August 6, 2005 Mexican Riviera..Who's In?

[Kidoctr]

Hi Renegade - welcome aboard! I'm glad to see there are still new people trickling into this thread. Can you tell us a little more about yourself? I'm travelling with DH, 8DD, and 6DS. We're in the bowels of the ship - cabin #1049. We're visiting DL before the cruise - kids have never been and it's been about 10 years since DH and I were there. Looking forward to "meeting" you some more.....

 

[SchultzFamily]

Welcome Renegade7! You're right we're getting close! no docs for us yet but hopefully soon.
We're almost neighbors, we live across the bay from you!
Vickie

 

[Catnip0113]

Glad you found our thread before the trip. I (Cathy - 45) am on this cruise with my DH - Steve (45) and our DD13 (Jessica). This will be our 2nd Disney cruise, 1st West coast cruise. This is DD's first trip to California or anywhere west of NYC really (she has been to Florida and Wash DC).

I set up the "cruise room" this weekend - clearing off the beds in the guest room and I found the seabands. This weekend I have to try things on to see what fits and what has potential. I told Jess to think of outfit combinations she can wear for tropical night, semi-formal, and regular nights. She needs another bathing suit. DH is all set, he wears suits to work and has several nice jackets and new shoes. He also has casual "golf" type tops because he can dress business casual during the summer. He may need a bathing suit or shorts, I'm not sure.

I want my documents!! Cathy

 

[renegade7]

Yes I am very much looking forward to the cruise. I have made a packing list and sent it to dad to help him out. I really need to start getting things together on my end too. Time is just flying by. (I am finding the older I get the faster it goes.) I am in a musical organization here (San Francisco Renegades Drum & Bugle Corps) and we compete or practice just about every weekend in the summer so it makes finding time to do the extra little things hard. I also think I need to do some shopping for some "summer clothes" (you don't really wear shorts in SF).

I am flying dad into LAX from PA on Friday before the cruise and meeting him down there. We are going to try to get over to the port on the first bus Saturday. I prefer to be there waiting then stressing because we are going to be late.

We (I) will try to join you for the meet. Depends on how the day goes and dad is not big on doing group events or meeting new people. Dad is funny he doesn't like me doing things on my own either. Granted I have been living out here on my own now for 8 years. (Can you say Daddy's little girl!)

We are on deck 6 (60xx) in and inside stateroom (can't remember the # since we were a gty). We have the late seating for dinner and I requested APL for our rotation (guess I will see when we get on board if I get it). I booked us at Palo for a dinner, brunch and tea. Dad really liked Palo the last cruise, he asked to do it at the start of the cruise so he could enjoy it more. (We totally ate way too much last time.) I plan to do some walking after dinner and plan on gaining a few pounds maybe even try the fitness center.

I am trying not to be too planned this time. (yeah right!) I have browsed the posted Navigators from previous cruises and some threads with Navigator details posted trying to see what I would like to try and do while on the ship. I don't think I would get bored with everything I would like to check out even doing the 14 day repositioning cruise. Top on my list are the wine, martini, beer and tequila tastings; Art of Entertaining; Disney Behind-the-Scenes; Disney's Navigator Series; and Family Towel Folding (I love them!).

We are doing the excursions through Disney. I am a little worried about the Canopy Tour for dad. People in my office have done them before and say he should be fine. Other than that we are doing the Tequila, Saddles and Huaraches in Mazatlan. Not sure if I want to keep this reservation or not. Anyone heard anything about it. I have browsed around and have not seen much. Really I am only doing it for the Tequila. We are doing the Harbor Cruise & Scenic Drive in Cabo. Last cruise I did some things on my own and felt bad so I tried to choose things that we can do together this time.

I guess so much for not trying to be too planned - huh. I really like the idea of ordering the cheese plate from room service after you get on board. We did not use room service at all last time - so any pointers would be appreciated. (I read some things are included others you need to pay for and you should tip the "runner".) I am also trying the Spa (we only did the 4 day last time) I scheduled a massage for our first day at sea. Oh the other thing I found on these boards is that you can get Mickey Bars! I am so excited. Anyone know where they have them?

 

[Itinkso]

Renegade7 - My friend who just returned from the Magic said the are available at Pluto's and you can order them from room service! My DD is planning on ordering them everyday from room service; I went and got a great supply of $1 bills for tips!

 

[Catnip0113]

I have a couples massage scheduled for the first day at sea too Renegade7. I am a little nervous because I have never had a massage before. I definately don't want my feet touched, does anyone know if it is okay to tell them that? Do they use a lot of pressure? Sometimes my manicurist massages my hands too hard. I might just let DH have his own massage!

I still don't have my documents I should call tomorrow. I think it is just 23 days out (we leave 8/4) so it should be any minute.

Cathy

 

[SchultzFamily]

Cathy - I don't see any reason you couldn't tell them not to touch your feet. Also if the pressure is too hard let them know right away, they will ease up. I love having a massage! DH says its "ok" but he didn't complain when I scheduled the couples massage. Ours is scheduled for Sunday also. Then I have one scheduled for myself on Friday! I'm looking foreward to 2 massages in a week!!!
No docs yet here either.
Vickie

 

[Calliegirl]

Hi Everyone and Welcome Renegade 7!

I work in San Francisco - so we are practically neighbors! We are going on some of the same tours as well - at least I think the Cabo one for sure. It's me, DH and DD who will be 9 (this Sunday).

I haven't heard much about the shore excursions and am interested in hearing about them too. I just haven't had much time to search around any of the forums.

Thanks everyone for the scoop on the Mickey head ice creams! I just told my daughter and she is thrilled!

I was wondering if anyone has any information on those sea bands that cost about a $100 - if they are worth buying? They are operated by batteries and can be found I think at Brookstone or Sharper Image. I've already got the dramamamine/bonine, scopolomine and regular elastic sea bands.

Got the info on the deck meet - we will try to make it. You won't be able to miss us - I got the matching mother/daugher mickey hawaiian dresses and DH has the Hawaiian shirt. (Okay, try not to gag, everyone - one of my friends just rolled her eyes!) I figure it will be another year or two and that won't be 'cool' anymore in DD's eyes, so milk it for all you can.

We are dressing for pirates night. Figured "What the heck and DH was game (he's a big joker)" Should be fun!

And lastly a belated "Happy Birthday" to Rhys, Eve and also it's cool you were on QVC, Barb.

Also, we have no docs, either.

I made up a bunch of Mickey head magnets for the stateroom door with the intention that if anyone wanted to come and 'lift' them - they were welcome to them! Thanks for the links, Eve on door decoration, I haven't had time to look at them yet.

Okay, one final question - I don't have a room assigned - just a Cat #10 gty. Should I call DCL and request a specific cabin - can I do that? Being a first timer?

Thanks everyone!

Lauren

 

[SchultzFamily]

Does anyone know where they rent wet bikes (or jet skis) at any of the ports? I know I have read in some of the live reports about them being available to rent but I really don't know where. DH was talking tonight about how much fun we had on them when we did the Eco Tour on Castaway Cay and it would be fun to find some to rent in Mexico.
Vickie

 

[justmestace]

Hi Guys!! Sorry...been really crazy around here.

Vickie....someone said that they rented jet skis in Cabo, and were set free for 45 minutes...they went down around the arches and everything! What a blast. They just got off the ship and went to Medano Beach, and rented one from one of the stands on the beach. Thing is....they walked all the way around to the beach....ain't NO WAY! Take a water taxi over there. Trust me.

I didn't see as many (if any) booths set up for that kind of thing in Puerto Vallarta...but there were a ton of them in Mazatlan.
If you want to book something ahead of time, just do a search for any of the cities...there will be links to all kinds of rentals. Type in something like "Mazatlan Water Sports".......in your "Search" thing on the Web...not on here.

I've heard from Barb a couple of times as they make their way across the country.....safe so far...somewhere in Oklahoma yesterday....

 

[justmestace]

Golly sakes...what a lot of questions...I can try to answer some, and they'll be out of order...brain malfunction.

Mickey bars are also on the kid's dessert menu, but my Dad ordered one...the servers don't care who orders from what menu.

The cheese platters from room service are good! You may have to search the room to find the menu, though...or ask your stateroom host. Also, you should find, in the desk drawer, a thing to hang on your door at night, to order Continental breakfast, or just juice, coffee, milk. We always do this, even if it's just for coffee, because it serves as our wake-up call. You just mark your selections, and the time you want it delivered, hang it outside on your door the night before ....and VOILA!

Take an extension cord...one with several outlet spaces in it. There's probably just the one outlet in the room, usually behind the desk or tv.
Night light....to put in the potty.
Depending on your excursion...maybe one of those spray bottle fans...also good for the parks.

The cards that Eve made are a fun thing to do...we've done that each time also. I make those for Mousekeeping at the resorts too. I pay our tips in cash (just a personal preference) and I have envelopes stuffed (the little card and money) and marked (Head Server, etc) before we leave home...and keep them in the safe. No last minute scramble for money......lots of ones for tips ...room service, baggage, taxi's .....

I think the number one best item we have taken is the over-the-door organizer. We have even needed and loved having one, even when we're in a suite. Everyone can find what they want w/o bugging me.

I find the ship's shampoos harsh...I take my own.

Gosh, what else? Let me go back and read the posts again.

 

[Itinkso]

Does anyone know where they rent wet bikes (or jet skis) at any of the ports?
Vickie

I have checked out JTWatersports.com in Cabo but haven't reserved anything yet. They have a website and their equipment looks good in the pics. I'm waiting until Brynee has more time to "think" about the cruise. She is so busy...leaves the house at 7 and doesn't return until 6 or later. She also has to fit in Dance Team choreography over the next 2 days in addition to being in runthroughs for Beauty. I'm glad that she'll have a week of down time before the cruise.

Saw "War of the Worlds" this evening. I'm not really into sci/fi but it was entertaining...Tom does his usual good job and the theater was nice and cool...over 104 today and we were attempting to stay cool!

No takers for Bubbles?? Sonia said quite a few people had bubbles but they were shown up by a woman who had a battery-operated bubble blower!

 

[Jasak]

Hi everyone! Welcome to Renegade 7! I'm traveling with my DH, DD 10 and DD 5, our first Disney cruise. We're in San Bruno - close to SF. We're nearly neighbors.
Wow those Mickey bars sound so good - especially to our DDs.
Looking forward to room service for breakfast - or, for coffee only and as a wake-up call.

I'm still searching for the over-the-door organizer. Can't find it yet. I've seen the hanging door organizer. Hope I can find it soon.

Stacey, how early is breakfast available on Saturday morning? I understand that they want everyone off the ship quickly. Room service is not available the last morning - Saturday?

Still waiting for our cruise docs. Heard that they're supposed to be on the way this week...

Thanks in advance.
Jinny

 

[justmestace]

Cathy....the spa will give you a form to fill out (like a health form) before your massage....just write in big letters (it's okay, they're used to it) GENTLE MASSAGE...and then you can also tell them privately to not touch your feet. Trust me, they've heard worse....
Also...all of you...write on this form "NO SALES PLEASE"....they will sit with you, with products laid on the table, for a good half hour after your treatment, telling you why you MUST have this stuff. It's way over-priced.

Lauren....I'd leave the GTY as it is....they are the ones that are most likely to be upgraded...unless you really have your heart set on one particular room...if so, then yes...call DCL.

Jenny...take the bubbles anyway...they are a lot of fun, and you can give them to little ones around you that don't have any. They'll get their first taste of "Magic".

 

[justmestace]

Jinny, I think they started breakfast at 7:00 am....we had a suite, so we could still get room service. Which reminds me....the room service menu is free, unless you want to order dinner from one of the restaurant menus...and I think that only people in the suites can do that, anyway....I said that wrong...dinner from the restaurants is also free in the suites....or if you order alcohol and maybe even soda...there is a charge for those, I do believe.
Other than the breakfast, we've never used room service. We just run upstairs and get what we want to snack on at Plutos or Pinnochio's. And the free soda fountain.

 

[justmestace]

Jinny...just get the hanging shoe organizer at Target or WalMart...that will work just fine. Or...do you have an Organized Living store near you? The hooks on my daughter's organizer didn't fit over the door anyway...so we used a pants hanger for it. You can ask your stateroom host for more hangers.

 

[Jasak]

Jinny, I think they started breakfast at 7:00 am....we had a suite, so we could still get room service. Which reminds me....the room service menu is free, unless you want to order dinner from one of the restaurant menus...and I think that only people in the suites can do that, anyway....I said that wrong...dinner from the restaurants is also free in the suites....or if you order alcohol and maybe even soda...there is a charge for those, I do believe.
Other than the breakfast, we've never used room service. We just run upstairs and get what we want to snack on at Plutos or Pinnochio's. And the free soda fountain

Where did you have breakfast the last morning? Did you bring your bags with you and then leave the ship after your breakfast?

 

[Jasak]

Jinny...just get the hanging shoe organizer at Target or WalMart...that will work just fine. Or...do you have an Organized Living store near you? The hooks on my daughter's organizer didn't fit over the door anyway...so we used a pants hanger for it. You can ask your stateroom host for more hangers
_____________________________________________

I've seen the hanging shoe organizers at Target. So, the bathroom door does have a hook on it?

 

[justmestace]

Take some plastic-coated tie wire (baggie ties).....they come in handy in a lot of ways.
Jinny, you could use them for extra support if you have to use a hanger for your organizer.
Jared broke the pull off a zipper, so we used a tie-tie.
I use them as "clothes pins" to hang the wet swim suits in the shower....just loop them through a the shoulder strap or leg hole.....

I take a large manilla envelope with cardboard in it...to put our pics to take home that we buy from Shutters. Shutters doesn't have folders that are sturdy enough to keep the pics from getting bent.
Also, another manilla envelope to stick all my receipts in each day.

A small post it pad so that we can leave notes for eachother if we leave the room..... "Mom...I'm at the Stack".....

I guess that's all I can think of for tonight......

Calling it a day.

 

[justmestace]

Jinny...just get the hanging shoe organizer at Target or WalMart...that will work just fine. Or...do you have an Organized Living store near you? The hooks on my daughter's organizer didn't fit over the door anyway...so we used a pants hanger for it. You can ask your stateroom host for more hangers
_____________________________________________

I've seen the hanging shoe organizers at Target. So, the bathroom door does have a hook on it?

The back of the bathroom doors do have hooks on them....but I have also hung the organizer from a towel bar and also a picture frame in the bedroom in our Cat 3. There was nowhere else handy to put it......and I checked...those pictures are hung on the wall TIGHT!