bbowers
Dog Mommy
- Joined
- Mar 23, 2003
- Messages
- 641
Just got in from driving back to Michigan from Port Canaveral - what a long haul. Ugh. I'm not sure we'll do that again, but this trip was a combined HH/DCL (first time for each).
You can see my trip report re HH at http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=644242
Here's from HH to DCL:
Drove down Wednesday to Port Canaveral. We got a late start and had to go to the National Car Rental at Cocoa Beach to get our rental car. (We were going to leave our Jeep at Port Canaveral since our return was to be there.) I called on our way down because I had originally said we'd pick it up at 4 and I could tell we would be late. Thank goodness I called, because that office closed at 5:30. They put me through to the office and I explained we were on our way and would hopefully get there in time. Meanwhile DH was farting about with a Jack Russell in the parking lot of the McD's we had stopped at to use the restroom. When he got back to the Jeep with his sundae I snapped at him to step on it - it had been a long day already...
Got to Port Canaveral about 5:10 and continued on to Cocoa Beach. No National. Kept going. Finally called again (about 5:20) and told her we were at Eckerd's and asked if we were close. She said we'd be there in a few minutes - but she apparently forgot about there not being any power to the traffic lights on the way there. It took forever. I think we actually got there after 5:30, but she was waiting - powered by a generator. She said her boss had lucked into it the other day - so WE got lucky that this National was even open! Saw lots of boarded up businesses and one condo with the roof destroyed.
Took the Grand AM (with brakes that were shot) and the Jeep back up to Titusville where I had reserved a room at the Hampton. Whipped by the Hampton twice before I saw it. Absolutely NO sign out by the road, and the written directions from their web site were no help, either. Hmph. When we pulled in, there was a palm tree on it's side covering half of the entrance way, and another down in the parking lot. I had called on Tuesday to make sure they were still standing, and they said they had just got power Monday night. Everything inside seemed normal.
Went back out to a Chinese restaurant - we were starving. Back to our room and to bed rather early.
Up early on Thursday, since I knew we had to park the Jeep before we could get started towards Ft Lauderdale. Disney was providing ground transportation, but it wasn't scheduled to leave from the port until 12, and I didn't want to get down there that late (3 or so). I wanted to enjoy each minute I could on the ship!
Got to the port a few minutes before 7. The signs were all blank, since nothing was happening at the port, so I had to guess whether to go into A or B. Took A and lucked out. (I had a map from dcltribute.com, but it doesn't say A or B on it.) Got to the Disney site and there was a Mears bus there, but all of the parking was still locked up. Mears driver was talking to a security guard, so I got out and questioned him. He said last time this happened he had to wait until authorities called about 9 or so and told him he could open up. Shriek! NO way were we waiting until 9!
But, of course, thanks to my overwhelming research, I knew about the Raddisson. DH just followed in the Jeep. I raced into the Raddisson and asked if we could park in their lot, even though we hadn't stayed there. I promised to pay ANYTHING. The very nice lady (there were four of them and they all looked overwhelmed) took pity on me and just gave me a map of the parking lot and a hang tag and sent me on my way, gratefully. Parked out back and we were finally on our way to Ft Lauderdale.
Traffic was bad at times (had been ever since HH, actually - couldn't believe how many snow birds appeared to be heading down, even though Ivan could be coming through yet...), but we made it in a little under 3 hours to the National office at the airport. A few minutes after we got there, the shuttle was ready to leave. DH had headed inside for the restroom, so I had to get everything over there myself, while trying to call Disney to see where at the airport we should present ourselves for the ground transportation. *sigh*
Got put on hold a good long time before getting the word to go to the baggage claim. After I hung up I realized there was more than one baggage claim, so we picked Delta, since it's the OFFICIAL AIRLINE OF WALT DISNEY WORLD. Now I was desperate for the restroom, so I headed off that way while trying to see the person in a blue jacket, tan pants/skirt, and striped shirt. JUST as I was about to give up and hit the potty, I spotted someone - I was looking for navy blue and this was a lighter blue, but it was the (ugly) striped shirt that caught my eye. Grabbed DH and we headed off. We weren't on their list since we originally hadn't needed ground transportation, but we were added at no charge because of the change. We went right out to the bus and as soon as this group (10 people) got on, it left. Talk about perfect timing from the time we got to National!
Got to the port about 11 or so. Went on it and right up to a counter, since we had filled out our paperwork. I could NOT believe how many people had not! What is the big deal? How can you get your paperwork in the mail after waiting so long and just ignore it??? We whipped through everything (except for the spelling of my husband's last name) (Christ), then settled down to wait a bit. At about 11:45 people started lining up. DH hates to be in line, and luckily a CM came by who was from Ohio and who chatted long enough to keep DH from getting grumpy. Thank you, CM, whoever you are. Since the prior cruise had been canceled, I figured our rooms would be ready right away, and they were. Yee ha! Dropped off our carry-ons and put our wallets/passports in the safe, then headed off to eat.
I remember shrimp and chocolate chip cookies. I could have eaten a dozen of those cookies - they were EXCELLENT, just like I like them. Our server was Simone from Italy and he has been with DCL since they started in 1999. (We were at Parrot Cay.) His family comes over twice a year to vacation and although he's tried to get them to go to other places, they always end up at WDW. His brother has a new baby, which Simone thinks won't ever remember a trip to WDW, but they're coming over anyway. Simone was very nice and I loved watching him pour ketchup for a little boy at the next table when all of the adults were off at the buffet.
After eating we wondered around for a while. Outside Wavebands a CM came by as I was taking a pic of DH at the roadsigns, and he got into the picture, then told us to be sure and not publicize that anywhere since he was a wanted man. We chuckled and told him we'd just download it on the Internet, not to worry. I had mistakenly (during the panicky call to DCL on the National shuttle) packed my paperwork in our checked luggage, so we went to Wavebands to verify when our Palo reservation was (tonight!), then wondered up to the spa and got a tour and verified our couples massage for the next morning. DH also signed up for the seaweed treatment and I signed up for the Chakra.
We then went back to the room and got into our bathing suits. We were the second couple at the pool, and only one other couple showed up until we had to leave for the lifejacket drill at 3:30. I can't swim, but I laid on the shallow ledge while DH lounged at the corner and tried exercises for his lower back (which was still hurting from the jolt at HH). It was a slice of heaven. We discussed dogs (we have 9) with the other couples - we can always come up with some amusing (in hindsight) stories.
After the drill we went back to the pool area to wait for launch. Some really annoying older woman showed up with her 3-4 year old granddaughter. She took her in the adult pool, then into the hot tub, yet! At this point a CM spoke with her and she left. We heard the whistle and got prepared, then about 20 minutes later the captain announced we had some late folks and wouldn't be leaving until 7:30 or so. I would imagine what with the changes they did this even if those folks hadn't purchased Disney transfers or air. We watched as the grandma and child and grandpa too all came back to the adult pool. In the water again. A CM spoke with Grandpa, but he was obviously whipped and did nothing. Then Grandma went back into the hot tub with the child, and another CM spoke with her. She did finally get out, looking like she was kvetching the whole way. If we had been in the pool at the time, I'm quite sure DH would have said something rude enough she would have left long before she did. I felt sorry for the little girl with a grandma like that.
Finally returned to our room and found our luggage there, thank goodness. Unpacked and made sure we had our clothes for Palos. And no, we didn't, quite. I had packed DH's suit for this - and when I unpacked I only had the jacket! I freaked. I am such a meticulous planner, and here I had done this! DH took it very calmly and said he'd just wear his black pants and black shirt and Mickey Tie and all would be OK, and it was. I didn't see many jackets at all, and saw one pair of Dockers (although his wife had on an evening gown...)
Had no time to change after the show, so dressed before and had to leave a little early. Tonight was Hercules: The Muse-ical. I couldn't understand much of the words to the songs and really only what Hades was saying, so I didn't enjoy it as much as I might have. I wouldn't go again.
At Palos, our server for the evening was Marcelo from Argentina - and he was the CM who had gotten his picture taken at the roadsigns with DH! What a crack up. He has been with DCL for 3 years. He was absolutely wonderful. DH had the filet (and it was every bit as good as Chef Gordon's) and I had the crab-filled tortelloni on eggplant. It was good, but I didn't finish it. I had also had the calamari - it was good, but I'm not a big fan of it. I was determined to TRY things, though, and Marcelo had recommended it. DH had the grilled portobello mushroom and enjoyed that. We also had the suggested wine with our meal, even though we are not wine drinkers. Sure enough, I hated mine, but I drank it anyway - I was in the mood for a buzz. I thought I was getting one from the first sip, but it turned out the ship was pulling out of port!
Then dessert. We could not decide between the souffle and the panna cotta, so we each got a souffle and we shared a panna cotta. OH MY GOD. The best part was I was not stuffed from my meal, so I could actually enjoy it. Marcelo came by after we had polished it ALL off, and realized he had forgoten to tell us to crush the chocolate "straw" with the panna cotta for a different taste. DH promptly ordered another one so we could try it. Yes folks, we're going crazy on the food already. But we polished off THAT one as well and still weren't miserable. I stopped DH from trying another, though, or from getting one to go. Goodness.
Told DH I wanted to change before heading out for some nightlife. Back to the cabin, and were greeted by our rosebuds from our REAS package. DH was absolutely delighted, and that's all I'll say about tonight!
Friday AM we got up about 7 so we could grab a little something before the spa. If I don't eat in the AM I get queasy, so off we went to Beach Blanket Buffet. Got some fruit - and oh, I'm sure a bunch more stuff. Ate outside and that was just heavenly. Drug ourselves reluctantly away to go to the spa.
Couples massage went well, but they misunderstood which one we had picked. Oh well, felt great anyway, but MAN am I tense! Someone could play my shoulder muscles like a guitar. As we were leaving I signed up for a reflexology. Heck, both of our shore excursions had been canceled, and the captain had left us a note saying everyone was getting a $100 credit due to our change in itinerary, so we decided we might as well spend it all.
Puttered around a bit (got our pics taken with Stitch, my MAIN ALIEN!), then went back at 10:30 for my Reflexology. I don't know if I'd do the couples massage again (although it does work out to just $90/person), but I think I'd do the Reflexology again. Ummmm.
After I got done there, we had some lunch at Beach Blanket (no idea except for the Bread and Butter Pudding - my word, I think each bite had a whole stick of butter in it!)(Oh, and those excellent cookies again), then went to Nassau. I hate shopping, so I was not thrilled that our Ardasta Gardens had been canceled, because I didn't like any of the other tours. We found some t-shirts and then couldn't pay via credit card because the phone lines were still iffy. That cut short THAT trip, since only DH had his wallet (and I am the keeper of the trip cash). But that was fine with me. We went back to our cabin and napped for almost 2 hours.
Had to have a snack to tide us over, so off to Goofy's or wherever had the chicken strips. I was NOT impressed with the strips. Give me Arby's over that anytime. But, it got us through to our late seating.
It was the Golden Mickey's tonight. DH wanted to skip the red carpet - he is actually incredibly self-conscious sometimes. I drug him down it anyway. Show was cute, but again nothing I would bother seeing again. Performers are very talented.
Dinner was at AP tonight. Our server was Danijel from Croatia and asst was Fortune from India. Danijel has been with them since 1999 and Fortune was 4 years and 5 days. Danijel didn't open up until the last night and then our final breakfast, but Fortune was a talker from the word go. He was funny, too.
We both got the steak, and it was just OK. My dessert was the triple chocolate cake, and it was terrible. Dry and hard! DH got Danijel's attention and told him my dessert wasn't making the cut and Danijel said "I knew it! Too hard, too dry, right?" Guess I wasn't the first to send it back. Got the sundae instead, which wasn't quite as advertised, so my whole AP meal was underwhelming. Plus, a panel in one of the screens up front was dead, so the whole thing was definitely not a highlight. But - I was on vacation and didn't let it bother me in the slightest.
Went back and changed, then hit the duelling pianos. Cute. Left at 10:45 to watch Match Your Mate, which was so-so. Obviously depends on the contestants, and these weren't that great. I had tried to get in on the 0-3 years, but DH was a lump again - that self-conscious thing going on. The only time I've ever seen him take a leap was at Dolly Parton where there was a guy with a whip who had him hold a newspaper while he kept shredding it and leaving DH holding smaller and smaller pieces. We still have the 1/4 in wide shred he ended up with.
Off to bed after that - zonked immediately.
Saturday AM still sunny and gorgeous. We had stayed at Nassau all night and were scheduled to leave at 8. Unfortunately we had spa scheduled at 8. Again hit Beach Blanket just for a bite - our champagne breakfast was scheduled for 9:30 after the spa. As we were eating our fruit (that's about all we had), we noticed a ship coming in beside us. That was cool, so we went out aft to watch. Then I noticed a ship coming in on the OTHER side of us. Too cool! Then I realized they weren't coming in - WE were leaving. What a crack up. But at least we got to see that before the spa.
I did the Chakra and would not do it again. The temperature varies too much. The spa lady said that's why she would always do 50 minutes at least instead of 25 because you get used to it, but I know I wouldn't. That kept it from being very relaxing because I got too cool. I also had to lay cross-legged due to my lower back.
DH did the seaweed and said the massage part was OK, but the seaweed was too confining once he was bundled up like a baked potato. His claustrophobia kicked in and he would NOT do that again.
Back to our room and our breakfast got there soon after we arrived. Took it out to the verandah to eat, but that was sort of a hassle. Not nearly as relaxing and romantic as we had imagined.
Checked out the pool for a while after that. It wasn't crowded in the water at all, but one whole side of chairs was filled. I can't stand just laying in the heat, so I stayed in the pool, although that early in the AM it was a little chilly. We stayed perhaps 45 minutes at the most.
Went back and changed, then off to find the chairs on Deck 4. DH was giving me a look over my quest, but after I got him in a chair he never even opened the magazine on his lap and was asleep in minutes. I lasted a while longer with a book, but I was soon out as well.
At 1:30 we went to Disney's Behind the Scenes in Wavebands (where I forgot and froze again) for a little film and Q&A session re the ships. Film was interesting, slides were INCREDIBLY boring, and Q&A wasn't coming up with much interesting, so we left before it was over. I left DH on deck 4 again (imagine) while I checked out the photos at Shutters and checked on our account. I was glad I had - our $50 Disney VISA credit was missing.
Got some ice cream at Scoops then - and Marcelo was scooping. He looked incredibly hot. (Not THAT kind of hot - the poor man looked miserable.)
Back to those deck chairs and this time I managed to finish my book and DH at least managed to open his magazine. Then I left him there while I went shopping (we had found a hoodie for him, but I hadn't decided on my treat yet). I got the white sweatshirt (I live in sweatshirts in the winter) and a pair of Mickey socks for DH to wear tonight.
Tonight was Disney Dreams. Again, it was good, and the performers were excellent - but we wouldn't go again. Now TFOTLK we could see a million times, but not these types of shows.
Back to change and to pack. Got as much ready as I could, then off to Parrot Cay.
Well, let me tell you - between AP and PC - PC wins hands down, for me. They had a calypso-ish band playing and the lead singer's voice was pure heaven. I could have listened to them all night.
I had the grouper (Danijel recommended) and DH had the ribs. He thought they had a bit too much sauce, but my grouper - it melted in my mouth. Now I do like most fish (even when it's fishy), but I've never raved about fish before. But this was the best fish I have ever had - I never even dreamed fish could be so good!
We also had appetizers and soup (the onion - very good), and the banana bread was excellent. For dessert I had the lemon meringue and DH had the banana bread pudding. He loved his - I think I would have loved mine if I hadn't been stuffed to the gills. This was the only time I truly felt overfed. Perhaps it was a cumulative effect...
I also loved the limbo business and then, since it was the last night, we cheered our servers. I left there feeling extremely GOOD (but fat).
Went back and finished packing after we changed, and listened to the disembarkation talk (since we had been napping on 4 during that time). Filled out my paperwork, tagged the bags, made sure we had clothes for Sunday AND Monday, then set everything out and we went back to Duelling Pianos. They eventually started repeating the night before (that was a disappointment), so we headed back to the cabin. Danijel was out with the desserts so we chatted a while. DH was feeling the effects of too much rich food and we begged off after a while.
Didn't sleep too well tonight. Worried about oversleeping, thought about getting up extra early to watch the ship dock at PC. Ended up being awake from 4 on, so I did get up when we docked, but we were on the wrong side, so it was boring. Got up at 6:50, got DH up about 7:15, and we were down to PC at about 7:45. They let us in about 7:50 or so, and Fortune was waiting on one side and immediately leaped to go get us juice as we walked in. He brought 3 because the line for juice was so long. He then took our order - Danijel explained Fortune needed the practice. Danijel tried to give us coffee and Fortune shooed him away, since he knew we didn't drink coffee. It was cute.
Boat was cleared about 8:15 and we finished eating soon after. Said goodbye to our servers and teased that Danijel would be a head server next time and do nothing but walk around and ask everyone how they are. They both thought that was hilarious.
Left to a nearly empty terminal (well, except for luggage). Customs barely looked at us, and then we were off. I took a pic of the ship on the way out - I was told I wasn't supposed to take a pic of the terminal due to Homeland Security, and I assured them my pic was only of the ship. They didn't really care.
Waited FOREVER for the Raddisson shuttle, but hey, beggars can't be choosers, and I had certainly begged. When we left there were 4 cars in the lot, but now it was packed. I got the Jeep while DH got the luggage, and we were off, grateful that Ivan had turned so there weren't evacuees coming up I-95.
Drove late Sunday to just south of Nashville, then up early to finish getting home about 4. Very long days and we both ended up with tension headaches. I would love to repeat this vacation (and hopefully not have the hurricane stuff - if it happens again the people of Florida will string us up, or at least ask that we vacation in the spring), but the driving back after all of that relaxation sort of ruined the end of the trip. Ah well, that means I can start planning with lots of different options - gives me something to do!
(And yes - all 9 dogs WERE very glad to see us get home!)
You can see my trip report re HH at http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=644242
Here's from HH to DCL:
Drove down Wednesday to Port Canaveral. We got a late start and had to go to the National Car Rental at Cocoa Beach to get our rental car. (We were going to leave our Jeep at Port Canaveral since our return was to be there.) I called on our way down because I had originally said we'd pick it up at 4 and I could tell we would be late. Thank goodness I called, because that office closed at 5:30. They put me through to the office and I explained we were on our way and would hopefully get there in time. Meanwhile DH was farting about with a Jack Russell in the parking lot of the McD's we had stopped at to use the restroom. When he got back to the Jeep with his sundae I snapped at him to step on it - it had been a long day already...
Got to Port Canaveral about 5:10 and continued on to Cocoa Beach. No National. Kept going. Finally called again (about 5:20) and told her we were at Eckerd's and asked if we were close. She said we'd be there in a few minutes - but she apparently forgot about there not being any power to the traffic lights on the way there. It took forever. I think we actually got there after 5:30, but she was waiting - powered by a generator. She said her boss had lucked into it the other day - so WE got lucky that this National was even open! Saw lots of boarded up businesses and one condo with the roof destroyed.
Took the Grand AM (with brakes that were shot) and the Jeep back up to Titusville where I had reserved a room at the Hampton. Whipped by the Hampton twice before I saw it. Absolutely NO sign out by the road, and the written directions from their web site were no help, either. Hmph. When we pulled in, there was a palm tree on it's side covering half of the entrance way, and another down in the parking lot. I had called on Tuesday to make sure they were still standing, and they said they had just got power Monday night. Everything inside seemed normal.
Went back out to a Chinese restaurant - we were starving. Back to our room and to bed rather early.
Up early on Thursday, since I knew we had to park the Jeep before we could get started towards Ft Lauderdale. Disney was providing ground transportation, but it wasn't scheduled to leave from the port until 12, and I didn't want to get down there that late (3 or so). I wanted to enjoy each minute I could on the ship!
Got to the port a few minutes before 7. The signs were all blank, since nothing was happening at the port, so I had to guess whether to go into A or B. Took A and lucked out. (I had a map from dcltribute.com, but it doesn't say A or B on it.) Got to the Disney site and there was a Mears bus there, but all of the parking was still locked up. Mears driver was talking to a security guard, so I got out and questioned him. He said last time this happened he had to wait until authorities called about 9 or so and told him he could open up. Shriek! NO way were we waiting until 9!
But, of course, thanks to my overwhelming research, I knew about the Raddisson. DH just followed in the Jeep. I raced into the Raddisson and asked if we could park in their lot, even though we hadn't stayed there. I promised to pay ANYTHING. The very nice lady (there were four of them and they all looked overwhelmed) took pity on me and just gave me a map of the parking lot and a hang tag and sent me on my way, gratefully. Parked out back and we were finally on our way to Ft Lauderdale.
Traffic was bad at times (had been ever since HH, actually - couldn't believe how many snow birds appeared to be heading down, even though Ivan could be coming through yet...), but we made it in a little under 3 hours to the National office at the airport. A few minutes after we got there, the shuttle was ready to leave. DH had headed inside for the restroom, so I had to get everything over there myself, while trying to call Disney to see where at the airport we should present ourselves for the ground transportation. *sigh*
Got put on hold a good long time before getting the word to go to the baggage claim. After I hung up I realized there was more than one baggage claim, so we picked Delta, since it's the OFFICIAL AIRLINE OF WALT DISNEY WORLD. Now I was desperate for the restroom, so I headed off that way while trying to see the person in a blue jacket, tan pants/skirt, and striped shirt. JUST as I was about to give up and hit the potty, I spotted someone - I was looking for navy blue and this was a lighter blue, but it was the (ugly) striped shirt that caught my eye. Grabbed DH and we headed off. We weren't on their list since we originally hadn't needed ground transportation, but we were added at no charge because of the change. We went right out to the bus and as soon as this group (10 people) got on, it left. Talk about perfect timing from the time we got to National!
Got to the port about 11 or so. Went on it and right up to a counter, since we had filled out our paperwork. I could NOT believe how many people had not! What is the big deal? How can you get your paperwork in the mail after waiting so long and just ignore it??? We whipped through everything (except for the spelling of my husband's last name) (Christ), then settled down to wait a bit. At about 11:45 people started lining up. DH hates to be in line, and luckily a CM came by who was from Ohio and who chatted long enough to keep DH from getting grumpy. Thank you, CM, whoever you are. Since the prior cruise had been canceled, I figured our rooms would be ready right away, and they were. Yee ha! Dropped off our carry-ons and put our wallets/passports in the safe, then headed off to eat.
I remember shrimp and chocolate chip cookies. I could have eaten a dozen of those cookies - they were EXCELLENT, just like I like them. Our server was Simone from Italy and he has been with DCL since they started in 1999. (We were at Parrot Cay.) His family comes over twice a year to vacation and although he's tried to get them to go to other places, they always end up at WDW. His brother has a new baby, which Simone thinks won't ever remember a trip to WDW, but they're coming over anyway. Simone was very nice and I loved watching him pour ketchup for a little boy at the next table when all of the adults were off at the buffet.
After eating we wondered around for a while. Outside Wavebands a CM came by as I was taking a pic of DH at the roadsigns, and he got into the picture, then told us to be sure and not publicize that anywhere since he was a wanted man. We chuckled and told him we'd just download it on the Internet, not to worry. I had mistakenly (during the panicky call to DCL on the National shuttle) packed my paperwork in our checked luggage, so we went to Wavebands to verify when our Palo reservation was (tonight!), then wondered up to the spa and got a tour and verified our couples massage for the next morning. DH also signed up for the seaweed treatment and I signed up for the Chakra.
We then went back to the room and got into our bathing suits. We were the second couple at the pool, and only one other couple showed up until we had to leave for the lifejacket drill at 3:30. I can't swim, but I laid on the shallow ledge while DH lounged at the corner and tried exercises for his lower back (which was still hurting from the jolt at HH). It was a slice of heaven. We discussed dogs (we have 9) with the other couples - we can always come up with some amusing (in hindsight) stories.
After the drill we went back to the pool area to wait for launch. Some really annoying older woman showed up with her 3-4 year old granddaughter. She took her in the adult pool, then into the hot tub, yet! At this point a CM spoke with her and she left. We heard the whistle and got prepared, then about 20 minutes later the captain announced we had some late folks and wouldn't be leaving until 7:30 or so. I would imagine what with the changes they did this even if those folks hadn't purchased Disney transfers or air. We watched as the grandma and child and grandpa too all came back to the adult pool. In the water again. A CM spoke with Grandpa, but he was obviously whipped and did nothing. Then Grandma went back into the hot tub with the child, and another CM spoke with her. She did finally get out, looking like she was kvetching the whole way. If we had been in the pool at the time, I'm quite sure DH would have said something rude enough she would have left long before she did. I felt sorry for the little girl with a grandma like that.
Finally returned to our room and found our luggage there, thank goodness. Unpacked and made sure we had our clothes for Palos. And no, we didn't, quite. I had packed DH's suit for this - and when I unpacked I only had the jacket! I freaked. I am such a meticulous planner, and here I had done this! DH took it very calmly and said he'd just wear his black pants and black shirt and Mickey Tie and all would be OK, and it was. I didn't see many jackets at all, and saw one pair of Dockers (although his wife had on an evening gown...)
Had no time to change after the show, so dressed before and had to leave a little early. Tonight was Hercules: The Muse-ical. I couldn't understand much of the words to the songs and really only what Hades was saying, so I didn't enjoy it as much as I might have. I wouldn't go again.
At Palos, our server for the evening was Marcelo from Argentina - and he was the CM who had gotten his picture taken at the roadsigns with DH! What a crack up. He has been with DCL for 3 years. He was absolutely wonderful. DH had the filet (and it was every bit as good as Chef Gordon's) and I had the crab-filled tortelloni on eggplant. It was good, but I didn't finish it. I had also had the calamari - it was good, but I'm not a big fan of it. I was determined to TRY things, though, and Marcelo had recommended it. DH had the grilled portobello mushroom and enjoyed that. We also had the suggested wine with our meal, even though we are not wine drinkers. Sure enough, I hated mine, but I drank it anyway - I was in the mood for a buzz. I thought I was getting one from the first sip, but it turned out the ship was pulling out of port!
Then dessert. We could not decide between the souffle and the panna cotta, so we each got a souffle and we shared a panna cotta. OH MY GOD. The best part was I was not stuffed from my meal, so I could actually enjoy it. Marcelo came by after we had polished it ALL off, and realized he had forgoten to tell us to crush the chocolate "straw" with the panna cotta for a different taste. DH promptly ordered another one so we could try it. Yes folks, we're going crazy on the food already. But we polished off THAT one as well and still weren't miserable. I stopped DH from trying another, though, or from getting one to go. Goodness.
Told DH I wanted to change before heading out for some nightlife. Back to the cabin, and were greeted by our rosebuds from our REAS package. DH was absolutely delighted, and that's all I'll say about tonight!
Friday AM we got up about 7 so we could grab a little something before the spa. If I don't eat in the AM I get queasy, so off we went to Beach Blanket Buffet. Got some fruit - and oh, I'm sure a bunch more stuff. Ate outside and that was just heavenly. Drug ourselves reluctantly away to go to the spa.
Couples massage went well, but they misunderstood which one we had picked. Oh well, felt great anyway, but MAN am I tense! Someone could play my shoulder muscles like a guitar. As we were leaving I signed up for a reflexology. Heck, both of our shore excursions had been canceled, and the captain had left us a note saying everyone was getting a $100 credit due to our change in itinerary, so we decided we might as well spend it all.
Puttered around a bit (got our pics taken with Stitch, my MAIN ALIEN!), then went back at 10:30 for my Reflexology. I don't know if I'd do the couples massage again (although it does work out to just $90/person), but I think I'd do the Reflexology again. Ummmm.
After I got done there, we had some lunch at Beach Blanket (no idea except for the Bread and Butter Pudding - my word, I think each bite had a whole stick of butter in it!)(Oh, and those excellent cookies again), then went to Nassau. I hate shopping, so I was not thrilled that our Ardasta Gardens had been canceled, because I didn't like any of the other tours. We found some t-shirts and then couldn't pay via credit card because the phone lines were still iffy. That cut short THAT trip, since only DH had his wallet (and I am the keeper of the trip cash). But that was fine with me. We went back to our cabin and napped for almost 2 hours.
Had to have a snack to tide us over, so off to Goofy's or wherever had the chicken strips. I was NOT impressed with the strips. Give me Arby's over that anytime. But, it got us through to our late seating.
It was the Golden Mickey's tonight. DH wanted to skip the red carpet - he is actually incredibly self-conscious sometimes. I drug him down it anyway. Show was cute, but again nothing I would bother seeing again. Performers are very talented.
Dinner was at AP tonight. Our server was Danijel from Croatia and asst was Fortune from India. Danijel has been with them since 1999 and Fortune was 4 years and 5 days. Danijel didn't open up until the last night and then our final breakfast, but Fortune was a talker from the word go. He was funny, too.
We both got the steak, and it was just OK. My dessert was the triple chocolate cake, and it was terrible. Dry and hard! DH got Danijel's attention and told him my dessert wasn't making the cut and Danijel said "I knew it! Too hard, too dry, right?" Guess I wasn't the first to send it back. Got the sundae instead, which wasn't quite as advertised, so my whole AP meal was underwhelming. Plus, a panel in one of the screens up front was dead, so the whole thing was definitely not a highlight. But - I was on vacation and didn't let it bother me in the slightest.
Went back and changed, then hit the duelling pianos. Cute. Left at 10:45 to watch Match Your Mate, which was so-so. Obviously depends on the contestants, and these weren't that great. I had tried to get in on the 0-3 years, but DH was a lump again - that self-conscious thing going on. The only time I've ever seen him take a leap was at Dolly Parton where there was a guy with a whip who had him hold a newspaper while he kept shredding it and leaving DH holding smaller and smaller pieces. We still have the 1/4 in wide shred he ended up with.
Off to bed after that - zonked immediately.
Saturday AM still sunny and gorgeous. We had stayed at Nassau all night and were scheduled to leave at 8. Unfortunately we had spa scheduled at 8. Again hit Beach Blanket just for a bite - our champagne breakfast was scheduled for 9:30 after the spa. As we were eating our fruit (that's about all we had), we noticed a ship coming in beside us. That was cool, so we went out aft to watch. Then I noticed a ship coming in on the OTHER side of us. Too cool! Then I realized they weren't coming in - WE were leaving. What a crack up. But at least we got to see that before the spa.
I did the Chakra and would not do it again. The temperature varies too much. The spa lady said that's why she would always do 50 minutes at least instead of 25 because you get used to it, but I know I wouldn't. That kept it from being very relaxing because I got too cool. I also had to lay cross-legged due to my lower back.
DH did the seaweed and said the massage part was OK, but the seaweed was too confining once he was bundled up like a baked potato. His claustrophobia kicked in and he would NOT do that again.
Back to our room and our breakfast got there soon after we arrived. Took it out to the verandah to eat, but that was sort of a hassle. Not nearly as relaxing and romantic as we had imagined.
Checked out the pool for a while after that. It wasn't crowded in the water at all, but one whole side of chairs was filled. I can't stand just laying in the heat, so I stayed in the pool, although that early in the AM it was a little chilly. We stayed perhaps 45 minutes at the most.
Went back and changed, then off to find the chairs on Deck 4. DH was giving me a look over my quest, but after I got him in a chair he never even opened the magazine on his lap and was asleep in minutes. I lasted a while longer with a book, but I was soon out as well.
At 1:30 we went to Disney's Behind the Scenes in Wavebands (where I forgot and froze again) for a little film and Q&A session re the ships. Film was interesting, slides were INCREDIBLY boring, and Q&A wasn't coming up with much interesting, so we left before it was over. I left DH on deck 4 again (imagine) while I checked out the photos at Shutters and checked on our account. I was glad I had - our $50 Disney VISA credit was missing.
Got some ice cream at Scoops then - and Marcelo was scooping. He looked incredibly hot. (Not THAT kind of hot - the poor man looked miserable.)
Back to those deck chairs and this time I managed to finish my book and DH at least managed to open his magazine. Then I left him there while I went shopping (we had found a hoodie for him, but I hadn't decided on my treat yet). I got the white sweatshirt (I live in sweatshirts in the winter) and a pair of Mickey socks for DH to wear tonight.
Tonight was Disney Dreams. Again, it was good, and the performers were excellent - but we wouldn't go again. Now TFOTLK we could see a million times, but not these types of shows.
Back to change and to pack. Got as much ready as I could, then off to Parrot Cay.
Well, let me tell you - between AP and PC - PC wins hands down, for me. They had a calypso-ish band playing and the lead singer's voice was pure heaven. I could have listened to them all night.
I had the grouper (Danijel recommended) and DH had the ribs. He thought they had a bit too much sauce, but my grouper - it melted in my mouth. Now I do like most fish (even when it's fishy), but I've never raved about fish before. But this was the best fish I have ever had - I never even dreamed fish could be so good!
We also had appetizers and soup (the onion - very good), and the banana bread was excellent. For dessert I had the lemon meringue and DH had the banana bread pudding. He loved his - I think I would have loved mine if I hadn't been stuffed to the gills. This was the only time I truly felt overfed. Perhaps it was a cumulative effect...
I also loved the limbo business and then, since it was the last night, we cheered our servers. I left there feeling extremely GOOD (but fat).
Went back and finished packing after we changed, and listened to the disembarkation talk (since we had been napping on 4 during that time). Filled out my paperwork, tagged the bags, made sure we had clothes for Sunday AND Monday, then set everything out and we went back to Duelling Pianos. They eventually started repeating the night before (that was a disappointment), so we headed back to the cabin. Danijel was out with the desserts so we chatted a while. DH was feeling the effects of too much rich food and we begged off after a while.
Didn't sleep too well tonight. Worried about oversleeping, thought about getting up extra early to watch the ship dock at PC. Ended up being awake from 4 on, so I did get up when we docked, but we were on the wrong side, so it was boring. Got up at 6:50, got DH up about 7:15, and we were down to PC at about 7:45. They let us in about 7:50 or so, and Fortune was waiting on one side and immediately leaped to go get us juice as we walked in. He brought 3 because the line for juice was so long. He then took our order - Danijel explained Fortune needed the practice. Danijel tried to give us coffee and Fortune shooed him away, since he knew we didn't drink coffee. It was cute.
Boat was cleared about 8:15 and we finished eating soon after. Said goodbye to our servers and teased that Danijel would be a head server next time and do nothing but walk around and ask everyone how they are. They both thought that was hilarious.
Left to a nearly empty terminal (well, except for luggage). Customs barely looked at us, and then we were off. I took a pic of the ship on the way out - I was told I wasn't supposed to take a pic of the terminal due to Homeland Security, and I assured them my pic was only of the ship. They didn't really care.
Waited FOREVER for the Raddisson shuttle, but hey, beggars can't be choosers, and I had certainly begged. When we left there were 4 cars in the lot, but now it was packed. I got the Jeep while DH got the luggage, and we were off, grateful that Ivan had turned so there weren't evacuees coming up I-95.
Drove late Sunday to just south of Nashville, then up early to finish getting home about 4. Very long days and we both ended up with tension headaches. I would love to repeat this vacation (and hopefully not have the hurricane stuff - if it happens again the people of Florida will string us up, or at least ask that we vacation in the spring), but the driving back after all of that relaxation sort of ruined the end of the trip. Ah well, that means I can start planning with lots of different options - gives me something to do!
(And yes - all 9 dogs WERE very glad to see us get home!)
