8/17/08 Captain Jack's Repossession Repo Cruise to PC thru TPC Part 5

[Skallywag]

We are booked and deposit paid for category 5 but so far no allocated room. Have now been placed on main dining from late so am very happy about that.

Would also be pleased to hear if anyone has received their room number.
Brenda

 

[yargrnhoj]

Anyone interested in a mini-meet in the Chicago area? I'm in the far West suburbs, but if there are several of us we could try and find somewhere sort of central to meet.

Count me in. Maybe we can pick a theatre and go see PotC:AWE when it comes out. AMC in Barrington or the one at Woodfield would be good.

 

[GSCM_DisneyScout]

Okay, I think I'm obsessed. Here's more information I found out about Cartegena from www.cartegenainfo.net

ARRIVING BY CRUISE SHIP-TIPS ON HAVING FUN
Discover the truth about personal safety in Cartagena

Each year, hundreds of thousands of tourists arrive at our modern Port for a brief visit to Cartagena. Cartagena de Indias was the most important city on the main sea route, then known as: "The Spanish Main". The city held vaults full of gold, silver, emeralds and other treasures looted from the indigenous peoples of the continent, and Central America. Annually, when good sailing months permitted, the hoards were shipped to the treasury of the King of Spain. Because of her stored wealth, Cartagena was high on the "hit list" for the pirates.

Entering the Harbor, is in itself, an interesting part of your visit, and traces the path of the early galleons. Your first indication that you are approaching Cartagena occurs miles from the city, as your ship majestically glides right between two ancient Spanish Forts near Bocachica (Small Mouth), and then mid bay between the Forts of: Castillo Grande and Manzanillo. As pirate ships appeared on the horizon, a under water chain was raised from the sea bed between the forts, tightened and held fast, with a large capstan. From this advantage the ship was pummeled with cannon shot from the two opposing forts. As you continue your approach to the city you will see additional fortifications including the mighty Fort San Felipe de Barajas, which arguably is the largest and most impressive fortification in the new world. .

The Port of Cartagena is one of the most modern in South America and one of the busiest in Colombia. The Port cooperates fully with Interpol (of London, England) and the DEA (Drug Enforcement Agency) of the United States. There are video cameras everywhere, as well as a large contingent of well armed and trained police, plus drug sniffing dogs. Please do not be alarmed. The "troops" are friendly to tourists, and they will help you in any way that they can. A primary reason for this heavy security results from the insatiable demand for drugs consumed in the United States and other prosperous countries of the world.

The first law of Economics is: supply will meet demand. First, there is demand. The U.S. problems relating to drugs is shared by the people of Colombia, where more than 40,000 have been killed in the past 35 years. Within this same period, a much higher number of drug related deaths, have occurred within the United States. Both countries share a "bad name" when it comes to drug violence and killings.

Your visit to Cartagena is very much appreciated, and a big help to the local economy. The vast majority of locals truly love and appreciate gringos, and others foreigners who visit their city. There are more than 80,000 Colombians residing within the United States. It is a sad note, but it can be safely said: the majority of youth in Colombia, would love to: "live and work in the states". For many, it is their daily dream!

Some of your shipmates will not get off the ship in Cartagena. Others, who are equally un informed, will venture off the ship, but remain in the port, so they can brag to their friends: "I was in Colombia". The usual response will be: "you were where?…are you crazy?"

Cartagena is not representative of Colombia, and there is little to worry about when it comes to your personal safety. The city, and in particular, the old walled portion called El Centro, is clean, safe, fun and romantic. Those who are not as informed as you, will be the big losers if they miss this golden opportunity to visit one of the greatest cities in South America.

While on your Cartagena adventure, you will see poverty-up close. The U.S. State Department for years, has issued a: Travel Warning to U.S. Citizens against visiting Colombia. If you seek a more balanced and accurate report, visit the Canada Advisory. Canada has a consul in Cartagena. They know first hand about personal safety. The Travel Warning issued by the U. S. State Department is seriously hurting the economy and people of Cartagena! If you are a U.S. citizen, you should feel good knowing that your visit will help our economy. You are welcome, and the people of Cartagena thank you.

Note: This text is written by a 62 year old U.S. citizen who lives and works in Cartagena. "Even with a so-so command of the Spanish language, I don't feel that I have ever been in personal danger in Cartagena. My work keeps me out at all hours, visiting clients, many times while I am alone. Of course, I am cautious as to where I go, the way I dress and act, but this is also true when I visit my home state of Florida." Use a little common sense, and you will have no problems.

Cartagena, is the most popular tourist city in Colombia. Our poverty is demonstrated by the high number of street hustlers. Foreigners stand out. You can be spotted a block away. When you are in a crowd, such as on a shore tour, the word passes quickly, and your group will be besieged like bees heading for the flowers. Hustlers are poor, and tourists represent the rich honey pot-their next meal.

PLEASE REMEMBER THIS ABOUT ALL HUSTLERS, AND BEGGARS:

DO NOT PAY THEM ANY ATTENTION! Do not even look at them. Do not talk to them. Continue what you are doing…..PLEASE FOLLOW THIS ADVISE!

You will be safe, and generally, you will not even be touched, including a friendly hand on your shoulder. If you give the hustlers, beggars, or children as much as a single coin, you will be hurting them. They have no pride. You cannot humiliate them, for they are at rock bottom. If you have no pride, hustling and begging is easy. If you give them anything, they will be encouraged to continue their ways, looking to the tourists for support. Their presence in the streets of Cartagena, is seriously hurting the tourists image of our great world heritage city, causing great and lasting economic damage.

(Note: Colombia spent more than a million dollars to "clean up the streets" when President Clinton visited Cartagena. However, they have no funds for a continuing effort, or solution, to help the poor. Meanwhile, the U.S. government sprays poison upon the poor farmers of south Colombia, rather than adopting a sustained commitment to help with needed education, and improved economic opportunity.)

These street hustlers and beggars have other means of honorable support, such as: "work". As an example, look at the street peddlers of Cartagena. They sell products and offer services to both the people of Cartagena, and the tourists. They work long and hard. Their honest work provides a poor, but adequate income. The cost of inventory for a street peddler is very low, usually less than $10.00. If you give the hustlers or beggars money, many will quickly spend it on: lotto tickets, alcohol, cigarettes, slot machines, drugs, etc. Many of the barefoot beggar kids buy glue to sniff-which permanently damages their brain and nervous system. You can easily spot the glue kids. They wear long sleeve shirts which hide their stash of glue. When they raise their wrist to their nose, they are getting a "fix"-inhaling the deadly fumes. Give the kids shoes, and they will sell them, perhaps to buy again, from the above list? The reason is simple: if they wear shoes they will not look poor enough, and their begging income will quickly drop. Some beggar women rent children to pose as their own. They carry the child in their arms, begging. They point out the child's deformities, seeking your sympathy-and then your money! Note: The following is sad but true: Many of these "rental children" have been intentionally maimed, such as an eye gouged out, an arm cut off etc. The reason: it raises the rental value of the child. The more pathetic and sickly the child, the more the "loving and caring" tourists will give. Tourist money has been the cause of many maimed children-the world over, it is not just a Colombia problem.

When tourists, become more informed and involved in supporting lasting solutions, this may stop. We have hope that the Internet will be a primary tool in this educational effort. In the mean time, simply giving money, only continues this deplorable situation. PLEASE DO NOT GIVE ANY MONEY TO STREET HUSTLERS OR BEGGARS.

Don't be upset about what you have just read. The people of Cartagena thank you for your concern over their economic problems, but above all, they want you to have a good time-for that is the reason for your vacation!

So back to your shore visit. You can take the ships shore tours, or you can go it alone. Either way to visit Cartagena is fine. When you take the bus tours, you will be escorted to places that may not interest you. There will be many sites where you want to stay longer, (or shorter), but you have no choice, you go where the bus goes. Additionally, you will not be able to hear all that the tour guide has to say. And, you may have questions that will remain un-answered? However, these tours can be a loads of fun, and many enjoy them. There is a touring alternative. A private guided tour!

By far, the best and most positive reports appearing on the Internet Newsgroups, come from tourists who have taken a taxi tour of Cartagena. Taxis will be waiting at the dock.

Note: Cartagena taxis are modern, compact, 4 door models, some with air at an additional cost of 10%. The streets of the old city are very picturesque, narrow, and therefore, just right for compacts. You will probably want to spend at least 75% of your tour in the old walled city? Costs per tourist will be minimum if there are four persons in your private group. Try this tip. As soon as you hit the dock, each of you head for a different taxi and quickly talk (mostly "listen") to the drivers. Test their English, or your desired language.

You are lucky to have visited and studied this web site, for here you can learn exactly what it is that you want to see, where you want to shop, or stop for drinks or a great meal. Print out the first page of our web site Walking Tour, and check off the things you want to see. Show this list to the driver. Don't forget to allow enough time for shopping. And if you or your group is interested in buying emeralds or gold, be sure to check out our extensive site: Buying Emeralds and Gold in Cartagena-Tips to Save you both Time and Money. Taxi rates are uniform, and they are printed on a plastic card carried in the glove box of all Cartagena taxis. Tip: Ask to see the card, and then ask the price per hour, and total based on the minimum number of hours, for your planned tour.

There is so much to do and see in Cartagena, and your time is very limited. This web site is dedicated to helping you make the best of your time and your money, so you will fully enjoy your Cartagena experience. A little planning on your part will go a long way. When you return home, you may want to tell others on the cruise news group of your Cartagena experience?

Cartagena is a great romantic and historic city, certainly worth at least a week of your time. Who knows, you may want to stretch your pension and live the good life, here in Cartagena on the Caribbean!

Thanks for caring, and visiting our city.

Note: Please drop us an E-mail upon your return home. Tell us the good and the bad about your Cartagena experience. We promise to do our best to help change the bad-CartagenaInfo.

 

[O'BWV]

YES LURKERS

18000

Should set your alarm clocks

Congrats Andrew.........................


Even tho you're a scabbie, you deserve it




MR

 

[yargrnhoj]

I laugh because I told my DH the same reasoning - and its worked for the last 3 stones he bought me - I'm gonna keep using it until he catches on - Don't tell him OK

Seriously though - had that happen to me - bought the best ever tanzanite stone which was just over the equivalent of 3.25 karats in Alaska of all places - can we mention where on here? Turns out at the time that Alaska was in the running to take away the Carribean's reputation as the place to get tanzanite at a good price. A month later we went on the Disney Western? In Cozumel they had the same Exact ring with a stone 1/2 the size that I was wearing for DOUBLE the price. When I told them how much we paid for it -they were astounded and readily admitted we got a good price. I guess DH's lowballing the price worked for us. Good luck in standing your ground - they are harder and harder to find. In the meantime, if you have daughters - can't leave them out

DD4 was the only one to come back from the 10-day HC with jewelry. We promised her a new set of earrings if she behaved, so we had to follow through on St. Thomas. SWMBO actually didn't find a price she liked, so she didn't buy anything.

 

[Andrew DEREK UK]

We are booked and deposit paid for category 5 but so far no allocated room. Have now been placed on main dining from late so am very happy about that.

Would also be pleased to hear if anyone has received their room number.
Brenda

Well done on getting the early dinner you wanted, wish you the best on room No#

 

[bellelinus]

This may have already been suggested, but wouldn't it be fun to have a costume contest before the interactive showings of POTC? There could be lots of different categories, lots of opportunities to win little prizes (mainly the fame!), judged by the Captain and a group of 2 or 3 other people from this board (lisa?) . . . It would give everyone the message that all are welcome to dress up -- there can be numerous Jack Sparrows -- no one should feel shut out because a few do really great jobs with their costumes.

I thought of this because in the past there was an interactive showing of "the sound of music" at a theatre in the East Village . . . it was really campy and fun, everyone had certain things to say at certain parts, sang along with the songs, had props to use in various parts of the movie. It was like a PG version of the Rocky Horror events . . . at any rate, there were costume contests before the show. When I went they were having people come out of the audience to stand in front in costumes to be judged, and motioned to one woman, dressed as a nun, to come up -- only to find out that she really was a nun! Needless to say, the MC was embarrassed, but it was pretty funny.

 

[O'BWV]

Helllooooooooooo Everyone!


Andy & Nicolette!!! Enjoy the day!!!!!!!!





Mary Rose

 

[Verandah Man]

I see there is a thread in the main forum re GTY's on this cruise, Has anyone had a GTY changed to an assigned room?

Nope, not yet, still waiting.

 

[Andrew DEREK UK]

Congrats Andrew.........................
Even tho you're a scabbie, you deserve it
MR

Thank you

 

[bellelinus]

Okay, I think I'm obsessed. Here's more information I found out about Cartegena from www.cartegenainfo.net

ARRIVING BY CRUISE SHIP-TIPS ON HAVING FUN
Discover the truth about personal safety in Cartagena

Each year, hundreds of thousands of tourists arrive at our modern Port for a brief visit to Cartagena. Cartagena de Indias was the most important city on the main sea route, then known as: "The Spanish Main". The city held vaults full of gold, silver, emeralds and other treasures looted from the indigenous peoples of the continent, and Central America. Annually, when good sailing months permitted, the hoards were shipped to the treasury of the King of Spain. Because of her stored wealth, Cartagena was high on the "hit list" for the pirates.

Entering the Harbor, is in itself, an interesting part of your visit, and traces the path of the early galleons. Your first indication that you are approaching Cartagena occurs miles from the city, as your ship majestically glides right between two ancient Spanish Forts near Bocachica (Small Mouth), and then mid bay between the Forts of: Castillo Grande and Manzanillo. As pirate ships appeared on the horizon, a under water chain was raised from the sea bed between the forts, tightened and held fast, with a large capstan. From this advantage the ship was pummeled with cannon shot from the two opposing forts. As you continue your approach to the city you will see additional fortifications including the mighty Fort San Felipe de Barajas, which arguably is the largest and most impressive fortification in the new world. .

The Port of Cartagena is one of the most modern in South America and one of the busiest in Colombia. The Port cooperates fully with Interpol (of London, England) and the DEA (Drug Enforcement Agency) of the United States. There are video cameras everywhere, as well as a large contingent of well armed and trained police, plus drug sniffing dogs. Please do not be alarmed. The "troops" are friendly to tourists, and they will help you in any way that they can. A primary reason for this heavy security results from the insatiable demand for drugs consumed in the United States and other prosperous countries of the world.

The first law of Economics is: supply will meet demand. First, there is demand. The U.S. problems relating to drugs is shared by the people of Colombia, where more than 40,000 have been killed in the past 35 years. Within this same period, a much higher number of drug related deaths, have occurred within the United States. Both countries share a "bad name" when it comes to drug violence and killings.

Your visit to Cartagena is very much appreciated, and a big help to the local economy. The vast majority of locals truly love and appreciate gringos, and others foreigners who visit their city. There are more than 80,000 Colombians residing within the United States. It is a sad note, but it can be safely said: the majority of youth in Colombia, would love to: "live and work in the states". For many, it is their daily dream!

Some of your shipmates will not get off the ship in Cartagena. Others, who are equally un informed, will venture off the ship, but remain in the port, so they can brag to their friends: "I was in Colombia". The usual response will be: "you were where?…are you crazy?"

Cartagena is not representative of Colombia, and there is little to worry about when it comes to your personal safety. The city, and in particular, the old walled portion called El Centro, is clean, safe, fun and romantic. Those who are not as informed as you, will be the big losers if they miss this golden opportunity to visit one of the greatest cities in South America.

While on your Cartagena adventure, you will see poverty-up close. The U.S. State Department for years, has issued a: Travel Warning to U.S. Citizens against visiting Colombia. If you seek a more balanced and accurate report, visit the Canada Advisory. Canada has a consul in Cartagena. They know first hand about personal safety. The Travel Warning issued by the U. S. State Department is seriously hurting the economy and people of Cartagena! If you are a U.S. citizen, you should feel good knowing that your visit will help our economy. You are welcome, and the people of Cartagena thank you.

Note: This text is written by a 62 year old U.S. citizen who lives and works in Cartagena. "Even with a so-so command of the Spanish language, I don't feel that I have ever been in personal danger in Cartagena. My work keeps me out at all hours, visiting clients, many times while I am alone. Of course, I am cautious as to where I go, the way I dress and act, but this is also true when I visit my home state of Florida." Use a little common sense, and you will have no problems.

Cartagena, is the most popular tourist city in Colombia. Our poverty is demonstrated by the high number of street hustlers. Foreigners stand out. You can be spotted a block away. When you are in a crowd, such as on a shore tour, the word passes quickly, and your group will be besieged like bees heading for the flowers. Hustlers are poor, and tourists represent the rich honey pot-their next meal.

PLEASE REMEMBER THIS ABOUT ALL HUSTLERS, AND BEGGARS:

DO NOT PAY THEM ANY ATTENTION! Do not even look at them. Do not talk to them. Continue what you are doing…..PLEASE FOLLOW THIS ADVISE!

You will be safe, and generally, you will not even be touched, including a friendly hand on your shoulder. If you give the hustlers, beggars, or children as much as a single coin, you will be hurting them. They have no pride. You cannot humiliate them, for they are at rock bottom. If you have no pride, hustling and begging is easy. If you give them anything, they will be encouraged to continue their ways, looking to the tourists for support. Their presence in the streets of Cartagena, is seriously hurting the tourists image of our great world heritage city, causing great and lasting economic damage.

(Note: Colombia spent more than a million dollars to "clean up the streets" when President Clinton visited Cartagena. However, they have no funds for a continuing effort, or solution, to help the poor. Meanwhile, the U.S. government sprays poison upon the poor farmers of south Colombia, rather than adopting a sustained commitment to help with needed education, and improved economic opportunity.)

These street hustlers and beggars have other means of honorable support, such as: "work". As an example, look at the street peddlers of Cartagena. They sell products and offer services to both the people of Cartagena, and the tourists. They work long and hard. Their honest work provides a poor, but adequate income. The cost of inventory for a street peddler is very low, usually less than $10.00. If you give the hustlers or beggars money, many will quickly spend it on: lotto tickets, alcohol, cigarettes, slot machines, drugs, etc. Many of the barefoot beggar kids buy glue to sniff-which permanently damages their brain and nervous system. You can easily spot the glue kids. They wear long sleeve shirts which hide their stash of glue. When they raise their wrist to their nose, they are getting a "fix"-inhaling the deadly fumes. Give the kids shoes, and they will sell them, perhaps to buy again, from the above list? The reason is simple: if they wear shoes they will not look poor enough, and their begging income will quickly drop. Some beggar women rent children to pose as their own. They carry the child in their arms, begging. They point out the child's deformities, seeking your sympathy-and then your money! Note: The following is sad but true: Many of these "rental children" have been intentionally maimed, such as an eye gouged out, an arm cut off etc. The reason: it raises the rental value of the child. The more pathetic and sickly the child, the more the "loving and caring" tourists will give. Tourist money has been the cause of many maimed children-the world over, it is not just a Colombia problem.

When tourists, become more informed and involved in supporting lasting solutions, this may stop. We have hope that the Internet will be a primary tool in this educational effort. In the mean time, simply giving money, only continues this deplorable situation. PLEASE DO NOT GIVE ANY MONEY TO STREET HUSTLERS OR BEGGARS.

Don't be upset about what you have just read. The people of Cartagena thank you for your concern over their economic problems, but above all, they want you to have a good time-for that is the reason for your vacation!

So back to your shore visit. You can take the ships shore tours, or you can go it alone. Either way to visit Cartagena is fine. When you take the bus tours, you will be escorted to places that may not interest you. There will be many sites where you want to stay longer, (or shorter), but you have no choice, you go where the bus goes. Additionally, you will not be able to hear all that the tour guide has to say. And, you may have questions that will remain un-answered? However, these tours can be a loads of fun, and many enjoy them. There is a touring alternative. A private guided tour!

By far, the best and most positive reports appearing on the Internet Newsgroups, come from tourists who have taken a taxi tour of Cartagena. Taxis will be waiting at the dock.

Note: Cartagena taxis are modern, compact, 4 door models, some with air at an additional cost of 10%. The streets of the old city are very picturesque, narrow, and therefore, just right for compacts. You will probably want to spend at least 75% of your tour in the old walled city? Costs per tourist will be minimum if there are four persons in your private group. Try this tip. As soon as you hit the dock, each of you head for a different taxi and quickly talk (mostly "listen") to the drivers. Test their English, or your desired language.

You are lucky to have visited and studied this web site, for here you can learn exactly what it is that you want to see, where you want to shop, or stop for drinks or a great meal. Print out the first page of our web site Walking Tour, and check off the things you want to see. Show this list to the driver. Don't forget to allow enough time for shopping. And if you or your group is interested in buying emeralds or gold, be sure to check out our extensive site: Buying Emeralds and Gold in Cartagena-Tips to Save you both Time and Money. Taxi rates are uniform, and they are printed on a plastic card carried in the glove box of all Cartagena taxis. Tip: Ask to see the card, and then ask the price per hour, and total based on the minimum number of hours, for your planned tour.

There is so much to do and see in Cartagena, and your time is very limited. This web site is dedicated to helping you make the best of your time and your money, so you will fully enjoy your Cartagena experience. A little planning on your part will go a long way. When you return home, you may want to tell others on the cruise news group of your Cartagena experience?

Cartagena is a great romantic and historic city, certainly worth at least a week of your time. Who knows, you may want to stretch your pension and live the good life, here in Cartagena on the Caribbean!

Thanks for caring, and visiting our city.

Note: Please drop us an E-mail upon your return home. Tell us the good and the bad about your Cartagena experience. We promise to do our best to help change the bad-CartagenaInfo.

I read this, too . . . I thought they hurt their point of "come visit us" with the section on the glue-sniffing kids! However, I'm still looking forward to Cartegena.

 

[yargrnhoj]

Thank you

Yes, Yes, way to go mate. Thanks for holding up the honor of the men folk. It was getting lonely being the only swashbuckling

 

[Verandah Man]

Three hours to catch up and its only 9am........... Andy your a better man than me........ Ive only been up for 30 mins............. Is it time for a nap yet ???


Mark

I'm ready for a nap, I know that!!!

 

[Andrew DEREK UK]

Nope, not yet, still waiting.

Hope its soon ! It as posted that AST Chuck said it would be this weekend???

 

[Andrew DEREK UK]

Yes, Yes, way to go mate. Thanks for holding up the honor of the men folk. It was getting lonely being the only swashbuckling

 

[magiroux]

Good Morning All You Crazzzy Pirates . I see we were busy yesterday

Happy Birthday Andy & Nicolette​

 

[magiroux]

Over 2000 posts since I left yesterday, I definately did the speed reading thing this morning......

J.R., congrats on your 500 posts & on your 3700 posts, brack.


Welcome to thread FINCANTIERI, wdwluvrs & MATTAPULCO I hope I didn't miss anyone in my speed reading

Laura & Monica - thanks for all the info on DL area hotels. I will definately be there the week before, but not sure where yet. We are going to Carlseburg, CA for Christmas this year and had planned on checking it out, but it looks like y'all are not waiting that long to book as a group. We always rent a car for PC cruises and arrive nice and early, but I would love to ride over in a charter bus with the rest of you fine folks!!!

 

[mtt-swd]

Hello everyone, just trying to keep up through the pages.

 

[FINCANTIERI]

I see there is a thread in the main forum re GTY's on this cruise, Has anyone had a GTY changed to an assigned room?

I received one room assignment on thursday and my second room assignment on friday. Another in my group got room #'s day one. A third pirate is awaiting assignment.

 

[Verandah Man]

Happy Birthday Greetings to:

"Andy & Nicolette"​