October 20th 2007 Western Magic Part 2

[Karen Mouse]

OMG Karen Ive got that tune in my head too now !!!!

We stayed at Devon cliffs. Its their biggest flag ship park with Declour spa there, so that was lush!!!

I will try and get you a picture of anxious....


Night all....xxx

Lindy - that i sooooo wierd - we were actually planning to go to Devon Cliffs this easter - we'd have been there at the same time! - the only reason we didnt go was they had totally sold out of the 2 and 3 bed caravans and the only thing they had was £££ and slept 12 - theres 3 of us so we didnt go in the end.

Wow - I'd have definately spotted Elouise on stage - we could have had a pre-cruise meet! What a shame I didnt book it when I got the first quote and they had spaces left.

 

[oybolshoi]

AFEG, Congrats to Rosie!!

And can I ask...are you one of those stereotypical English guys who start soccer riots? If the answer is yes, Jay and I are really going to regret not cruising with you even more than we already do.

Perhaps we can meet up at the "pub" in English Epcot and just get drunk together and start a bar brawl???



PS. We know the lyrics to Always Look on the Bright Side of Life!

 

[Karen Mouse]

Karen-
I feel for you! My DH had a rare neurological disease (Guillane Barre Syndrome) 7 years ago and he had to have his blood filtered, plasma taken out and replaced with a synthetic plasma. The process itself was called plasmapheresis and I imagine it is much like kidney dialysis (sp.). He had it done 7 times during his hospital stay and each time took between 3-4 hours and he had to lie very still or he would blow out a vein. By the end of his hospital stay he looked like a drug addict! So, even though you are at the beginning of the process for your sister, you are NOT a wuss!!! for you and your sister!

Yes - it sounds very similar to what I'd have to have done... lie still for hours, my blood goes through a machine where they take the "good stuff" and then goes back into me. Prior to that I have to have 6 lots of injections to boost my "good stuff" and to get it leak into my blood from my bones (or something like that). Hopefully they will get enough in one sitting, if not they stick me with more needles and do the whole thing again the next day

I'll be praying they get plenty of the good stuff first time round.


I'll manage... its my sis who needs the pixie dust so I'll pass it on to her - thank you

 

[Karen Mouse]

PS. We know the lyrics to Always Look on the Bright Side of Life!

Oh geez - guess what I'm humming now! - Brenda - I have a really funny story about this tune...

I used to be an office supervisor at a transport company for a really big department chainstore. Me and the other supervisor used to have races on our office chairs - (the sort with 5 wheels on the bottom that swivel) from one end of the office to the other - (long thin open plan office.) We used to get someone to run along with our chair and then let us go with a big shove to see who could travel the futherest etc while we held our arms out to the side and legs out it front and stuck together (like we were on a cross - sick I know) and not hold onto the chair whilst singing that song as we flew along.....well, the one day my friends wheel hit a "pothole" in the carpet and she went caterpaulting off the chair and landed face first on the carpet whilst I sailed by on my chair singing "lifes a piece of sh*t.. when you look at it"

Maybe you had to be there, but geez it was funny. Luckily she wasnt injured and we were back "playing races" the next day once her face had recovered sufficiently.

 

[disgrits]

AFEG...Congrats to Rosie! She'll get along great with my kids as they love sports. My Emily will be in the teen club (she'll be 14) and Derek will be in the lab (he'll be almost 12). Softball is Em's passion, but she likes playing soccer, too. I say, anything to keep them active and out of trouble!

Nancy, yes Monterey is beautiful and has some really nice restaurants. We are just a stone's throw from Carmel, which is upscale but fun, too. And it is definitely the place for golfers and wine enthusiasts! Wine tasting is so much fun here.....if you can persuade someone in the group to be the designated driver!

Ok, it's Wednesday, so I am off to volunteer in Alex's class and then the gym with Rob. I kinda like that he is in school right now because his schedule allows for us to go to the gym together. Usually when we are in the weight room, we are alone, as everyone else has a life. So that is when I "brief" him on the latest DCL plans that I have made. And I give him updates on Brenda and Jay's adventures at WDW--we live vicariously through them. Once again, no life! I like it that way actually. Today I will tell him about Rosie's MVP and Karen's sister....and that Nancy calls herself Nocturnal Nancy--I think that that name is kinda sexy, Nancy. Rob will just laugh and shake his head at me, like he thinks I am crazy, but he really likes hearing everything about this thread--it keeps his mind off of his thesis.

Ok, I have had too much coffee---watch out 1st graders, here comes Mrs. Mitchell!!!!

 

[GOS]

Heres the guys and kids playing crazy golf... me and Sam turned up after our massage, and sneeky few glasses of wine !

Oh my, a decent looking crazy golf in the UK and about time to.

Heather,

I keep forgetting to ask you what the screen name is for Dave & Bev. I wanted to add them to our DISer list. Also, I believe they wanted to play DIStag too, right?

Thanks!

Yes they did. Dave and Bev's screen name is TheFatMan.

Heather

 

[Lindy Loo]

Hello and welcome! My DD will be 5 in July so there's another possible friend for your younger DD. My DS will be 8 at cruise time. 351 pages IS alot! I usually can only get here in short stints then disappear for a month or so. It's a chatty, friendly group!

Linda, great pics of Elouise! (especially the finger! I was laughing out loud at that one!) Gwynne is sitting on my lap at the moment looking at the pictures, saying how she wants to play with Elouise on the cruise. I promise Gwynne won't be giving her any other finger ideas!!

That would be great for the girls to meet up !!! its going to be a great fun cruise for all of us !
Have you got any pictures of Gwynne, for Elouise to see please?
On the last cruise we had pictures on the thread, the girls noticed each other and went to say "hello" and play, before the adults recognised each other !

An early night OR watching a replay of united's 7/1 thrashing of AC Roma?....COME ON UNITED.......

Miss "lush" i have a dream

First we win our trophy back from the Russian mafia then we do them in the FAC final to do the treble "double" before we march into Athens and put the "unwashed" loserpool to the sword in the final of the CL final with our very own lovable scallywag Rooney scoring the winner in the 89th minute to complete the double "treble"...THEN am transported to a desert island filled with japanese Geisha girls who worship a god called "The fat balding one" to help me recuperate from the mother of all hangovers (don't worry about Hazel I'll leave her a big box of chocolate's,a case of red wine,a clean credit card and just to show what a nice fella i am I'll even take my dirty washing with me,now i can't say fairer than that can i lady's?) and all while watching replayed videos of just how we won the lot AGAIN.....

ps....Maybe you lady's may have an idea or two as to how my dear wife should put my credit card to best uses

AND DON'T FORGET LADY'S THE PLANNING OR HIRING (and we all know how good you lot are at that) OF A HITMAN IS VERY ILLEGAL.....

Have a great day lady's....

I was soooo with you on the dream, untill the end ! wow £10,000 for a ticket................ thats alot of dosh!

Oops Forgot to mention my footballing diva's exploits,unknown to Rosie her coach (we call them managers over here)told me Rosie has won the most valued player of her team AND the most valued player of her club of which there are over 250 members.....i most remember to be stood well away from any drafts or air con when she goes up to pick-up her trophy's on presentation night as the last thing she needs is me stood there blubbing like some woofter at a showing of love story the movie.....

Chris you should be well proud of Rosie, please pass on our congratulations to her, when she receives the awards. Its amazing! I KNOW Wayne would cry if elouise was ever choosen for something so amazing !

Lindy - that i sooooo wierd - we were actually planning to go to Devon Cliffs this easter - we'd have been there at the same time! - the only reason we didnt go was they had totally sold out of the 2 and 3 bed caravans and the only thing they had was £££ and slept 12 - theres 3 of us so we didnt go in the end.

Wow - I'd have definately spotted Elouise on stage - we could have had a pre-cruise meet! What a shame I didnt book it when I got the first quote and they had spaces left.

We paid £600 for the weekend, but luckily our friends came too, so we split the cost 50:50... still not a cheap weekend, but it was fun and the weather was perfect!. so It would have been crazy but great fun if we had met up ! We are going for a week in May to Littlesea............... so be warned !

 

[Lindy Loo]

Pixie dust to Karen and her Sister.............

 

[Lindy Loo]

Ok, I have had too much coffee---watch out 1st graders, here comes Mrs. Mitchell!!!!

How did the Kids fair with Mrs Mitchell ???

 

[Lindy Loo]

just bumping, seeing no one is " out to play" !!!

 

[JLDSMD]

just bumping, seeing no one is " out to play" !!!

I'm here. DS is off school this week and I took today and tomorrow off. It is snowing here today. They say 4 to 8 inches. It is wet and heavy. The roads are slick as well.

So what is this place you went to over the weekend?

 

[disgrits]

How did the Kids fair with Mrs Mitchell ???

Actually, I didn't have to interact with them today. Alex's teacher had me correcting papers while she gave them a test. She amazes me with the way she can keep the attention of a room full of first graders--on a rainy day no less!

 

[disgrits]

FYI for everyone.....I received this email today from the folks at Playa Mia Beach, and thought I'd pass it along.

Dear Paige,

Good morning from Cozumel. Thank you very much for the information.

We highly recommend the following tours which are available on board most cruiselines. You may contact the Shore Excursions Department of the cruise ship for purchasing, pricing, availability and description information regarding the following tours:

BEACH BREAK - Unlimited domestic open bar (Purified bottled water, assorted soft drinks, draft beer, Tequila, Mezcal, Brandy, Rum, Vodka, Margaritas, Rum Punch, Pina Coladas, Daiquiris in assorted flavors, juice and coffee)

Also, included are a beach umbrella, sun chair, access to all non-motorized water toys and park facilities. Transportation is not included. Taxis are available from downtown and the piers and should be from $15.00 USD to $20.00 USD one-way for up to 4 persons. We have taxis available at our gate when you are ready to return.

DELUXE BEACH BREAK - Round-trip private transportation from the cruise ship docking pier to Playa Mia, Unlimited domestic open bar (Purified bottled water, assorted soft drinks, draft beer, Tequila, Mezcal, Brandy, Rum, Vodka, Margaritas, Rum Punch, Pina Coladas, Daiquiris in assorted flavors, juice and coffee), International buffet with salad bar, assorted dishes and desserts, beach umbrella, sun chair and access to all non-motorized water toys and park facilities.

PALANCAR REEF SNORKEL - Round-trip transportation via boat to one of the most beautiful dive sites the island has to offer; bottled purified water and soft drinks are provided.

REEF SNORKEL AND BEACH COMBO - Tansportation from the cruise ship docking pier to two different breath-taking dive sites, Deep Paraiso & Cardona, Fun & Sun boat trip to our private beach where you will have the following included: Unlimited domestic open bar (Purified bottled water, assorted soft drinks, draft beer, Tequila, Mezcal, Brandy, Rum, Vodka, Margaritas, Rum Punch, Pina Coladas, Daiquiris in assorted flavors, juice and coffee), International buffet lunch, access to all non-motorized water toys, sun chair and park facilities. Then, you will enjoy a scenic boat ride back to the cruise ship docking pier.

MEXICAN CUISINE WORKSHOP & TASTING - Round-trip private transportation from the cruise ship docking pier to Playa Mia, Unlimited domestic open bar (Purified bottled water, assorted soft drinks, draft beer, Tequila, Mezcal, Brandy, Rum, Vodka, Margaritas, Rum Punch, Pina Coladas, Daiquiris in assorted flavors, juice and coffee) and Mexican wines, Specialized Chef for cooking instructions, 3-course meal (your own creations!), beach umbrella, sun chair and access to all non-motorized water toys and park facilities.

These tours are exclusive to the cruiselines and are only available through the Shore Excursions Department of the cruise ship.

If you prefer to visit us directly we offer you the following:

We are in the process of activating the reservations service through our website, however you will be able to make purchases at the gate entrance at this time.

Our park hours are from 09:00 a.m. to 06:00 p.m. CST, Monday through Saturday. We are open Sunday when a cruise ship is in port.

The entrance packages available at this moment at the gate of the park are as follows:

- BASIC $ 15.00 USD (tax included)
- FIESTA $ 38.00 USD (tax included)
- PREMIUM $ 49.00 USD (tax included)

Prices are for adults and children. Children age 2 and under enter free.

The differences between the packages are listed below:
Basic package: Entrance to park, sun chair, all non-motorized water sports and park facilities. Fiesta package: Basic + unlimited domestic open bar (draft beer, bottled water, soft drinks, Margaritas, Rum Punch, Piña Coladas, Daiquiris in assorted flavors, Rum, Tequila, Vodka, Brandy, Mezcal, fruit juices and coffee.) Premium package: Fiesta + International buffet, towel & snorkel equipment (mask,fins & snorkel)
Minimum age for consumption of alcoholic drinks in the country of Mexico is 18. Identification is required.

Taxis are available from downtown and the piers and should be from $ 15.00 to $ 20.00 USD one way for up to 4 persons. We have taxis available at our gate when you are ready to return. You should allot a minimum of 15 minutes for your return trip to downtown from our park.

Credit / debit cards with Visa or Mastercard and American Express, U.S. and Mexican currency and travelers checks are accepted at our entrance and restaurants.

A description of each package can be found on our website at www.playamia.com under THE PARK; PACKAGES.

Food and drinks are available for purchase seperately if not purchasing an inclusive package. The International buffet is $15.00 USD per person and is available Monday through Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. CST. Soft drinks & bottled purified water are $ 2.00 USD each. Other food and drinks having varying prices.

Life jackets are available near the non-motorized water toys, which are included in your entrance package.

BEACH UMBRELLAS are available for rent: $ 5.00 USD refundable deposit required and $ 5.00 USD for daily rental per umbrella.

BEACH TOWEL rental is available: $ 5.00 USD refundable deposit required and $ 5.00 USD daily rental fee per towel.

LOCKERS are available for daily rental: $ 5.00 USD refundable deposit required and $ 5.00 rental per locker.


OUTDOOR MASSAGE: $ 40.00 USD for 30 minutes or $ 75.00 USD for a full hour.

PHOTOS:
• With Iguanas $ 12.00 USD
• With Iguanas – Including Frame $ 20.00 USD
• With Birds $ 10.00 USD

HAIRBRAIDING: •Price ranges from $ 2.00 USD up to $ 50.00 USD or more depends on hair length and if beads or flowers are included.

TEMPORARY TATOOS: •Price ranges from $ 2.00 USD to $ 35.00 USD

BUNGEEE is available for $8.00 USD for 10 minutes.
ROCK WALL CLIMBING is $ 8.00 USD per climb. Shoe rental is $ 2.00 USD.
(Minimun weight required 80 pounds and maximun 150 pounds)

BANANA BOAT rides are $ 15.00 USD per person per trip. Each round trip is approximately 15 minutes. Minimum age of 15 years is required.

GLASS BOTTOM BOAT tours are $27.00 USD per person per tour. Price includes marine park taxes, bottled water, soft drinks and professional guide. Tour is approximately 1&1/2 hrs. Subject to availablility.

PARASAILING is $ 60.00 USD per 10 minute flight. Price doubles for tandem*. $ 15.00 USD for an observer traveling in the boat.
* Tandem available depending on weather conditions and weight of persons.

We also have WAVE RUNNERS for rent:

We have late model, two-seater wave runners that seat one to two persons. Minors under 18 years of age require the accompaniment of an adult. Following are the different pricings:

15 MIN. = $35.00 USD
30 MIN. = $60.00 USD
45 MIN. = $80.00 USD
60 MIN. = $110.00 USD

No reservation required for activities.

Please let us know if we can be of further assistance. Thank you for your interest in our park. Hope to see you soon! May you have a safe & fun trip!

Sincerely,

International Sales Department
Playa Mia Grand Beach Park®
Cozumel, Quintana Roo, México 77600
e-mail to: info@playamia.com
or visit our website: www.playamia.com
Phone: 52 (987) 872-9039
Fax: 52 (987) 872-9039

 

[JLDSMD]

Paige,

Thanks for posting that. Very imformative.

I checked the DCL website and the Beach Break Package, which would include the Premium package, does include transportaton and also gives a break for kids. The prices there are $59A/$46C(3-9).

If you figure $15 each way for cab, for us (a family of 3 - child under 9) it would be cheaper to do it through DCL ($164 vs. $177).

If your kids are over 9, it would be better to do it on your own.

 

[disgrits]

Paige,

Thanks for posting that. Very imformative.

I checked the DCL website and the Beach Break Package, which would include the Premium package, does include transportaton and also gives a break for kids. The prices there are $59A/$46C(3-9).

If you figure $15 each way for cab, for us (a family of 3 - child under 9) it would be cheaper to do it through DCL ($164 vs. $177).

If your kids are over 9, it would be better to do it on your own.

Our thoughts exactly. We think that what we'll do is rent a car, head to San Gervasio so I can make my kids suffer through something educational (only $5.50 admission), then head to Playa Mia. Their numbers just don't add up to me. It would be cheaper to get the basic package ($15) then add on drinks or lunch separately. I think we may try to eat at a restaurant outside of the beach anyway. Of course I may get the fiesta package ($38) so I can have a few drinks. Rob will be driving, so he'll just have to wait for beer on the ship....

 

[disgrits]

A photo with an iguana? Hmmmmm......

 

[JLDSMD]

Our thoughts exactly. We think that what we'll do is rent a car, head to San Gervasio so I can make my kids suffer through something educational (only $5.50 admission), then head to Playa Mia. Their numbers just don't add up to me. It would be cheaper to get the basic package ($15) then add on drinks or lunch separately. I think we may try to eat at a restaurant outside of the beach anyway. Of course I may get the fiesta package ($38) so I can have a few drinks. Rob will be driving, so he'll just have to wait for beer on the ship....

You may want to look into a beach club that doesn't charge an admission. You usually can get a palapa and chairs as long as you order from them. Since you'll be having a drink or two anyways, they'd probably be fine with that. The kids could get a wrist band if the club has those to use the "toys" there.

May be able to cut the cost down even further.

 

[JLDSMD]

Just an update on where we stand on the posts:

We are currently in 16th place.

#15 is only 250 posts ahead of us and they aren't moving quickly.

The other one we were going back and forth with (May '07 Med Repo) is in 14th now and 415 posts ahead of us.

I don't foresee us catching them until they sail (they'll be gone for 14 days) or after when they die down a little.

#13 is still hovering in the lower 7k area and moving slow. I think our goal should be 10k by the time we leave. That should leave us in at 13 for a while.

 

[JLDSMD]

Here are our posts (those over 10).

Linda, you are one away from the 500 club.

JLDSMD 843
oybolshoi 730
Karen Mouse 687
cntkg1 628
Lindy Loo 499
A fat english gent 458

Timon 204
GOS 188
disgrits 161
Poohbush 147
Scouter 130
Dyerneeds 120

Cheryl N. WI 91
Tinker_Belle 71
perdidobay 61
PrincessMom2002 56
B9erSteve 47
Walt & Di 42
chibben2003 41
jdkdorn 33
medicalman 27
kaitiebear 17
dizneycrazy4 13

 

[disgrits]

You may want to look into a beach club that doesn't charge an admission. You usually can get a palapa and chairs as long as you order from them. Since you'll be having a drink or two anyways, they'd probably be fine with that. The kids could get a wrist band if the club has those to use the "toys" there.

May be able to cut the cost down even further.

Good idea. I will check into that.