7/13/13 ~~ Eastern Mediterranean Mouseketeers!

[Newfoundland Sailor]

Can someone post for us newbies who get to book our excursions this weekend what is currently sold out?

DH and I are trying to get an idea of what options we have at the moment. We are planning a mix of DCL, private and on your own excursions but wondering if we are going to be forced into going OYO in a couple of places because there are limited options.

TIA!!

I have updated the sold out/availability page for anyone wanting an up-date on excursions and Palo. (Post #1210 on this thread)

There are been a few changes with some excursions opening up and unfortunately more of Athens sold out.

Good luck to everyone booking this weekend.

Here is the link: http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=48099557&postcount=1210

 

[ynspire]

Still can't send PMs. Eileen, confirming for fish extender. Thanks for organizing!

-Yvonne

 

[WDW Princess 71]

Is anyone else really excited that we get to sail on the "classic" Magic, the way she is now? I'm sure most of you have seen the announcement this week of the updates and changes they will be doing during the Magic's 6 week dry dock after this Europe season. Some of the things look cool, like the Aquadunk water slide, and of course the general refurb of the rooms and public spaces is needed. But I'm not crazy that they are getting rid of Parrot Cay and turning it into Carioca's...I think that name is lame and the artist rendering doesn't look very appealing or Disney like. I'm also not a fan of them removing half of the staircase in the atrium. Overall I'm sure there will be things I'll like and not like, but I'm very nostalgic and don't like change to things I'm fond of. I'm really glad to be able to enjoy 12 nights on the Magic the way she has been for the past 15 years. Although I've only sailed her once, I've sailed the Wonder 3 other times so I'm fond of the classic ships layouts and features and will definitely be sad to see some of the things go/change.

 

[Eleblanc]

Still can't send PMs. Eileen, confirming for fish extender. Thanks for organizing!

-Yvonne

Yvonne,

Sorry, I didn't think about everyone not being able to do the PM thing yet. Thanks for posting, you are all set for the FE exchange.

Eileen

 

[LovesToRun]

Is anyone else really excited that we get to sail on the "classic" Magic, the way she is now? I'm sure most of you have seen the announcement this week of the updates and changes they will be doing during the Magic's 6 week dry dock after this Europe season. Some of the things look cool, like the Aquadunk water slide, and of course the general refurb of the rooms and public spaces is needed. But I'm not crazy that they are getting rid of Parrot Cay and turning it into Carioca's...I think that name is lame and the artist rendering doesn't look very appealing or Disney like. I'm also not a fan of them removing half of the staircase in the atrium. Overall I'm sure there will be things I'll like and not like, but I'm very nostalgic and don't like change to things I'm fond of. I'm really glad to be able to enjoy 12 nights on the Magic the way she has been for the past 15 years. Although I've only sailed her once, I've sailed the Wonder 3 other times so I'm fond of the classic ships layouts and features and will definitely be sad to see some of the things go/change.

I am excited to go on the Magic the way it is now. I just love the classic ships! When I was on the Fantasy 3 weeks ago, though we had a super fun time, every day I found myself missing the "classic" ship feel.

I have mixed feelings, though, on the renovations. I also like that they are doing a refub on the public spaces and (hopefully) the staterooms, as that is always needed just to keep things looking nice. But, I don't like that they are trying to go for more of a contemporary feel (the words they used on the video). I love the "classic" feel, and a contemporary feel is going to change things, I think.

BUT, I do love that they are re-doing the kids club. The kids club on the Fantasy was amazing, and I think way better than the Magic or Wonder (the lab & oceanears). Although, my kids will both be too old for the Lab and Oceanears club by the time this is all done, but still.... I think this will be great.

And, the Aquadunk and the new other slide are great additions.... just more options on the pool decks for sea days.

But, I mostly just want it to stay having a "classic" feel, and not turn to contemporary. The Fantasy (and guessing the Dream...I haven't been on the Dream yet) are both contemporary, so people can get that feel on those ships.

But, I keep having to remind myself that most people don't like change, especially when it's changing something that they really like already (kind of like the "if it's not broke, don't fix it" type of mentality, BUT what I do find is when the change does happen, people resist at first, but after a while, people get used to the new changes, and like it after they get used to it.

Maybe they'll keep the Wonder as is... I love the Wonder, too.

But, overall, yes, I can't wait to be on the Magic the way she is now! Not too much longer!!

 

[ky71]

DONE!

Finally the day has come!

I have just completed my online check in, kid's club rego and best of all the two port excursions I needed. Whilst the tour we wanted in Turkey (Ephesus and Waterpark) was sold out, we managed to get a mini van for the 9 of us through DCL and by the time we add on entry to Ephesus sites and the Adaland waterpark, we should be at around the same cost. And the bonus is that there is a guide included - WooHoo!

Thanks Heather for updating the excursion list so we knew which ones were gone already. This was a huge help for me. Thanks again!

 

[ky71]

Okay now I am second guessing myself...

Can anyone please confirm that the price shown for the Mini bus private tour on DCL's website for Turkey (at $429) is the TOTAL cost, not a per person cost?

The reason I am now unsure is that DCL have the 8hr private mini BUS including driver and guide for up to 12px at $429 and the 8hr private mini VAN including driver and guide for up to 4px for $699.

$270 more but for 8 less people to tour...I'm confused. Please help!

 

[Newfoundland Sailor]

Okay now I am second guessing myself...

Can anyone please confirm that the price shown for the Mini bus private tour on DCL's website for Turkey (at $429) is the TOTAL cost, not a per person cost?

The reason I am now unsure is that DCL have the 8hr private mini BUS including driver and guide for up to 12px at $429 and the 8hr private mini VAN including driver and guide for up to 4px for $699.

$270 more but for 8 less people to tour...I'm confused. Please help!

I just peeked on the DCL website and you are correct that it is up to 12 pax in a mini-bus for $429. And you only book under one name. So that would mean that's the total not per person.

Glad you made out okay this morning!

Heather

 

[DisneyPaulPgh]

My partner Brian and our son Brennen (age 5) and I are looking forward to this great trip. We are from Pittsburgh, PA and Palm Coast, FL. Second seating. #7598

 

[Newfoundland Sailor]

My partner Brian and our son Brennen (age 5) and I are looking forward to this great trip. We are from Pittsburgh, PA and Palm Coast, FL. Second seating. #7598

Welcome!

If my boys bump into you I warn you they will be pumping you for Penguins scoop....they are huge fans. My eldest (DS-12) can't wait to go to Pittsburgh to see a game (and my youngest (DS-4) can't wait to go to the zoo!).

 

[fabulousoldshoes]

Is anyone else really excited that we get to sail on the "classic" Magic, the way she is now? I'm sure most of you have seen the announcement this week of the updates and changes they will be doing during the Magic's 6 week dry dock after this Europe season. Some of the things look cool, like the Aquadunk water slide, and of course the general refurb of the rooms and public spaces is needed. But I'm not crazy that they are getting rid of Parrot Cay and turning it into Carioca's...I think that name is lame and the artist rendering doesn't look very appealing or Disney like. I'm also not a fan of them removing half of the staircase in the atrium. Overall I'm sure there will be things I'll like and not like, but I'm very nostalgic and don't like change to things I'm fond of. I'm really glad to be able to enjoy 12 nights on the Magic the way she has been for the past 15 years. Although I've only sailed her once, I've sailed the Wonder 3 other times so I'm fond of the classic ships layouts and features and will definitely be sad to see some of the things go/change.

Some of the changes do seem pretty cool. I love the atrium the way it is though and I'm going to miss it after the change, especially the chandelier they have now it's one of my favorite things on the ship. I've never really been a fan of Parrot Cay though so I won't be sad to see it go. It seems I always end up in their on formal night and my dress always clashes with the bright colors haha.

 

[Amy Fran]

Some of the changes do seem pretty cool. I love the atrium the way it is though and I'm going to miss it after the change, especially the chandelier they have now it's one of my favorite things on the ship. I've never really been a fan of Parrot Cay though so I won't be sad to see it go. It seems I always end up in their on formal night and my dress always clashes with the bright colors haha.

That's so funny! We, too, cross our fingers that we won't be in Parrot Cay for formal night! This is certainly a welcome change that I'm excited to see how it turns out. I'm most "upset" about the atrium changes, but I keep reminding myself that Disney doesn't spend millions of dollars to make things ugly. I'm sure they have a brilliant plan for beautiful spaces (besides a brilliant marketing plan that makes everyone want to sail on the new & improved Magic next year!)

 

[drlaurafsu]

We too got our bookings done last night! Finally!!

The only two DCL excursions we did were the Ephesus w/ Terrace Houses & Pisa & Lucca for DH & DS. And we managed to get Palo for the last night at sea. I've already done Pisa and Lucca on another trip and really want to visit Cinque Terre - which I am probably going to do on my own. I really want to just see the villages and take photos. If anyone else is planning to go and wants to meet up, take pictures and wander the villages let me know!

I'm disappointed there weren't many options left for Athens. With three ships in port that day its going to be a zoo so we are thinking about what our options are for that day.

I'm glad we were finally able to get at least this part of the trip settled. Now its time to really get the planning together. DH and DS are going to S America in June for 10 days so that will likely be when I get most of the shopping done for the trip! And then I'll start packing.

In the meantime I have to prep for mine & DS's upcoming trip to WDW and plan some fun stuff for my niece and nephew for their trip in Dec. I'll likely end up making some things for them and ship them to their resort to be waiting for them. I did a lot of fun stuff last year for DS's birthday trip with his friends. So I have some ideas. Also need to try and get some character photos this upcoming trip so I can make an autograph book for my niece.

 

[LovesToRun]

We too got our bookings done last night! Finally!!

The only two DCL excursions we did were the Ephesus w/ Terrace Houses & Pisa & Lucca for DH & DS. And we managed to get Palo for the last night at sea. I've already done Pisa and Lucca on another trip and really want to visit Cinque Terre - which I am probably going to do on my own. I really want to just see the villages and take photos. If anyone else is planning to go and wants to meet up, take pictures and wander the villages let me know!

I'm disappointed there weren't many options left for Athens. With three ships in port that day its going to be a zoo so we are thinking about what our options are for that day.

I'm glad we were finally able to get at least this part of the trip settled. Now its time to really get the planning together. DH and DS are going to S America in June for 10 days so that will likely be when I get most of the shopping done for the trip! And then I'll start packing.

In the meantime I have to prep for mine & DS's upcoming trip to WDW and plan some fun stuff for my niece and nephew for their trip in Dec. I'll likely end up making some things for them and ship them to their resort to be waiting for them. I did a lot of fun stuff last year for DS's birthday trip with his friends. So I have some ideas. Also need to try and get some character photos this upcoming trip so I can make an autograph book for my niece.

Congrats on getting to book excursions & Palo!!

I would keep checking periodically on the Athens excursions. People change their minds and cancel. And, also check back 3 or 4 days before the cruise because if you cancel within 3 days before the cruise, you still get charged, so if anyone is going to cancel an Athens excursion it would be 4 days before the cruise so they don't get charged.

Also, sometimes there are openings once you are on the ship, so if you still don't have any plans booked for Athens by the time you get on the ship, go to guest services when you board and see if there are openings... that happened to us once on a cruise. We wanted a particular excursion that was booked online, but once we boarded, guest services was able to get us on the excursion.

And, South America sounds super fun!!! Where are you going in S. America! I SO hope that Disney at some point has an itinerary going to S. America!

 

[drlaurafsu]

DH's family is in Colombia so he and DS are headed to Medellin. It is lovely (have been 6 times but not making this trip). DS is going to camp while he is there and it will all be in Spanish. We'll see how much he has really learned at school! He's in a bilingual immersion program so even though he's only 6 I think he's doing pretty well.

We are on the fence about taking him to Ephesus. But if we do he will technically travel to 4 different continents on his summer vacation. Quite the summer for him. Will be tough to top this one.

Thanks for the advice about the excursions. We will check back as we figure out what our options/plans are.

 

[LovesToRun]

DH's family is in Colombia so he and DS are headed to Medellin. It is lovely (have been 6 times but not making this trip). DS is going to camp while he is there and it will all be in Spanish. We'll see how much he has really learned at school! He's in a bilingual immersion program so even though he's only 6 I think he's doing pretty well.

We are on the fence about taking him to Ephesus. But if we do he will technically travel to 4 different continents on his summer vacation. Quite the summer for him. Will be tough to top this one.

Thanks for the advice about the excursions. We will check back as we figure out what our options/plans are.

Oh, I misread and I had thought you said YOU and DH were going to S. America, but now I see you said DH & DS. That is SO great they are doing that!! I have really good friends here who are from Colombia...the NICEST people! I love their accents, too. My favorite thing when she sends me a text message and she intends to write "haha" in her text, she writes "jaja" instead. I love it!!

What a great opportunity for your son! Traveling is one of the best educations an child can get, I think.

 

[Y-GRO-UP]

Anyone out there..? just stumbled across this disboards.com while searching for information on our return flight from Barcelona. We have been on one Disney Cruise before but never in the Med. Not sure exactly how this DisBoard works. But i have some questions regarding our Med cruise and it seem like alot of people on this board know a lot of stuff about Disney cruises.

Cruising July 13 out of Barcelona. Husband, wife, 14 yr old boy, 11 yr old girl. 2nd seating from Virginia....USA.

 

[Newfoundland Sailor]

Anyone out there..? just stumbled across this disboards.com while searching for information on our return flight from Barcelona. We have been on one Disney Cruise before but never in the Med. Not sure exactly how this DisBoard works. But i have some questions regarding our Med cruise and it seem like alot of people on this board know a lot of stuff about Disney cruises.

Cruising July 13 out of Barcelona. Husband, wife, 14 yr old boy, 11 yr old girl. 2nd seating from Virginia....USA.

Welcome to the DISboards! And to the July 13th sailing to Greece & Turkey on the Magic meet thread. Ask away on a post....there is always someone that knows an answer or will find out!

 

[Y-GRO-UP]

I believe I have read posts referencing Making arrangements with DISair after debarkation to make sure they get to the flight back to the states from Barcelona. ... what is DISair? How to? Can I book separately and still make a 10:30 or 11:05 flight? Thoughts? Thanks

 

[Newfoundland Sailor]

I believe I have read posts referencing Making arrangements with DISair after debarkation to make sure they get to the flight back to the states from Barcelona. ... what is DISair? How to? Can I book separately and still make a 10:30 or 11:05 flight? Thoughts? Thanks

There are two things they could be talking about:

1. Booking flights directly with Disney Cruise Line. This way DCL will ensure that you make the flights & the cruise portion and you don't have any hassle. You need to do this directly with your cruise reservation. Some have found it more expensive and some have found it a comparable price to booking seperately. DCL has been known not to always follow their own guidelines of departures (i.e. after 12:00pm) when booking flights for guests. But they have ensured that they got to their flights.

2. You can book transfers with DCL to and from the ship. I believe that you must be within the guidelines of a departure after 12:00pm in order to ensure that you have enough time. (Perhaps someone else can confirm this or call DCL direct). My opinion would be that if your flights are earlier than the recommended time I would book something privately - either by taxi or with a car service. My parents have an 11:35 flight that morning and we have booked a car service to be safe. [It ended up being much cheaper this way than the DCL transfers] My experience was that DCL will ask the prior evening if anyone has an earlier flight so that they can try and expedite your departure from the ship.

Does this help any?