09/13/09 SSMC09 S.S. Member Cruise 2009 - Part 4!

[BoosGram]

Hi Dave! Good to hear from you! Glad you had a nice weekend at the campground!

Yep - getting ready for my big event (and 20 other things all at once)!
We start out at 6 am Friday - in the Nor'easter!!!!!

Mary, well put. This was only our first member's cruise, but after all the buildup, you know, secrecy or death (and what little they said on their website), we were certainly underwhelmed. And like you, we love DVC and DCL, but after the D23 Expo, I really feel like we got gypped. So if they wanted to disappoint current cruisers to get first time cruisers, it worked. We won't be going next year. One final gripe: did anyone else think the food was just OK besides me? The best meal we had all week was dinner at the Grand Floridian Cafe (V&A is just a bit out of our league). I think the salmon I had there might possibly be the best salmon I've had in years. No kidding.

 

[FaithTrustnPixieDust]

Mary, well put. This was only our first member's cruise, but after all the buildup, you know, secrecy or death (and what little they said on their website), we were certainly underwhelmed. And like you, we love DVC and DCL, but after the D23 Expo, I really feel like we got gypped. So if they wanted to disappoint current cruisers to get first time cruisers, it worked. We won't be going next year. One final gripe: did anyone else think the food was just OK besides me? The best meal we had all week was dinner at the Grand Floridian Cafe (V&A is just a bit out of our league). I think the salmon I had there might possibly be the best salmon I've had in years. No kidding.

Hi Joanne!

As you know this was our first cruise so I can not compare it to prior DCL meals. That said, I was not particulary impressed with the food. We really enjoy different types of food and we love to try new things. There were a couple of things I enjoyed but overall it was nothing in comparison to some of the meals at our favorite WDW locations.

Believe me I did not go hungry and I am not saying the food was bad but I had higher expectations. I am not sure why I got it but something made me order the lobster mac and cheese dish. It was our last night and I had meat all the other nights so I thought I would try it. Well, I think that was my most disappointing meal. The texture of the macaroni was terrible and it had no flavor. It was so disappointing. But again, I probably should have known better. I did not have much time to really look at the menu as I was distracted (can not remember why at this point) so I saw it and thought I would give it a try. Okay, so I am saying that dish was bad.

I think the other thing overall that I was disappointed with at the restaurants was that our family always seemed to be the ones facing the wall. We had table 11 (along the wall- near far right corner) and after the first night the servers would have the younger kids drinks ready for them with their names marked on the cups. And it seemed like we were always the ones with our backs to the rest of the restaurant. Well, one night the other adults went to Palos so we had the table to ourselves. Lauren took it upon herself to move stuff around and took the better seats. I had never even mentioned anything about the seats prior to that. I almost feel like the server got annoyed. Not sure if the seating was intentional but it would have made it a more enjoyable experience if the servers at least took turns with the families. Maybe I am sounding petty but it was something that bothered me a little bit.

But, of course, I was online this evening checking out the points for SSMC10 and trying to see if I can work it out.

Hmmmmm.....points, cash, points and cash combo.

Then back to the Alaska cruise points.

Hey, maybe I will see if there are any rooms on the WBTA. How much is airfare to Barcelona....is that where it departs from??? I bet it is cheaper than the Alaska trip. And I think that would be right after I finish up class. Isn't that also September 2010?

Lisa

 

[manascarfan]

Good MornigDeck 9 Sunrise Members and all other Members Cruisers

Lisa the WBTA is Sept 18, 2010. We have airfare from Boston to Barcelona & the return from Orlando to Boston for about the same price as Boston to Vancouver. The hard part is that it is a 14 day cruise, and it is tough to take that much time away from work.

Sue-My thoughts are with you as you start your 3 day adventure. What a special person to do something like that!

 

[WDWLVR]

Good Morning Deck 9 Sunrise Members and all other Members Cruisers

Well I'm the last person to ask about food because I'm such a picky eater. So I go for the basics and and was pretty happy. Mark is the more adventurous eater and he said things we good but not over the top.

I think part of it is that they are making so many meals at one time that's why so many people like Palo.


Here's to Sue as she starts her walk today!

 

[dvc4life]

Good Morning Everybody!

Well, the food for me was ok. I really didn't care for the new menus/choices much, but what I had was good. Again, for me it is hard to give an honest opinion as we ate at Palo's twice. (The first time was by our choice and the second we were invited to a special dinner since purchasing more points.) And I have to say, the second time at Palo I didn't care for my meal. I don't remember the name but it was a pasta dish with prime rib in it. Wouldn't order that again.

Plus, and I hate to say this, but we didn't care for our table mates once we made it to the dining room. Probably our fault not being there the first two nights. But. . .they were kinda stick in the muds. And we tried early seating, had to try it once, and didn't like that. So, next time it will be late for us. So, hopefully next year we will either a) get a four person table like we have had in the past or b) can hook up with someone on here.

Time will tell.

 

[djstweety]

Well, Good Morning to all of my cruisin' buddies!!

You were all up very early this morning! I did the totally unusual - I overslept and apparently both of us went right through the alarm! Ran upstairs to wake Dustin and he wasn't thrilled about only having a half an hour to get ready - he's one that likes to get up early and take his good ole' time about things! Soooo, a little rough start here! But all good now!

Thanks soooo much for all of the good wishes for my walk!!

You guys are fantastic and your support means the world to me! Yes, the weather looks horrific - go figure, a Nor'easter no less - but one way or another, we'll all make it through!

When I get home, I'll try to post some photos of us soggy walkers!! We'll have to leave around 4:30 am tomorrow! Friend Shirley will already be here, she's sleeping at my house tonight because she's further away. She's my survivor - 10 years!!! Then we'll swing by and pick up friend Linda and niece Jen. Start is in Willow Grove, PA at Willow Grove Mall. Then walk down towards Philly. Camp is in Fairmount Park in Philadelphia, just outside of center city. That will be approximately 19.6 miles, so they say. Then second day will loop up and around the Main Line area - about 20.8 miles - and back to camp. Then the last day, Sunday, will be out and around Center City, Boat House Row, the Art Museum, City Hall, Liberty Bell, and all that - and then end up out at the Naval Ship Yard, out passed the stadiums. And yes, Lisa, GO PHILLIES, and there is a Phillies game that night at 8 pm so it's going to really make traffic getting to us pretty nasty - hope John and Dustin leave early!! They always come to the finish and cheer me on!!! The closing ceremony (like the Opening one tomorrow) are very emotional - but really wonderful!!

Good Luck Sue have a great day


Good Morning fellow coffee club and everyone else also

Mary, great letter...I hope they get the hint.


Can't stay and talk, forgot this is bosses day. and I forgot to make her card until now. Were playing a joke on my boss. I am making her a card that looks like it came from a 5 year old, explaining that things are tough and this is all we could afford It will be great. talk to you later.

 

[wltdsnyfan]

Morning Everyone!

Good luck Sue!

 

[dvc4life]

Go Sue!!!!!!!!!! Good Luck with your walk.

 

[FaithTrustnPixieDust]

Good Morning my fellow Disers!!

Can I still be a part of the Sunrise Club if I were up and having coffee in my room or enroute to my room while you were all hanging out on Deck 9? I was thinking of you all while I was drinking my coffee.

Dave - Thanks for the information. I figured as much on the airfare. I would love to do a 14 day cruise. I think that would be just what I needed after finishing up my last class next summer. No work, school, phone, kids, or worries for 14+ days. Again, just a reminder I do love my children but .

Mary - Based on the feedback from all the experienced cruisers, I think your letter was fitting. I would like to provide them some feedback from a first time cruisers perspective. I think there are things (DCL) could really improve upon to help with planning and the overall experience for first timers. I have to say that if it were not for all of you that I would really have been lost.

I can't imagine what it would have been like if my first cruise were one with lots of excursions to plan and with just me and the kids.

And, I think Mark summed it up for me with his...Good but not over the top statement. Again, I think I just had my expectations set too high.

Diane - That sounds like fun with the card for your boss. It sounds like something I would do for my boss. Although he is up in Westborough, Mass and I have not actually seen him face to face in over a year....probably even longer.

Chris - How is Brooke feeling? Has her cough cleared up yet?

And then SUE!! Poor Sue out in this cold, wet weather. I hope she brought lots of socks and extra sneakers to keep her feet warm, dry and blister free. Here's to a great time rain or shine!!

Have a great day everyone!!

 

[FaithTrustnPixieDust]

Good MornigDeck 9 Sunrise Members and all other Members Cruisers

Lisa the WBTA is Sept 18, 2010. We have airfare from Boston to Barcelona & the return from Orlando to Boston for about the same price as Boston to Vancouver. The hard part is that it is a 14 day cruise, and it is tough to take that much time away from work.

Sue-My thoughts are with you as you start your 3 day adventure. What a special person to do something like that!

What airline are you using from Boston to Barcelona? How far in advance are you flying over? I have never been oversees before so that would be a whole new planning experience for me also.

 

[susieq55]

Good MornigDeck 9 Sunrise Members and all other Members Cruisers

Sue-My thoughts are with you as you start your 3 day adventure. What a special person to do something like that!

Here's to Sue as she starts her walk today!

Good Luck Sue have a great day

Morning Everyone!

Good luck Sue!

Go Sue!!!!!!!!!! Good Luck with your walk.

Good Morning my fellow Disers!!

And then SUE!! Poor Sue out in this cold, wet weather. I hope she brought lots of socks and extra sneakers to keep her feet warm, dry and blister free. Here's to a great time rain or shine!!

You guys are AMAZING!! Thanks!​

It took me a minute to sit down and type after reading all of the good wishes and encouragement that you all sent me this morning. I was overwhelmed and still have tears running down my cheeks. You are the best!!

Well, I guess since you can all see that I am home this morning instead of the Walk, the organizers cancelled the first two days of the Walk because of the weather and the conditions at the site where they were going to set up the camp - it is apparently pretty flooded. It is the very first time that I think this has happened to this extent. I know there have been weather issues before, but I haven't heard about two days being cancelled before. I am soooo disappointed. But we will put on our happy faces and do the one day that is still planned (and probably still in the rain!) for Sunday.

The organizers have posted statements that their medical and safety experts said that it was not safe to proceed and the logically side of me knows that it's right but the emotional side of me that has been building and waiting for this event is just heartbroken - and you'd probably have to be a part of this to fully understand (and I don't mean that to sound conceded). But after having fundraised and practiced for almost a year, to have it cancelled by Mother Nature is soooo frustrating. And of course, something this big can not be rescheduled.

So it is - to use one of those annoying sayings! - what it is, and we'll deal with it - it just won't be as much fun!

THANKS AGAIN, EVERYONE!!!

So, anyone having a second cup - I'm here!!!!

 

[disrailfan]

Sorry everyone I have been unable to get online for the last couple of weeks. Has anyone heard whether they have announced the booking date for the 2010 SS Member cruise yet? I thought last year it was in November, but I could be wrong.

If anyone knows please let me know.

Thanks,

DisRailFan (aka Milford).....

 

[wltdsnyfan]

Lisa - I was up to but on my veranda watching the water go by. My DH joined them a few times. I just did not want to get dressed

Sue- Sorry to hear that. But better safe then sorry. Good luck on Sunday.

I am on my second cup of coffee.

Dianne - Love the idea bout the card. You will have to let us know what your boss says.

 

[BoosGram]

Good Morning Everybody!

Well, the food for me was ok. I really didn't care for the new menus/choices much, but what I had was good. Again, for me it is hard to give an honest opinion as we ate at Palo's twice. (The first time was by our choice and the second we were invited to a special dinner since purchasing more points.) And I have to say, the second time at Palo I didn't care for my meal. I don't remember the name but it was a pasta dish with prime rib in it. Wouldn't order that again.

Plus, and I hate to say this, but we didn't care for our table mates once we made it to the dining room. Probably our fault not being there the first two nights. But. . .they were kinda stick in the muds. And we tried early seating, had to try it once, and didn't like that. So, next time it will be late for us. So, hopefully next year we will either a) get a four person table like we have had in the past or b) can hook up with someone on here.

Time will tell.

We were really glad we'd linked our dining (thanks again, Flo). In the past we've sat w/random families and it was not a problem, but it was much nicer being linked w/folks you already "knew."

Good Morning Deck 9 Sunrise Members and all other Members Cruisers

Well I'm the last person to ask about food because I'm such a picky eater. So I go for the basics and and was pretty happy. Mark is the more adventurous eater and he said things we good but not over the top.

I think part of it is that they are making so many meals at one time that's why so many people like Palo.


Here's to Sue as she starts her walk today!

We didn't do Palo's this cruise, although we enjoy it a lot. I still don't think the food lived up to past cruises, at least for us. Now, if only the food lived up to the service we got...it would've been great.

Hi Joanne!
Hey, maybe I will see if there are any rooms on the WBTA. How much is airfare to Barcelona....is that where it departs from??? I bet it is cheaper than the Alaska trip. And I think that would be right after I finish up class. Isn't that also September 2010?

Lisa

Hi back, Lisa. You should definitely consider the WBTA, right Dave? Considering the prices for the Mediterranean and Alaskan cruises, it's a bargain! The 14 days are about what the 7 are for Alaska; no joke. We've never gone to Europe, so this is a big deal for us. We included the airfare in our price so Disney has to be responsible for flights and so on. I've heard too many horror stories about luggage and missed flights to want to take any chances on what may be our only chance to go abroad. Hey, at least think about it.

Good Luck Sue have a great day


Good Morning fellow coffee club and everyone else also

Mary, great letter...I hope they get the hint.


Can't stay and talk, forgot this is bosses day. and I forgot to make her card until now. Were playing a joke on my boss. I am making her a card that looks like it came from a 5 year old, explaining that things are tough and this is all we could afford It will be great. talk to you later.

Dianne, that's hysterical!

Sue, so sorry to hear about your abbreviated walk. It's tough to look forward to something like that and then have it altered. Good luck on Sunday anyway.

 

[erionm]

Sorry everyone I have been unable to get online for the last couple of weeks. Has anyone heard whether they have announced the booking date for the 2010 SS Member cruise yet? I thought last year it was in November, but I could be wrong.

If anyone knows please let me know.

Thanks,

DisRailFan (aka Milford).....

Booking for SSMC2010 will take place on Nov 7th starting at 9am. MS will only be accepting calls for SSMC2010 or concerning reservations with arrival dates of 11/7 to 11/17. Point chart/cash rates are up on the member website.

 

[manascarfan]

Good Morning Everybody!

Well, the food for me was ok. I really didn't care for the new menus/choices much, but what I had was good. Again, for me it is hard to give an honest opinion as we ate at Palo's twice. (The first time was by our choice and the second we were invited to a special dinner since purchasing more points.) And I have to say, the second time at Palo I didn't care for my meal. I don't remember the name but it was a pasta dish with prime rib in it. Wouldn't order that again.

Plus, and I hate to say this, but we didn't care for our table mates once we made it to the dining room. Probably our fault not being there the first two nights. But. . .they were kinda stick in the muds. And we tried early seating, had to try it once, and didn't like that. So, next time it will be late for us. So, hopefully next year we will either a) get a four person table like we have had in the past or b) can hook up with someone on here.

Time will tell.

Chris-I didn't care for the food as much this time either. It was good, just not as good as I remeber from previous DCL cruises. I wish you could have joined us or Kelly at dinner we had a great group, and didn't do linked. I think we will link up next time!!

Good Morning my fellow Disers!!

Can I still be a part of the Sunrise Club if I were up and having coffee in my room or enroute to my room while you were all hanging out on Deck 9? I was thinking of you all while I was drinking my coffee.

Dave - Thanks for the information. I figured as much on the airfare. I would love to do a 14 day cruise. I think that would be just what I needed after finishing up my last class next summer. No work, school, phone, kids, or worries for 14+ days. Again, just a reminder I do love my children but .

Have a great day everyone!!

Lisa-Honorary membership bestowed upon you and Flo of course And no reminder needed for the kids, we as well love ours dearly, but sometimes you need the break.

What airline are you using from Boston to Barcelona? How far in advance are you flying over? I have never been oversees before so that would be a whole new planning experience for me also.

Lisa-We booked the airlines and transfers with Disney, as we heard it was easier to make sure everything is included. We are flying in the am of the cruise.

Lisa - I was up to but on my veranda watching the water go by. My DH joined them a few times. I just did not want to get dressed

Flo-You have been a member by association, your husband was there!!

Hi back, Lisa. You should definitely consider the WBTA, right Dave? Considering the prices for the Mediterranean and Alaskan cruises, it's a bargain! The 14 days are about what the 7 are for Alaska; no joke. We've never gone to Europe, so this is a big deal for us. We included the airfare in our price so Disney has to be responsible for flights and so on. I've heard too many horror stories about luggage and missed flights to want to take any chances on what may be our only chance to go abroad. Hey, at least think about it.

Joanne-Of course, it is going to be a great cruise! I am with you on letting Disney handle it.

 

[Time4disneynow]

Sorry everyone I have been unable to get online for the last couple of weeks. Has anyone heard whether they have announced the booking date for the 2010 SS Member cruise yet? I thought last year it was in November, but I could be wrong.

If anyone knows please let me know.

Thanks,

DisRailFan (aka Milford).....

Booking for SSMC2010 will take place on Nov 8th starting at 9am. MS will only be accepting calls for SSMC2010 or concerning reservations with arrival dates of 11/7 to 11/17. Point chart/cash rates are up on the member website.

Hi Milford and Michael....my DH(Michael) called member services and they told him the call in date is Saturday, November 7th at 9am EST.

 

[FaithTrustnPixieDust]

Hi Milford and Michael....my DH(Michael) called member services and they told him the call in date is Saturday, November 7th at 9am EST.

Yes, I also thought it was 11/7.

 

[Donald is #1]

Well, Good Morning to all of my cruisin' buddies!!

You were all up very early this morning! I did the totally unusual - I overslept and apparently both of us went right through the alarm! Ran upstairs to wake Dustin and he wasn't thrilled about only having a half an hour to get ready - he's one that likes to get up early and take his good ole' time about things! Soooo, a little rough start here! But all good now!

Thanks soooo much for all of the good wishes for my walk!!

You guys are fantastic and your support means the world to me! Yes, the weather looks horrific - go figure, a Nor'easter no less - but one way or another, we'll all make it through!

When I get home, I'll try to post some photos of us soggy walkers!! We'll have to leave around 4:30 am tomorrow! Friend Shirley will already be here, she's sleeping at my house tonight because she's further away. She's my survivor - 10 years!!! Then we'll swing by and pick up friend Linda and niece Jen. Start is in Willow Grove, PA at Willow Grove Mall. Then walk down towards Philly. Camp is in Fairmount Park in Philadelphia, just outside of center city. That will be approximately 19.6 miles, so they say. Then second day will loop up and around the Main Line area - about 20.8 miles - and back to camp. Then the last day, Sunday, will be out and around Center City, Boat House Row, the Art Museum, City Hall, Liberty Bell, and all that - and then end up out at the Naval Ship Yard, out passed the stadiums. And yes, Lisa, GO PHILLIES, and there is a Phillies game that night at 8 pm so it's going to really make traffic getting to us pretty nasty - hope John and Dustin leave early!! They always come to the finish and cheer me on!!! The closing ceremony (like the Opening one tomorrow) are very emotional - but really wonderful!!

You guys are AMAZING!! Thanks!​

It took me a minute to sit down and type after reading all of the good wishes and encouragement that you all sent me this morning. I was overwhelmed and still have tears running down my cheeks. You are the best!!

Well, I guess since you can all see that I am home this morning instead of the Walk, the organizers cancelled the first two days of the Walk because of the weather and the conditions at the site where they were going to set up the camp - it is apparently pretty flooded. It is the very first time that I think this has happened to this extent. I know there have been weather issues before, but I haven't heard about two days being cancelled before. I am soooo disappointed. But we will put on our happy faces and do the one day that is still planned (and probably still in the rain!) for Sunday.

The organizers have posted statements that their medical and safety experts said that it was not safe to proceed and the logically side of me knows that it's right but the emotional side of me that has been building and waiting for this event is just heartbroken - and you'd probably have to be a part of this to fully understand (and I don't mean that to sound conceded). But after having fundraised and practiced for almost a year, to have it cancelled by Mother Nature is soooo frustrating. And of course, something this big can not be rescheduled.

So it is - to use one of those annoying sayings! - what it is, and we'll deal with it - it just won't be as much fun!

THANKS AGAIN, EVERYONE!!!

So, anyone having a second cup - I'm here!!!!

Wow, that is surprising that they had to cancel 2 days! Good luck on Sunday!

Have you done the 3 day before?

 

[FaithTrustnPixieDust]

Joanne and Dave or anyone else that is able to answer,

So if you use points to book the cruise and you book airfare through DCL do you just pay for the airfare separately with cash?

I guess I would go through DVC to book the cruise with points and then through DCL to book airfare??? I am not sure how that would work? As you can tell.

Thank you for all the help. Sorry to be such a pain.

Lisa