August 28, 2004 "LOST AT SEA" Cruise

[SeaSpray]

Speaking of this insurance, I just wanted to mention that I called and bought the insurance on Monday morning, gave them all the info and my credit card number, and I had the policy in the mail on Wednesday! It was mailed from Richmond, VA. I was surprised to see the paperwork so soon. So far they get a good grade from me for price and customer service. :)

[Mary Anne]

SeaSpray, I just went out to the AAA website but couldn't find any link. Can you point me in the right direction?

[SeaSpray]

Originally posted by Mary Anne
For some reason I feel like the 26 week mark is the halfway point; even thoug I didn't book at 52 weeks out! Just feel like we're on the downhill swing.

Since we've given up our "Easter" trip this year, we are thinking about using that saved money, and I use the term saved money loosly :rolleyes: and now thinking of staying in Disney for the week-end after the cruise. I'm leaning towards the Poly concierge too. We did that after the last cruise and it was really great! We are thinking of not doing Disney World at all the next year 2005 (doing Disneyland instead) and then in 2006 getting the DVC GrandVilla for 5 nights and inviting some family to go with us.

I am going to check on the AAA insurance now too!

Everyone have a great week-end!

You're right, now that we're past the halfway mark, it does seem like it's getting closer and closer all the time. Maybe it's just wishful thinking, but I am enjoying this planning phase and don't want it all to rush by too quickly.

That'd be great to see you at the Polynesian after the cruise! I'm thinking that this will be a really nice way to end our vacation.

We won't be doing anything related to Disney next year either :/ But we are going on a cruise in 2005. We're planning on going on Royal Caribbean's Voyager of the Seas with 2 of my brothers and SILs. It's a 9-night cruise to the Caribbean. This cruise will have some advantages for us though, including not having to fly (this ship will be sailing out of Royal Caribbean's new NJ port), so we won't have airfare or pre- or post-cruise hotel expenses since we can stay at my father's house in NJ. We are also "Crown & Anchor Society" members which is their repeat customer program, and they give out coupon booklets for discounts on the ship, plus free drink coupons, a gift, party, etc. Probably similar to Disney's Castaway Club program. Then again, maybe I'll have to plan at least a short trip to Disney somewhere next year :)

[SeaSpray]

Originally posted by Mary Anne
SeaSpray, I just went out to the AAA website but couldn't find any link. Can you point me in the right direction?


Sure, here it is! www.accessamerica.com/aaa I decided to call Access America using their 800 number since I wasn't able to find it from AAA's web site or from Access America's home page. I was concerned that this program was no longer available, but it is.

Note: On that page, click on the tab near the top that says "Travelers" then on that page, look to the column on the left for the heading "Trip Assist Family Care". This are their policies that include Children Under 18 Free. I went with the "Comprehensive" policy and it was only $121. for the 4 of us. Before I called, I went through the motions of "purchasing" online, I entered all of our info, then got the price quote, then called the 800 number, gave the person the same info, and they came up with the same price. Then I decided to purchase the policy right then. I just looked back at our paperwork from our cruise last year when it was just DH and I, and we paid $100 just for insurance for 2 of us, and that cruise was MUCH MUCH less expensive than this cruise. (They base the cost on how much they need to cover your trip for, plus the ages of the adults).

[Mjasp]

WOOHOO 6 months 26 weeks. It is getting closer. Anyway do we all realize that as we get to June we will stop rushing for the cruise to get here because that means summer will be over. I think it is good that we are cruising so late, so we can enjoy the summer and enjoy the last week of summer in style.

DCL has a Western Itinerary for the week in April 2005 that I am looking for and this cruise will be the 2nd Western for us, so time to change.

Wish RCCL would come out with their April 2005 schedule.

Also may look into the Norwegian Dawn out of NY for that week also.

My other option is a Wonder 4 day, but don't know if I want to go all the way to Florida for a 4 night cruise.

Joanna

[Mary Anne]

OK, I've been doing my insurance homework today. Seems that since I've booked with DVC points, I need to buy my insurance through them. If anything happened, I'd get $5.00 per point back. Seeing of how it's costing me 470 points that would mean we'd recoup about $2350. Not enough to pay for another cruise, but at least we wouldn't be out all those points. Cost was $117, which was compatible to AAA. I'm going to talk to my DH this weekend.

[SeaSpray]

Joanna: I agree with what you said about enjoying the summer, then still having the cruise to end it with :) I can understand wanting to do a different itinerary next time. I'm waiting for RCI to come out with their summer 2005 dates. My SIL is a teacher so they can only cruise in the summer. Our RCI ship was next to the Norwegian Dawn last summer, in NYC, and it looked like a beautiful ship :) I know what you mean about flying to Florida for a 4 night cruise. Originally we were thinking of a 4 night Disney cruise but within a few days we realized it'd be much more worth it do a 7 night cruise since we'd have to pay the same airfare, pre-cruise hotel, post-cruise hotel, etc. just to get to Florida anyway. We also knew we wouldn't want to have to get off the ship any sooner than a week. :teeth:

Mary Anne: I don't blame you for wanting to insure those DVC points! That would be a big loss for you if you had to cancel and it wasn't covered. Would the AAA Access America plan cover your points, or just the DVC plan?

[MoranClan]

hello gang..

Just received Cabin Number..

8586..

Hopefully its on the side that faces castaway Kay..Like my last Cabin Number 8544..I dont know If they dock differently each time..


More of my info still coming in..

The Morans..

Bobby, Cindy, Katie, Jessie, and Bobby Jr.

:earsboy: :earsgirl: :earsgirl: :earsgirl: :earsboy:

[ThreeCircles]

Bobby--

I think you can check which side of the ship your cabin is on at the DCL web site. They give maps of the whole ship.

I guess the only uncertain point would be which way the ship docks. I've seen it "pull in" and "back in" at Castaway Cay.

[Mjasp]

Bobby...If I am reading the DCL brochure correctly, you are on the starboard side. Aft of the ship. Seems like a real nice location as it is just below Topsiders Buffet, very close to the Mickey Pool for a quick 1 flight up and you are there.

Talk to you all later, its off to Brownies, lucky me.

[Caren90]

Hi Everyone,
Just thought I would check in. I have not posted in a while, but I love getting that e-mail telling me someone has posted on the thread. Finally only six more months. I can't wait to see my SPH room again.
It sounds like we are going to have a very nice group of people on this cruise. I keep putting off looking into excursions but I think it might be time to start some planning.
I had a question about the AAA insurance, can you by it even if you booked a looong time ago?
Caren

[SeaSpray]

Originally posted by Caren90
Hi Everyone,
Just thought I would check in. I have not posted in a while, but I love getting that e-mail telling me someone has posted on the thread. Finally only six more months. I can't wait to see my SPH room again.
It sounds like we are going to have a very nice group of people on this cruise. I keep putting off looking into excursions but I think it might be time to start some planning.
I had a question about the AAA insurance, can you by it even if you booked a looong time ago?
Caren

Hi from West Bridgewater :wave2:

Yes, you can book the travel insurance that I've referred to, even if you booked a long time ago. I booked our cruise last summer, and bought the airfare several months ago. The only time, I believe, that you won't be covered, unless you buy the insurance right away, is "pre-existing illnesses". For example, my DH has diabetes. I think if we had a reason that we couldn't cruise and had to cancel at the last minute, and it was BECAUSE of his diabetes, the insurance wouldn't cover us. (I happen to know that his is extremely unlikely to happen because his blood sugar levels are very well managed). The only way you can get travel insurance that covers pre-existing illnesses is to buy the insurance within 7-10 days of when you book it.

I hope this helps! :)

[lynr]

Seaspray:

I tried the website for the AAA insurance and my rate quote was $261.00, did I do something wrong? You said you price was $121.00 right?

Lyn:sunny:

[Mjasp]

SeaSpray...Where (what was it called) is the original post about the insurance? If we can find that link, then we could get the web address from there.

thanks

[SeaSpray]

I posted the link this morning, but here it is again :) www.accessamerica.com/aaa

When you go to this page, click on the "Travelers" tab near the top, then look to your left, in the column you will see "Trip Assist Family Care". These are the coverages that include Children Under 18 Free.

Ok, here's how/why my policy is $121. I'm 42 now, DH is 40. Our trip, the part that we'd need covered if we had to cancel, for example, on the day before we flew to Florida, is a total of approximately $5000. The cruise itself is $4055. Our airfare is $860. That's just about $5000. So....for $5000 worth of coverage for DH and I, it's $121. DSs are free. You can enter your own info on their web site to get a price, or give them a call on their 800 #.
Note: When I first was entering info, I put down a trip value of $10,000. because after paying for the Radisson, all extra meals not included in the cruise, the Polynesian for after the cruise, the limos, souvenirs, drinks, etc., that's how much this trip will end up costing us. BUT, we only need to insure that first $5000. because THATS the amount of money we'd be out, if we had to cancel the cruise. The other $5000 would never be spent because we'd be home, and not on the cruise. I hope I explained this ok. lol

**Oh yeah, one more thing, when figuring out a price online, be SURE to click the little "Free Child" box underneath where you enter your kids' names and ages!!!** I didn't do this the first time and they added in an extra $50 for each of my DSs.

If you have any more questions, feel free to ask me. :) Also, I know this was brought up before, but this is supposedly for people who have AAA, but you do not have to have booked your trip through AAA (which I didn't, I booked through All Seasons). Some people have said they don't have AAA and were able to purchase this insurance anyway, so when you call, ask about it, and if you don't have AAA you might be able to get it anyway.

[lynr]

SeaSpray:

Thanks for the great tip. I see what I did wrong, I forgot to check the box that my son is free. My insurance was $123 for $4500 worth of insurance.
What a great price, much cheaper than anything else I have looked at.

Lyn

[Karel]

The bonus came and I've paid off the down payment. Waiting for the tax refund to pay another big chuck.

Now I have to start saving for the tips, since I hate putting them on the credit card. The change jar is overflowing and I need to get to the bank next week to count it. Trying to decide whether to get it changed into DD to put on the shipboard account.

I'm very excited because now I really feel like we're going. It's so far away still that I'm trying to concentrate on the 'here and now' but it is nice to have something to look forward to.

I'm checking Mousesavers for any special WDW rates. Hope some come out because we'd like to stay at Beach club before the cruise.

My husband says I can start packing in JUNE! Of course, most of the summer stuff we'll be wearing in July and August so packing won't be as fun as when we go in November.

[SeaSpray]

Lyn: I'm so glad it worked out. I was doing it wrong at first too. I was insuring the entire trip, which made the price twice as much, then I forgot to check the "Kids Free" box. LOL When I finally was sure that I had the right price, that's when I called the 800# and purchased it over the phone, and the rep came up with the same exact figure that I did. :)

Karel: I know what you mean about paying it off. We've been making payments each month and will have it paid off about a month or two before the final payment would've been due. I've created an Excel spreadsheet with all of our expenses related to this vacation, and it's nice to see the "PAID" columns adding up, and the "Remaining to be Paid" columns going down. :teeth:
I've been watching the Resorts Board a lot too. I initially had us booked at a regular lagoon view room at the Polynesian for after the cruise, but then I read a thread about concierge, and the more I thought about it, and figured out the difference in price, I finally decided to change over to lagoon view concierge. We've never stayed concierge at a Disney resort before, but I think it'll be fun, and convenient for us, too. I hope some good discount rates come out for that time period. Right now at least I have the AAA discount.


Everyone: It feels like spring is right around the corner! It's in the high 40's and very sunny. I don't want the next 6 months to fly by because I enjoy the little day to day things of life, but it will be nice to have this winter overwith.

Have a great weekend, all! :sunny:

[ThreeCircles]

Originally posted by Karel
My husband says I can start packing in JUNE!

Wow! Travis and I usually pack the night before! :eek: Although, I wouldn't recommend this to anyone. :D

Karel--

I don't know if you've been able to check out the Disney Magic August 28th Cruise List site at <a href="http://*****************">*****************</a> or not but we would be happy to add your groups info! A picture would be great too!

In fact, it would be great to add pictures of everyone who is on the list! (Hint, hint! ;) ) That way, we'll be able to recognize each other in passing once we get onboard!

Jason

[SeaSpray]

Originally posted by ************
Wow! Travis and I usually pack the night before! :eek: Although, I wouldn't recommend this to anyone. :D

In fact, it would be great to add pictures of everyone who is on the list! (Hint, hint! ;) ) That way, we'll be able to recognize each other in passing once we get onboard!

Jason

Hi Jason:

I'm sort of a last-minute packer too. I make sure that everything is bought, washed, and ready to go ahead of time, but I like actually packing the suitcases only the day/night before.

As for pictures, I have a lot of them on my web site. Can you capture one of them and add it to your site, or do you need me to specifically email one to you? Most of those pictures are a couple of years old, except for the cruise pictures, which were last summer. Let me know. Thanks!

[ThreeCircles]

Terry--

I would be happy to grab one from your site and post it. Just let me know which one you like the best!

Jason

[SeaSpray]

Originally posted by ************
Terry--

I would be happy to grab one from your site and post it. Just let me know which one you like the best!

Jason

Jason:

After looking through all the pictures on my website I'm come to the realization that I don't have many pictures of all 4 of us in one shot. :scratchin Would you prefer only one picture with all of us in it, or would 2 or 3 pictures be ok?? On our cruise this summer I am going to make sure we get a lot more pictures of ALL of us, that's for sure. ::yes::

[ThreeCircles]

Well, one picture of all of you would probably be the best! If you have one, that is.

[SeaSpray]

Originally posted by ************
Well, one picture of all of you would probably be the best! If you have one, that is.

DH just found the scan he did of the picture of the 4 of us in front of the castle in May 2001, I just emailed it to you. Thanks! :)

[Mjasp]

Jason...I see you have a "Mare02" on our cruise, did I miss her when she posted here?

Let me know
Thanks
Joanna

[O'BWV]

Oh Gosh, Mjsap that Mare02 is me - O'BWV. I posted under Mare02 here years ago, then I forgot my password and changed my email address so I couldn't get my password reminder because I no longer had the email address I registered with and so last year I had to re-registered with all my new information! Needless to say I still think of myself as Mare02.

Jason would you please be so kind as to change the cruise list to say O'BWV instead of Mare02 and pardon me for the confusion :eek:

Thanks,
Mary Rose

[ThreeCircles]

Joanna--

Mary Rose (Mare02) just sent an e-mail yesterday asking to be added to the Disney Magic August 28th Cruise List. I don't think she has posted to our thread as of yet.



Terry--

Thanks for the pic. I'll be adding it soon!

[Mjasp]

Jason...You guys posted at the same time, I'm sure you will see it is O'BWV

O,BWV...No problem, just didn't want to slight anyone if I didn't see them post. Mary Rose you are Keeping me on my toes.

A beautiful day today, I don't want to complain but it could be warmer.

Have a great weekend:D

Joanna

[ThreeCircles]

O'BWV--

Too funny about the criss-cross in Dis screen names! I didn't even think twice about it! :p I've made the changes to the site!



SeaSpray--

I've added the pic. Had to crop it down a bit but we still have all family members in tact! :)

[Mary Anne]

Does anyone know what time check in is at the Radisson? I've been trying to plan my Friday before and what time I should head over to the port.

[SeaSpray]

Mary Anne: Check-in is at 3pm.

Jason: Thanks for adding the pic!

[Mary Anne]

Thanks! We will check out of the OKWest @ 11 am; our Disney Tickets (annual passes) are still good, since we can't get into the room till 3 pm, I'm thinking we might as well do a park or something for a few hours.

It's about 1 hour to the port right?

What is everyone doing for dinner that night. (Those that are staying at the Radisson). I'm between getting a pizza or something or just getting some cold cuts and eating in the suite. I'm thinking we'll be eating big meals for the next 7 days; we can go a little lite tongiht :teeth:

[SeaSpray]

Originally posted by Mary Anne

What is everyone doing for dinner that night. (Those that are staying at the Radisson). I'm between getting a pizza or something or just getting some cold cuts and eating in the suite. I'm thinking we'll be eating big meals for the next 7 days; we can go a little lite tongiht :teeth:


I'm not sure what we'll be doing for dinner on that Friday night. According to my "cruise expenses" Excel spreadsheet, I have $50 earmarked for dinner. We won't have a car with us, so I'm wondering if anyone knows if a pizza place is nearby, or would deliver. Also, I know there's a restaurant at the Radisson. Have any of you had dinner there before? What kind of cuisine is it, how about the price range? At this point we're pretty much open to suggestions. I remember reading about one DIS group planning a pizza party around the pool on the night before their cruise, for those who were staying at the Radisson. That could be another idea, too. We're flexible :)

[Mjasp]

We had dinner at the Radisson, food was good, service was horrendous. Had a Chicken Caesar salad, it took us at least an hour and a half to get it.

Sea Spray, I would love to see your excel sheet, I would love to make an expense report for the cruise. If you don't mind sharing can you send me a sample.

Thanks
Joanna

[SeaSpray]

Originally posted by Mjasp
We had dinner at the Radisson, food was good, service was horrendous. Had a Chicken Caesar salad, it took us at least an hour and a half to get it.

Sea Spray, I would love to see your excel sheet, I would love to make an expense report for the cruise. If you don't mind sharing can you send me a sample.

Thanks
Joanna

I wonder if the service there is always that bad? That's way too long to wait for a salad :rolleyes:

I don't mind sharing the spreadsheet. I have it set up so that column A lists the category and specific expenses associated with the cruise. Column B are the actual or estimated prices for everything. Column C is my "paid" column. At the bottom of the sheet, it's set up so that Column C will be subtracted from Column B, so it shows you how much you have left to pay for and/or save for.
Then over to the right side of the page, I have a separate section that shows the money we've just started saving, for these expenses. I have it going week by week, it's dated for all of the Thursdays between now and the cruise because that's the day DH gets paid on. So far, for the last 2 weeks, we're doing good; putting away the amount we want, into a separate savings account. By the end, we will have enough cash to cover everything that doesn't get pre-paid before the cruise. It's pretty easy to figure out, once you take a look at it.

If you send me an email, I'll email you back and attach the excel file. I don't think the email function through the DISboards will allow an attachment. (Ok, I just checked, there's no way to attach anything in email via the boards).

P.S. When you get it, can you do me a favor and let me know if you think I've forgotten anything?? One thing that you might think is missing is Bingo, but none of us play Bingo, so that was purposely left out.

[Mary Anne]

I doubt we'll eat at the hotel by DH is not into bad service. We may have a car as we're not scheduled to bring it back till Saturday morning.

My only expenses for this trip are the air; one night at the Raddison; the car; and if we stay a night or two at the end at Disney. I'm not counting the food the first week as we're staying in a one bedroom at OkW with a full kitchen; I'm planning on pretty much cooking that week as I would at home so that money will come out of my weekly grocery expense.

Since we booked with DVC points, I have no balance to pay off; will probably use airline credits for most of the air; aren't doing any excersions so no outlay of money there; I also have a annual pass for Disney. DH is putting $50 a week or so away so that will give us more then enough pocket money for the two weeks we are away.

Don't laugh; we're calling this our Vacation on the Cheap. Of cause neither of us are factering in exactly how much we've PRE paid to vacation "on the cheap." LOL

[paulinewdw]

LOL, Mary Anne! DH and I refer to this as our "FREE" vacation! Yes neither one of us factors in the up-front costs(I guess cuz we already spent that money for the DVC points.

I keep reading and I wonder if we should have gotten two lower cat. rooms rather than a cat. 4 for the five of us. Also we are booked at OKW thru fri nite the 27th, would it be better to stay at
the radisson the night before? Hmmmmmm

I will try to get a pic...hard to find the five of us together(i usually take the photos and are never in them.....we have to get two !


Is it August YET?????


Pauline

[Mary Anne]

Pauline you do realize you're paying 64 points for that ONE night as it's a Friday night at the OKWest. That is a lot of points to spend JUST to sleep. OK I should talk, I paid points for one Friday night in high Easter Season last year somthing like 78 points LOL but to be honest I don't think I'd do that ever again. (I'm assuming you got a two bedroom since there are 5 of you - even a one bedroom if something like 48 points) That's a LOT for one night. That is why we are moving to the Radisson. A one bedroom suite there tha I think sleeps somehting like 6 is only about $150 or so depending on if you can get a cheap code. If you can still make the change, it's something I'd a least think about.

[Mjasp]

Terry...I sent you a PM with my e mail address for the excel sheet. Thanks in Advance.

I reserved my Avis car, for one 24 hour period for a full size car (need that for the luggage) was $34.19 add all those lovely fees and taxes and the final price was 42.61.

Next is the room, any good codes for the Radisson? Paid $59 in 2002 waiting for another good code to come out.

Joanna

[SeaSpray]

Originally posted by Mary Anne
My only expenses for this trip are the air; one night at the Raddison; the car; and if we stay a night or two at the end at Disney. I'm not counting the food the first week as we're staying in a one bedroom at OkW with a full kitchen; I'm planning on pretty much cooking that week as I would at home so that money will come out of my weekly grocery expense.

Since we booked with DVC points, I have no balance to pay off; will probably use airline credits for most of the air; aren't doing any excersions so no outlay of money there; I also have a annual pass for Disney. DH is putting $50 a week or so away so that will give us more then enough pocket money for the two weeks we are away.

Don't laugh; we're calling this our Vacation on the Cheap. Of cause neither of us are factering in exactly how much we've PRE paid to vacation "on the cheap." LOL

I KNOW we could do this entire trip for much less than what it's going to actually cost us. But DH likes one good vacation every year and he doesn't want to hear the words "We can save some money if we....". I do research everything and make the best decisions for us, but if there's a less expensive alternative (for example, we could be using Tiffany Towncar's 12-passenger van instead of their stretch limo and save some money), he doesn't want to hear it. He doesn't necessarily want to spend anything extra, but he doesn't want to "skimp". Believe me, I don't consider using a van instead of a limo as skimping, but he sees it that way. :rolleyes: He does work hard all year round. He does have a lot to deal with, with managing his diabetes (twice daily shots, blood testing several times a day, medications, doctor's appts and tests, etc), and when we put our minds to it, we can do all this without having to use credit cards, so I decided long ago to not try and dissuade him from things anymore. Another reason he says is this; He can only take the time off for one vacation a year. If he could take time off for 2 vacations a year, then maybe he'd want to spend less and go more often. But we don't have that option, so he wants to make the best of his one yearly vacation and be as pampered as we can. I'm just explaining all this so that DH doesn't come off sounding like a snob, because he really isn't. :o :cool:

[SeaSpray]

Originally posted by Mjasp
Terry...I sent you a PM with my e mail address for the excel sheet. Thanks in Advance.

I reserved my Avis car, for one 24 hour period for a full size car (need that for the luggage) was $34.19 add all those lovely fees and taxes and the final price was 42.61.

Next is the room, any good codes for the Radisson? Paid $59 in 2002 waiting for another good code to come out.

Joanna

Hi Joanna: I did get your PM a little while ago, but I didn't see your email address anywhere. Did I miss it, or did you forget to include it??

At the Radisson, I booked this about a year in advance and got the rate of $129 for their 2 king beds suite. Not easy to try and get 2 large teen boys to share a bed, so the extra bed and the sofa sleeper will be good to have.

[Mjasp]

Terry...I sent my email now in a new PM. Forgot to include it LOL

[Mjasp]

Terry...Thanks for the spread sheet, The only thing I had to add was Bingo, but there were a few things to delete also.

When put in perspective a cruise is quite pricey. When you look at the bottom line. Whew. And I only need one airline ticket because I have 3 free tix (thanks to DH) Hopefully he will get another one before August.

Thanks
Joanna

[SeaSpray]

Originally posted by Mjasp
Terry...Thanks for the spread sheet, The only thing I had to add was Bingo, but there were a few things to delete also.

When put in perspective a cruise is quite pricey. When you look at the bottom line. Whew. And I only need one airline ticket because I have 3 free tix (thanks to DH) Hopefully he will get another one before August.

Thanks
Joanna

You're welcome. Yes, when you add it all up like that, a cruise can be very pricey. When we cruise next year from NJ, we won't have many of the expenses that we have for the DCL cruise though, so that'll cut down on expenses quite a bit. That is great about your free airline tickets!! :)

[winnyis]

Seaspray would you mind sending me your excel sheet also.. email address is winnyis@aol.com.

I already have an idea of what this is gonna all add up to since we will be doing seaworld and the disney parks before and after the cruise, plus hotels and meals before and after and of course cant forget those nice diamond earings DH is gonna get me for my 40th birthday.. im sure those will add a HUGE amount to my final trip total.

Have you guys seen how much the prices have increased on our cruise. Another one of my sisters was thinking of going and her family would cost more than $1000 more than I paid for the same category. Sure pays to book early.

Ginny

[Mjasp]

Ginny...It's funny seeing it in black and white. I really would like to cruise out of NY/NJ next year. Am waiting for the itineraries, am hoping for something good in April as we have our timeshare in August. We trading with RCI for Orlando during Easter this year, but would like to maybe do our big vacation next April and our Florida trip as usual in August.

Today was a beautiful day, weather was nice.

[Mary Anne]

Mjasp, it was beautiful here today!

A cruise is not cheap, but for the most part you're getting your food and enterainment included. That in itself makes it a great buy.

You know the very first cruise I took, was in 1970. I was 19 years old and sailed with a girlfriend to Nassau. It was a 7 day cruise, I had an outside stateroom, with a double bathroom. we paid $325 apiece. Prices sure have changed!

First cruise, I went on with my DH was to Bermuda (1978) and I think we paid about $1000 for the two of us. Again an ouside stateroom.

Those days there were no veranda's. Guess it was just as good as we got used to sailing without them and now we can easily pass them up as we're not used to them LOL. I'm almost afraid to get one as I know then then, I won't be able to go back.

[SeaSpray]

Originally posted by winnyis
Seaspray would you mind sending me your excel sheet also.. email address is winnyis@aol.com.

I already have an idea of what this is gonna all add up to since we will be doing seaworld and the disney parks before and after the cruise, plus hotels and meals before and after and of course cant forget those nice diamond earings DH is gonna get me for my 40th birthday.. im sure those will add a HUGE amount to my final trip total.

Have you guys seen how much the prices have increased on our cruise. Another one of my sisters was thinking of going and her family would cost more than $1000 more than I paid for the same category. Sure pays to book early.

Ginny

Just sent it, Ginny. :)

[Mjasp]

Maryanne...The price of my cruise was relatively inexpensive, it is the spending money, excursions and incidentals that are more than the price of my cruise for a family of 4.

[Mary Anne]

Disney does seem to be one of the cruise lines that the earlier you book the better prices you get. You know years ago, when it was just DH and myself and we weren't tied to the school year, we could wait till the last month and book a cruise for a small fraction of the price. That doesn't seem to work at all anymore on any of the lines. .

I agree those incidentals sure do add up.

[winnyis]

Joanna - I agree 100% - its not the cost of the cruise thats expensive - its all the extra stuff.... I am fully expecting my extras such as airfare, disney passes, excursions, bar bill (LOL) etc... to be much more than the cruise itself costs.

Oh well you only live once right... we might as well enjoy it while we are all healthy enough to do so.

Ginny

[Karel]

Originally posted by ************
Wow! Travis and I usually pack the night before! :eek: Although, I wouldn't recommend this to anyone. :D
I don't know if you've been able to check out the Disney Magic August 28th Cruise List site at or not but we would be happy to add your groups info! A picture would be great too!
Jason

There's five of us and I'm the only one who will actually think about the packing process so I like to start early. We'll be wearing the shorts and T's during the summer but I can make sure all the long pants and nice shirts fit. Plus all the little stuff. July is the reading program at the library and I spend most of the month running that plus doing my regular hours and that month flies by.

You can put us on the website. We're from Wenonah, NJ. Richard Black, Karel, Chris who is 13, Kyle who will be 12, and Katie is 10. This is our second cruise.

[winnyis]

Terry (Seaspray) thanks very much for the excel file... very thorough..... I am like you.. I have $150 taken out of my check each week and put into an account for vacations.

I plugged in all my anticipated expenses and I should have everything covered by the time we leave... thats a good feeling

Ginny

[lynr]

Winnyis:

I know what you mean about the price increase. I booked right after my cruise with All Seasons last August and for 3 people category 6 was $3400. My friends just checked for 3 people and the price was $5117.

I guess it pays to book in advance.

Lyn :sunny:

[lynr]

Karel:

Hi! I just noticed we don't live that far apart. I live in Stratford and I used to work in Turnersville.

Lyn

[sandygirl]

and boy, you miss an awful lot!!

Welcome to all the new posters :wave2: .

lynr and karel: we are all neighbors. We are in Williamstown.

I get more excited everyday. Don't want to rush the summer, though. When we get back from the cruise summer will officially be over :( . Guess I'll just have to schedule another cruise, quick. A cruise out of NJ sounds good. No airfare. I've never cruised another line except DCL.

Have a great week Everyone!!:sunny:

[Mjasp]

WOW could it be! I went to DCL's site and put in our cruise with 2 adults and 2 Chikdren (4 total) Only availability was a category 4. Could it be sold out like that? I know they were promoting the cruise.

[lynr]

I know that the categories 5&6 that hold 4 people go fast. Alot of them are purchase by Travel Agent Tours Groups that purchase bulk amounts of rooms. I have a room that holds 4 but I will probably be traveling with 3 but I am not giving it up until the last possible minute because I wouldn't be able to get it back again if we needed it.

Lyn

[winnyis]

lynr, karel & sandygirl.... add me on the list for south jersey cruisers.... I live in Burlington Township - exit 5 NJTP and work in Moorestown.

I know what you all mean about the excitement... I cant wait... but its still almost 6 months away.... I might have to convince DH that we need another long weekend in Florida for Memorial Day to tide me over....

Ginny

[Karel]

Our last cruise was teacher's convention week. We kept running into the same family from Washington Twp. Sat next to them at both Trunk Bay and CC. At one of the shows, the MC asked everyone who wasn't from NJ to raise their hands. It was pretty funny.

Will Caribbean humidity be any match for NJ humidity?

I thought this cruise might be less crowded because of the special Eastern cruise before and after.

I would like to take a cruise out of NJ. We had looked at a few from Philly to Bermuda but the time of year is always wrong.

[winnyis]

I did the western magic during the last week of August in 2002 and I will warn you - it was very very hot...and humid... especially in Key West.. it was almost unbearable there. We wound up doing the conch train tour, the acquarium and then headed back to the ship to swim.

Cozumel was also very hot but that could have been because I was running from jewelry store to jewelry store - LOL.

Karel - I know what you mean about Jersey week - we did the Navigator of the Seas cruise this past Nov during Jersey week and I would say almost half the ship was from NJ - it was really cool. Met a few families that we are still in touch with.

[sandygirl]

I'm looking forward to some HOT weather! We sailed the Western in Jan '03 and I froze in Key West. We missed Grand Cayman because of a storm and Cozumel's weather was pleasant. Castaway Cay was a little chilly.

We chose the 8/28 sailing because DD's birthday is the 20th and that week wasn't open for reservations when we booked onboard (need that credit!!). I also thought it would be a good time because many other states are already back in school.

So, bring on the HEAT :smooth: .

[ThreeCircles]

Winnyis--

You noticed the heat too, huh? :) As a Floridian, I'm somewhat used to the heat and humidity as well as the sunshine. Being in strong sun for the better part of the year, you tend to have somewhat of a resistance to burning. Well, I found out the hard way that the sun in Grand Cayman and Mexico is much stronger than than in Florida!!! :D All I can say is, sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen!

[winnyis]

Jason & Travis - let me ask you an off topic question... Just how hot is it in the middle of summer in Florida.. reason I ask is that DH and I are waiting for word from his employer if he can transfer to florida...Im used to high 90's here in NJ in the middle of the summer and can certainly tolerate that as long as I have a pool (which I do now).

So tell me - how long do the really hot temperatures last??? If it matters we would probably be in the Orlando area since both our employers have offices there. (although my first choice would be Sarasota county).

TIA

Ginny

[ThreeCircles]

Well, temperatures can vary around the state to a large degree. Tampa Bay (and Sarasota, as well) is generally a few degrees cooler than central Florida (Orlando) because the surrounding water acts as an insulator. The temps here are usually in the mid to upper 90's for the better part of the year. Say from the beginning of May through the end of October. (Usually, we end up having a pretty hot Halloween.) These temps and this time of year could be considered our "summer", I guess. However, even as early as the end of Feb. we can have "warm" temps. Today, for example, was 82, and that is the expected high temp for Wed., Thurs., Fri. and Sat. (Orlando is expected to have highs of 84 for the better of those days.)

The summer becomes really unbearable when you factor in the humidity. It wouldn't be uncommon for summer temps, adjusted for humidity, to ring in upwards of 100-110 or so with the heat index.

Sometimes WDW can be hard to take in the dead of summer. Even for huge Disney buffs like us!

[winnyis]

thanks for the info.. We are really hoping that they give us the go ahead... Im sure hot summers are a hell of a lot better than the brutally cold winters we have here...DH and I have absolutely no tolerance for the cold anymore.

Ginny

[Mjasp]

Ginny...If you do check out real estate in the Orlando area.

Check out my favorite (where I wanted to move) Avalon Park, you can check out their website at www.avalonpark.com

Our second choice was in Oviedo. The name of the development was Live Oaks Preserve.

Good Luck and I hope you pull it off.

Joanna

[Mary Anne]

Personally, I 'll take those hot, humid, August's over the frozen cold January's anytime!

If it was me, I'd go in a heartbeat! Hope it all works out for you.

[paulinewdw]

If you run into me on the cruise at anytime...remind me to put on sunscreen! Now do not laugh, I am allergic to the SUN! Up north here I never have a problem, but when I go to Florida!!! As long as I keep sunscreen on, I should be just fine!

[ThreeCircles]

It's always quite painful to see those individuals who fail to recognize the importance of sunscreen in the first place. You know the ones, they're up on Deck 10 laying in the sun and they're already as red as a lobster! Ouch!

Here's an interesting little fact...

Did you know that the greatest environmental cause of cancer here in Florida is, yup, you guessed it, the sun? :sunny:

[SeaSpray]

This is one of the reasons why we're going to book our massage for EARLY in the week, in case we get sunburn. I imagine it'd be pretty painful to get a massage on a sunburned back and shoulders! :eek: I'm always chasing DSs with the sunscreen when we're out in the sun. DH is usually pretty good, at least he sits still for me. LOL

As for the weather, I don't know.... I don't think I could take humidity like that, for so much of the year. If I'm near a pool or the ocean then I'm fine. I enjoy the 4 seasons too much to move to a state where there's one dominate climate. As much as I love a day at the beach, I enjoy a snowy day cuddled up in front of my fireplace :)

Spring is almost here, though.... I can see a lot of my spring bulbs sprouting up through the ground. :sunny: It's nice to see GREEN again! ::yes::

[ThreeCircles]

Originally posted by SeaSpray
As for the weather, I don't know.... I don't think I could take humidity like that, for so much of the year. If I'm near a pool or the ocean then I'm fine. I enjoy the 4 seasons too much to move to a state where there's one dominate climate. As much as I love a day at the beach, I enjoy a snowy day cuddled up in front of my fireplace :)

That's one of the things I miss the most too SeaSpray! I remember, even though I was much, much younger, how nice the changing seasons were. Spring and Autumn especially. Here, we don't really get to experience that and miss out on so much.

Other things I miss after living up north: basements, lightning bugs, long, rolling thunderstorms, hills... :p

Oh well, I just keep telling myself that it's all worth it because we have Disney and DCL.

[winnyis]

Seaspray - I will agree with you about curling up in front of the fire - I also enjoy that... but one thing I wont miss is my over $500 heating bills this last few months... funny thing is - I only had my thermostat set for 69... so its not like I was trying to immitate being in florida or anything.....

Keep your fingers crossed for me guys that UPS agrees to transfer hubby......

Ginny

[SeaSpray]

Originally posted by winnyis
Seaspray - I will agree with you about curling up in front of the fire - I also enjoy that... but one thing I wont miss is my over $500 heating bills this last few months... funny thing is - I only had my thermostat set for 69... so its not like I was trying to immitate being in florida or anything.....

Keep your fingers crossed for me guys that UPS agrees to transfer hubby......

Ginny

I hope it works out for you, Ginny!!!! :sunny:

[Mjasp]

Originally posted by winnyis
[B
Keep your fingers crossed for me guys that UPS agrees to transfer hubby......

Ginny [/B]

Ginny...My fingers are crossed for you. Good Luck

[Mjasp]

Good Morning everyone! It's Friday and I know we get a countdown today. Another week has gone by.

My friend who is cruising with us (Darwin91) is checking out the Hampton Inn, for pre cruise. She is getting a price of $89 and breakfast is included and it is on the beach. Since Avis is not at the Radisson anymore, it really doesn't matter where we stay. We still have time and will see what comes up.

Joanna

[SeaSpray]

Hi everyone:wave2:

Twenty five weeks from today we'll all either be in Florida already, or getting ready to go! We'll be in the air at this exact time. I know 6 months still seems like a long way off, but personally I think these last 6+ months have gone by pretty quickly, snow and all.

I got the new DCL planning DVD in the mail the other day and it's greatly improved over the VHS tapes. There's a ton more content, and you're able to scroll through the decks and click on the restaurants, theaters, staterooms, etc. They have 360 degree views of most of the rooms, and a short movie "The Making of the Disney Magic". Also shows what the new lounges and The Stack look like, since the Magic's drydock last fall. It's free to order from www.disneycruise.com Click on "Order Free Vacation Planning Information".


Joanna: I keep going back and forth on where to stay the night before the cruise. Right now we're booked at the Radisson, and now so are SIL & BIL, so I have a feeling we will end keeping our reservation there. But the new Ron Jon resort looks good, and really, I think any of the hotels near the port would be fine. You're right though, we still have plenty of time. I have been enjoying having all this time to plan and research...and plan more and research more.... :teeth:

Jason: Until recently, I didn't realize that lightning bugs were not in every state. I have friends in California who've never seen them! Catching lightning bugs is one of my most fondest childhood memories :sunny: I love a good thunderstorm every once in a while too :)

[Mjasp]

Jason...Where up North did you live pre Florida?

Terry...Hmmm Let see. Every first snow fall I say, I guess I really do like snow, it's so cozy. BUT once the second one comes, I say, Give me Florida. When we go in April, I will go to Avalon Park and my kids will ask my husband, Daddy, Are we moving to Florida? He answers, No, we just have to take mommy to visit Avalon Park. LOL
Thanks for this weeks countdown!

But I am going to see if they will take me to visit Live Oaks Preserve in Oviedo, this time. Only DH and I went, kids stayed with their grandma in Orlando last time, just curious if I will like it as much as before.

[ThreeCircles]

I was born and raised (at least until age 10 :) ) in Springfield, Illinois. The Land of Lincoln's capital city!

I may live in the "South" but I'm a true Northerner at heart!!!

As if you couldn't tell... :jester:

[Mary Anne]

Yeah! Another week Closer. I so look forward to Friday's and seeing the number go down.

[Mjasp]

AHHH Illinois. Talk about snow, they get it there. DH is there very often on business.

By the way, Live Oak PREserve is in Tampa, the place I like is in Oviedo and it is Live Oak REserve. Just thought I would clarify that. Was just checking out Engle homes and what they have for sale in Live Oak. It's fun to dream.

Can't believe it is 25 weeks already.

[sandygirl]

Hooray! Gotta' love that countdown.

[MoranClan]

Hello ALL..

I guess its a stupid question..What time can we depart the ship at Cozumel?..

Im trying to book the Jeep Jungle safari and need to know the times..

Thanks

Bobby, Cindy, katie, Jessie, and Bobby Jr.


:earsboy: :earsgirl: :earsgirl: :earsgirl: :earsboy:

[Mjasp]

Bobby...I would put that question on the Cruise line forum, you will definitely get your answer there.

[DARWIN91]

If I recall wasn't it a little after 10 a.m. that we got into Cozumel last time - mjasp?

[ThreeCircles]

According to the mailed itinerary for the Western cruise from DCL, scheduled "Ashore Time" at Cozumel is 10:30 AM.

I'm assuming that this means that Disney feels the ship should be cleared by local authorities at 10:30 and that guests can go ashore at that time.

[SeaSpray]

Hi everyone :wave2:

24 weeks till our cruise! :sunny:

There isn't much new with the planning phase right now, I'm kind of looking forward to when we get to the point where we can book excursions. Do most of you book excursions beforehand, or wait until you're onboard the ship?? I'd love to book them beforehand, but what happens if we change our mind before we cruise? Are we able to call DCL and have them change the excursions for us??

Hope everyone is doing well :)

[Mjasp]

24 weeks:Pinkbounc


We are getting there. I would book your excursions before hand if I were you, not to be shut out.

Have a great weekend all

[Mary Anne]

:Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc

Another week closer!

We're not doing any excursions so that is one less thing for me to stress over. I've got to get my airfare. That's my biggest challenge this week!

[MoranClan]

Hello Gang:wave2:

I need your help..

Ineed to know if anyone has done the Jeep safari in Cozumel..And If anyone has done it outside of Disney Excursions..

I called an outside Place in Cozumel..and My entire family can go in 1 jeep..

Disney wont allow my 5 year old son to go,,So I cant book with them..

Problem with the place that will accept my son..They depart for the ride at 10:00 am..

We dont exit the cruise until 10:30..

This is excursion Is what I wanted to do The most..

Any help on an outside excursion Place on Cozumel would be greatly appreciated..

Thanks

Bobby, Cindy, katie, Jessie, and Bobby Jr.
:earsboy: :earsgirl: :earsgirl: :earsgirl: :earsboy:

[Mjasp]

Bobby...Go to the top of this page and click on Disney Cruise Line Forum. There you can post a thread and someone I'm sure will have your answer.

[Mjasp]

SNOW? That is what the forecast is saying, but after a beautiful day like yesterday, seeing is believing.

Spring starts this weekend:Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc

[Mary Anne]

Mjasp, I can tell you it is coming down like crazy on 37th and 7th.
Avenue. It looks almost like a blizzard. I hope it is not sticking!

[sandygirl]

We had the craziest weather today in Jersey! Snow, sleet, freezing rain. I'm a popsicle. My daughter-in-law saw sleet for the first time today. She's so cute. She was excited until she realized how much it hurt when it hit the face.

I'm just hanging out waiting for Spring. Hope everyone else on the east coast had a safe day.

[ThreeCircles]

It's been raining here. Lots of clouds and rain yesterday afternoon and evening and through most of today.

I have to admit though, I love the rain!

[Mary Anne]

Terrible, terrible weather conditions in NYCity tonight. It took me 1 hour and 16 minutes to go from 38th Street to 50th Street on Lexington Avenue in the bus. A 30 minute trip home took almost 2 hours.

[Mary Anne]

All I can say it Thank God it's Friday and we're one more week closer.

Rotten, terrible, sad week here!

It's been snowing on and off since Tuesday, not a lot on the ground but wet, heavy stuff that is just making a mess of traffic and driving.

We had a death in the office (President of the company died) and I've spent the week calling clients and helping his daughter notifying people.

I need sun, water, food that is served to me and one of those specialty drinks!

Hope everyone else is doing well.

[Mjasp]

Ooh Mary Anne...Sorry you had such a bad week. You do need sunshine and moonshine LOL

I know we went down a week, our official counter is probably shoveling herself out LOL

Sun is coming out although it is snowing, but it is March and it won't be around long so this snowstorm is bearable.

Keep warm and Think Warm

Joanna

By the way, spoke to NCL last night, thinking of booking the Dawn out of NY, they have no inside connecting rooms, there balcony cabins are 166 sq feet. geez, whats the deal with that.

So I'm hoping DCL has the 10% off promo on our August cruise.

[SeaSpray]

We have about 8-10" on the ground right now and it's starting to snow again, and they're predicting another 2-3". But I agree, Joanna, it's March and it'll melt pretty quickly (I hope!). :sunny:

Mary Anne: I'm so sorry to hear about the rough week you've been having :(

Joanna: I'm not surprised to hear how small the NCL cabins are. Our cabin on the Nordic Empress last year was only about 117 sq ft! Fortunately it was only DH and I, but we saw some cabins with the bunks pulled down, with 4 people in them! We're definitely planning on the Voyager for next summer, so it'll be a little sad to know we won't be booking DCL again, at least till 2006, if that. I hope they offer decent discounts for you!

[Reenieny]

Hello everyone, I will be on my first Disney Cruise but 3rd overall. I will travel with DH, Daughter 15, son 11 and sister. I heard the ship is almost all booked up. Can't wait,,,, espcially since we had such a rough winter here.
Looking foward to speaking with anyone else on board. My daughter is afraid she wont meet anyone,, (hint she is pretty and very out going).....
Hope to see you on board.:earsgirl:

[ThreeCircles]

Hello and welcome Reenieny!

We have a great group of folks on the Disney Magic August 28th sailing. The thread has quieted down a little bit in the past couple of weeks but I'm sure it will pick up again as our cruise gets closer!

Mjasp has a list started on the first post for this thread and we also have a list at <a href="http://**********************">*****************</a>.

Glad you found us and happy to see we'll be sailing with you!

Jason

[Mjasp]

Welcome Reenieny to the 8/28/04 cruise. We have a great group sailing. I will add your family to the first page. If you haven't already done so, go over to Jason's (three circles) website and join the list.

Welcome Again
Joanna

[Mary Anne]

Welcome Reenieny.

What are ships have you sailed on. We've been on a few others also.

[SeaSpray]

Welcome Reenie!

From what I can tell, there will be a lot of kids on our cruise. Take a look at page 1 of this thread where Joanna (Mjasp) has listed everyone, plus their kids' ages. I'll be with my husband and 2 sons, who will be 16 and 13. At first I was concerned that there wouldn't be many teens onboard but I'm not worried about that anymore. I think this will be a wonderful cruise, for everyone :)

[sandygirl]

Glad you found this thread. Welcome! My DD will be 7 on the cruise but I don't think your kids have anything to worry about. There should be plenty in their age groups. This is a very friendly group of cruisers. If you have any questions I'm sure they can answer them. What other cruise lines have you sailed? Any interesting ports?

The sun is out here today and the snow is gone. It is Spring for goodness sake! :sunny: :sunny: :sunny:

Me, I've been painting all weekend. DD wants stripes. I'm still working on the correct spacing. Any suggestions?

[ThreeCircles]

Hi all!

We've just added two new cruisers to the Disney Magic August 28th Cruise Site!

[Reenieny]

Thanks for all the welcomes. My family just watched the Discovery Channel special about Disney and we are more excited to go. I wont write to much in case this doenst work. Looking forward to seeing you all in August.
Reenie
:earsgirl: :earsboy: :earsboy: :earsgirl: < cruise family

[Reenieny]

Hello, fellow cruises. I am going on the August 28th Western cruise and we want to drive to the Port? does anyone know for sure of car rental drop off places near the sea port? There used to be one at the Radisson near by with a shuttle to the ship, but that is no longer available.
Thanks for any help you can give me.

Reenie:earsgirl: :earsboy: :earsgirl: :earsboy: :earsgirl: < disney family
Traveling with DH Marty,DD Jaclyn 15, DS Daniel 11 and sister Karen 46... She is single and loves Disney.

We are on Deck 6 and have early dining We are on Deck 6 and have early dining

[Mjasp]

Doing the single digit dance:Pinkbounc Until we defrost in Orlando.

[lynr]

Reenieny:

We are using Budget. They have a shuttle to take you to and from the ship. There is also National and Avis. I found Budget was the cheapest.

If you do a search of the cruiseline boards for rentals Dave has a whole website page about rentals

Lyn

[SeaSpray]

Originally posted by Mjasp
Doing the single digit dance:Pinkbounc Until we defrost in Orlando.

Have a great time, Joanna!!!! :sunny:

[Mary Anne]

I too hope you have a great time. We were there last Easter and really enjoyed it! If you are into pins do the Easter Egg Pin Hunt. We had a great time with that.

[Reenieny]

Maryanne, are you going on the Aug 28th cruise as well?
My kids are getting more excitedas it gets closer.
After the winter we had(of are still having) It cant come to soon. We will be in Disney for 3 days prior so my husband can do the Petty Experience.
My sister is coming with us and she is a huge Disney fan. She was just there in Febrary and had to scope out the places we will stay...
Thanks for the POST

:earsgirl: :earsboy: :earsgirl: :earsboy: :earsgirl: < Disney family

Doreen

[Mary Anne]

Yes, I'll be there too! Along with my DH and two boys (13 and 16 at the time of sailing) We are really looking forward to it too. I'm sick of winter!

Our plan is to arrive the Sunday before, stay in a one bedroom at the OKWest thru Friday morning then head over to the Radisson (still on the fense about moving to the Ron Jon) and then doing the Disney Cruise.

I haven't booked my air yet (and I know I have to make up my mind soon!) as I want to spend a night (or two) in Disney after the cruise and DH and I are still discussing it :chat:

[Mjasp]

Originally posted by Mary Anne
I too hope you have a great time. We were there last Easter and really enjoyed it! If you are into pins do the Easter Egg Pin Hunt. We had a great time with that.

MaryAnne...Where is the Easter Pin Hunt held? Do you have to stay on Disney property for that. We are staying in Orange Lake Resort this trip. Thanks all for the good wishes.

Joanna

[Mary Anne]

Joanne, no it's open to anyone. Last year they release one pin in each park, plus one in downtown disney and one in one of the hotels (Last year was the CB hotel). You just go around and buy the pin - about $10.00 each and then move on to the next place. They started releasing the pins on Easter Saturday week-end. The way I got them last year was, I started in Downtown Disney, took the bus to CB Hotel, from there took a bus to MGM, I was with someone who while I went into MGM they went on to Epcot (via the boat to the International Gateway) and got the Epcot Pin. We then met up at the MK and got that one. The next day Easter Sunday, I just ran over the AK early and got the last one I was missing. It was really a lot of fun! They've done it the last few years, so I'm sure they'll do it again this year!

[sandygirl]

Speaking of pins...they are releasing 5 DVC pins this year. One in each quarter and a special one. The problem is I won't be in WDW until after our 8/28 cruise so I will miss the first 2 quarter releases. I don't trade, I just collect pins from where we have stayed and special events. They are hanging on a banner in DD's room.

Anyone interested in helping me get the first pin? Let me know! They will be in the stores at DVC Resorts and at DTD.

[Mjasp]

Sandy...I won't be going to the resorts, but I will be going to DTD. My DD's LOVE the pin trading store there, so if it will be in that store, I will certainly look for it. Just let me know exactly what you are looking for.

Mary Anne, thats sounds like alot of fun. Will have to check it out.

Joanna

[Mary Anne]

Regarding the DVC pins, you are going to have to show your DVC memeber card to buy them, they are not an open stock pin item that will be sold all over property. They also will only be sold at the DVC Hotels (BWV, BCV, OKW etc.)

[Mjasp]

Originally posted by Mary Anne
Regarding the DVC pins, you are going to have to show your DVC memeber card to buy them, they are not an open stock pin item that will be sold all over property. They also will only be sold at the DVC Hotels (BWV, BCV, OKW etc.)

Sandy...If this is so, Sorry I can't help you, I am not in DVC.

We don't trade pins either, we just buy the ones we like.

[SeaSpray]

Hi everyone!

22 weeks to go till our cruise :sunny: It's a BEAUTIFUL day here in Massachusetts and it's beginning to look and feel like there may actually be an end to this winter!!

Anyone have any new cruise plans? Any new excursions you've researched or checked out? DH and I want to do the Romantic Escape at Sea package so we'll be adding that on soon. My SIL & BIL who are also on our cruise are considering this package too, so it'll be nice to go to Palo with them one night.

I hope you all are doing well!

[Reenieny]

Hello,
I am going with my family plus my single sister. I felt funny going to PALOs with her,, but my husband is not a fancy food eater. I hope to at least get in one champagne brunch there. My sister is a disney nut,, and she is fun to be around. My husband and I did a Carnival Western cruise 2 yrs ago,, so we did the snorkel and stingray deal. I am looking forward to relaxing at Rum Beach and Playa Sol Beach. If anyone knows not to do that, please let me know.

:earsgirl: :earsboy: :earsgirl: :earsboy: :earsgirl:

[Karel]

I'm looking for something to do in Grand Cayman.

I think Key West we'll play by ear. Hoping to meet up my husband's brother, who lives in the Keys. If it's really hot, we won't have the energy to do much but I'd like to get back to Kino's. I still have the sandals I bought last trip which was about 9 years ago.

In Cozumel, I'm looking at Chankaaub and mini golf.

I don't like the Grand Cayman excusion and no one wants to do the stingrays. We'll probably go to the beach and shop.

[Mary Anne]

Love seeing those #'s going down each week!

I have some nice non cruise news this week after lasts week's nightmare.

I have pretty much been unemployed the past 4 years doing contract and temp work. The man I had been working for part time passed away the week before last and like a gift from God, I landed a full time postion, in my field (Human Resources) in the same industry (Publishing) that I was downsized from. I start on Wednesday, 4 years to the day, I lost my job of 25 years. Trust me, Hollywood couldn't write the script.

In any case, Reenieny you must do the brunch! I think it's better then the dinner and trust me the dinner is great! We are planning on doing both.

Have a great week-all! Hope the weather stays as nice as it was today.

[Mjasp]

Terry...Thanks for the countdown, in another 3 weeks we will be in the teens!!!!!!!!!!!! Feels like 30 weeks ago it was still a year to go LOL

MaryAnne...Good Luck with your new job.

How is Rum Point? Anyone been there before?

[Caren90]

All this talk of excursions is making me nervous. I have not even begun to think about it. I better start looking into it because I know everyone (we are cruising with relatives) will expect me to have all the info. Thats what I get for being the "resident Disney Cruise expert" which of course I am not, I get all my info from these boards. Any way I go back and forth on whether to do the Disney excursions or go out on our own.
I'll have to look back over this thread and see what words of wisdom have already been discussed.
It just started raining here and I have to say sometimes that 22 weeks seem so close and sometimes it seems sooo far away.

But I still love that coundown, thankyou Terry.

[ThreeCircles]

Hello Caren90--

Not sure if we've "officially" met on the boards or not! At any rate, glad to see that we'll be sailing with you. If you would like, please send in your family's info to the Disney Magic August 28th Cruise Site at < ahref="http://**********************">*****************</a>.

I usually procrastinate on booking excursions as well just because I'm so indecisive. :D I would have to say that both options that you are considering in regards to booking excursions (Disney or going it on your own) have benefits and I have had experience with both.

Booking with Disney makes the whole process much more simple and there is some amount of security built into your purchase. Say, for example, you miss a port of call, Disney will automatically refund the cost of your shore excursion if you booked with them. I have heard that other people have pre-booked excursions with private companies and have to sacrifice part or all of their payment because they missed the port or arrived at port late. With that said, I wouldn't imagine that this type of thing happens too often.

Booking on your own gives you much more freedom of choice as to what activities you want to do, what time you want to do them, and may be less expensive than Disney. We booked a 4 hour trip with a glass bottom boat in Cozumel in November of 2002 and paid about $120 for four adults. That's only $30 bucks a person and the trip included snorkeling and drinks. I don't think you would find a similar excursion through Disney for that price.

Hope this helps a little and if you have more questions, ask away! That's what these boards are for!

Jason

[Caren90]

Hello Jason,
I have posted on this thread a couple of times, but mainly I lurk. We have done the Eastern twice and always booked through Disney. On the last cruise we did one of the St. John excursions, the family we were traveling with had a child under 5 that was not allowed on the excursion. So she and the child went on thier own and we were going to try to maybe meet at Trunk Bay, anyway to make a long story short, we had a great excursion but it only lasted two hours and was fairly expensive. My S.I.L. and daughter spend the entire day at Trunk Bay for a fraction of the price. Soo, it made us think twice about the Disney compared to "on your own". Of course there was a lot of imfomation on how to do excursions on your own for the Eastern I am not sure if that is true of the Western. If anyone has done this research maybe they can let me know where to look. I am not one to sweat possibly losing the $ if has to be cancelled.

I am looking forward to checking out your site Jason.
Thanks, Caren
:cool1:

[O'BWV]

Hello Cruise Mates!

I booked the friday night before the cruise today at the Radisson. I booked the cruise package with breakfast for two, parking & shuttle for $119. I thought that was a decent price since parking is $70 (we're driving from NJ) and breakfast would be about $20 bringing the room cost in at about $30. This saves many, many of our DVC points that we were originally planning on using. Anyway....... I called the Radisson directly to make shuttle reservations, told them I booked the cruise pkg. and they told me to call back in July and I can book the shuttle then. Does this sound right to all of you?

P.S. I know we still have five months, but I'm really starting to get psyched now!

Thanks,
Mary Rose

[Karel]

We're hoping to drive down early, provide I can get Wed night off from work, and stay in the World for a few day.

I need to decide whether we should go to PC on Friday and stay there vs. paying for a Disney resort for the night.

Also, I want to look at Ron Jon. If we can park there for free for the week, it might be worth staying there.

[Mjasp]

Just want to remind everyone of the date 3/28/04, that leaves us 5 months!!

Still like the sound of the weeks countdown better

[winnyis]

OBWV - I would call the Radisson if I were you... I also booked the cruise package and I am already reserved for the 10:30 shuttle which Im told is the first one. I think several others on our cruise were also able to book their reservations already.

Joanna - have a great spring break trip... I wish It was me going to sunny florida in a few more days...


Ginny

[sandygirl]

Joanna - Thanks for offering to get those DVC pins. Maybe someone else will be going who is a DVC member.

Mary Anne - That is so great about your new job! Congratulations::yes:: ! You must just be so excited about your first day. I'll pray it all goes well and you settle in quickly.

I'm not settled on excursions yet. But I really think I am doing Tulum Ruins in Cozumel. I know it will be a long day but I really want to share the culture experience with DD.

Key West I think will be on our own. I want to see Hemingway's house and Truman's house and check out the Kino sandals.

Grand Cayman is really a toss up.

Have a great week all:sunny:

[Reenieny]

Hello everyone. I can't seem to follow the directions to get the timer to work for me.:(.. What can I be doing wrong?
If anyone can help me,,, please let me know. I have followed all the directions very well (ok about 3 times I have tried).
Thanks if you can help me.

:earsgirl: :earsboy: :earsgirl: :earsboy: :earsgirl:

[Mjasp]

Reenie...Print out the instructions before you start, maybe that will be easier for you. Then just follow them and test it on the test board and wah lah. Where are you having the problem?

Thanks Ginny for the well wishes, I hope work is busy this week, so it goes quickly. I know every night is something so it should go real quick.

[O'BWV]

Thanks Ginny! I took your advice and emailed the Radisson yesterday. I received an answer today stating we they reserved four seats for us on the 10:30 shuttle!

Can't wait!

-Mary Rose

[Reenieny]

Has anyone ever done the Richard Petty Driving Experience ? My DH will be driving it on the Friday before the cruise. I told him he better not get hurt because the kids and I will still go on the cruise and I will send him pixs.(he just laughed at me).

We did this same trip 2 yrs ago but we went to Jamaica as well. Loved Dunns River Falls . This time we are looking at Rum Beach in GC; Fury Catamaran Beach party in Coz, and Parasailing in Castaway Cay. I have family in Key West so we will let them show us the way...
What is everyone else doing???

[tonia]

hello hello
I'M BACK:D

to all the cruisers coming down the night before. i hope to meet you. i will also be staying at the raddison the friday before the trip. I haven't been on for a while. so welcome to everyone that has joined us and our little group. i am also leaving from Jersey. I will have my DH, DD 11 and my DS 6. until next week.

[winnyis]

I looks like DH's company will not agree to transfer us to FL - even though my company will... it took them 9 weeks to decide no - unbelievable.

Now if we want to move it means DH switching jobs after 17 years.... thats a big decision to make.

To cheer myself up - Ive gone ahead and extended my vacation 2 extra days in florida before the cruise.. We now arrive on 8/23 and go home on 9/6......

I can only imagine what my kennel bill for the dog is gonna look like - yikes!!!

[sandygirl]

Sorry to hear your DH's company didn't cooperate about the transfer. Maybe something better will come up. You know what they say about a closed door...keep looking for the open window.

[Mjasp]

Good Morning all...Checking my countdown and liking it:D

In case I don't get on tonight, Happy Easter and Passover to all.

I will miss this weeks countdown, so next weeks will be even sweeter.

Till next week
Joanna

[SeaSpray]

Hi everyone!! :wave2:

Caren, Karel, Tonia: Nice to see you again!!! :)

Ginny: Sorry to hear about your DHs company not cooperating about the transfer to Florida :( Nice that you added 2 extra days to your vacation though! :)

Joanna: Have a wonderful trip and enjoy the great weather in Florida!!! :sunny: It's raining here today. Blah! lol


Here's a mini-countdown since Joanna will miss the official one: "21 weeks + 2 days till we're all cruising!!!!" :boat: :sunny:

I know some of us are staying at the Radisson and some of us are staying at Ron Jon's, and some are staying at a Disney or other resort the night before. Do any of you want to start a list of who's staying where, in case we want to have a mini-get together the night before the cruise at our perspective resorts?? Let me know, and if we do, maybe we could have a list of who's staying where. It's just a thought! :)

[Mjasp]

Originally posted by SeaSpray
Hi everyone!! :wave2:


I know some of us are staying at the Radisson and some of us are staying at Ron Jon's, and some are staying at a Disney or other resort the night before. Do any of you want to start a list of who's staying where, in case we want to have a mini-get together the night before the cruise at our perspective resorts?? Let me know, and if we do, maybe we could have a list of who's staying where. It's just a thought! :)

Terry...Thanks for the countdown

We still haven't decided where we are staying yet. But a list does sound great, so there can still be meets if anyone is interested.

[SeaSpray]

Hi everyone! :wave2:

21 weeks to go. :sunny: I hope everyone is doing well. :)

[Mary Anne]

Finally, booked my air this week. Jet Blue both ways. :bounce: I could have gotten it a little cheaper using another airline but we do not like to fly in and out of LaGuardia Airport and Jet Blue goes and comes via Kennedy plus the flight times worked well both ways.

We're flying out the Sunday before and then coming back the Saturday we get off the boat. I really wanted to stay an extra night at Disney but DH said we should save that extra money and we can do something another time. Oh well, I'm there the week before and the a week on the cruise, I'll live.

Started my new job this week. Great people, great company and I'm really enjoying the work. Can't get much better then that!

Have a great week all. Just think after next week we'll be in the TEENS! :bounce: :bounce: :bounce:

P.S. I got my vacation approved today! Hey, nothing like being on the job 3 days and asking for 2 weeks off :eek:

[Karel]

Whoa, mama. I just checked All Seasons prices for the summer cruises and the prices have gone soaring.

[SeaSpray]

Mary Anne: Congrats on your new job, I'm glad you're really enjoying it! I'm glad they approved your vacation :sunny:
That's great about booking your air, to me booking the flights always make it seem that much more real :)

Karel: I know what you mean. Our cruise has gone up over $2000 since we booked. I'm SO glad we booked it so far out.

[tonia]

congrats Mary Anne on the new job

:mad: sorry to hear about your husband not being able to transfer

starting a list would be great. It would be nice to meet the people that we have been chating with. It feels like i already know all of you so it would be great to put a face to all of the dissin.:Pinkbounc

talk to everyone next weekprincess:

[paulinewdw]

Sure could use a week in the world right about now. Wish I had booked a trip for Easter week!!!!

Mary Anne ...congrats on the new job!

If anyone starts a list of who is staying where, we will be at OKW up until Cruise day! Still debating whether to fly or drive!

Pauline

[ThreeCircles]

Hello Pauline--

I can totally relate to needing a week off right about now! :)

However, I don't know if I would venture near Disney this week as the newspapers have been reporting that they have had record crowds.

In fact, the Magic Kingdom closed due to capacity yesterday! The last time that I remember that happening was on the 4th of July.

Happy Tuesday all!

[tonia]

i could also use a week off right now. don't think i would go to DW.:D

let's get our list going and also let me know if we are getting shirts or if we are doing anything.

i haven't booked my transportation yet anyone have any suggestions. let me know.

until next week.

Toniaprincess:

[SeaSpray]

We're booked at the Radisson at the Port for the night before the cruise. Our flight lands in Orlando around 2:17pm, so I hope to be at the hotel by 4pm. :) My SIL & BIL are staying at the Radisson too, except they're taking the AutoTrain down and will be driving to the hotel. We're using a limo service (Probably Tiffany Towncar, not sure yet) to get from the airport to the hotel on Friday, and to get from the port (after the cruise) to the Polynesian. On the morning of the cruise we're planning on using the Radisson's shuttle to get to the port.

[Mary Anne]

We're flying in the Sunday before staying at the OKWest till Friday morning; then we're moving over to the Radisson for Friday Evening. not sure what time we'll check in probably about 4 pm or so, I want to relax and enjoy the evening there. I think we'll bring in cold cuts and just eat in the room or something. We're going to be eating big meals for the next 7 days so we'll go al little light on the food Friday night LOL.

We're taking the shuttle to the boat Saturday Morning. We're on the first shuttle out if they hold the to reservation I made.

[Reenieny]

WE had snow on MONDAY really need August to get here fast.
I booked a car to have while at Disney and we will drive to Cape Canaveral and drop it off and get shuttled to the ship and pickup up after and return to car rental. .WOW did I say that all in one breath? My Hubbie and I are going to Daytona for the day( he is a nascar freak). So the car will come in handy.

August come soon!!!

:earsgirl: :earsboy: :earsboy: :earsgirl:

[winnyis]

Hi Everyone... we are also at the Radisson Friday night... we arrive in Florida on Monday 8/23 - spend a few days at WDW and Universal then head over to the Port on Friday and enjoy the pool and wait for my sister and her family to arrive. We have a rental car but will drop off in Cape Canaveral and take the first shuttle over to the Port with the rest of us anxious DISers... then after the cruise its back to WDW for another few days and home on Monday the 6th

I wish I was Joanna in warm sunny florida this week except that I hear WDW has been at capacity the last two days and they have had to close the parks during the day to all non disney resort guests.. I cant imagine how long the lines must be.

GInny

[ThreeCircles]

Ginny--

Warm, sunny Florida has indeed been sunny but it hasn't been all that "warm." We've only reached highs in the low 70's and had pretty cool nights. Below average for this time of year.

At any rate, I can't wait until we're experiencing that 100 degree weather in Cozumel! :hyper:

[winnyis]

Jason and Travis - you guys are SPOILED... all us northerners would kill for 70's. LOL

Im not worried about the 100 degree temperatures in Cozumel - all the jewlery stores are air conditioned......

Ginny

[winnyis]

that you are celebrating your 40th birthday this trip.. I am too - when is your birthday???

Mine isnt til 9/10 but we couldnt cruise that week due to school.

We will have to have a drink (or two or three or four) together to celebrate...

[tonia]

hello all

Jason and Travis I agree with Ginny you are spoiled. It is cold and nasty up north. we would kill for your weather. :D

can't wait to meet everyone at the Radisson that friday night.

I have not booked my transportation yet and my travel agent has not given me our flight times.

everyone stay safe and if i don't talk to you:
:D Happy Easter
:D Happy Passover

and if anyone is celebrating anything else
:D Happy that also

until then
Toniaprincess:

[Reenieny]

Hello WINNYIS
I am turning 40 on July 18 and my sceond wedding anniv is August 24 so we are doing a combo cruise.:Pinkbounc WAHOO

We are staying atPOP CENTURY Prior to cruise time. We had the Port Orleans Riverside booked but with a trundle bed for my soon to be 11 yr old son. Now we have two rooms at POP CENTURY. We have 2 rooms on board as well. We just have inside cabins,, got a bit $$$ with 2 rooms.
We have to meet up sometime on board. Who are you cruising with?

Reenie
:earsgirl: :earsboy: :earsboy: :earsgirl: :earsgirl:

[SeaSpray]

Hi everyone :wave2:

Wow, we're down to 20 weeks now! Even though it was a cold, snowy, blustery winter, looking back now it seems to have gone by pretty quickly.

I know that a lot of kids have off from school this past week or next week, but my sons don't have off until the week of April 19th! I'm really looking forward to driving to NJ on the weekend before, on the 17th, to spend time with family back "home". What can I say, I'm a Jersey Girl through and through ::yes::

I hope you're all doing well! :sunny:

[tonia]

have fun when you come to jersey. jenkinsons is open on in pt. pleasant so enjoy yourself if you go. have a great time and enjoy your family.:D

it is easter weekend and the closer i get to easter sunday the more tired i am just thinking about that day. i have the pleasure of going to:
sunrise service - 6 am:o
breakfast -:D
sunday school program - 9:15 with the small children
:Pinkbounc
regular service - 11 - until:)
dinner with the family

it is going to be a very long day
until we talk again

toniaprincess:

[mikesmom88]

Hi everyone,

We arrive at WDW on 8/21 and are staying at the BCV until 8/23. Then we drive to VB until the morning of 8/28 and then off to Port Canaveral.

See you all there!

[Mary Anne]

:wave2:

Hope everyone has a wonderful holiday!

[Mjasp]

Ok I'm back and we are at 20 weeks:Pinkbounc

We were at MK on Monday and it was packed, I didn't know they closed it due to reached capacity, although I can believe it. DH and I said we have NEVER seen MK that crowded and we have been there quite often. Then we went over to Epcot and there was a 2 hour wait for Test Track, didn't do Test Track on Monday.

Went to MGM on Thursday and it was a pleasure, funny MGM was not as bad as I thought it was going to be. Except for the 2 biggies TOT and Rock N rollercoaster there really weren't any real long waits 45 minutes at the max for Star Track.

Now for the weather, It couldn't have been better. On the upper 70's days we went to the parks and the days in the 80's we did the pools. I think the cooler weather is what made MK bearable.

Still haven't made air ressies or pre night hotel ressies yet.

Talk to you all soon
Joanna :D

[Reenieny]

Hello everyone
We have a change of hotels for the week of August 25. We were going to be at the Port Orleans in one room for 5 of us. Now we booked the Pop Century and have 2 rooms. Much nicer to hae 2 rooms. we will drive to Port canaveral the morning of August 28.
Looking forward to meeting anyone new. How many more weeks till we Cruise?
My daughter is getting anxious to cruise
Take care andHAPPY EASTER

Reenie
:Pinkbounc <so excited to see August get here.
:earsgirl: :earsboy: :earsboy: :earsgirl: :earsgirl:


:wave:

[Mary Anne]

We were at 20 weeks as of Saturday!

I think Disney this time of year is the best Weather wise. I too heard it was packed all week.

Hope everyone had a great Easter week-end.

[markºoº]

I have not had time to post here (I'm a CPA and it's tax time) but I have been reading and following this thread. The group sure has grown - I think we were one of the first people to book.

Now that April 15 is almost here I can't wait to start planning. So many of the excursions look interesting. My problem is our 2 boys have a big age gap (12 and 5) that finding something both will enjoy is hard. I'm pretty sure we will do Stringray City and DS12 will parasail with Mom at CC. I have not a clue what to do at Key West.

Does anyone have any suggestions?

Mark

[Caren90]

OK, I finally booked our flights. We fly in on Sat. the 21st and stay four nights at the Dolphin then on to the Hard Rock for three nights than on to the grand finale The CRUISE on the 28th. We did this same itenerary two years ago and it is GREAT. We call it our "summer tour". There are three "legs" to the tour, dolphin,hard rock and then cruise.
Now that the airfare is booked I need a good rental car rate for our stay in Orlando, that is my mission this week. Next week-excursions. The planning is getting very exciting!
I hope everyone had a great Easter and weekend.
Caren

[ThreeCircles]

Hello fellow Disney Magic August 28th Cruisers!

Just wanted to remind everyone that we have a cruise list site for our cruise at <a href="http://**********************">*****************</a>. If you would like your information posted on the site, just send it in. Pictures can be posted too!

Only four short months until we set sail!

Also, I'm still gathering information on putting together a group for the Key West Scavenger Hunt. It sounds like a lot of fun and if you and/or your party would be interested in it, send me an e-mail.

Talk to you all soon!

[paulinewdw]

About the Scavenger Hunt. Adults only? Can the kids get involved? Need info. Sounds intriging!

pauline

[tonia]

hello everyone :D

there has been so much rain latley i wonder if we should build an ark. :sunny:

question about the scavenger hunt. if kids are allowed what is the age limit becasue i have an 11 and a 6 year old.

let me know, thnaks


Toniaprincess:

[ThreeCircles]

Originally posted by paulinewdw
About the Scavenger Hunt. Adults only? Can the kids get involved? Need info. Sounds intriging!

pauline

Hi Pauline--

I believe that both adults and kids are welcome on the scavenger hunts. I called the company that operates them and they said that if we get a group large enough, they can get us a package deal.

Basically, we would form competing teams and attempt to solve the scavenger hunt before the other teams. The hunt is created so that you have to visit many of the most famous Key West attractions. The company's web site has lots of info and can be found <a href="http://www.keywesthunt.com/">here</a>.

Let me know what you think!

[SeaSpray]

Wow, we're in the "teens" now!! :sunny: Only 19 more weeks to go.

Are most of you back from spring break now? My DSs have spring break NEXT week, so we'll be driving down to NJ from MA tomorrow morning. I hope there's no traffic!! :faint:

Have a great week, everyone!! :wave2:

[Mjasp]

We're in the teens:Pinkbounc

Have a safe trip and enjoy your break, we went back to school on Wednesday.

Looks like spring is trying to come through. Monday is suppose to be 80 degrees!

Have a great weekend all

[Mary Anne]

It is a beautiful day in the city today 66º and sunny!

Can't believe we're down to 19; Wow, it's starting to feel real close. :bounce: :bounce:

I made my OKWest reservations this week so I've now got my air; 5 nights at the OKW; my one night at the Raddison; the car and the cruise all set. Only my trip back to the airport; can't decide between disney transportation or a car hire. Anyone have any idea off the top of their head how much disney would charge for 4 (2 adults 1 16 year old 1 13 year old? )

I'm assuming a car would be cheaper but Disney would be much easier.

[Karel]

I can't decide where to stay the night before. The Radisson website is showing a internet special of $85 for a standard room.

The down side, once you book it, there's a $25 fee to cancel it. I like wiggle room - I like to change my mind.

We liked the Radisson last time and if you figure in the $70 parking we won't pay, it's a great deal. OTH, I know there have been conflicting reports about what kind of room package you need to book in order to park for the week. Has anyone been told they can't park at the Radisson for a week?

I'm not sure if it's worth it for my peace of mind to book a cruise park package or pay a little extra so I can cancel the reservation if I so choose.

But that $85 is a sweet deal...

[Reenieny]

Florida is getting closer and closer.....
We are getting more excited now that Spring Break is over. My family and I just spent a quick weekend in NYC and had a ball. We can't imagine what kind of fun and (TROUBLE) we may have in the Carribean .
Are tuxedo's a necessity for the men vs a good suite? Its so much easier for the ladies to dress up I think... My hubbie is a jean and t-shirt kind of guy,,,,but he looks so nice all dressed up.
August get here soon.....
:Pinkbounc
::MinnieMo ::MickeyMo ::MinnieMo ::MickeyMo ::MinnieMo

[ThreeCircles]

Reenieny--

Travis and I both opt for suits rather than a tux. You'll see lots of both suring formal and semi-formal nights.

[Caren90]

Hi All,
I just bought a tux for my 9 year old son. I bought it on e-bay for a steal. He LOVES to dress up. He was a ring bearer when he was three and ever since then he has just loved suits and tuxes. I can't decide whether to surprise him right before the cruise or not. If I give it to him he will probably think of reasons to wear to school. LOL
Now, I don't know about my husband, he looks great in a suit but maybe he should get a tux too. The pictures would be great.

I wish these were the only decisions we had to make in life, hehe!

Have a great week.
Caren

[Mjasp]

Karel...I know what you mean about the Radisson...There is a $94 fare though.

[Mary Anne]

My husband owns he how tux so he'll bring that. Not sure what I'm going to do about my boys though. I'm thinking dark suits with a tux shirt and bow tie.

[markºoº]

I own a tux so I will probably bring it - I might opt for a suit though since that would also work for Palo. Plenty of time to ponder that thought.

Our boys are 5 and 11 - hard to believe but we don't even have a suit (or sport coat) for either of them. They did not need a jacket on the 4 night cruise but we will need to think of something for the to wear on the 7 night.

What have past 7 night cruisers typically seen young boys wearing on formal night?

I don't mind getting dressed up, I just hate bring all the extra clothes. A woman's dress is a lot easier to pack and lighter than a man's suit or tux.

[paulinewdw]

We are flying down on the 20th and now we get to spend seven days prior to the cruise at the parks!!!!!!

I was able to grab a deal on southwest air ($49. each way)

WOO HOO!!!!

[Mjasp]

Pauline...When are you returning seems SW is high for Saturday 9/4.

Mark...See you have a countdown for Hawaii...WTG Have a great trip. My 8 yr old wants to go so bad, when I tell her I went as an adult, she can do the same thing when she grows up, she starts crying and saying I can't believe you won't take me to Hawaii as a kid, so I can experience Hawaii as a kid. Sad how I deprive my kids. LOL

[paulinewdw]

I swear I will never understand how airlines and pricing work...all I can say is I have confirmation of the flights and prices. I received an e-mail alert and since it was early in the AM I decided to try and book it....I was able to get that rate, so now we need to work out transportation once we arrive! Hey we couldn't drive down that cheap!

[SeaSpray]

Hi everyone :wave2:

18 weeks to go :sunny:

Are any of you considering the "Romantic Escape at Sea" package?? DH and I are going to book this, and so are SIL & BIL. I really hope they will allow us to book our rotation and all of our Palo and spa reservations in advance, like they've been doing lately.

[Mjasp]

I don't even know what that (reas) package is? Although I have seen it on the boards alot recently, have never really checked what it is all about, I will have to check it out.

18 weeks:Pinkbounc

Wanted to upgrade to a veranda and it was sold out, maybe within the 60 day mark, they will have some available.

Oh by the way, 1 year from today starts our spring break "2005"

Joanna

[Mary Anne]

:wave: Beautiful weather here today. It's starting to be spring weather and the cruise feels real close now.

[Caren90]

SeaSpray,
I had not heard that they are allowing people to pre-book Palo and spa. Is this only for cat 1-3 or is this something different?
Any info would be great!

GO Sox,
Caren:bounce:

[Karel]

It's for the Romance Escape At Sea package (REAS). A special package that includes a spa treatment and dinner at Palo. They allow you to book in advance.

[Mjasp]

Hi Everyone...Just want to remind everyone today is 4/28/04 and that it is 4 months from today that we will be on the magic. :Pinkbounc


Joanna

[ThreeCircles]

Four months? Whoo hooo!

[Mary Anne]

:jumping2

[SeaSpray]

:flower1: :happy2: :sunny: :boat: :fish:

[SeaSpray]

Originally posted by Caren90
SeaSpray,
I had not heard that they are allowing people to pre-book Palo and spa. Is this only for cat 1-3 or is this something different?
Any info would be great!

GO Sox,
Caren:bounce:

Hi Caren:

Everyone who books that package can pre-book their spa and Palo reservations. They've even been allowing people to choose their own rotation, although that's not officially included, it's just been a perk so far of booking the package.

[Mjasp]

Hi All!!! I know there was talk a few pages back about keeping a list of who is staying where pre night, is someone doing that? If so, we are staying at the Radisson,(booked it yesterday).

Now I only have to buy the insurance. I'm undecided between Travelex at www.Insuremytrip.com or accessAmerica at www.accessamerica.com/aaa There is only a $2 difference, so I actually have to look into it. At first glance Travelex offers $50,000 med. evacuation and Access offers $20,000, so we have to look into the whole policy.

Beautiful day in NY today :D

Joanna

[SeaSpray]

Hi everyone! :wave2:

17 weeks to go! Like Joanna said the other day, we're now down to UNDER 4 months to go!!! :hyper: In less than 3 weeks we'll be in the "double digits", under 100 days! :happy2:

Joanna: Some of us did mention where we're staying the night before the cruise. I think it was while you were in Florida. If it isn't too much trouble, do you think you could add the list to the first page? Maybe next to each of our names you could put an abbreviation for the hotel. We're staying at the Radisson the night before the cruise too, looking forward to meeting you and your family and everyone else that's staying there that night :flower:

It's been gorgeous weather up here on the south shore of Boston, too!! :sunny:

[Mjasp]

I will gladly add the hotel next to the name, Anyone that wants me to add this info, please let me know which hotel you are staying in pre night.

Wow, double digits before Memorial Day.:Pinkbounc

Joanna

[Mary Anne]

We'll be at the OKWest and then the Radisson the night before.

It really feels like it's getting close now!

[markºoº]

DS5 and I will be flying down a few days early and staying at Animal Kingdom Lodge before the cruise. DW and DS12 will be joining us at AKL on Friday.

[winnyis]

Joanna - add us to the Radisson list for friday night.


Ginny

[Mjasp]

Consider it done Ginny. Ginny, I also put the Radisson for your SIL and BIL, if this isn't correct let me know and I will remove it.

Hope you all are having a great weekend.

Enjoy the weather

Joanna

[Karel]

For those who booked Radisson, have you tried to book a shuttle time yet? Did you book the special cruise package or the internet rate?

[Mjasp]

Karel, I booked the $94 FL rate. No penalties etc like the internet rate.

Some have booked the shuttle already.

Are you staying at the Radisson? If so let me know so I can put it down on page 1.

Joanna

By the way, how is the ********************** page going? Did alot of people sign up? I'm going to check it out now.

[lynr]

We will be at the Contemporary the day before the cruise.

Thanks,
Lyn

[SeaSpray]

Thanks for doing this, Joanna!! :sunny: It'll be nice to know who we can expect to see the night before we cruise. :)

[Mjasp]

Not a problem, It will be nice to see who is staying where. so we can all meet. It use to be either a WDW property or the Radisson, Now that Ron Jon is in the picture there actually may be a group staying there.

Joanna

[paulinewdw]

Somehow I got un-subbed from this thread...took me forever to find it again.

We will be at OKW the night prior to the cruise.

Question for prior cruisers: Rental car...how do I rent at the airport and turn it in near the cruise? We have always driven down and have never been on the cruise.

Thanks.

[lynr]

paulinewdw:

We rented from Budget at the airport because we are staying at the Contemporary the day before the cruise. and are turning it in near the port. When we return we are then renting near the port and turning it in at the airport later that day.

Below is the link I used from Dave to get all the information about rentals companies for the airport and port.

http://www.dcltribute.com/carhire/

Lyn

[Mjasp]

Lyn...Are you staying at the Contemporary or the Polynesian the day before the cruise? I have the Contemporary on page 1 as that is what you said, did you switch to the Poly?

Joanna

[lynr]

Mjasp:

No I am not at the Polynesian. I usually stay there but I went with the Contemporary because I could get a better price. I wrote Polynesian by habit. Thanks for noticing I just corrected it.

Lyn

[Mjasp]

No Problem

[SeaSpray]

Hi everyone:wave2:

16 weeks till our cruise :sunny:

[Mary Anne]

::MickeyMo ::MinnieMo :wave2:

Weeks are starting to fly by now. We've decided to do Disney Transportation back to the Airport from the ship; it's a few more $$ then a car; but we feel it's far easier. So for about $40 more we're going to go for it.

Hope everyone is having a great week.

[Mjasp]

16 weeks:Pinkbounc It is getting closer:bounce:

Joanna

[winnyis]

Hi Guys - another week closer to our cruise.... did any of you guys book the CA-FL repo cruise.. We did and I know Jason & Travis did.

[Mjasp]

WTG on booking the CA to FL cruise. Too long a cruise for us, 14 days is too long for us, workwise and shipwise.

Have a great time!!! When you get on the ship, see how much it will be to book it onboard, although by that time it will probably be too late to even try to book it.

[winnyis]

Joanna _ I can only imagine how much the price will be by the time we board in August -- I was very lucky - I had my reservation by 1:15 on Wednesday and got a great price so Im not even gonna try to do better... The current prices on the DCL website are $3600 more than I paid - UNBELIVABLE.

Im just glad I got what I did or my DH would have said "No way too expensive". Now I told him he better makes sure he tells everyone at work that when they pick vacations for next year in December he needs the last 2 weeks of August. or else Im going without him - LOL.

[Mjasp]

WOW Unbelievable!!! $3,600 more now than 2 days ago. You should be dancing.:hyper:

[ThreeCircles]

Hello all!

Well, we're back from the Disney Magic and all I can say is that I'm already feeling the PDCD (Post Disney Cruise Depression). :eek: I just have to keep telling myself that we only have 111 days until the Disney Magic August 28th Cruise! :hyper:

This was our second Eastern and I think I've finally decided that the Western route really is my favorite. Although I love the extra day at sea that the Eastern provides, I think I much prefer the ports on the Western.

I'll give you guys a "little" trip report if you would like. Don't think I'm going to write up a long one like I did last August. It ended up being 26 pages in Word and that's just a little too much work for me to take on right now. (You know, PDCD and all. :eek: )

I'm going to be update the Disney Magic August 28th Cruise List on <a href="http://**********************">*****************</a> soon. I want to add a printable version of the Cruisers List (like I did for the May 1st cruise) as well as the Cruise Matrix for the Western (also like the May 1st). If any of you have any suggestions as to what else you think would be beneficial to the site you can e-mail me (I'll give ya credit for the additions on the site ;) ) or suggest them here.

I hope you all had a wonderful week and I'll tell you that you're going to LOVE being on the Magic in three short months!

Ginny--

SOOO cool to see that you booked the "Bringing the Magic Back Home" cruise too! Looks like we'll look forward to two cruises together!

Jason

[SeaSpray]

Welcome back, Jason! I'd love to hear your "little" trip report! :) Congrats on booking the CA cruise! Let us know when the updates to your web page are posted.

Ginny, Congrats to you on booking the CA cruise! :)

[winnyis]

Jason - it looks like SandyGirl also booked the CA-FL repo cruise as well.. so it will be at least the three of us from this cruise ....

[Mjasp]

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!!!!!!!!!!

In 10 days we will be in the double digits:Pinkbounc

Joanna

[sandygirl]

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY to all the moms!

Welcome home Jason. I'm looking forward to your report. We did the Eastern 2x and this Aug will be our 2nd Western. I'm giving the Western a 2nd chance but I'm leaning towards the Eastern as my favorite.

Winnyis - Yes I did book the CA-FL. Woohoo! Embarkation day will be DD's 8th birthday. My price was OK but I know I paid more than could have if I hadn't gotten busy at work. The first time I logged on the cruise wasn't listed yet. Then I got busy (darn work, but it does pay for the cruise, after all!) and didn't get back on for a few hours. I did get a verandah and early seating for dinner.

I'm still concentrating on the Aug 28th Western and don't want to get too excited about the repo cruise :crazy: . It may end up being just DD and I. DH may not be able to take 2 weeks from work. We'll see. :(

16 weeks!:cool2:

[ThreeCircles]

Happy Mom's Day to all the Disney Magic August 28th Cruisers!

Still unpacking and doing laundry but I hope to get the mini-report done at some point this afternoon!

And Darlene, I know exactly what you mean about concentrating on the August 28th Cruise. While the "Bringing the Magic Back HOME Cruise" is definitely something to look forward to, I don't want to miss the excitement of the August cruise!

:D

[Mjasp]

Looking forward to the mini trip report!!!

And the update on your website

[ThreeCircles]

Hi all--

I just finished updating the Disney Magic August 28th Cruise site. I've added the printable cruise list to the site so that all of those that are bad with names will have a little cheat sheet.

I also added some more info on the Southernmost Scavenger Hunt.

The mini report is coming soon!

Jason :)

[ThreeCircles]

Just to get an idea, is anyone considering the Southernmost Scavenger Hunt at this point?

[winnyis]

Jason - at this point I would have to say my family is probably a no... I was game but DH said that it would be too hot to go running around Key West with 2 complaining kids in tow. So I think we are just gonna rent one of those little scooter cars and drive around on our own.

Ginny

[markºoº]

I'm in the same boat as Ginny. Just too hot to drag DS5 and DS12 around Key West and I don't like the idea of leaving DS5 along on the ship.

[ThreeCircles]

Understandable! Central Florida is generally unbearable during the summer months and Key West will only be that much worse! :)

Still, I think Travis and I are going to give it a shot. The hunt only looks to be about three hours long or so and I'm sure that it's not a "run to the max" pace. After having visited Key West twice now I think it will provide some new excitement during the call.

[SeaSpray]

I ran it past my DH too, and since we aren't sure exactly which other excursions we might do at Key West, in addition to the heat factor, I think we're going to pass on the Scavenger Hunt. It does sound like fun for sure, but since this will be our very first visit to Key West we'll either be doing excursions and/or exploring the town a bit on our own. :)


I called our TA today and added the Romantic Escape At Sea package. Then I called Debbie who is the Dining Coordinator for DCL and left a message, asking when I can make my requests for the spa, Palo, etc. I'm really hoping she is still allowing us to make all of our reservations in advance (dinner, brunch, tea, spa) and also to choose the rotation we'd like. :) I know it's not included per se, but she's been allowing people to do this for the last few months :) I'll let you all know what happens when she calls me back.

P.S. Jason: DH is only 40, not 42. I must've made a mistake when I emailed you our info! Thanks for making up the cruise list for us :)

[ThreeCircles]

Terry--

Did I add two years to John's age?!?! :p Taken care of and thanks for pointing out the mistake!

Everyone--

We've added another cruiser to the Disney Magic August 28th Cruise Site!

[SeaSpray]

Thanks Jason :wave2:




Well my latest cruise update is that I got a call back from Lisa at DCL Dining and she took my dining rotation request, and made reservations for us for Palo dinner, brunch, and high tea, as well as our spa reservations. I am so happy that we won't have to rush to make any reservations once we get on board :sunny:

[Mjasp]

Good for you on not having to do the ressie rush. What dining rotation did you select and why? Just curious. We had LAPLAPL on our last cruise and since Lumiere's was my favorite I was happy with it, although we did Palo's on one of the Lumiere's night so I guess it didn't really matter.

Joanna

[ThreeCircles]

Joanna--

I absolutely adore the LAPLAPL dining rotation as well! I think it’s because Lumiere's is my favorite also! I really like the feel of the place, the location on the ship, the décor, and the theme.

We've been lucky enough to get the LAPLAPL dining rotation on all four of our seven night cruises and we even ended up with the LAPL rotation when we did the four night cruise on the Magic in 2000.

Terry—

So cool to hear that you got the ressies. Now all you have to do upon boarding is sit back and enjoy the Magic! ::yes::

[SeaSpray]

I requested the APLAPLA rotation since we'll be on the western itinerary this will put us in Lumiere's for both semi-formal and formal nights, and will put us in Parrot Cay for Mexicali night. I also like that this will mean we'll have our character breakfast on our first morning (Sunday morning, before we arrive at Key West). We chose Tuesday night as the night for our dinner at Palo, so we'll miss Animator's for one night, but that doesn't bother us at all since I read that they only do the "show" on your first night there anyway, and we'll still be dining in each of the 3 rotational restaurants twice.

So this means that DH and I, and DSIL and DBIL will have 3 "formal" nights all together. DH's a nut, he really enjoys getting dressed up in a suit. :p On the night that we do Palo for dinner our DSs can choose for themselves whether they want to eat at Animators on their own, or get room service, or the buffet, or one of the food places by the pool. I'm sure they'll be happy to have the chance to have dinner on their own. :sunny:

[ThreeCircles]

Wow! Three formal nights! DH really is a nut. ;)

Travis and I always book Palo on either the formal night or semi-formal night to avoid wearing our suits three nights. While we both like to get "spiffyed" up on the cruise, two nights is usually our limit.

Is John going all the way with a tux or is he going the suit route?

[winnyis]

Jason - Im with you... we always book Palo on Formal night.... My philosphy is why get dressed up more than necessary - can you guys tell that I am totally spoiled by working at a place that is casual attire all the time - LOL

[ThreeCircles]

You're lucky Ginny! While I was working at Moffitt it was a tie everyday! Not that I dislike ties, mind you. I'm just not very good at getting them to look right! :)

[SeaSpray]

Originally posted by ************
Wow! Three formal nights! DH really is a nut. ;)

Travis and I always book Palo on either the formal night or semi-formal night to avoid wearing our suits three nights. While we both like to get "spiffyed" up on the cruise, two nights is usually our limit.

Is John going all the way with a tux or is he going the suit route?


John will be wearing his suit 3 times on our cruise. It's a beautiful suit :) He'll have 3 different dress shirts and 3 different ties though. I liked the idea of renting tuxes for him and the boys because it'd be that much less to pack, but they all own nice suits already, and they're comfortable in them, so we decided to skip the tuxes.

I plan on buying John and the boys matching Mickey Mouse ties for one of the formal nights. I like the ones that aren't too garish or obvious, where you have to look closely to see the Mickey head shapes in the pattern. Otherwise I'm sure my teen sons wouldn't wear a tie with Mickey Mouse on it. :p

[winnyis]

Terri - at what ages did you boys start to like dressing up. My DS hates to get dressed up - if it was up to him he would wear jeans and a red shirt every day. I bought him a suit for my DD's communion and had to bribe him with a trip to TRU if he wore it - he did.

He agreed to wear a tie on the cruise only if I found him one like daddys Tommy Bahama tie with the palm trees. Thankfully I found one in JCpenney and it didnt cost me $55 like DH's did.

[ThreeCircles]

Terry--

I'm sure all the guys in your group will look great. I actually bought my very first suit for my first seven-night cruise on the Disney Magic in 2002. (Can you believe I made it to age 26 without owning a suit?!?! :) ) I'll have to admit, it is fun to get dressed up. The formal pictures with Mickey and Minnie, Donald, Goofy, and yes, even Pluto, all dressed in their formal wear always look great.

I have three, yes three, Disney ties! Two of them are older though and really shouldn't be worn in public anymore. I think my tie tying ability ruins them! :eek: I think the matching Mickey ties are an excellent idea!

[Reenieny18]

Hello everyone,
Getting so close,, we are so excited. Jason,, cant wait to see your adventure on line.
I have been reading the Passporters Guide and figured out that our dinner rotation will probably be .. PLAPPLAPP So we should be in AP for the FORMAL night... is that a good night?
We are celebrating a few milestones this cruise and I am not sure what night they set them to be.

Any excurions ideas yet???

Thanks for reading

Reenie
so excited>:Pinkbounc

[Mjasp]

Anyone else want to share where they are staying pre night. I am listing the hotel after your name on page 1.

Joanna

[Karel]

We're staying at the Radisson Friday night. Not sure what time when we're going to get there; depends on what we do the days preceeding.

Three Circles - you must have missed our info in a previous post. Please add to your web page.

Karel, Rich, Chris - 13, Kyle -12 and Katie -10 from New Jersey. This is our second Disney cruise. Our cabins are on the second deck but I can't think of the room numbers right now.

I'm trying to find some codes to stay at WDW two nights before the cruise. I'm going to look at Vero Beach too; that might be an option.

[Mjasp]

Karel and Reenie...I listed where you are staying pre night on page 1 of this thread for quick reference.

Joanna

[Mjasp]

By the way...I am almost totally done with the pre arranging.

Bought my cruise insurance form www.accessamerica.com/aaa (Thanks Terry)

Rebooked my SW airline tix this morning. They went down to $74 on our southbound flight and used our 2 free tickets for 4 one ways for the way home. So now I have to change my excel sheet.(Thanks Terry for the excel sheet)

Think all I have to do now is decide whether we are going to use a rent a car OR a stretch limo.

Oh decisions, decisions LOL

How is everyone else doing? Are you all done?

Joanna

[SeaSpray]

Hi everyone :wave2:

Ginny: My sons don't mind dressing up, they're used to it because they wear their suits 3 times a week, every week. We're Jehovah's Witnesses and they wear their suits to all our meetings. They're comfortable wearing a suit because they wear one so often. Otherwise, I'm sure they wouldn't be thrilled at the idea of wearing a suit while on vacation. LOL

Jason: I'm glad your pics came out nice, and I'm really looking forward to having the formal pictures taken of my family. I hope we get at least a few good ones that I can frame for our livingroom. :)

Reenie: I keep looking over the list of excursions and we still haven't made any definite decisions yet. All along we've been saying that we're definitely doing the Tulum ruins excursion, but now I have my husband at least considering doing the Cozumel Jeep Safari tour instead. I would *love* to see the ruins in Tulum, but I think the Jeep tour would be a lot more fun for the boys. I wish we could do both!

Joanna: You're really checking off a lot on your list now! :sunny: I'm glad you were able to use the info about travel insurance. I think it's a great deal because they include kids for free. :)

As for me, I guess the only decisions or plans left are going to be which excursions we'll do. I've made our spa and Palo reservations already (via REAS package), ordered DSs' passports, and have our limos booked. I can't think of anything else. Just hope I'm not forgetting anything! :hyper: