7/18/10 Mickey's Baltic Ballyhoo Part 6

[MrsScooby]

Hi guys I just did the math & those who are charging there tour (especially with Capital One Credit Cards (No exchange fee) ) it is better to have them charged in Rubles there is about a $200 difference in their favor! It more than makes up for the 3% fee Anastasia will be charging!

PS. Anastasi's credit card form lists both currencies I would be explicit about Rubles!

Wait, do you mean it costs less to charge with a Capitol One credit card (specifying rubles) than to pay cash in US dollars for Anastasia

We have that credit card, but were going to go with cash to avoid the 3% fee

 

[RJAYL]

Wait, do you mean it costs less to charge with a Capitol One credit card (specifying rubles) than to pay cash in US dollars for Anastasia

We have that credit card, but were going to go with cash to avoid the 3% fee

Look at the form she gave you. It lists discounted price for Dollars & Rubles go to a currency converter & see what the ruble price converts too.

On mine it is about $200 less than dollar price or $150 with 3%.

What it comes down to is that you will pay more by paying in $ in Cash even with the 3% charge for using a credit card!

 

[scrapycruiser]

Hi guys I just did the math & those who are charging there tour (especially with Capital One Credit Cards (No exchange fee) ) it is better to have them charged in Rubles there is about a $200 difference in their favor! It more than makes up for the 3% fee Anastasia will be charging!

PS. Anastasi's credit card form lists both currencies I would be explicit about Rubles!

Thanks ! Really good to know !

Also, thanks for the teen advice. "let sleeping dogs lie" ( actually I love my dogs ! )

 

[Sailingpartyof10]

I thought I saw a question about the London transit strike but did not see an answer. Does anyone know if there is still scheduled to be a strike the weekend of our sailing?

Also, I have read conflicting info about where we dock in Stockholm. Can we get a water taxi from there to Vasa/Skansen?

 

[Toocoolmom]

Hi

the weather in Scotland are so beautiful and hope continue for you to come to Scotland...

Scottishwee35

Keep up that good weather for us. We are ready for cooler weather. It has been in the 100's F. (38-39 C).

 

[MrsScooby]

Look at the form she gave you. It lists discounted price for Dollars & Rubles go to a currency converter & see what the ruble price converts too.

On mine it is about $200 less than dollar price or $150 with 3%.

What it comes down to is that you will pay more by paying in $ in Cash even with the 3% charge for using a credit card!

Don't have our form yet

I thought I saw a question about the London transit strike but did not see an answer. Does anyone know if there is still scheduled to be a strike the weekend of our sailing?

Also, I have read conflicting info about where we dock in Stockholm. Can we get a water taxi from there to Vasa/Skansen?

Last I read we were scheduled for Frihamnen in Stockholm

 

[Toocoolmom]

Okay all you DCL experts let's talk about booking another cruise while on this one. DH and I were talking about it last night and wondered if it was worth it. This is are 2nd DC and that was a few years ago. When we are at DW we normally rebook and have been pleased with the rates. Do you get a good rate or is it better just to wait for online specials? How does it work?

 

[Cousin Orville]

Keep up that good weather for us. We are ready for cooler weather. It has been in the 100's F. (38-39 C).

Agreed!

 

[Caropooh]

Don't have our form yet


Last I read we were scheduled for Frihamnen in Stockholm

hmmm, someone better do something about that!

 

[Caropooh]

Okay all you DCL experts let's talk about booking another cruise while on this one. DH and I were talking about it last night and wondered if it was worth it. This is are 2nd DC and that was a few years ago. When we are at DW we normally rebook and have been pleased with the rates. Do you get a good rate or is it better just to wait for online specials? How does it work?

We always rebook onboard for the 10% discount and onboard credit. We book a "dummy cruise" and then can move it to another date when we know when we want to go. If you are going to use a travel agent, make sure you tell the rebooking agent onboard who it is. That way they can put it in the record when they make the reservation. If you switch over to an agent later, they don't get as much commision.

 

[Caropooh]

hmmm, someone better do something about that!

OK, that someone just took care of it! Let me know if it doesn't come through!

 

[Cousin Orville]

We always rebook onboard for the 10% discount and onboard credit. We book a "dummy cruise" and then can move it to another date when we know when we want to go. If you are going to use a travel agent, make sure you tell the rebooking agent onboard who it is. That way they can put it in the record when they make the reservation. If you switch over to an agent later, they don't get as much commision.

So even if you change the dates of the next cruise you still get the 10% discount?

 

[Caropooh]

So even if you change the dates of the next cruise you still get the 10% discount?

yes, I believe that if the same promotion is running for the new date you will get that promotion. Since the 10% discount has been running for so long, we've never had a problem getting it still. We rebooked onbaord in August '08 and then changed it to this cruise when they came out. All promos transferred over with the reservation. We've always rebooked onboard. Since the deposits are refundable (except for suites) we have nothing to lose! Also, you can just rebook the reservation for one or 2 people in the cabin and add aditional people later. Just don't wait to long so that lifeboat space and kids club space doesn't fill up.

 

[drleblanc]

OK, as a first timer, this board is giving me a lot to think about....

First, what is a fish extender....

Second, how early do you recommend we check in to the cruise - we are staying the night before in Dover at a BB, so we are right there. Should be be there right at the check in time or just wait a bit for the crowds to die down....

Third.... remember to bring swiss chocolate (MILK CHOCOLATE) - that is for me to remember

Fourth... can anyone post a few links for the HOHO passes in Oslo, Copenhagen, might be a bit late to get them, but since we are not going to do excursions those dates, might be good to get them.

Finally, you guys all seem like a lot of fun, hope we get to meet a few of you on board.

Dan, Eileen (DW), and Abby (DD, 10.982)....

 

[Andrew DEREK UK]

Long post warning and catch up hope didnt miss anyone we were busy this weekend, so so chatty, (and nice)

I don't recall seeing them in the USA, at least not in NY or VA. I'll be on the look out in London

I would think euros over US dollars at least
Do you mean for tip?
I think they will take anything-but euros or local currency preferred

We have our usual veranda room so we are very happy


Easy fix. They tape the speakers and shopping tips in a loop and put them on the ship's channel so as long as you don't mind checking the tv that day, you will eventually see it. Martini's it is!

So far we haven't organized any Dis meet for this cruise. It's been mentioned a few times but hasn't gone anywhere. It would be nice. Anyone with ideas? It could be informal, like 11am the first sea day in the lobby or the little area where the computers are(used to be?) Can't think of the name of that bar area.

Thanks for responses, interesting,

Finally got my tickets from Anastasia!

All 6 of us the first day only 4 of us the second!

Great, they mean its closer, have you canceled your DCL ones?

I wish ! we've never, not had a verandah, but just happy to be going !
Husband retired this year !

We'll probably dress up pirates night, haven't figured out costume yet though

No on villian's night.

Will probably do the 15/5% on tipping of private guide.

We weren't able to get Estonian currency. Did not get Danish either, otherwise, Euro and local currency for rest of ports. Of course plastic will be used

Would love to try for an upgrade at the port, but we're sailing on DVC points so I'm not sure how I'd even go about it. Has anybody done an upgrade at the port when sailing on points? How is it done?

Can't believe it's only 21 days. We are on the final leg of a road trip out to Denver and back. and will have a lot to catch up on when we get home tomorrow night.

Thanks for response nad only 20 days.

Welcome aboard! We have a daughter that turned 11 in March! This is her 4th cruise, I'm sure she'd be happy to show Abigail the ropes!
If I may ask, what made you move to Switzerland?



I WANT OUR ANASTASIA STUFF!!!!!

Drop them a hint, an email,

Who is dressing up pirate night? - we have pirate t shirts and capris for that night

Who is dressing up Villains night, and if so, as who? - we have t shirts with every Disney villian on them and capris

Those on Private Tours, any plans on what you will tip, one person posted 15% Guide, and 5% driver, another a set fee $100 Guide and $50 Driver.

Who is taking currency for all ports, who is going on plasitc? - got about 50.00 foreign money for each port plus GBS and Euros for pre London and post Disneyland Paris and Paris

Anyone going for an upgrade at port??? not us - happy with our cat 6

No upgrade happy with what I have.

Wow you all sure have been busy today. It took me an hour just to catch up with everyone's posts.

We have exactly 7 days before we head over to the UK for our pre-trip. I feel really good about all I got done this weekend. DS and DD are packed. Yeah!!! I am almost packed and DH is in charge of himself. (Which means we may have to do a little shopping when we get there!)

To answer all of the questions today: The kids are taking there pirate ears but, that is all. And no for Villians night. Just too much to pack especially since we are bringing tuxes for the boys. We are sticking with DCL excursions mixed with a little DIY. Finally we are going mainly on plastic. I think I will pick up a little foreign currency from each country when we get on the boat. (Money seems to be my last big stress.)

Hope everyone has a great night. Thanks for all the great discussions and info.

Yes we were very chatty, and posty all weekend.

welcome to new cruisers
pirates yes somewhat
villians no
only disney tours
money from each port
we would love a dismeet. Afternoon of 1st sea day would be great.

Hi guys I just did the math & those who are charging there tour (especially with Capital One Credit Cards (No exchange fee) ) it is better to have them charged in Rubles there is about a $200 difference in their favor! It more than makes up for the 3% fee Anastasia will be charging!

PS. Anastasi's credit card form lists both currencies I would be explicit about Rubles!

Great points

I thought I saw a question about the London transit strike but did not see an answer. Does anyone know if there is still scheduled to be a strike the weekend of our sailing?

Also, I have read conflicting info about where we dock in Stockholm. Can we get a water taxi from there to Vasa/Skansen?

Dont over worry re tube strikes they often call them nad often cancel them the last one had no impact. Havent herd of weekend stuff, normally its a weekday when football is on. -If they read that post they will strike.

Okay all you DCL experts let's talk about booking another cruise while on this one. DH and I were talking about it last night and wondered if it was worth it. This is are 2nd DC and that was a few years ago. When we are at DW we normally rebook and have been pleased with the rates. Do you get a good rate or is it better just to wait for online specials? How does it work?

Do rebook on board if you think you will or might book another DCL cruise, good deals.

OK, as a first timer, this board is giving me a lot to think about....

First, what is a fish extender....

Second, how early do you recommend we check in to the cruise - we are staying the night before in Dover at a BB, so we are right there. Should be be there right at the check in time or just wait a bit for the crowds to die down....

DOVER port terminal is very small so unless you need ot be there early for Palo, or other ressies get there say 12 noon and let the first go on with minal wait,

Third.... remember to bring swiss chocolate (MILK CHOCOLATE)

Fourth... can anyone post a few links for the HOHO passes in Oslo, Copenhagen, might be a bit late to get them, but since we are not going to do excursions those dates, might be good to get them.

Finally, you guys all seem like a lot of fun, hope we get to meet a few of you on board.

Dan, Eileen (DW), and Abby (DD, 10.982)....

 

[MrsScooby]

hmmm, someone better do something about that!

OK, that someone just took care of it! Let me know if it doesn't come through!

No my fault I misunderstood what form Robert was talking about.
Sorry for the extra work and worry

Okay all you DCL experts let's talk about booking another cruise while on this one. DH and I were talking about it last night and wondered if it was worth it. This is are 2nd DC and that was a few years ago. When we are at DW we normally rebook and have been pleased with the rates. Do you get a good rate or is it better just to wait for online specials? How does it work?

The plan for us is to rebook on board. Like Caro we did that in Aug 2008 and transferred that booking to this one. The 10% was a big saver on such a pricey cruise.

OK, as a first timer, this board is giving me a lot to think about....

First, what is a fish extender....

Second, how early do you recommend we check in to the cruise - we are staying the night before in Dover at a BB, so we are right there. Should be be there right at the check in time or just wait a bit for the crowds to die down....

Third.... remember to bring swiss chocolate (MILK CHOCOLATE) - that is for me to remember

Fourth... can anyone post a few links for the HOHO passes in Oslo, Copenhagen, might be a bit late to get them, but since we are not going to do excursions those dates, might be good to get them.

Finally, you guys all seem like a lot of fun, hope we get to meet a few of you on board.

Dan, Eileen (DW), and Abby (DD, 10.982)....

Gotta find the link to the Fish Extender explanation. It is basically a small gift exchange-kind of like secret santa. There is a metal fish on the wall next to each cabin and participating folks will hang a pocketed wall hanging from it (hence the name "fish extender"). Everyone brings something to put in each other's fish extender. A treat or small gift of some kind-sometimes pens, pads, craft items, candy, stickers, glow sticks-whatever can fit in those pockets.
Ours was closed a while ago, but if people have extra-you might get some anyway (especially waving the swiss chocolate around)

Like Andrew said, unless you are trying for Palo or a cabin upgrade there isn't much reason to get there super early as it will be crowded. The waiting room at the port in Port Canaveral is bigger though and hanging out more comfortable.

As for the passes.
You are probably better off with the Oslo card than the HoHo pass in Oslo. From the live report of the second Baltic cruise-Cindy said you get easily buy it in Oslo and save some money. You can most likely tag along with any of us as we will be going there anyway to pick up ours. The Oslo card will include public transportation, admission to museums and will give you a discount on the HoHo bus if you do decide that you still want to do that.

For Copenhagan -we will most likely be relying on a taxi to get around. We have a segway tour planned here and then plans to check out Rosenborg castle (maybe Tivoli) and then back to ship. I have heard that the Copenhagan card is not as good a buy as the Oslo card. Don't know about the HoHo bus here though.

 

[Caropooh]

No my fault I misunderstood what form Robert was talking about.
Sorry for the extra work and worry

No worries! A quick jump over to my Hotmail acct and a few clicks and I was done! Didn't even get caught by my manager doing personal internet stuff on company time! (it's breaktime now!)

 

[MrsScooby]

So for a formal DIS meet on the ship we have the following options:

Embarktion day-Promenade lounge (around 3 or 3:30?)

First Sea Day
Rockin Bar D-before 3:00
Diversions - 3-4

or secret deck 7???

or meet in lobby at a preferred day/time and find a spot based on what the navigator says is available

Anyone have any other suggestions?

 

[MrsScooby]

No worries! A quick jump over to my Hotmail acct and a few clicks and I was done! Didn't even get caught by my manager doing personal internet stuff on company time! (it's breaktime now!)

Ok, glad no permanent damage

So who really leaves for vacation mentally way before the sail date

I'm packing in my head while I'm suppose to be concentrating on work

 

[Madisonznana]

So for a formal DIS meet on the ship we have the following options:

Embarktion day-Promenade lounge (around 3 or 3:30?)

First Sea Day
Rockin Bar D-before 3:00
Diversions - 3-4

or secret deck 7???

or meet in lobby at a preferred day/time and find a spot based on what the navigator says is available

Anyone have any other suggestions?

So many choices!!!!