadians so this cruise date might just work for us!

I took a peek at the Disney site vs booking with Dreams Unlimited and the prices were the same - BUT Dreams Unlimited is offering a room credit of $100 on top of the $25 that Disney offers.

Anyone ever deal with Dreams Unlimited? What do you think?

Thanks!
Monica

[noelk]

NoelK - we haven't booked our flights yet either... also waiting for that seat sale. They just released sale fares up to December 16th yesterday so I'm hoping in 4-6 weeks we should be good to go. We are going to book a couple of the tickets on our Avion points so we will only have to pay for one ticket. Airfare is currently running around $700 return from Calgary.

I booked a car rental with Budget using the DIS board discount code. It's not a pre-pay so we could cancel at any time and it's a great rate - $33 (taxes in) for an intermediate car for 24 hours, pick up at airport and drop off in Cape Canaveral.

Still trying to decide if we will do a few days pre-cruise at WDW or post-cruise so we haven't booked hotel yet. Will most likely do the parks post-cruise but I recently realized that we are disembarking on President's Day Weekend - YIKES! Should make for an ugly scene at WDW....

And... just spent another $40 at the dollar store today - hahahaha. I don't even know how many children (or what ages and gender!) I am buying for so my shopping is somewhat random! I figure I'll fill in the gaps shortly before cruise date when our FE list is finalized. :idea:

...I'm thinking along the exact same timelines on booking the airfare...currently running $565 per person return from here in Ottawa (but what makes me think twice about it is fares from Syracuse, NY are only $320...and that's only a 3 hour drive away!).

I gotta get on that car rental rate and book one of those!

We'd love to do extra days at WDW, but in many ways the cruise is in lieu of WDW...we took our six year old to WDW when she way 3...we did all four parks over ten days and had a blast...at age 2, I think her younger sister is a bit too young to do WDW, so the cruise will give us some Disney Magic...and we'll do a separate trip sometime in 2012. As for your plans, I'm sure the parks will be much more managable pre-cruise...

[TiredOfCold]

Hi Monica,

I originally booked with DCL and then transferred my reservation to DU.... in hindsight I should have booked with DU right of the bat as they were offering a $200 OBC at that time. They still gave me a $100 credit - so I'm $75 better off than I was.

I don't have any prior experience with them, but there are a lot of posts on the board about their service (no surprise since they sponser it!). Anyhoo... I would read through the forums and find the name of a specific agent that prior clients recommend... it is another thing I wish I would have done as it seems that some of the TA's are more responsive than others!

[Jax]

Hello MonicaW,

I am also booked through Dreams Unlimited.

This will be my 3rd time booking a vacation through them (second cruise) and I don't have a complaint yet.

There is a Canadian based Disney travel agency that I also use (another great company) however they don't offer the OBC so I book through Dreams instead.

[ilovedevin]

I just bought Devin a priate costume at Costco's... too cute

[TiredOfCold]

Julie, I saw those costumes a couple of days ago - very cute!

I didn't buy one for my DD - waiting to buy her a princess one from the Disney store here (fingers crossed that they go on sale after Halloween), but of course I did pick up MORE stuff for the FE exchange. I am out of control..... :lmao:

[ilovedevin]

Emma, LOL you sound just like me, once I get excited about something I can't stop.

[Disneyhenry]

Ok after reading these posts I must go buy my DS a Pirate Costume too! Sounds so cute!
Anyways I had to share I started to buy my FE supplies today, so much fun! Can't WAIT!!!:rotfl2:

[ilovedevin]

The costume is so cute for little boy's unlike little girls outfits it's hard to find really cute boy's stuff I wish Disney would make more boy's costumes and sale them year round as they do for girls. I know getting the stuff for the FE is so exciting! The stateroom gift I am giving out I am making and everytime I get one done I get so excited

[robinpgma]

Hi everyone....just found you here....didn't know about this site....Getting very excited to cruise Disney....first timers here....

ME (40) :lovestruc:bday:, DH (40) :banana:, & DD (6):tink:

Haven't booked flights yet or room pre-cruise yet. Still doing that...

R

[ilovedevin]

Welcome robinpgma

[Jax]

Hello and welcome Robinpgma
:cool1:

[TiredOfCold]

Welcome Robinpgma...
Not sure if you read my cryptic message on the "other" cruise board to find this site... hahaha. I think if you post a competing site on CC they will delete the post.

I'm very happy that there is yet another 6 year old girl in our group! I really want my DD to have a great time on this cruise and I know she has much more fun when she has a group of friends to hang out with.

Are you going to join the Fish Extender gift exchange?

[capitalmom]

Welcome Robinpgma! I'm Danielle, DW of noelk (aka Sensfan11 in the "other place"). And wow, another 6 year old girl - looks like the ship will be overrun with them! ;) Ours is Laura, and is VERY excited about the cruise and meeting new friends...

[mrbudyhed]

Yes! Welcome! Also, for cryin out loud, I just want to go already! This wait is taking tooooo long! :rotfl:

[ilovedevin]

I know right, this is worse than waiting for Christmas when I was a kid LOL

[TiredOfCold]

Fully agreed Ilovedevin and mrbudyhed!!

Although the planning, reading the DIS boards and buying stuff for the FE are all fun and I like having something to look forward to.... I know it's going to be a long stretch of winter before that flight out to Florida!

[mrbudyhed]

For some fun and entertainment popcorn::, let's get some more info on each other. What time are you getting to the port? Are you early risers? Is anyone making their kids do homework on the ship? Are you gonna go to Palo? What exursions do you think you're gonna book, or are you gonna stay on the ship?


I'm hoping to get to the port early, cause that's how I roll. My husband might not be so eager to feel rushed on the first day, but he's used to me, so I think that's how it will go. ;) My kids usually get up early, but as the years go by, I find they do tend to naturally rise a little bit later than they used to. Maybe we'll be able to sleep in past 6:30 am! I don't want to have to have my (then 7) year old do homework on the ship, but I think it will be too much to cram in the day before the cruise and I'm sure she'll just be too mentally fried to try and do it the day before school. Maybe a little bit a day will not be so bad, just kinda geeky.:teacher: We might try and book Palo, but this being our first cruise, I think there will be enough excitement. We're gonna wing that one. Ummm, I'm thinking about just wandering around the ports a little to get some land movement and then going back on the ship. Taking a taxi to that Maho beach (I think) where the planes take off and land might be super-cool, especially since my hubby is and aerospace engineer. (Geeky again, right?:rolleyes:) So, now I want to hear everyone else's plans for a trip that is still 130 some days out! :banana:

[Jax]

Good idea mrbudyhed.

We will be flying in a couple of days before the cruise and will most likely use Disney transportation to get to the port. The 2 girls I am traveling with won't know about the cruise. Our current plan is to get on the Cruise bus in the morning and see how long it takes them (or we might surprise them in the morning before getting on the bus).

We are traveling during the kids spring break so they are only missing a couple of days of school. Although they won't have homework I think they will be journaling about the trip.

Really hoping to do Palo brunch.

Our current plan for excursions is the Kayak, Hike & Snorkel in St. Thomas and the Mountaintop Downhill Trek in St. Maarten. I am trying to decide if we want to do the Stingrays at CC.

Those were great questions, so fun to talk about the trip :thumbsup2

[mrbudyhed]

Jax, I hope you are gonna video the girls' reaction when they realize what's going on. Too fun! Is spring break always in February in Canada?

[Jess Warren]

Hi Guys,
We are first time cruisers and I have been reading a bunch about the FE's. I am thinking about participating, if people can still sign up. How many people are signed up now and how many typically participate? Do you normally do gifts everyday?
What else do I need to know?

[Jax]

Yes I will definitely be video tapping just hoping they have a good reaction :)

I think Spring Break is usually Feb or Mar, depending on the year.

[ilovedevin]

Jess Warren,

Welcome and yes the FE is still available, I will PM you the list I have so far, as for the gift's they can be homemade or bought, you can give one per stateroom or one per person it is all up to you. You can give just once or more, again all up to you. We also are having a DIS-meet at 3:00 at the prominade lounge. It is going to be some much FUN!!! I am pretty sure that everyone on our cruise is going on their first Disney cruise so it should be very interesting.

Julie

[noelk]

Hmmm...some interesting discussion topics!

We'll probably get to the port mid-morning, and hope to be among the first group board. We'll be staying the night before at WDW, and expect flying down the day before...but we don't have our flights booked yet :scared1:. We do, however, have the rental car booked to bring us from Orlando to Port Canaveral.

On board, I'm hoping we won't be up too early, although our two year old will have a say in that...actually, what a lot of it depends on is what dining time we end up with...we ended up with late dining when we switched our reservation several weeks ago to take advantage of a promo...we're hoping we might still clear the waitlist and get back to early dining, but if not, I expect we'll "shift" schedules...where our kids usually go to sleep between 7pm-8pm, I think we'll try to shift them to 9:30pm-11pm bedtimes...and just hope we get the corresponding sleeping in!

Not sure about the homework...our oldest just started first grade, and just got her first homework assignment on Friday, so we'll have to see.

Palo is definately on our agenda...depends in part on when we're able to book Flounders Nursury...since this is our first Disney cruise, we can't make any reservations until the end of next month...we may end up doing the brunch instead.

As for excursions, havn't really thought about it...big attraction for us is Castaway Cay...we loved both the private islands (Half Moon Cay via Carnival and CocoCay via Royal Caribbean) we've been to, and look for those on the itinerary when we book our cruises. For St. Thomas, we're likely going to stay on the ship (we've been there twice, and don't like having to tender with a toddler), and for St. Maartin, will likely go to Orient Beach and/or stoll around Marigot (I think our six year old, who's in French Immersion, will get a kick out of visiting the French caribbean).

[noelk]

Oh, and as far a spring break...here in Ontario, "March Break" for elementary and high schools is usually the second week of March (some school boards may opt for the 1st or 3rd week of March).

For the last 2-3 years, the schools have also been closed for "Family Day", which is the 3rd Monday in February (same day as Presidents' Day)...and our daughter's school also has been scheduling a "professional activity day" for the Friday before, which means a four-day weekend for the kids (of course, us 'grown-ups' have to work! :sad1:

[ilovedevin]

Okay so I work night's and am a night owl but am sure that I will not sleep so I hope to get to the port around 10:00. We are planning on booking the Bernard's tour in St. Maarten and just walking around and going up the skyride in St. Thomas and snorkling at Castaway Cay. I know that a lot of people rave about Palo, however I have looked at the menu and there isn't anything that really interest me so we are going to pass. DS is only in pre-school so he won't have any homework, however I plan on having him work on a journal everynight for a keepsake of his feeling's of the day's events. I got the pages from our wonderful creative Dis'ers.

[robinpgma]

TiredOfCold & All,

Yes....I saw your post on the "OTHER" board....tried to find you and I did....took me a little while.... but....see....I found it.

didn't know this one existed...

More to come...:yay:

Robin....

[robinpgma]

Hi ILoveDevin....

Can you PM me the list for FE? With so few posts...I Can't PM you....my detail oriented brain needs to see this before.....I say yes....

Thanks....:goodvibes
Robin
robinpgma.....

[robinpgma]

iloveDevin....

The journal is a fantastic idea....I am going to "steal with pride" that idea. That would make an excellent memory box item. I am "seeing" something done in her handwriting for her scrapbook. WOW what a great idea.

[capitalmom]

So Robin, does that mean you're a scrapbooker too?? :)
and Julie - would you mind posting the link to the thread where you found the journal pages? Sounds like a terrific idea!
And welcome Jess Warren!
Like others, we can't wait to get this show on the road... but first, I just need to find some time to work on FE gifts, oh yeah, and book our flights!!

Danielle

[Jess Warren]

You all make me feel so welcome! :goodvibes
ilovedevin,

i am new to this whole pm thing, but i dont think I received one from you. if you havent sent it yet, no biggie.

I Love the daily journal idea- dd4 does this at preschool (more drawings) and seems to enjoy!

btw- we booked out of Nashville on southwest, direct to MCO- lvs at 830am, in at 1105am and i was happy with the price.

[ilovedevin]

www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2521093 use this one if the one below won't work then into her shared files
www.4shared.com/dir/19077581/4fa6c900/sharing.html use this if you can then click on journals she is awesome!

milliepie has all the pages for ports, restaurants, themed nights and kid's club's very nice.

[robinpgma]

Yes....I am a scrapper.....I just started...I started when my daughter was 4yo. I have 2 years done right now... Haven't had time lately to continue with year 3. We just moved and are still getting settled in the new home.

This site is AWESOME....I can't wait to use this....

We haven't booked our flights yet...I can't wait....

[Beck K]

Hi All! I have not been out here for a few months and have missed a lot of sharing among our cruise mates! Fun stuff, getting SO excited!

I was wondering if anyone aboard our cruise has a boy and a girl around the ages of 8 (boy) and 5-6 (girl) thatmight interested in meeting up with to get to know and hopefully instill confidence in being in kids club with a few friends!? Just an idea... my kids might be fine, but thought this might help at first.

Any other major tips or planning I've missed? Not sure I will have a chance to read the whole string to catch up. Would appreciate any fun info.

Thanks! Happy October... only 4 more months! :cheer2:
The Kalin's!

[Jess Warren]

WOO- HOO to only 4 more months! I am worried, though, that I want it to get here so badly that it is going to just flllyyy by when it does get here!

[ilovedevin]

Jess Warren that is so funny that you said because I was just thinking that very thing yesterday....By the way did you get my PM?

Beck K we have set up a DIS meet for all in our group at 3:00 pm in the promionade lounge, I have a map on page 6. There seem to be a lot of girls in that age but so for most of the boys are around 5 or younger.

[Jess Warren]

i love devin- I did get your pm- thanks- I think that we are going to do it- I will reply with our information. My parents are coming with us too (in the room next door)- so I am going to ask my mom if they want to as well. Have you made your FE yet? Do I have to sew it?? eekk!

A question to all about shore excursions- I am specifically wondering about St. Thomas- nothing is really jumping out at me. I was wondering if you can jsut get off of the boat, walk to a beach and go swimming?

[ilovedevin]

No sewing skills here, I bought mine from gradysmommy from e-bay, she is awesome!!!!!! St. Thomas we are just going to walk around town and some shopping and then up the skyride www.paradisepointtramway.com on the photography board there are a few beautiful photo's of the Magic/Wonder taken from up there and I want to take one. I also read that there are a couple beaches close by.

[robinpgma]

I will have to check gradysmommy out on ebay....I am not sure if we are doing the FE yet....I'll let you know....

[Beck K]

Thanks! We'd love to meet with the group in the promenade lounge at 3pm! Is that on the day we board the ship, 2/12?

Are you all taking your kids to the Kids Club before or after that to check it out? Maybe we could bring them together?

[ilovedevin]

The meet is at 3:00 on the day we board and I am planning on taking Devin to the kid's club for there meet and greet not sure what time they open up for that yet.

[TiredOfCold]

For some fun and entertainment , let's get some more info on each other. What time are you getting to the port? Are you early risers? Is anyone making their kids do homework on the ship? Are you gonna go to Palo? What exursions do you think you're gonna book, or are you gonna stay on the ship?

I am hoping to get to the port early, but I will have to strong-arm my DH to accomplish that! His parents are going to be wintering in Kissimee, Florida at the same time, so they will be driving us to the port.

We are flying in 3 days early and spending 1 night with the inlaws, 2 nights at the Polynesian at WDW and then 1 more night with the inlaws so they can drive us to the port.:worship:

We are not early risers - our DD dictates the time we rise, which is typically between 8-9 AM (on weekends).

Our DD has winter break for the duration of the cruise, but will be missing 3 days of school pre-cruise. I don't anticipate that she will have any homework, so no homework on the ship. We will be encouraging her to speak French when the appropriate situations arise :rolleyes1
Jax are you in Calgary by any chance? Alberta spring break is actually in March, but Eva attends a private school that has a winter break in February and a spring break in March, not sure what we pay those teachers to do...:lmao:

Haven't decided on Palo yet - depends on what DH actually packs in his suitcase for clothes... knowing him, there won't be anything worthy of a Palo visit. He feels vacations are for relaxing and doesn't pack "work" clothes.:confused:

We will be getting off the ship at every possible opportunity - will not do organized excursions, but will either take taxi's or rent a car to explore. We are not fans of group tours.

[Jess Warren]

Thanks- I will check out Grady'smommy too!
My parents are coming on the cruise with us and they are DVC members- anyone know when there get together is? I am also planning on taking the girls to the meet and greet as well. And we hav early dinner- our flight doesn't get in until 11:05 that morning... so I hope that we can fit in all I want to do!

Both girls are in daycare- this is our last year without having to wait until school break to go on vacay... trying to get every second out of it!

[capitalmom]

Jess Warren - re St. Thomas, there isn't actually much you can walk to in terms of beaches. Downtown Charlotte Amalie is mostly a shopping area, but there are great beaches a short taxi ride away. When we went last year, we took the girls to Magen's Bay and they had a blast, it's a beautiful sheltered bay so the water is quite calm, and we were able to get a local taxi to take us there, carseat and all... Easy, inexpensive and safe. However, the day we're going to be in St. Thomas, there are acutally 5 other ships in port (18,900 passengers including us!) so we have to tender (instead of dock) and the beaches will be crowded so I'd recommend getting off early. Since we've been there before (and tendering can be a pain) I think we might just stay on the ship - it's also our DD's 2nd birthday that day, so I think we'll lay low and have a little celebration on board and enjoy the ship when it's a little less crowded. St. Maarten, however, has lots of things within easy walking distance of the port, including a downtown beach area (though there are much nicer beaches on the island if you take a taxi a little further afield). And I'm soooo jealous of your early dinner - we had booked it as well but lost it when we rebooked to take advantage of the recent sale, so are now praying that the waitlist comes through for us... Our little one goes to bed quite early, and even the older one is usually out well before the start time of late seating - wish us luck!

Tired of Cold - we'd be happy to speak French with Eva... We're taking Laura out of school for a whole week for the cruise :eek: so it will be good for her to keep it up as well... It's funny though, she was more keen to have us speak French at home during the summer, but now that school is back, not so much - I guess it feels like "work" to her. She is very excited about going to Marigot though, and I think we'll be renting a car there as well. No organized excursions for us either - we prefer to go at our own pace, especially with a 2 year old!

[robinpgma]

I have not even thought about excursions yet...We are taking Bethany out of school for the cruise....:eek: ...She is in Kindergarten....In MA school vacation is the next week Feb 21-25. Our school has a policy NOT to provide work ahead of any planned absence ... So NO homework for her...I will ask the teacher what letters she will be working on the week we are gone so we may have "mommy made homework". We have the 2nd seating as well hoping to get into 1st seating later. We don't eat that late on a normal basis so I HOPE we get switched....if not it should be fun at dinner.

Robin

Mike (DH), ME, Bethany (DD 6)

[robinpgma]

Now that we are on the subject of excursions....how do you know what Disney has to offer? Where do I find that information? I don't think we want to do much but...who knows? Also how do I know if we are tendered or docking direct at each port?

Thanks,

[Jax]

Yes TiredofCold we are in Calgary.

I have no clue when the girls don't have school that week, their mom just suggested it was the best time to go since they don't have to miss much so off we went and booked.

Works out for me, I get to skip some winter and go on vacation to somewhere warm :)

Have you booked your flights yet?

[Jess Warren]

Capitalmom: thanks for all of the info- I am really considering staying on the ship in St. Thomas too. Maybe the pools won't be as crowded. My parents, who are traveling with us, used to go to St. Martin every year, so they are quite familiar with there. I think I am going to put DD 5 and DD 1 in Flounders and Kids club for the day...
Good info on the cab having carseats- that has been a major stress thought for me... but we will see on what we will do.

Jax: yep, bought our flights a few weeks ago. I hope that I don't regret flying in the morning of, but since we are flying a direct flight from Nashville to Orlando and scheduled to get in at 11:05, hoping we will be fine. Just the thought of flying the night prior, with girls, picking up luggage, going to hotel, getting up in am, going back to airport (we purchased the transfer) and then going just sounded like a lot on a 1 yr old. Seemed better for her to sleep in her own bed that last night.

Now that I was reading about the DCL transportation taking so long to get to the ship, I am kind of reconsidering and thinking maybe we should get a private transfer?? What is everyone else doing? (Although, I kind of like the idea of riding on the big bus). Has anyone else done this one in the past? Does the bus go straight from MCO to the ship or does it go to WDW and pick up people?

[capitalmom]

sorry - re the carseats, I should have clarified that we actually brought our own but were able to install it in the cab. On our last cruise with the kids (non-DCL), we visited 4 ports and only used the carseat once (in the other ports we just walked everywhere) but I was still glad we brought it... And you will love St. Martin - it's our favourite port of any we've been to and we can't wait to go back...

and as for getting to the port, I think we'll be renting a car when we arrive in Orlando the day before (so we can do some running around to pick up essentials like diapers!) and will then drop it off in Port Canveral.

Robin - luckily, St. Thomas is the only port where we'll have to tender - in St. Martin and Castaway Cay we pull right up to the dock. You can find info on excursions on the DCL website. There's a general list on the Caribbean ports of call page (http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/cruises-destinations/caribbean/ports/ ) - just click on the port, and then look at "Port Adventures" - I think if you register and login with your reservation number there is more detail re times and prices, plus I'm pretty sure you can book them online in advance...

[TiredOfCold]

Hey Jax - I'm going to wager that the girls you are taking on the cruise go to the same school as Eva! It's a private school on the west side of the city...
I don't think too many schools in Calgary have a week off in February - I know the public schools don't.

I still haven't booked flights and am now getting nervous. The prices on Westjet just WENT UP again... :scared1:
I was hoping there would be a seat sale, think I will hold out a bit longer.

There are still some reasonable AC code share flights that go through Denver - but unfortunately all of the US airlines charge for bags now:mad:. I would definitely prefer to fly on a Westjet or AC flight so we can take our checked luggage for free (especially with all of the FE stuff I have acquired - hahahaha)

[ilovedevin]

Emma,

This is for Southwest airline's hope this help's

Baggage Allowance:
Southwest allows two (2) checked pieces of baggage per ticketed Customer. Size and weight limitations apply.

Excess Baggage:
Your 3rd through 9th bag or item will incur a charge of $50 per piece, and any bag or item thereafter will be $110 per piece.

Weight and Size Allowance:
Maximum weight is 50 pounds and maximum size is 62 inches (length + width + height) per checked piece of luggage. Effective June 17, 2009, overweight items from 50 to 100 pounds and oversized items in excess of 62 inches but not more than 80 inches (e.g.; surfboards, bicycles, vaulting poles) will be accepted for a charge of $50 per item. Any item weighing more than 100 pounds must be shipped as Air Cargo. However, Customers cannot use SWA Cargo unless classified as a Known Shipper as defined by the TSA or TSA approved Indirect Air Carriers (IAC). For full details about shipping cargo, visit www.swacargo.com.

[Jax]

Yep the girls are in the Southwest, but they are in 2 different schools, so maybe at least one of them is in the same school.

Ya we have our heart set out on the Westjet direct flights so fingers crossed the prices will go down. We paid 525 pp for round trip direct flights last time, right now it is stilling over 1200 a person :confused: Fingers crossed that the prices will start going down soon, I hate not having the flights booked.

Jess Warren, seems like you made a good choice with your flights. I am currently trying to figure out what we are going to do about transportation. I have a quote for a car service (SUV) and it is only a little cheaper than Disney Transportation. Not sure what to do yet.

So is anyone planning on spending a few days in Orlando before or after the cruise? Are you doing WDW?

[mrbudyhed]

Jess Warren:

My friend went on a Disney Cruise two years ago in Feb. and she had some sort of delay with the airline. I remember her being stressed about making it on time to the boat, but she said that they told her that since she booked her airline through Disney, they would "hold the boat for them." I would think that the same would hold true if you are using Disney transport, but I don't really know. Also, I wouldn't book my airfare through Disney--I've heard they're super-expensive! :)

[Jess Warren]

mrbudyhed: Thanks- I think worse case scenario is that if it is getting toward the end of the week and the weather is looking "iffy" we could just drive to Orlando- it is a 12 hour drive... but at least we would be there! Yes- the flights through DCL were very high priced and I had a reward flight on SW- so that was even better!

capitalmom: thanks for the clarification- I was pretty impressed, thinking that the cabbies are driving around with car seats in their trunks and ready to pull out if the need arises! :rotfl:

[TiredOfCold]

Thanks IloveDevin for the Southwest info... unfortunately for us, they don't fly into Canada and we aren't close enough to an American gateway to make it worthwhile (minimum 4 hour drive each way - likely through snow and ice in February).

Westjet was working on a partnership with SouthWest but unfortuntely it fell through :sad2:

The only American carriers that fly in and out of Calgary are UA, AA, Delta, Continental and Alaska Air.

[capitalmom]

So Westjet finally came out with a seat sale... that ends on Feb. 10!! of course, we were planning to fly down on the 11th (which now costs $300 per person more!!).:mad: I wonder the chances are of another seat sale covering the timeframe we need or whether we should just take the plunge and book something?? We could fly down on Thursday night, but flight doesn't arrive til 11 which will make for two very tired and cranky girls...

[Jess Warren]

Tired and cranky is no way to start a vacation... maybe you could plan nothing for the next day... I know my girls are no fun when they are tired and cranky. :-) I know that I NEVER am tired and cranky.:rolleyes1

[Jax]

I am sure hoping that the Westjet flights from Calgary go on sale soon. We want to leave on the 10th and right now the direct flights are sitting at over $1200 per person.

My thought is that it is still early and that there should be another seat sale coming up, but you never know for sure.

Good luck getting your flights capitalmom! :wizard:

[capitalmom]

Wow - $1200 per person is insane... though Noel just looked it up and apparently it's only $153 one way from Calgary to Orlando on the 10th if you connect through Toronto but 4x the price to fly direct... crazy... I think we're going to go ahead and book the return on Westjet for the 20th, for $269 - a bit more than I'd like to spend but it's non-stop to Ottawa and not too late in the day. However, I think we will give it another week or so before we book the flight down, and hope something better comes along... Right now the best option seems to be flying into Tampa on AC, and then driving straight to the port the next morning, but we'll see... Here's hoping there's a better deal to be had for all of us :goodvibes Then I can spend the savings outlet shopping in Orlando post-cruise ;)

On another topic - I'm starting to get organized for FE gifts and would like to do something personalized. If you could all PM me with either first names (for you and your kids) and/or family name, that would be great. Thanks!

Danielle

[Jax]

I noticed today that on the Westjet site they have a 10% off all flights, valid for flights between now and Feb 28.

If you are using this coupon though you need to book by Oct 15.

[pajl]

My name is Paulette, will be travelling on the Magic Feb 12 with my 10 dtr (turns 11 on the cruise) , hubby and my mother!

We are SOOO excited..you see we are a family who has not had a vacation abroad ever!!!
Seriously..only within Canada we have travelled!
So this is HUGE for all of us!

I am feeling a little overwhlemed with the boards so far..alot of experienced people here ...almost like you are the new kid at the school...you know ?
:)
But I will learn tips and suggestions from you all...to make sure our trip is in fact a trip of a lifetime!!

It would be great to meet up with some new friends...and have my dtr keep as Pen Pals!

[Jax]

Welcome Paulette!

Congrats on booking your cruise and traveling abroad :thumbsup2

Disney cruise is new to me to (went on one when I was a teenager, first time planning one so it is a whole new ball game).

We have a great group of people here in our Dis Meet forums so I am sure it will be a great cruise.

[ilovedevin]

Hello and :welcome: Paulette,

Just to get you up to speed we are having a FE exchange to those who are interested. It's like a secret santa where you make or buy small gift's for those who are participating. We are also having a DIS-meet at 3:00 boarding day at the Prominade lounge, there is a map on page six. It's for everyone who is on our thread to meet and get greet. Both are optional. Should you decide to participate in the FE, I will need to know your room number to be added to the list. My personal e-mail is julieandkavin@yahoo.com. Also it seem's that a lot of us are staying at WDW the night before, they currently have at least 25% off and up depending on which resort you stay at. If you have any question's feel free to ask, everyone on here are more than willing to help just a FYI though I don't think anyone on here has ever been on a Disney Cruise so most of the answer's are from what we have learned from reading the boards.

Julie

[pajl]

As Danielle mentioned, we're starting to think a bit more - call it the early-planning phase.

I know some folks have already booked their flights - I've started looking at airfare...and hoping a seat sale comes around this fall! With a two year old, it will be so much easier to fly from Ottawa (20 minutes in the car to the airport and we're on our way)...but right now, taking early morning flights and such, that would run us $2500 round trip including taxes for four (!) ... it's the extra taxes, charges and fees that really make it add up!

The alternative for us it to drive the night before to Syracuse, NY, which has non-stop flights on JetBlue to Orlando...it's a 3 1/2 hour drive (300km/186 miles)...but the cost of the flights is just $1400 round trip for four. That's a savings of over $1000! Of course, if those flights from Ottawa go on sale, the savings wouldn't be so dramatic...

Anybody else drive significantly out of their way to save a lot on airfares?

Noel, we will be driving from Ontario to save on fares...

[pajl]

Hello and :welcome: Paulette,

Just to get you up to speed we are having a FE exchange to those who are interested. It's like a secret santa where you make or buy small gift's for those who are participating. We are also having a DIS-meet at 3:00 boarding day at the Prominade lounge, there is a map on page six. It's for everyone who is on our thread to meet and get greet. Both are optional. Should you decide to participate in the FE, I will need to know your room number to be added to the list. My personal e-mail is Also it seem's that a lot of us are staying at WDW the night before, they currently have at least 25% off and up depending on which resort you stay at. If you have any question's feel free to ask, everyone on here are more than willing to help just a FYI though I don't think anyone on here has ever been on a Disney Cruise so most of the answer's are from what we have learned from reading the boards.

Julie

Hi Julie...thanks for youer message...I just assumed you all had been on a cruise before!!
thanks for the great info.....the FE exchange? Is there links about what exactly it is..the criteria..do I have to make one for entire family...etc etc..
Hard not to get excited on these boards!!

[pajl]

Welcome Paulette!

Congrats on booking your cruise and traveling abroad :thumbsup2

Disney cruise is new to me to (went on one when I was a teenager, first time planning one so it is a whole new ball game).

We have a great group of people here in our Dis Meet forums so I am sure it will be a great cruise.

Thanks Jax...looking forward to getting to know some people and learn from you all!

[robinpgma]

Welcome to the group.. :cheer2: ..We are first time Disney Cruisers....It will be an AWESOME experience especially meeting everyone....

We still haven't booked our flight from the Boston area yet....hoping the fares will come down soon. :scared1:

:grouphug:
Robin

[ilovedevin]

The Fe exchange is up to each person on how they want to handle it. They can make or buy gift's and they can give as many or as little as they want ie, one per stateroom or one person. They can give just once or they can give several time's. Only thing is not to make or buy items that are going to be too big that are going to take up too much space in their luggage for flight restrictions. You can buy Disney related items's at Michael's, Target and of course dollar stores for a dollar or less and if your lucky like me and have a Disney outlet store close by there as well. I got all the little girls Silvermist fairy neckless that came with a booklet for .99 at our local Disney Outlet, I was very excited with that find.


Here are three great thread's www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1980639, www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1219607, www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2473209



Hope this help's
Julie

[capitalmom]

Noel, we will be driving from Ontario to save on fares...

Welcome Paulette!! I'm Danielle - Noel's wife... Our DD is celebrating a birthday on the cruise as well, but since she'll only be turning 2, driving to Florida would probably not be a good option for us :scared1:
We've done a few cruises but this is our first time on Disney, so we're pretty excited... It's a great way to travel, but I should warn you, it's highly addictive!! ;) We talked my mom into coming on her first cruise with us last January, and she hasn't travelled outside of Canada much either, and now she has two more cruises planned (including 12 nights in Europe next summer!!) and is probably wishing she'd booked Disney with us as well... I think we've created a monster :rotfl: Anyway, I'm sure you'll love it!

[capitalmom]

I noticed today that on the Westjet site they have a 10% off all flights, valid for flights between now and Feb 28.

If you are using this coupon though you need to book by Oct 15.

Thanks! We were able to get the discount on our flight home, but still haven't booked our trip down... I saw my hairdresser tonight who travels to Florida several times each winter and has been watching fares as well, and his advice is to give it another week... And you know what they say, your hairdresser knows everything... ;)

[Jess Warren]

Welcome Paulette!
It is our first cruise too- and everyone on our board has been so friendly and helpful so far. I am absolutely addicted to reading the boards every night. Trying to be as informed as possible. I have also just ordered the Passporters DCL book from Barnes & Noble- I read in multiple places on here that it is a good compliment to the DIS boards.

[robinpgma]

:woohoo:Hi everyone....we are going to join you in the FE....Julie... I PM'd you with our info....I have a plan.....I am really excited about it....I hope it works....

We are not new cruisers but new to Disney...Mike & I have cruised lots before (I LOVE it - best way to travel in my opinion) but this will be our DDs 2nd cruise. We went on a cruise with her in April 2010 (this year w/ my parents). We had to cancel a Land and Sea vacation in 2008 because she got VERY sick on the plane to WDW in the beginning of the trip....Since then she has alway asked us "When are we going on the Disney Boat"...
I do have to say....I always feel a little gitty when in the planning phase for ALL cruises....since I am the "PLANNER/TOUR GUIDE" for everyone (inc my parents when the come with us)...They just go where they are told....

I have a good excel list of things to pack if anyone wants it....just give me your e-mail or PM me w/ info and I'll get it to you....

[ilovedevin]

if you could please e-mail me the packing list to julieandkavin@yahoo.com. I have already started packing LOL, everytime I get a t-shirt done I pack it and I bought Devin some dress clothes for dinner's that I already packe. But I work better with list.

Thank you,
Julie

[pajl]

Welcome Paulette!! I'm Danielle - Noel's wife... Our DD is celebrating a birthday on the cruise as well, but since she'll only be turning 2, driving to Florida would probably not be a good option for us :scared1:
We've done a few cruises but this is our first time on Disney, so we're pretty excited... It's a great way to travel, but I should warn you, it's highly addictive!! ;) We talked my mom into coming on her first cruise with us last January, and she hasn't travelled outside of Canada much either, and now she has two more cruises planned (including 12 nights in Europe next summer!!) and is probably wishing she'd booked Disney with us as well... I think we've created a monster :rotfl: Anyway, I'm sure you'll love it!

hI Danielle!
Thanks for saying hi...2 and looonnng car drives..no thank you!
:rotfl:
So question...DCL will celebrate somehow my dd's birthday right?
How do I go about getting that done?
I am hoping this will become addictive...myhubby is not one for travelling..I think this is exactly what he needs to relax!
It will be really nice to meet everyone with whom you have been chatting with though the lastfew months...what a great concept!

Talk soon!

[pajl]

:)if you could please e-mail me the packing list to I have already started packing LOL, everytime I get a t-shirt done I pack it and I bought Devin some dress clothes for dinner's that I already packe. But I work better with list.

Thank you,
Julie

How do you pack when it is a surprise....? This is dd's Christmas Present..I guess I really can't until Jan 1st...

[Jess Warren]

I have already started purchasing travel sized wrinkle releaser and other travel size stuff (all from Walmart). Not packing yet- I think I am starting to drive my family crazy bringing up little tidbits everyday that I learn about the cruise. So, I guess I will just keep what I learn to myself for now (and hold off on packing)- just so excited!
BTW- has anyone else asked one of the people to make a magnet for you? Since they are doing it for free, I hate to nag, but just wondering how long it typically takes - it was about two weeks ago and I haven't received anything. and I think it was going to be PMd to me...

[ilovedevin]

I'm sure it has to do with the amount of request they are given. Don't loose hope we still over three month's to go or maybe find another disigner there are quit a few. www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2430332

[Jess Warren]

ilovedevin:
Thanks- I am just such a planner... ready to get working on it all- all at the same time. :-) I am going to check out some of the ones that you sent me.

[robinpgma]

:)

How do you pack when it is a surprise....? This is dd's Christmas Present..I guess I really can't until Jan 1st...

What a fabulous Christmas present?

I have made my own door magnets by using internet images and PowerPoint, laminating it & using stick magnets from Staples....

Robin
:woohoo:

[capitalmom]

Finally... The fare going down on Westjet on Thursday the 10th dropped again and we decided the late night arrival and coming down an extra day early was well worth the money we'll save (even with the cranky toddler) - plus we were starting to panic about not having anything booked. So now we just have to figure out how to get a good deal on the Hyatt at the airport, as with 2 kids arriving at 11 p.m., we won't be going far... Still need to decide if we'll keep our reservation at Port Orleans for the Friday night or if it makes sense just to stay put. Either way we'll be renting a car to do some shopping and other little errands when we arrive (like hitting the Disney outlet for FE stuff if I don't get organized soon!! :eek: )

Paulette - I'm pretty sure they do something special for birthdays in the dining room (if you do a search, I know I've seen a thread on here somewhere with a picture of the special dessert they bring out for the birthday girl or boy) and you can also get an "It's My Birthday" button from Guest Services, so all of the cast members will know to wish her a happy birthday (of course, the kids forget they're wearing it and can't figure out how everyone knows it's their B-day :) ) You can also have them note on your reservation that there's a birthday celebration planned, and I think you can also order a full-size cake, and/or other special treats.

And I haven't started packing yet, but when I put away the girls' summer clothes a few weeks ago, I did try to sort out the things I thought they'd wear on the cruise and put it all together in an underbed box, so that counts right?? And I'll be giving my cruise wardrobe a trial run next month when Noel and I take off on a 4 night cruise on RCCL with our best friends, while my mom looks after the girls (ok, maybe she's not the only one who's addicted to cruises...). We didn't take any summer holidays this year, so I'm soooo looking forward to it! :cloud9:

[noelk]

Welcome Paulette!
It is our first cruise too- and everyone on our board has been so friendly and helpful so far. I am absolutely addicted to reading the boards every night. Trying to be as informed as possible. I have also just ordered the Passporters DCL book from Barnes & Noble- I read in multiple places on here that it is a good compliment to the DIS boards.

We just ordered this book too.

As Danielle mentioned, things are feeling more organized for us now that we've got flights booked both ways (and a lot less stressed). I'm hoping with the book and with doing a bit more research here to start being able to plan a bit better our days on the ship...especially a necessity with a two year old, and as we think towards what days/times to try and pre-book her into Flounders for.

[ilovedevin]

I'm glad to hear that you were finally able to book your flight's even if not the best time frame. Have FUN on your cruise!!!!! I am so jealous LOL. Although I have never been on a cruise I am sure that I too will be addicted, I grew up in Port Huron Michigan close to the St. Clair river/ lake Huron so I grew up in the water. Also I have the older version of the passporters book and love it information is broken down very nicely.

[pajl]

Finally... The fare going down on Westjet on Thursday the 10th dropped again and we decided the late night arrival and coming down an extra day early was well worth the money we'll save (even with the cranky toddler) - plus we were starting to panic about not having anything booked. So now we just have to figure out how to get a good deal on the Hyatt at the airport, as with 2 kids arriving at 11 p.m., we won't be going far... Still need to decide if we'll keep our reservation at Port Orleans for the Friday night or if it makes sense just to stay put. Either way we'll be renting a car to do some shopping and other little errands when we arrive (like hitting the Disney outlet for FE stuff if I don't get organized soon!! :eek: )

Paulette - I'm pretty sure they do something special for birthdays in the dining room (if you do a search, I know I've seen a thread on here somewhere with a picture of the special dessert they bring out for the birthday girl or boy) and you can also get an "It's My Birthday" button from Guest Services, so all of the cast members will know to wish her a happy birthday (of course, the kids forget they're wearing it and can't figure out how everyone knows it's their B-day :) ) You can also have them note on your reservation that there's a birthday celebration planned, and I think you can also order a full-size cake, and/or other special treats.

And I haven't started packing yet, but when I put away the girls' summer clothes a few weeks ago, I did try to sort out the things I thought they'd wear on the cruise and put it all together in an underbed box, so that counts right?? And I'll be giving my cruise wardrobe a trial run next month when Noel and I take off on a 4 night cruise on RCCL with our best friends, while my mom looks after the girls (ok, maybe she's not the only one who's addicted to cruises...). We didn't take any summer holidays this year, so I'm soooo looking forward to it! :cloud9:

Thanks for the info re; birthdays...
Want to make (if possible) even more memorable for her...
Enjjoy your mini vacay on the RCCL....
:)

[Jess Warren]

We just ordered this book too.

As Danielle mentioned, things are feeling more organized for us now that we've got flights booked both ways (and a lot less stressed). I'm hoping with the book and with doing a bit more research here to start being able to plan a bit better our days on the ship...especially a necessity with a two year old, and as we think towards what days/times to try and pre-book her into Flounders for.

Congrats on getting your flights booked- seemed a lot more "real" to me when I got those booked!
OK- so I am trying to plan when I want to try and get into Palos... and it sounds like we can only book one meal there (do you think we can book a dinner and a brunch??) and I don't want to miss the show in AP nor lobster night, and I would bet that since we are going to be on the boat over Valentines day, it will be popular that night too... my point is that in the book it gives a 'hint" on what our dining rotation will be based on the ages of the children on our reservation. THis was the first time I had heard that... anyone else heard that? AND the book still says we can only pre-book 10 hours in Flounders, but I have read on the boards that it is 17 hrs w/ a 7 night cruise. Is the Passporter book wrong???

Oh- and Robinpgma- thanks for the idea for making the magnets- I will look into it.

[pajl]

Congrats on getting your flights booked- seemed a lot more "real" to me when I got those booked!
OK- so I am trying to plan when I want to try and get into Palos... and it sounds like we can only book one meal there (do you think we can book a dinner and a brunch??) and I don't want to miss the show in AP nor lobster night, and I would bet that since we are going to be on the boat over Valentines day, it will be popular that night too... my point is that in the book it gives a 'hint" on what our dining rotation will be based on the ages of the children on our reservation. THis was the first time I had heard that... anyone else heard that? AND the book still says we can only pre-book 10 hours in Flounders, but I have read on the boards that it is 17 hrs w/ a 7 night cruise. Is the Passporter book wrong???

Oh- and Robinpgma- thanks for the idea for making the magnets- I will look into it.

Do you suppose Palos is booked for Valentines?
I would love to get a nice dinner in there with hubby....
and what is AP?
And i am afraid I don't understand your talk about hours in Flounders?
10 hrs vs 17 hours?
I am sorry to be so ignorant...but I am frequenting the boards to learn more and I am afraid I am not learning much!
Ack!
:)

[noelk]

Do you suppose Palos is booked for Valentines?
I would love to get a nice dinner in there with hubby....
and what is AP?
And i am afraid I don't understand your talk about hours in Flounders?
10 hrs vs 17 hours?
I am sorry to be so ignorant...but I am frequenting the boards to learn more and I am afraid I am not learning much!
Ack!
:)

Palos may be very popular for Valentines day...

All reservations for activities on disney cruises is based on your "Disney status"...so, people that have cruised with Disney before (and are thus already 'members' of the Castaway Club) get to make reservations in advance...and the 'higher' your membership, the earlier you get to book.

For those of us who've never cruised Disney before, we can't make reservations until the date our final payment is due (Nov. 26 if I'm not mistaken).

This limit on reservations certainly applies to Palo...so for very popular times, they may already be taken by return Disney Cruise guests by the time it's open to us. Similar, space on port excursions can be booked based on your Castaway Club 'status'.

For us, the biggest issue is Flounder's Nursery...that's the extra-cost infant and toddler program. Space in Flounders can be reserved, and up to 17 hours of care can be reserved online in advance of departure. For us, we've still got to map it out, but will likely try to get hours at Flounders for our two-year-old to coincide when we can book a dinner or brunch at Palo for the two of us. (Pajl - if I recall, your child is 10, so Flounders isn't an issue - the kids clubs have no such limitation).

I believe AP is for 'Animators Pallet'...one of the three dining rooms on the ship. All guests rotate through the three dining rooms twice per 7 night cruise (plus a third visit to one of the restaurants)...I've never been, of course, but reviews I've read say the 'transformation' of Animators Pallet during your first dinner there is not to be missed!

Hope this helps,
Noel

[pajl]

Thank you once again..
Am I the only crazy one who spends hours on these forums ?
Wow..so much information to know...
Thanks for the info on Palos....(i checked the menu not sure if it interests me...)
I did finally log onto disneycruise.com to check out our reservation...it says we can't book anything yet...

So Noel/Danielle
Question regarding FE?
Do adults particpate...(i was just thinking of doing this for my dtr..)
Do you give gifts all 7 days, to all the particpants? (that seems like alot?)
If you choose not to particpate....are you like the ONLY one on the ship who doesnt?

Funny..I do scrapbooking and card making and lots of other crafty sort of things all year round...I was thinking this would be a nice break from the crafty/exchanging things...BUT want at least my dtr to enjoy some of this...

What is with all the Pirate themes? Is that the theme of ALL Disney cruises?
last question for tonight....LOL
How do I get one of those cute little signatures with countdown/...I get how to make one...I am not sure what to do wth it next...
How do I save it?

Thanks again for your willingness to answer me....

[ilovedevin]

Answer for the FE question, yes the FE is for adult's too. You only have to give one gift once, it can be either one gift per stateroom or one per person, it is up to you. If you chose not to participate in the FE you will not be the only one on the ship, it is only open to those on this thread and several have opted out as of right now I think we only have 10 room's participating. As of Nov. 29, the 75 day mark I am closing the FE, which mean's that anyone who join our thread after that will not be allowed to participate. Also on the date I will PM everyone with the complete list of room number's, amount of people per room and ages of the kid's.


Answer for the pirate theme's. Disney host a Pirate's of the Caribbean night where people dress up like pirate's, have a special dinner with a souvenir menu that we get to keep, a deck party with a dessert buffet and they play Pirate's of the Caribbean on the large tv over the pool

Hope this helps a little?

Julie

[pajl]

[QUOTE=ilovedevin;38653406]Answer for the FE question, yes the FE is for adult's too. You only have to give one gift once, it can be either one gift per stateroom or one per person, it is up to you. If you chose not to participate in the FE you will not be the only one on the ship, it is only open to those on this thread and several have opted out as of right now I think we only have 10 room's participating. As of Nov. 29, the 75 day mark I am closing the FE, which mean's that anyone who join our thread after that will not be allowed to participate. Also on the date I will PM everyone with the complete list of room number's, amount of people per room and ages of the kid's.


Answer for the pirate theme's. Disney host a Pirate's of the Caribbean night where people dress up like pirate's, have a special dinner with a souvenir menu that we get to keep, a deck party with a dessert buffet and they play Pirate's of the Caribbean on the large tv over the pool

Hope this helps a little?



Sure does, thanks Julie!
Good thing I am being a pirate for Halloween this year!!
pirate:

[capitalmom]

As of Nov. 29, the 75 day mark I am closing the FE, which mean's that anyone who join our thread after that will not be allowed to participate.

Good idea re the deadline! I was wondering how we were going to manage that... it will definitely help with the organization :-)

[robinpgma]

I am having SO much fun gathering supplies and the ideas are flying....YIKES that is scary.....for me anyway.... I am having a friend help me procure supplies. SO MUCH FUN.... I can't wait to start.... :wave2: AND I can wait to sail.....:sail:

[noelk]

How do I get one of those cute little signatures with countdown/...I get how to make one...I am not sure what to do wth it next...
How do I save it?

Thanks again for your willingness to answer me....

pajl - I think your others offered thoughts on your other questions. As for the 'countdown ticker', the way I did mine was:

1. click on "User CP"...it's towards the top of the page on the left end of a red bar, just below the description of what part of Disboards you're on... to the left just below the promo for following disboards on twitter and facebook.

2. after you click, this same bar on the next page will be blue...in the middle of this bar one of the options is "Tickers". Click here and it will bring you to the Disboards ticker page, with further step-by-step instructions for adding your own ticker.

Noel

[Jess Warren]

pajl
Yep, I did mean "Animators Palate"- the show is supposed to be great. As a first time cruiser... I just am so excited to be able to book Palo & all of the other great stuff.
Anyone else thinking about the fishing at CC for an excursion... my dad and DH are considering it.

[pajl]

Am I official now with a ticker!
yeah!!

[robinpgma]

I'll ticker through you guys.....It's great to see the clock counting down.....3 months, 3 weeks & 1 DAY.......and counting....

[mrbudyhed]

Hey guys!

I just found out that my closet friend and her family are going with us now!:cool1: They could only get late seating so I am going to change my main dining to late. I don't know if there is any way one of my fellow Feb 12thers could get my slot. If anyone wants main dining and wants to do the research/calls to see if it is possible, I'll wait to change my reservation. Just let me know.:)

[capitalmom]

OMG - we would love to switch... It may not be possible (as I know they have a waiting list) but it's totally worth a try! We will call first thing in the morning and do the research and will PM you with the details of what we find out. And welcome to your friend and her family - the more the merrier!! :thumbsup2

[mrbudyhed]

OK Capitalmom--I'll wait for further instructions. If I don't reply tomorrow it's because I'm throwing a clam bake for a ton of people. I'll either be cleining, setting up, eating, drinking, cleaning again, all day and night! :laughing:

[Jess Warren]

Tye-Dyed Mickey T-shirts last night with dd4- 1 for all 6 of us- had great fun, was concerned that my fingers would stay purple, almost had all worn off by work this morning. It was a little more challenging than I thought it was going to be, but still another thing to check off of my list!!

[ilovedevin]

Devin and I made those too, it was so much fun!

[robinpgma]

Fantastic idea.....QUESTION....how do I do that? It sounds like fun....:goodvibes

[ilovedevin]

here are the instructions www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1210609

[Jess Warren]

Oh, wow- mine are not that fancy... I just did it like we made tye-dye at camp when I was a kid... we will see if in the next 109 days that I will do any more. :-)

[TiredOfCold]

Well I think we will be official tomorrow:woohoo: - in the back of my mind, I was thinking we could still cancel without penalty if I couldn't find reasonable flights (booking at least 2 on credit card points and the upper limit is $750).

Funny thing - I found the best fares out of Calgary on United Airlines and they also have really good departure/arrival times with only approx. 1 hour layovers in each direction. I also noticed on United's Canadian website that their taxes and fees are SOOOO MUCH LESS than the Canadian carriers. For a return ticket YYC to MCO - taxes and fees are only $84.49. I will have to pay extra for checked luggage, but it will still be close to half the price of what I would have to pay on Westjet!! Ridiculous.

Not sure why I would ever fly a Canadian airline... I'm not that patriotic apparently! :laughing:

Booking tickets tomorrow early A.M. and then ordering my FE from gradysmom immediately following! VERY excited....
Also happy that the bags of FE stuff I have been collecting and door decorations that I have been making won't be for naught!!

[robinpgma]

EMMA
:woohoo: That is great.....flights booked awesome.:thumbsup2..We are waiting a bit to see if the fares come down from Boston at the 60-90 day window....Can't get much worse from here (well maybe)

I am in the process of gathering supplies for my FE....we are making something for the FE...still deciding what EXACTLY we will do. So much fun....

Robin

[robinpgma]

WOW Julie....you're good....thanks....these boards are great.....

[TiredOfCold]

Well - you know how airlines are.... by the time I went back in 12 hours later the flights had gone up in price and the return trip I was going to redeem airmiles for had vanished altogether as an option.... figures!

So I booked my credit card point tickets for DD and myself and then booked a oneway for my DH on airmiles. So we are all going, but at this moment, my DH isn't coming back!:lmao: Don't think he would actually be too choked if he HAD to stay in Florida anyway.

I am like you Robin, I am going to wait (with my fingers crossed) to see if the fare comes back down again. This is kind of like gambling. Also gambling with paying our balance for the cruise and DW hotel - waiting for the Canadian dollar to hit par again and of course it dropped today:headache:

When it comes down to it - it may end up only being a few hundred dollars, but that pays for a lot of poolside beverages!!:beach:

[robinpgma]

:sad: So sad the fairs went up.....I'd like to stay down there in FLA for a while just not forever....too hot.

Ahhhh....poolside beverages....party: party by the pool sounds awesome...

[Jax]

I am finding not having flights very frustrating, pretty much everything else is booked (well at least the important stuff like hotels).

I am really hoping that Westjet drops their fares soon, would love the direct flights.

Glad that you were able to at least get most of your flights booked ;)

[robinpgma]

Where are you staying Pre-Cruise...? Can't decide if staying in WDW area or Port Canaveral...let me know.

I'm not doing much planning which is not like me....normally I have this stuff wrapped up by now.:confused:

:Pinkbounc

[TiredOfCold]

Totally understand Jax... that was the way I was feeling too!

I bit the bullet yesterday and just booked my husbands return flight. I looked at the seat map and the plane was somewhere between 1/2 and 2/3rds sold all ready - I can't imagine they will be dropping the price much if it's that full 3months out.

I think my main issue was the return date - we are flying home on February 21st which is both Family day in Alberta and President's day in the US. Pretty busy day for air travel!

Both of our outbound and return flights have 1 stop - but total travel time is only 7 hours. The return connection in Chicago will be tight, but we're not changing carriers so if United makes us miss the connection at least they will be on the hook for getting us home eventually!

I also ordered a pillowcase for my daughter and a FE from gradysmommy on ebay - now I feel as though I can relax a bit.

I hope the flight fairies do their magic for the rest of you who are still waiting to book!pixiedust:

[Jax]

Robin,

Pre-cruise we are planning on flying in on Feb 10 and staying at the Polynesian (couldn't resist using the 40% off room rate), so we will be going from WDW to the port the morning of the cruise (still trying to decide Disney transportation vs car service).

Post-cruise we will be spending 1 night at the Dolphin and flying home on the 20th.

[noelk]

Totally feel your pain regarding the flights...I think you heard all too much about us facing similar decisions, and I'd be the first to admit I've felt so much better since we booked our flights both ways two weeks ago. While we don't have the long journey you do from Alberta, we also face the crazy extra fees charged on Canadian flights (air traffic control, airport improvement, security, transborder security, etc).

Our original plan was to stay one night pre-cruise at Port Orleans French Quarter (and already have a reservation), but we're now in MCO for two nights pre-cruise...the Thursday night, the 10th, we arrive just minutes before midnight...with two kids arriving that late, I've got to get on booking a room at the Hyatt (but the prices are so high!)...then, do we stay both the 10th and 11th at the Hyatt, or do we stay the second night at POFQ.

Also, unlike our original plan, we'll also be in MCO one post-cruise night, and I've got to figure out where we're going to stay. We won't be doing any parks this trip, so I'm more focussed on a good location for shopping and other activities, plus a great pool. Thinking of Swan or Dolphin, maybe the Gaylord Palms, or some other nice, good priced hotel.

[blessedmomofboys]

Hi everyone! I have taken a break from all of the planning but I am back and in full swing! Have y'all decided on excursions? I'm struggling with St Thomas and St Maarten... I want to do something that my boys will enjoy (ages 1, 2, and 5) and we will enjoy as well. We are traveling with my inlaws and sister-in-law and her family and spending Thanksgiving together so hopefully we can all sit down and plan everything then. But I want to have an idea of what my family wants to do. I think my boys would really enjoy the beaches and I wouldnt mind doing a little shopping. I still need to order my fish extender... I had thought about making one but I don't think that's gonna happen! :)

Anyways, excited to start back with the planning!!! :woohoo:

[TiredOfCold]

Welcome back to the planning blessedmomofboys! We are not likely to do any ship organized excursions - the beach and the beach for us! We may rent a car or hire a cab to do island tours, but I'm not making any firm plans. I will likely do some research on tripadvisor to figure out potential transport options and print out my usual pile of tips and notes about each destination... I'm a planner, my husband is all about spontaneity!

Jax...We are staying at the Polynesian as well... must be that us Calgarians didn't have a summer and we are in dire need of as much tropical atmosphere as we can get our hands on!:laughing: oh, and that 40% off was too hard to pass up - you are correct.
Maybe we will see you there... I'll be the pasty white chick by the pool trying desperately to get my dose of Vitamin D.

We arrive on the 8th and will be spending the first night with DH's parents at their rented townhouse in Kissimmee. We are at the Polynesian for the 9th and 10th - likely visiting Magic Kingdom on the 10th and Epcot on the 11th... the night of the 11th we will be back at DH's parents and they will drive us to the port (best in-laws EVER:worship:)

[seasideliz]

Hello ladies :flower3:
I am so happy to have found this board! I haven't had a chance to read all the way through yet, but wanted to just post and say hello.
We will be cruising with you all on the Magic in Feb! Our first cruise and my kids (dd 4, dd 9, and ds 11) first Disney anything!
We have been looking at the cruise for almost a year and saw a special come up for kids sail free and jumped on it. Then my brother saw a 25% off for Canadians (which was an amazing deal) so he and his family will be on the same cruise!

This boards are a wealth of information (I can't believe how much planning people do).

Can you tell me what FE is?

TX and looking forward to getting to know you all!

Liz

[TiredOfCold]

Glad you found us seasideliz...
The FE is a small gift exchage program. There is a ton of information on the boards about it.... Julie (aka ilovedevin) has taken the lead for our group and is compiling the list of participants for our cruise. She has set a cut-off date for joining - November 29th - this will give us all time to buy and or make our gifts (although I know some of us have already started acquiring making things - maybe too many things :rolleyes1)

Here is a quote from Julie descrbing it:
Check out e-bay for Fish extenders "gradysmommy" makes them for those of us who can not sew. For those of you who can, you get an idea from her's. As well as the several post on the thread's that fellow Disser's have posted. http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2438099

Basiclly you hang it on the fish outside your stateroom and other Disser's put gifts into them. http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1980639 show's some wonder pic's of past gifts.

This is what I have learned thus far. MOST IMPORTANT!!!! All gifts are welcome there is no such thing as a cheap gift!

Second you decide if you want to give out one gift per state room or per person

Third you can buy or make your gifts. So if you think you make the best chocolate chip cookies feel free to give those as your gift

Hope this helps???


and another which also talks about our group face to face meeting Julie organized:
Just to get you up to speed we are having a FE exchange to those who are interested. It's like a secret santa where you make or buy small gift's for those who are participating. We are also having a DIS-meet at 3:00 boarding day at the Prominade lounge, there is a map on page six. It's for everyone who is on our thread to meet and get greet. Both are optional. Should you decide to participate in the FE, I will need to know your room number to be added to the list. My personal e-mail is julieandkavin@yahoo.com. Also it seem's that a lot of us are staying at WDW the night before, they currently have at least 25% off and up depending on which resort you stay at. If you have any question's feel free to ask, everyone on here are more than willing to help just a FYI though I don't think anyone on here has ever been on a Disney Cruise so most of the answer's are from what we have learned from reading the boards.

Hope that saves you some time sifting through our messages!:)

[blessedmomofboys]

I really want to do the beach for St Thomas and St Maarten but worried about not going through DCL. I know it would be sooo much cheaper to just go on our own but I have major anxieties that we won't make it back to the boat or something will happen.

We are officially booked for WDW 4 days pre-cruise. We are staying at All Star Music and got a killer deal with the 25% off. We are doing the parks for 2 days and then taking a day off on Friday so catch up on a little laundry and rest before the cruise.

We booked our flights a few weeks ago and our flight to MCO leaves at 6:20 am!! OMG! Super nervous about getting to the airport an hour away from our house that early in the morning. Our other choice was to get to MCO around 6 that evening but I want to have time to go to Downtown Disney that day and not feel like we have traveled all day. Plus it will give us some time to settle into the hotel before 2 straight days of parks.

[noelk]

OK, now it's time to really get in to planning mode...it's snowing here! :scared1: Not just a few flakes, but actual accumulation on the ground (but it may be gone by tomorrow afternoon)!

The calendar still says October! Makes me long for the tropics even more! :beach: Now I really do need to book those pre and post cruise hotels, and a rental car in St. Martin!

[seasideliz]

Thanks for the info Emma, I found some info after I had posted as well. Is there a running count of how many are participating?

[seasideliz]

Emma, can you share the discount code for Budget :goodvibes
Any advice on where to stay in Orlando - we land the Friday night and will drive up early Saturday... so nothing fancy, just to sleep basically.


I booked a car rental with Budget using the DIS board discount code. It's not a pre-pay so we could cancel at any time and it's a great rate - $33 (taxes in) for an intermediate car for 24 hours, pick up at airport and drop off in Cape Canaveral.

[TiredOfCold]

Hi Liz,

The code I used was: Y937800

Funny, I probably don't even need the rental car that I booked thanks to the inlaws;)

NoelK -SNOW:faint:... already had a few flakes here too last week. Melted thankfully and now we have double digits forecast for next week. Always the way - nice in the west, crappy in central/eastern Canada... and unfortunately, vice-versa!

[noelk]

Car rental prices can bounce around from one day to the next. We're booked with Budget both ways. Our one day rental pre-cruise came in at $52 (including taxes) for a full size; one day post-cruise for me was $53 (including taxes).


At the time I booked these (mid-Sept), the cheapest rate I found on budget was by using the Costco member's BCD code (W852802) and coupon (UUPZ011).

[seasideliz]

Great, I will check Budget and see if either of those codes work! :thumbsup2

[ilovedevin]

seasideliz, I sent you a PM hope you got it.




Julie

[blessedmomofboys]

Thanks for the info Emma, I found some info after I had posted as well. Is there a running count of how many are participating?


I curious too what the current list is for the FE. I need to get on that so I have one more thing checked off my to do list! :woohoo:

[seasideliz]

I curious too what the current list is for the FE. I need to get on that so I have one more thing checked off my to do list! :woohoo:

ilovedevin sent it to me and there are 8 families i think on it. seems manageable so far!

[blessedmomofboys]

That's completely manageable! Anyone catch any of the videos of the Dream floating out? Pretty impressive!

[seasideliz]

seasideliz, I sent you a PM hope you got it.




Julie
yes ty, not sure how many posts i need before i can pm!

I started reading more today and am going to get a journal for planning tomorrow. I like to get all of my info and 1 place and have all of the options listed out so I can discuss with DH and see what he thinks he'd like to do.
We are beach people, so most likely we'll be hitting the beaches, but if there is some good shopping, I will probably go with my SIL for a few hours and check that out!
I'd also like to try Parasailing, but I know it is expensive, so will have to see how our saving works out prior to the trip.
Are there any must do or must see at our Ports?

[capitalmom]

I really want to do the beach for St Thomas and St Maarten but worried about not going through DCL. I know it would be sooo much cheaper to just go on our own but I have major anxieties that we won't make it back to the boat or something will happen.


Hey there - welcome back! We've been to St. Thomas twice and St. Maarten once and found that both ports are easy, cheap and quite safe to do on your own (and with little kids, I like the flexibility of not being part of an organized tour). In both ports, there is a taxi service right at the dock and the taxis are actually large vans - and since you're travelling with a large extended family, chances are you'd have one all to yourself. In St. Thomas, we loved Magen's Bay beach, and were able to arrange for the same driver to come back and pick us up at a set time (but if not, it's no trouble to get a taxi for the return trip). The day we're there, there will actually be quite a few ships in port, so you'd probably want to go early anyway, and that will leave you lots of time to get back to the ship. In St. Maarten, they do say traffic can be slow getting back to the ship, so you'll want to leave enough time, but the last time we were there, we spent part of the morning at the market in the French capital of Marigot (speaking of shopping...), got in a few hours at Orient Beach, and then taxied back to downtown Phillipsburg on the Dutch side with an hour or two to spare so we could walk around and explore (and more shopping ;) ) before walking back to the ship - and it didn't feel rushed at all... Granted, we didn't have the kids along on that trip - this time, I think we'll do something similar but will probably rent a car to avoid having to lug carseats around. Anyway, it sounds like you're a planner so it shouldn't be any trouble making your own fun :cool1:

Seasideliz - welcome aboard!! I'm Danielle (noelk's wife). Hopefully some of the above might be helpful re ports, but if you have any specific questions, we'd be happy to try to answer them... I think it takes 10 posts to PM :)

[blessedmomofboys]

I just saw that the last eastern cruise itineraries were posted.

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2587210

Doesn't look like much has changed since last year.

[seasideliz]

Great info Danielle , thank you!
It's nice to know we can do a bit of beach and shopping as well in St. Maarten. We will have kids with us, so need to be flexible!!

[ilovedevin]

I received my paid in full confirmation, so now I am official YAY I am so excited!!!! Now I just have to sit and wait until 12:00 am November 29th to do my online check-in stuff. I can not believe that we only have 27 more days until the 75 day mark.

[capitalmom]

Happy. Happy. Happy. :cheer2:

Just got confirmation that we've been switched to early dining, and it's not even final payment date yet!! Soooooo relieved.... Amy's usually asleep by 7 so late dining would have been a real challenge for us - and my one real worry about this cruise has now disappeared - so bring it on! This time tomorrow, our countdown tickers will be down to double digits! Yippee!!

[robinpgma]

ilovedevin sent it to me and there are 8 families i think on it. seems manageable so far!

Happy. Happy. Happy. :cheer2:

Just got confirmation that we've been switched to early dining, and it's not even final payment date yet!! Soooooo relieved.... Amy's usually asleep by 7 so late dining would have been a real challenge for us - and my one real worry about this cruise has now disappeared - so bring it on! This time tomorrow, our countdown tickers will be down to double digits! Yippee!!

:banana: WOOO HOOO.....I just called and we've been switched too....YES....Makes me SO much happier.....:yay: See you there....(maybe).

:cool1:

[seasideliz]

How did you get switched to early dining?
My travel agent is looking into it for us, my husband is FURIOUS (so much so he wants to cancel if we can't change it) that the late meal time is 8:45 - our 4 year old will be a BEAR if we have to eat that late every night!

[robinpgma]

We were on a waiting list and enough people cancelled I guess to pump us up to 1st seating....If you don't get 1st seating by the time you go...once aboard the ship you can go to the dining room at a specific time to request changes to your seating assignments.

Hope that helps...There are also other dining options onboard as well.

Robin

[seasideliz]

I had our TA put us on the wait list. It is also good to know that we can approach on the ship to get earlier times.
We don't mind using the other options for eating, but to be honest, we want the meals to be relaxing, I do so much cooking and food prep on a daily basis, half of the idea of an all inclusive cruise is so that I don't have to cook or think too much about food :thumbsup2

[capitalmom]

Hopefully your number will come up on the waiting list after final payment (Nov. 29) when they usually have some cancellations. If not, according to the link to recent Navigators that Heather posted (thanks, btw!), on embarkation day, it says "TO CHANGE DINING ASSIGNMENT: Requests for different seating times will be taken today: 12:00 noon - 3:30 p.m., Rockin' D Bar". They also take Palo reservations at that time if you aren't able to book in advance. If you can't get your dining time changed before the cruise, I'd suggest arriving early-ish at the port and trying to board asap to get in line for dining changes. That was going to be our plan if we didn't get off the waiting list... We were quite concerned about this as well, but from the research I've done, it seems that Disney is able to accomodate most requests for early dining, especially when there are little kids involved - good luck!

Robin - great news! Wouldn't it be funny if our numbers came up at the same time due to a big group cancellation and we're at the same table? Laura would like that :)

[Jax]

Still on the waiting list to be changed to first seating, we will see how that goes.

Disneycruise says that the cruise is 101 days away!!!! Almost in double digits :banana:

[Jess Warren]

How did you get switched to early dining?
My travel agent is looking into it for us, my husband is FURIOUS (so much so he wants to cancel if we can't change it) that the late meal time is 8:45 - our 4 year old will be a BEAR if we have to eat that late every night!

We were originally looking at one in mid- January, but they only had late seating left, so my dh refused to book it... but now that I have heard about the "dine and play" (I think that is what it is called), I think we would have been fine. I am actually kind of jealous that they don't do that at the early dining time as well. If you haven't read about it, You let your server know you want to participate in it at the beginning of your meal. They bring your child's meal very quickly and about 45 minutes into dinner CM's from Oceaneers club/ lab come to the dining room and take them back to the Club/ Lab... it sounds so cool... Right now our 12month old isn't sitting for longer than a 1/2 hour at home at the dinner table without throwing all of her food on the floor... worried about how she will do on the ship.

[robinpgma]

Hopefully your number will come up on the waiting list after final payment (Nov. 29) when they usually have some cancellations. If not, according to the link to recent Navigators that Heather posted (thanks, btw!), on embarkation day, it says "TO CHANGE DINING ASSIGNMENT: Requests for different seating times will be taken today: 12:00 noon - 3:30 p.m., Rockin' D Bar". They also take Palo reservations at that time if you aren't able to book in advance. If you can't get your dining time changed before the cruise, I'd suggest arriving early-ish at the port and trying to board asap to get in line for dining changes. That was going to be our plan if we didn't get off the waiting list... We were quite concerned about this as well, but from the research I've done, it seems that Disney is able to accommodate most requests for early dining, especially when there are little kids involved - good luck!

Robin - great news! Wouldn't it be funny if our numbers came up at the same time due to a big group cancellation and we're at the same table? Laura would like that :)

Danielle....that would be fantastic if we sat together....Bethany would love it too....a girl her own age to "play" with..... you never know what will happen.... :thumbsup2

WOW almost double digits...I am so excited....

[seasideliz]

Yes, I did hear about the Dine and Play, so that would be OK, but we really prefer the earlier seating. If we have the late one, that means bedtime for the 4 year old will be 10:30 or 11 - and those late nights mean later mornings and we like to be up early and enjoy the day kwim?

Anyhow, we will work it out. If we don't get early seating prior to the cruise, I will go line up for it once we are on board.

I can't even imagine how I would figure this all out if it weren't for this board :worship:

[robinpgma]

Do I need an FE hanger for the FE exchange? If so, how much and where do I get it? I can't wait to start doing the FE stuff..... SO MUCH FUN....:woohoo:

[ilovedevin]

I got mine from gradysmommy from e-bay for around $20.00, you pick your designs and she make's them. Just search Fish extender's one-bay. There are two thread's on here that show how to make them both sew and non-sew, I have also seen where people used canvas bag's and decorated them very cute.

[seasideliz]

I got mine from gradysmommy from e-bay for around $20.00, you pick your designs and she make's them. Just search Fish extender's one-bay. There are two thread's on here that show how to make them both sew and non-sew, I have also seen where people used canvas bag's and decorated them very cute.


I just looked these up and they are adorable!!

I would say even if you don't participate in the FE - they would be great to hang inside your room to sort family items like toothbrushes, etc. to help keep the room / bathroom tidy + great keepsake from the trip!!

[Jax]

I have been tossing around the idea of trying to book a Illuminations Fireworks Cruise for Feb 19.

I am not sure if anyone else is going to WDW after the cruise, but I thought I would check here and see if (by some miracle) I am able to book the cruise, if anyone else would be interested in joining us.

The boat holds 10 people, there are 4 of us so we would have room for another 6 people.

According to WDWInfo the cruise costs $346, so it would be $34 per person.

Please let me know if you would be interested in this (I beleive the booking window for the cruise opens in a week or so)

[Jess Warren]

I have been tossing around the idea of trying to book a Illuminations Fireworks Cruise for Feb 19.

I am not sure if anyone else is going to WDW after the cruise, but I thought I would check here and see if (by some miracle) I am able to book the cruise, if anyone else would be interested in joining us.

The boat holds 10 people, there are 4 of us so we would have room for another 6 people.

According to WDWInfo the cruise costs $346, so it would be $34 per person.

Please let me know if you would be interested in this (I beleive the booking window for the cruise opens in a week or so)

dh and I did one of those on our honeymoon back in 2002... it was on "Breathless" out of the Yacht (and Beach) Club Marina- it was really pretty neat! Unfortunately, we are flying out on the 19th.

[Jess Warren]

Yes, I did hear about the Dine and Play, so that would be OK, but we really prefer the earlier seating. If we have the late one, that means bedtime for the 4 year old will be 10:30 or 11 - and those late nights mean later mornings and we like to be up early and enjoy the day kwim?

Anyhow, we will work it out. If we don't get early seating prior to the cruise, I will go line up for it once we are on board.

I can't even imagine how I would figure this all out if it weren't for this board :worship:

I totally understand what you are saying... with my girls, late nights still mean getting up at 7 or so... :confused3 At least it sounds like in the kids club, later in the evenings the kids can get in their pj's, they have mats for them and they watch movies (do quiet activities)...
It is a great board- I have learned so much.

[ilovedevin]

I completed the birthday girl's present's today I am so happy I got them done...if the parent's want to see what I did I can up load the pic's tomorrow. They are for both capital mom/noel and paulette's children.

[robinpgma]

I completed the birthday girl's present's today I am so happy I got them done...if the parent's want to see what I did I can up load the pic's tomorrow. They are for both capital mom/noel and paulette's children.

I want to see......I can't wait to start doing me FE....Got some other stuff today too.....Wooo Hooo... Paying the cruise in total soon.....priceless.... :yay:

I'm going to do the cruise dance soon...:cool1:

[pajl]

I completed the birthday girl's present's today I am so happy I got them done...if the parent's want to see what I did I can up load the pic's tomorrow. They are for both capital mom/noel and paulette's children.

Oh my goodness? You made something for my dd?
How incredibly sweet?
Wow...
I think I have also decided to particpate in the FE exchange!!
I just have to remind myself NOT to leave it til last minute...

Is anyone planning on sending the items to the ship before hand?

ok..NOW I am getting excited...:dance3:

[pajl]

If any of you ladies...would like to become Facebook frends?
It would be nice to "cyber" meet before Feb?

The only prob is..if a few of us decide yes..I know for instance in my case..my dd does NOT know about the cruise YEt..as it is her Christmas pressie...

So we would have to keep it on the downlow...:)
Just a thought...

[ilovedevin]

I am sending my FE gift's down a week before we leave, I have them almost finished and as I complete them I place them into the box. I love the new flat rate boxes at the Postal Service. Yes I made both the birthday girls's a present I will post a pic tomorrow I wouldn't want their birthday's to be overseen with all the excitement of the cruise and with the FE gifting so I made something special just for them. Which remind's me I know capital mom/noels DD bithday date but need to know your DD so that I can have her gift in place the morning of her birthday.

[ilovedevin]

It's a door magnet

http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll27/kavinandjulie/20101112.jpg

[robinpgma]

JULIE....Those magnets are so cute.....

AND You are WAY to organized for me....I have some of the supplies but not all for my FE (one is a handmade one) ....just found some stuff yesterday to add to the pile.....My brain is still working .... we'll see what I come up with...I have to think of my daughters Birthday first.....which is in Dec. Party...favors...and most of all CAKE...I made her cake last year and she wants one that is similar....Its on facebook.

I would love to Facebook before if you'd like....I am on facebook....I'll PM you....

:woohoo: doin' the woo hoo dance.
Robin

[TiredOfCold]

Yay!!:cool1:
We are now paid in full and ALL flights have been booked!

I would love to cyber-meet on facebook as well... please PM me!
:surfweb:

[robinpgma]

Fantastic to be Paid in full...

we are still looking into flights...still don't know what to do for pre-cruise either.... totally unprepared for this one....

Missed some good flights... We will probably book one ways because we are doing multiple city flights.... DH's sister lives in Sarasota, FL...we are staying a couple of days with them after the cruise. So into Orlando and out of Tampa most likely. Less expensive that way.... we'll see have to get on that....

YEAHHHHH another for the FE....I don't know whether to make my own or buy a fish extender .... I have to look around..... to see what I can do.... If I make my own it will NOT look like gradysmommy..... mine will be MUCH less..... :) but it will be fun making it...

doin' the happy dance....:dance3:

[capitalmom]

Julie - thank you! The magnets look awesome - I'm sure Amy will love it... Rearranging the fridge magnets is one of her favourite hobbies these days. I really need to get going on the FE stuff - I have (perhaps deluded) ideas about making part of them, and hoping to find the time soon - maybe over the Christmas holidays... So far, I'm just collecting supplies. My mom made our FE, and brought it with her when she came to visit last week, so now I'm really motivated!

Robin - it would be totally funny if they sat us together - apparently they do try to match families with similar-aged kids. If you do get stuck with us, I'll apologize for Amy's table manners in advance - we're hoping she'll grow out of the food-flinging stage before the cruise :eek:

And I would love to facebook with you all - I'll PM you with a link to my profile (my last name is rather common so it's hard to find me). I'm even more addicted to that site than I am to this one!! If I don't respond right away it's because Noel and I are heading to Florida on Wednesday morning to meet up with our friends for our pre-cruise cruise which leaves from Ft. Lauderdale on Thursday. So I'll be signing off for a couple of days - will catch up when we get back... :banana: