*Sept 10th 2011 WB Transatlantic* From Spain to Space Mountain - Part 4

[MandyGirl]

I need Help!

I noticed a name on the WBTA webpage Noel created that is listed for our Jost VanDyke excursion out of Tortola. However, I have never received a PM or Visitor Message from this screen name to add them to the excursion, which filled up back in March and we are only taking standby names now for cancellations.

I tried using the search features here on DIS, but am running into deadends. I am not finding them as registered users, and the PM I sent them would not send because user not ofund. Can some of you more DIS-literate folks please help me out in case I am being a DingDong with the DIS username search feature?

I also tried searching their name on Thread #3 and Thread #4 here on DIS, but no results.

I also tried looking on the Facebook page in the DOC that lists DIS names, but to no avail.

I can't go through all the Facebook pages, posts, and multiple replies, as they may not even be on there either. This is why we all streamlined our sign-up process as DIS Private Messages, especially for things that have a limited capacity.

I definitely do not want this family thinking they are signed up for the excursion when they are NOT, showing up at port, etc - and being disappointed (or upset). I don't know how else to search. Maybe they are lurkers here and will see this post because I am running into deadends on how to reach them, unless one of you guys can help me out.

Their listed DIS screenname I am searching from Noel's Events / Tortola list:
mtalbotnz


Message I tried sending via DIS PM that gave me the following error message:

The following errors occurred with your submission:
The following users were not found:
mtalbotnz


Hi mtalbotnz! I noticed on the WBTA webpage Noel created recently that you are checked as being on the Tortola excursion. Just a heads-up that I do NOT have your family on the list since I never received a Private Message on the DISboard.

Would you like me to add you to the Standby list should we have any cancellations? There is a limited capacity on the two catamarans, and we reached capacity back in March (Noel created the separate webpage in May, allowing people to check for different things although the sign-up method is sending a PM for most events --- we keep it streamlined that way). The only changes that are occurring for the Jost VanDyke excursion are if we have anyone cancel, and I did have someone change plans in early June which enabled me to move a standby family up to confirmed.

Please let me know if you would like to be added to the standby list - we currently have two families on there now. I add new standbys to the bottom, and clear standbys in order should we have any cancellations. I would also need adults, children under 12, and children under age 3 counts for the standby list.

I wanted to clarify that as of right now, your family is not on the official list, but I can add you to standbys. I'm sorry for any confusion - we started sign-up back in January and were full by early March via the DISboard PM. Noel's page is completely different from the DISboard, and only uses data people are inputting individually as opposed to verifying with each coordinator. (Sorry!) Just let me know if you would like to be added to the standby list for Jost VanDyke, and also that you received this message. Thanks so much!

~ Mandy

Any suggestions on how I can reach this DIS screenname that does not exist so they know they are NOT listed for the excursion????

 

[MandyGirl]

I think I may have resolved the crisis.

DIS Name here was not same as DIS Name on Noel's WBTA page.

The user individual names do match a DIS family I have on our excursion list, so unless we have two families with exact same names traveling... I am assuming we are resolved.

Whew!!

 

[Chirpee]

Happy Saturday Everyone!!!
We got back on Friday, very tired from driving. Our trip was great though, the Blue Ridge Mountains (Appalachia) in Virginia were very scenic and the weather was perfect. LOTS of fireflies (which we don't see in FL) and they reminded me of The Princess & the Frog - "Evangeline!" We hiked about 7 miles everyday and it was really fun, we also visited one of the Virginia wineries and it was lovely.

Of course I brought the laptop just so we could sign in and reserve Palo that Saturday. We got brunch and dinner, but I guess I should've done tea first b/c once we did brunch and dinner there were no tea reservations left. Oh well, maybe next time!

Glad you had a nice time! We made the same mistake - tried to book an excursion first, followed by Palo brunch and then found no reservations left for high tea

But we have managed to book today with Virgin!! and right now are so excited we dont know what to do with ourselves.

We have lots of things we want to know about but after my excitement has subsided a little i will form a legible list!!

Hello and welcome to the thread! I've learnt lots of great tips by being part of this group, so feel free to ask questions, someone is bound to know the answer!

I am Jerry and my wife is Jan and we were on the April 2010 back to back EBT and Mediterranean .

to this chatty group!

Thanks Marilyn and Claire

It was brilliant, but we are absolutely knackered :lmao

Just about to go to the gate.

I'm so glad Lynne's done her usual amazing job, so it will be effortless to catch up. I believe there's a box from apple waiting for me at home, so will have great fun catching up on my new toy tomorrow

Due to the lovely delays in London today due to the weather, we won't get
home till 12.30 am

We were blessed with the weather it was boiling, apparently it wasn't so good the week before.

Can't wait to pick up Tod & Copper, I always miss the little furballs so much.

The shopping mall in Monte Carlo let's you take your posh pooches into the shops, I saw so many yorkies, it made me miss my 2 even more lol

Hi Mary, welcome back! Glad to hear you had a wonderful time and good weather. Not like the weather we had for the Montreal Grand Prix, where we got soaked Looking forward to hearing all about your cruise Hope you enjoy your iPad as much as Paul and I enjoy ours.

 

[PFlamingo]

I think I may have resolved the crisis.

DIS Name here was not same as DIS Name on Noel's WBTA page.

The user individual names do match a DIS family I have on our excursion list, so unless we have two families with exact same names traveling... I am assuming we are resolved.

Whew!!

Here, have a drink.

 

[birkner]

Here, have a drink.

I second that thought!!

I guess having the website is a good crosscheck but maybe next time we could set it up to send the organizers a message when they indicate they are on a tour or event.

Any thoughts or comments?

 

[MandyGirl]

Here, have a drink.

That stressed me! I was soooo afraid we had a family thinking they were signed up who were not. I looked closer at my spreadsheet and searched individual family member names (I usually tried jotting those down - not just DIS name) and that is how it was resolved. Sent a PM to make sure it's the same person, which I am certain it is. I would have felt so sad not getting in touch with a family who thought they were on an excursion... but not.

One kiddo in bed, another fighting it, and husband still at work. I think I am going to take you up on that drink. Fruit juice (plus some sort of coconut-something) is healthy, right?

 

[PFlamingo]

One kiddo in bed, another fighting it, and husband still at work. I think I am going to take you up on that drink. Fruit juice (plus some sort of coconut-something) is healthy, right?

Banana rum. It counts as a serving of fruit. Best thing about Nassau is the Tortola Rum shop. Even though it's made in Grand Cayman.

Hmmm... I wonder if I can get some in St. Maarten or Tortola. I have mine rationed at the moment.

 

[birkner]

That stressed me! I was soooo afraid we had a family thinking they were signed up who were not. I looked closer at my spreadsheet and searched individual family member names (I usually tried jotting those down - not just DIS name) and that is how it was resolved. Sent a PM to make sure it's the same person, which I am certain it is. I would have felt so sad not getting in touch with a family who thought they were on an excursion... but not.

One kiddo in bed, another fighting it, and husband still at work. I think I am going to take you up on that drink. Fruit juice (plus some sort of coconut-something) is healthy, right?

Sounds healthy to me but I would opt for a glass of wine!!

 

[MandyGirl]

Sounds healthy to me but I would opt for a glass of wine!!

Good call! I was thinking something stiffer than wine - finished off a bottle last night and would have to open a new one.

Yes - for future an email notification may work - but maybe just add to the form "Must PM ____ on DIS to sign up for this. Checking does not ensure enrollment." ??

 

[PFlamingo]

Good call! I was thinking something stiffer than wine - finished off a bottle last night and would have to open a new one.

Yes - for future an email notification may work - but maybe just add to the form "Must PM ____ on DIS to sign up for this. Checking does not ensure enrollment." ??

I thought there was something like that on there when we signed up. Not the specific person to PM, but the checking doesn't ensure enrollment part.

 

[birkner]

Good call! I was thinking something stiffer than wine - finished off a bottle last night and would have to open a new one.

Yes - for future an email notification may work - but maybe just add to the form "Must PM ____ on DIS to sign up for this. Checking does not ensure enrollment." ??

I think that would only work for those people who follow directions. I think email to organizers might be more helpful in the long run.

Am I bad!??

 

[JessicasMom]

Dennis is like that, too. Maybe we should have a husbands group like Mandy's toddlers group. They can get together and play with all their FE toys.

LMAO...They're all like toddlers sometimes, aren't they? (No offense to you gentlemen out there , but you know it's true!) I would have responded earlier, but he hijacked the computer to listen to the Buffett concert on Margaritaville.com (DO NOT come between him and his Jimmy!) If only we could afford to buy an island...

 

[MandyGirl]

I have updated our Jost VanDyke excursion post on Page 1 with the following. It finally hit me today looking at the numbers since we were originally told a capacity of 50 that this must be what happened when increasing to 64 (and I know of at least one other DIS family that had booked directly before we set up this excursion - so it makes sense now):

"Please note: Since we did not set up this excursion until January, they already had people booked for our day. We got the remaining 28 slots on the blue power catamaran pictured plus an additional sail catamaran with 36 slots that will be pulling a power dinghy for anyone with mobility concerns since there is no dock at White Bay."

Our group rate that we will be paying is about 10% cheaper for adults than their published price. I just wanted to make sure everyone knew there will be others onboard (not just our DIS group) should you desire to cancel your slot. It is not a "private" daysail but rather a "group rate" daysail... with our DIS group being the majority.

Those who have contacted me with mobility or swim issues will be on the catamaran pulling the dinghy (capacity of 36).

 

[MandyGirl]

LMAO...They're all like toddlers sometimes, aren't they? (No offense to you gentlemen out there , but you know it's true!) I would have responded earlier, but he hijacked the computer to listen to the Buffett concert on Margaritaville.com (DO NOT come between him and his Jimmy!) If only we could afford to buy an island...

You have a good man!! I did the same thing recently for a concert that I had wanted to attend, but budget... and cruise funds... dictated otherwise!

 

[auntlynne]

Catching Up on the Weekly Recaps:

May 12-18
Thread Part 3, Pages 137 - 179 (42 pages)

Practice Tough Love - Don't Give Disney Deb - Dgentrysim - any book ideas for "the cruise," or she will read them now and need more ideas

• WBTA website open
• Platinum Booking Window Open
• Earthquake in Spain
• Lots of Cabin (Choice) Talk
• Sun Lounger Savers (Who aren't even using them)
• P20 Sunscreen
• Claire's dog (Stamford) to vet for lumps in his ear

Welcome New Cruisers

birknerjohn - signed in for the first time!

Schmendrick54 - Jerry & DW Linda - "Hello everyone. I just discovered these boards and I have spent several hours skimming over the thousands of posts. My wife and I are very excited about what may be our first Disney Cruise. We were planning on taking the September 3rd Mediterranean cruise but it is apparently no longer available. We are considering taking the August 20th cruise instead. If not, this will be our first." But they are very seasoned cruisers

Congratulations

binkytell - Ellie's christening "we had a great day, canon jack was surprisingly a pleasure, very funny though, he missed out a chunk of service, the part "do you reject satan" but we had a good laugh about it. We had christening dinner where we got married, Lodge on Loch lomond, its a beautiful setting and we wanted ellie to have a connection to lodge on loch as all our other children were at our wedding"

squitty - has posted 5,000 times (took her 10 years)

Our condolences to

Curt (MandyGirl's husband): His grandfather passed away unexpectedly on May 13.

Book Swap

we're aliens - Jane - "I'm still happy to leave a bag for swapping outside our room however my DH Dave has managed to snag a secret verandah room .. ..7120. "


Mixology and Mojito Tastings
Cut-off date of July 31 - POC squitty

Lanyards & Pins

I want to be sure that everyone who wants a pin or lanyard has PM'd me. I have put information about pins and lanyards below. I will continue to take orders for pins until mid June. I would like to get the lanyards and pins on order at that time.

I will order a few extra lanyards but only those who have ordered pins will be able to get them after the cutoff date.

As for the lanyard team, I am asking to anyone who wants to contribute to the cost of the lanyards to contribute but not in place of the FE gifts. I think it is also a nice way for people who are not participating in the FE to be "gifting" in a sense.

Payments can be made to me at birkner@needinfo.com in dollars for the Lanyard team and Euros for the pins. Please be sure to tell me you DIS name so I can give you credit on the boards.

What people are doing is contributing to the lanyard fund so all DIDers and their families who want one can get the DIS lanyard and holder that I making for this cruise.
"we're doing the fe, but kicked in for the lanyards, too. is that ok?"
Lots of people are doing both as John and I are doing both. but it also makes a nice way for those not doing the FE to contribute to a DIS activity.

Dinner Times

According to DCL's Web site dining time on the Magic for main seating is 5:45 and is 8:15 for late:
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/faqs/onboard-dining/dinner-times/
They no longer stagger the start times within early and main dining.

Currency

Does anyone know if we will have to exchange currency in Gibraltar or Tortola? We used US money in St. Thomas, so I'm assuming we can do the same in St. Maarten? Do they offer a way to do this on the ship, or is their someplace as soon as you dock? I know I will have to get some money in Barcelona, but I hope to use US cash or credit card everywhere else. But I think we are just going to rent a taxi on our own in Gibraltar and I will probably have to pay in cash.

• gibraltar takes Gib Pounds, but also UK pounds and euros
• St. Maarten is easy. You can use US$ but also any euros you've got left from previous ports. The official currency of the French part (St. Martin) is euros but US$ should be of no prob. except for perhaps being dealt a bit less exchange rate. As far as the Dutch part goes (St. Maarten); the official currency there is ANG (antilles guilder) but they are so touristy they'll take both euro and dollars. For both parts of the island; be prepared to get your change in the local official currency though!!

FairFX cards for UK residents for currency
http://www.fairfx.com/

The Fairfx card is a Mastercard that you top up as & when you like with $'s or Euro's depending on which one you get. What I do, when I can afford it and the rate is good (ish) I add dollars to it, so for example if the rate is 1.60 then I will pay £100 through my debit card and they top up my Fairfx card with $160.00. You get the exchange rate as per the day you buy the $'s, so I only buy when i'm happy with it.....currently if it's above 1.60.

You can also use it to withdraw $'s from a cashpoint but I haven't done that, don't see the point (they charge a small fee for that) especially when you can pay for something that's $3 on the card, I did in Feb much to Lee's embarrassment. I'd left all our cash in the room safe so I had to.

Anyway so when you go to the US, you just use it as you would a credit card (everywhere that excepts Mastercard) and it saves carrying cash around, plus the big bonus for me is it's all pre paid so I don't have a huge credit card bill when I get home.....although saying that I usually still do, as I spend everything on my Fairfx card & start on the credit card! Well what can I say, i'm a shopahollic!

the thing about the card is that you put how ever many $$'s you want to and you don't have to worry about a big CC bill at the end of your trip as you've prepaid it.

I love the fact that I can upload the card while I'm away too. You get a slightly better rate than the tourist rate.
The card is valid for 3 years I believe.
You can also keep an eye on your balance while away by checking online.

We had a FairFX card for a few year now.

ESTA (for Europeans)
how exactly do you update your ESTA ?
Go onto the ESTA website Sarah - you will have to log in and then update your ESTA. It's very easy.
Sarah all I did was go to the ESTA page, I couldn't find my esta numbers so just used the "forgot esta" section and logged in using passport number and d.o.b. then it brings your details up, simply change the hotel name where you are staying in July & click update.

Scooters/Wheelchairs at WDW

"Scooters are first come, first served in the parks. Daily cost is $50, with a $20 refundable key deposit. If you park hop, you just bring your deposit ticket from the first park and they will honor it (if they have scooters available) at the second park."

"I don't know where or how long you are staying, but it is a much better deal to rent a scooter from a 3rd party. We've rented them for a week at a time for the same or less than 3 days at a park. And most of these places will deliver/pick up at your hotel. If you are staying on a Disney property, they can deliver to your hotel, and you can ride the scooter on the bus/monorail/boat - whichever of the free transports you are taking to the parks, then ride it right up to your room. If you wait and rent when you get to the park, you still need to get from the parking lot or from the drop off point for the free Disney transportation, to the rental place inside the gates. For my mother, at least, even that far was too far.

Also, I'm not sure, but I think that if you are staying on a Disney-affiliated property, you MIGHT be able to rent it cheaper from the actual Disney hotel you are staying at (as opposed to renting when you get to the park), even on a daily basis, and then take it to the park with you. It seems like at one point I was going to stay at the Hilton or someplace at LBV and that was what we were going to do.

If you are not staying on a Disney property, you will need to break them down (fairly easy, usually the heaviest part is around 25lbs when broken down) and load/unload from your car. We've used a couple of these places, but the last time we used AppleScooter.com because their scooters looked light weight and as I recall their customer service and product were really good."

"Please - ECV - the psychological difference is amazing. With a chair, the pusher is in control - in the ecv, the driver is in control! Until you're in one, you wouldn't even think of the difference, but trust me, it's HUGE."

Linked Dining

"Dan (cliffy97) is compiling the list of linked dining and will submit it to DCL in August after we have all had a chance to make all of our different plans/reservations. Apparently if you do it too early it becomes problematic to book things and make changes.

I believe details on linked dining are on the first page of the thread."

Give Yourself a Stateroom Gift With Free Interest for 6 Months

"Did I read somewhere else on the board that prior to the trip you can call DCL and have an OBC put onto your account using the Disney Visa and receive the 6 months 0% interest?

I believe I saw that as long as you call PRIOR to the trip, it would be charged as a reservation charge and Chase would code it as eligible for 0% - any charges made with the Visa on board would be coded at the usual interest rate."

"Yes, you can give yourself an OBC to cover any expenses, not just tips. The last time I read the fine print for 0% interest on Disney VISA, it wa for charges over $101 - so plan accordingly when gigging yourself. Do as Noel said,about a week in advance; I think they cut off 3 days before the cruise begins. Just Say you would like to give a gift to cruiser x - they wil ask what message goes with the gift, even when it's to yourself - this will be on the gift notification waiting for you in your cabin when you arrive, along with any OBC notes from TAs or Disney VISA."

Excursions

I remember previous conversations on the boards about going to Maho Beach in St Maarten and hanging out at the bars (or on the fences) to watch the planes fly overhead.

Is this something that someone was putting together? I don't see it as an official DCL excursion but was wondering if someone had already been making arrangements with a company to do this?
______________

"Last year we did an excursion with Bernards Tours. I don't know if anyone is putting together a tour this time. If enough people are interested, I can contact them again." - Noel
______________

"My DH and I have lived in St Martin 5 years ago (actually we have started dating there!! lol), we are more than happy to go back even for one day

Maho Beach (known also as "Kerosene Beach" because of the smell ) is a funny place to visit!
The "Sunset Beach" bar is ok, you have some shops (deluxe) and casinos not far away but I would recommend to spend maximum 2 hours there...more and you get bored

My DH and I, we will probably go to Grand Case and then to Pinel Island (French side) it's one of our favorite place in St Martin " - Aurore

Tour of the Disney Magic Cruise Ship
Part 1: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E2oA7afAK7M&feature=related
Part 2: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TPIUaB2LhLs&feature=related
Part 3: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RUlK2uetxjs&feature=related

 

[auntlynne]

May 19 - 25
WBTA Thread #3, Pages 179 - 213 (34 pages)
The EBTA is in Transit

"I'm on holiday, I'm allowed to dance and look like an idiot"

Learn at home so you, too, can look like an idiot:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kKDKf7lOQcM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R8o2hJ9xA6Q


Welcome New Cruisers

jadragnfly - Rich and Nancy "KC" from san fran bay area
"we just booked yest late seating and rich and i really look forward to ALL the fun! ...this will be our 4th t/a but our 1st time on disney. we are going on oceania in june for norway.i saw this disney and it will be richs birthday sept 14th so i hope we will be having a mouse ear celebration ..must find his old ears *giggles* i have so much to read but it seems like i will have to bring my one of a kind jewelry to ''show and tell' 'cheers"

Disneynut64 Cindy & BFF Pam "OMG we are so excited. My BFF and I will be joining this cruise group. Our husbands cannot get time off and told us to go and have a good time. We booked cruise and flight, so we are ready."

pkicinski@yahoo.com We're coming too! Pat & Tom from Indiana

smootenloopers - "Hi, everyone. My name is Tammy and I'll be sailing solo on the WBTA in September. My first cruise ever was a 3-night Bahamas cruise on the Wonder last October. Now I have three more booked! Didn't see much of the ship as I was busy swimming with the dolphins (yee haw!) and the cruise was so short, so I'm looking forward to the at sea days.

I live in Maryland but will be flying out of Philadelpha since there is a direct flight from there to BCN. Staying at the Renaissance the night before the cruise.

I'm a bit of a loner, but am up for coordinating dining (early seating). Please don't be offended when I don't show up on formal night!"


Good-Bye Cruiser

CADZNYCHC "Soooo sad to be leaving this cruise...it would have been (& you all would have been) fabulous...but no one could take this much time or wanted to spend the $$ for this cruise, so booked the repo from Canada to L.A. in September instead. I know you will all have the BEST time....ENJOY~i'll be back after to check out your photos"


Congratulations

PFlamingo - LEAVE APPROVED!!!! Finally. We've been waiting for over a week for Dennis' boss to approve his leave. Every time I said, "She's going to approve it, right?" he shrugged and said, "I hope so." Doesn't really inspire confidence. So I had to get brutal.

I showed Dennis the Mickey Mouse Club t-shirts on Zazzle.com last night, with his name on the back, and I said, "You only get this if you go on the cruise." Being an over-grown 5-year-old, he said, "But I want it!" Then I told him what it would cost for me to go by myself using the VTG rate (or whatever that's called), and pointed out how much we would be saving on dog boarding because he would be staying home to look after them. He looked absolutely shocked that I would go alone, but hey, this is my birthday present! Come hell or high water, I'm going!!

He emailed the boss and she came back with the approval."


Lanyard Sign-Ups

If you would like a FREE custom lanyard and name badge for this cruise (a great way to meet new people, identify other DIS friends, and put faces and names with screen-names), then I need you to EMAIL ME YOUR INFORMATION!!

Here is the information that I need:
DISBoards screenname: I need the DISBoard name(s) spelled and capitalized the way you want it on your name badge. For many/most groups, there will probably be only one DIS name for a group of people---that is totally fine. If there ARE multiple different DIS names/users in a group, let me know all of them but ALSO be sure to link the correct DIS name with the correct person.

First Name: Please give us the first name of EVERYONE in your party who would like a lanyard the way you want it to appear on the name badge. (Please remember that spelling counts!! The name you give here is what your name badge will say....so make sure it's correct!) Also---and this is important---make sure that the FIRST name you send is the primary DIS user under the screenname you send!
Stateroom #: Why do I need your room #? To get your lanyard to you! I will try to give out all the lanyards in the port or at a meet onboard during embarkation...but if I miss you, I need your room # so that I can deliver them to you later. If you are GTY, that's fine, just say so. There will be plenty of time later to fill in room #'s or to make changes if people switch rooms.

So please put all the above information into an email and send it to this address: dcl.wbta.2011@gmail.com


T-Shirts from VistaPrint

In lieu of placing a group order for t-shirts, many individuals are ordering from VistaPrint.

check out Thread #3, Page 186, Post 2783, for more pictures & info
page 200 post 2995 more links
page 201 post 3002 links to mickey heads

On the WBTA Facebook page - look under PHOTOS - we have about a dozen photos there from the group but I have three pictures plus descriptions. One is not on the link above

Designs are "ALL from the DISboards Creative DISigns board."

They also have a UK site: vistaprint.co.uk

Watch for 50% off weekend deals.


Villains Night

"So tell me about Villians Night? I haven't heard of this one yet!"

"There is a show one night, I think called Disney Villains(someone correct me if I'm wrong). After late dinner they have a Masquerade ball in the foyer where you can wear your masks. There has been time to make them during the day on other cruises. The villain characters are out and about. Some great photo opportunities with characters you don't see much."

A new tradition for DISers is to dress in Black and Purple this night.


Mickey Mouse Club Night (DIS activity)

"Noel told me that year year they designated one night to the Mickey Mouse Club. Everyone had Mickey Mouse Club t-shirts made up with names, Zazzle.com (Pick the one that says Official Member), and wore Mickey Mouse Ears. Apparently it was quite a sight in the dinning room that night. I got mine, so excited. Any other infor I could give you, just ask."


Tortola JVD Catamaran
Now sailing on TWO catamarans with a capacity of 64 - POC MandyGirl


If you want to sign up to any of the activities that various people are arranging then you must contact whoever is organising that particular event here on the DIS, confirming you want to take part on the registration of Noel & Johns website will NOT get you added to the official list.

 

[auntlynne]

May 26 - June 1
WBTA Thread #3, Pages 213 - 241 (28 pages)

"Would anyone be opposed to changing the Pajama Breakfast date from March 18 to March 22 (sea day) to hopefully avoid conflicts with Character Breakfasts??"
I know I wouldn't mind, but are we still going to be at sea in March?

Gold Booking Window Open

New Cruisers

liesbeth1012 - Hello,
"I am new here and my son and I are going on this cruise. ...
Liesbeth Bakker (the Netherlands)"

"...My son is a little bit older. He is already 24 and I am 56 years old. We are both disney fans. We are going to Disneyland Paris since 1994 and have the last years an passeport annuel. Now we are going with our first cruise and then the first time tot WDW."

Rikersmom - "My adult son and I will be cruising with you all. Please add Karen and Kevin to the list. He is indeed my "dear son", but could you list our ages as "over 21" rather than being specific. I don't think either of us want to admit our ages!...

We are not big on organized activities, but we really like being around friendly folks.

I have been on many cruises in the Caribbean, but I have never attempted a crossing before. The idea of packing for such a long time freaks me out, but I am already getting excited about being on the ship for 14 days..."

kthomas618 - "Hi Everyone!! My DH and I were on the WBTA last year. We hoped to do it again in 2012, but it's not happening. Sooooo....we just booked for this year!! I'm so excited! We loved it last year. From day one I felt like I was missing something. That everyone knew something I didn't know. We walked around the halls each night and looked at doors and kept seeing thie "fish extender" phrase and "DIS". Once we figured it out I got home and found you! Now I know what I didn't know last year. I'm joining the FE groups, I'm doing the candy swap, I'm decorating our door. Thank you so much for all you're doing to make this cruise special. We're bringing my parents for a trip of a lifetime. They didn't get to go last time. Hope to see you all in September!!"
"Thank you all for the warm welcome wishes! We are Tom and Kathy from Connecticut (USA). This will be our "gold" cruise and second TA."


Congratulations

Lee (Pinky 166 Claire's husband) "Wow, today has been a long day!!! However I have some news to share. Lee had a second interview today for a job that he really wanted, I didn't mention it before as I didn't want to jinx it but.......he got it!!!!! It is such a relief for us!"


****FE REQUEST for those of you who have already signed up:

"Pinky166 (Claire) has requested that everyone participating in the FE Exchange provide their surnames to her so that she can customize her gifts. Thanks!"


Children Corresponding

"I noticed that someone finally posted on the kids email section, but no one responded. I was thinking of having my 7 year old post something - I thought he would get a kick out of it because he hasn't emailed anyone before really - except Santa once but I don't want him to get no response. Is there anyone out there who has a child close to his age who might want to have them correspond a little bit?" - GatorMomInNC


Magic Pub Crawl

cliffy97 - "Ok so if you follow my antics on Facebook you will see I am possibly a lil drinker and embrace the English weekend events of Pub Crawls ( Sorry to anyone I may offend)... so after seeing what they were planning on the EBTA I want to see if there is any interest in a Disney Magic Pub Crawl.

In my mind the crawl would go like this...

On a sea day those who were interested would meet in one of the bars for ( Traditionally a half pint pounded, I would suggest a drink of your choice) and then visit (Crawl) every other bar on the ship at least once.

As we do not have to worry about anything closing or how we are getting home, I would imagine we can spend 20-30 min at each location versus the 5-10 min you have on the monopoloy pub crawl in London.

Perhaps we can make tshirts up too."


Gibraltar Dolphin Exursion

TotallyAngelic - Sarah - "I have recieved this email from the Dolphin Excursion this morning. I am a bit annoyed as they told me there wouldn't be a problem with capacity on the earlier time. The problem with 12:00 as it is right in the middle of the day and wouldn't really give you time to do anything else in the morning before the trip. I will contact them when I get back from work tonight to see what the problem is.

Hello Sarah
Sorry for the late reply and thank you for the update on your numbers .
Due to the high number of participants we need to make an adjustment to your sailing time and re-schedule for the 12.00 , I hope this does no inconvenience you."


Vocabulary Terms for this Week:

FAB - Frozen Adult Beverage
RAB - Refreshing Adult Beverage

 

[auntlynne]

Weekly Recap June 2 - 8
WBTA Thread #3 pages 241 - 249 and WBTA Thread #4 pages 1- 35 (42 pages)


DOUBLE DIGIT DANCING


The Shoe Talk continues; yet karentan still only has 2 pairs of timberland boots and couple pair of flip flops!


Welcome aboard

JessicasMom has added her DM and DNiece to her travel party

TxMermaid1 - Jill - "Hi everyone... looks like I will join you on the WBTA.... We had a ball on the EBTA last month...... I am looking forward to meeting ya'll"

Purplelv93 - "Hi there fellow cruisers! My dad and I just returned from the WBTA and had so much fun we decided to book the EBTA too! Have to get all those hours back right?" - Monique & Bill

Dizneycrazee - Bren - new? from Newcastle UK

ziggybaby - "Just subscribing to this thread, first time cruisers so there will be plenty of questions to follow" from Stratford-upon-avon, England

JessicasDad - was heard from for the first time.

RubyBlue - Karen "KP" and Stan - New to DIS and so happy to find this group! As you can see from the post counter, we literally just found the DIS boards and then by lucky happenstance, this thread.

We are cruising to celebrate DH's upcoming 50th; it's our first Disney cruise without children. They are now 19 and 22 and will join us on another in the future, I am certain! We love cruising and travel in general, but have never made it to Europe, either, so at least we are getting our feet wet in Barcelona. We have signed up for a cooking class (cookandtaste . net) on the 9th of September, and look forward to joining the DIS folks at the Hard Rock that night.-

Will PM all the appropriate folks to join FE, SM, and the other fun things you all have cooked up. This will add a "magical" dimension to the cruise. Can't wait to meet many of you on these boards and have a chat before sailing!

BTW, Sarah (TotallyAngelic), your trip report and photos made for a heavenly evening two nights ago as my DH and I sat together transfixed and read every post and enjoyed each pic as we dreamed about the 2011 WBTA on the Magic. Thank you for all the trouble to post as it really got us planning and then led us to this thread!

Tubbsteruk - Paul, Helen & Grace
"Hi There,

I'm Paul and will be travelling with my wife Helen and our daughter Grace (2) on the WBTA.

This will be our 1st cruise and we are thouroughly looking forward to it.

From reading through the threads (thanks Granmaz & Mandygirl for the directions) I am amazed at the level of organisation that goes into organising all the activities. I don't know where you all find the time!!!

We think the ideas are great and are particularly interested in the FE, secret Mickey and pub crawl.

Any suggestions to gift ideas for the FE would be greatly appreciated as we are completely new to this.

I thought I was being organised doing research 3 months before the cruise but it would appear i am a late starter. The excursions in Madeira and Tortola look great but it looks like they are fully booked.

Any ideas regarding solo trips would be appreciated for Madeira.

Thanks Goofieslonglostsis for the info on dolphin discovery in Tortola. That looks great and something Grace would love to do.
Can anyone confirm if this is the one that DCL uses for their excursion and if so do they book the places up making it impossible to book the trip independantly?

We arrive in Barcelona on 9th and would also be interested in the Hard Rock meet.

Look forward to seeing you all in September"

WilliamK99 - "My wife and I were able to secure a great deal on the Transatlantic and as of today are paid in full and along with our 2 sons (8,4) are looking forward to this cruise. This is much more overwhelming than the last cruise we went on, but we are looking forward to it."


What Will the Airlines Think of Next?

MandyGirl - Airline wants to seat her, 5 yo and 14 mo daughters separately. In a proactive move,

"I randomly just checked seats for that flight tonight, and there was a window seat pop up behind DD1 that was not there yesterday the times I checked (yes, multiple times I checked racking my brain). Of course there are centers available... so I moved DD2 and I directly behind DD1. So if DD1 misbehaves, I can kick the back of her seat. And she and I will both have our own window, which we both seem to prefer. Happy in my world tonight!! This was literally the only place on the plane I could get the three of us together like this... same side of plane, directly behind each other, baby still seated next to me. Whew!!"


Doggie Update

Pinky166 - "The vet finally called this evening, the results confirm it was a malignant mast cell tumour. Thankfully it appears that they removed it all and enough clear margins to prevent him needing more surgery....so that's it really, we just have to keep an eye on him and keep checking that the lump hasn't grown back.

Thank you all for your well wishes over the past few weeks." - Claire


MNSSH - Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween

First night available after we arrive at Port Canaveral is Tuesday, Sep 27


FE Limits

Groups will be limited to about 20 cabins; you may sign up for multiple groups - or all - if you want to participate with more people.

"there's no real rules - you can give a gift every day, or one per cruise. you can do one per person or one per cabin. you choose the gift and the budget. its entirely up to you, its just supposed to be a bit of fun - you'll rush back to your room to see what you've got.
the secret mickey exchange has got a spending limit but the FE doesnt"

"another thing... we tried cutting off the FE a month early on the EBTA and found so many last minute folks wanted to join during the last month. I hate to see anyone... especially a child left out.. this is fun for everyone. I suggest you start a late FE group for those after Aug. 1... if any of us want to join then add us. The group will probably not be too large. This way everyone gets a chance to participate. just sayin....."

"This was done last year, as well. The latecomers were just placed in a separate FE group, which (if I recall...and at my age, that can't be guaranteed ), the first two groups were quite large (50ish), but this group was about 20 cabins. We only booked two months out, so we were in this last group. We both would have been disappointed if we couldn't participate, because it turned out to be so much fun."


"Must-Haves"

Does anyone that has done the WBTA (or EBTA for that matter) have a packing list for the cruise? I have seen some in the passporter but they are more general. Looking for some specific advice on what you took (and what you wished you hadn't) for 14 days.

"On the EB last yr, I found a lighted digital clock priceless for those times we would wake up in the middle of the night in our inside cabin and have no idea what time it was. I just took a small electric one from home and plugged it in by the tv...we both could see it easily.

I also found a highlighter very useful for marking the navigator (pink worked better than yellow).

As for clothes, etc....pack what you think you need and remove at least a fourth. Do laundry and try not to take too many shoes! Not easy for us . Since Larry is really sensitive to scented detergents, I made laundry "packets", placing the right amt. of our normal det. in a ziploc bag with a washcloth, then just threw the cloth into the washer. I took 5 (and still ended up buying a little box of Tide from the machine); it was easy and cheap. We did buy the Purex unscented all-in-one sheets but found them still too strongly scented for him and gave them away.

Ziplock bags in various sizes came in handy for a variety of things...highly recommended.

I didn't take one of the hang-on-the-door pocket thingies and had plenty of storage space anyway.

Sunblock, light jacket for evenings, and extra camera batteries (more than you think you'll need unless you use rechargeables).

Copies of confirmations and other documents you may need.

Drink bottle if you're going to take soda from the beverage station with you into the theaters (or anywhere else).

Most importantly, don't forget meds and money (and your passport ). But especially money. When you think you have enough money...you probably don't!."

"We also carry a Water Bobble with us... has its own filter. I'm not concerned about the water on the ship, but if needing a drink at a port and no filtered water available. The Bobble has its own water filter, and is great mental reassurance with our little ones. We use it for just random travel and camping, mainly for the infant. Use one bobble, squeeze contents into cup, refill, and use next cup. Voila - filtered water for all."


Tortola - The Baths on Virgin Gorda

"For Tortola, the Baths in Virgin Gorda are amazing. We've been a couple of times and it is such an awesome place to be - we have never seen much of Tortola b/c we always take the ferry to Virgin Gorda for the Baths. The water is crystal clear and its fun to play on the rocks. Great snorkeling there too!" - Liz, Beauty & the Best

St Maarten - Orient Beach

"Orient Beach in St. Maarten is one of the most beautiful beaches I've seen. I would highly recommend it to adults - and caution those with children that some people do walk around nude (more on one end of the beach) or topless there. The nudity is not one of the perks for me but it is such a beautiful beach, it is worth it. Maybe you could do Maho and Orient." - Liz, Beauty & the Best

Photo of Orient Beach:

"You can rent chairs and umbrellas at Orient, so you can have shade that way, but there are no trees or foliage on the beach for shade so if you don't want to pay for chairs/umbrellas it is full sun. When you take the taxi to Orient beach, just tell the driver to drop you off somewhere that you can rent chairs and umbrellas - they will know the good places. These beach clubs have restroom facilities and bars/restaurants too."


Disabled-compatible Excursion on Tortola

http://www.dolphindiscovery.com/tortola/tortola-location-overview.asp

is the website of Dolphin Discovery, the company that offers the 3 types of dolphin interactions on Tortola. While there is nothing on their website about it, they can and do work with people with disabilities where possible. I found this out by calling them and have had some mailcorrespondence with them also.

I've done this type of excursion before in Portugal and one thing I've learned from that (and many other excursions); always contact the company yourself and discuss your abilities and limitations. Most of the times I find companies rather too carefull and saying no too easily than the other way round. When giving them some info on what I can and can't do, much more things have opened up over the years. Years ago in Portugal we were told no over the phone. We decided to visit the park anyway to see the other exhibits. On site I talked to them a bit more and; I got the green light and had a blast!

DD was very easy to talk to and realistic (not too carefull nor too careless) and told me that with my abilities and limitations it should be no problem to have me book an experience with them. I just aren't allowed into the most expensive one, which is more than OK with me."


Cooking Class in Barcelona

For those coming in early to Barcelona. A friend of mine was recently in Barcelona and recommended a hands-on 1/2 day cooking class. She said the cooking class including, gazpacho, omelette, paella, and crema catalonian. Would any of you be interested in attending this class on the 16th? If so, I'll contact the school and see if they could could do so. Here is some info I found on the web:

Cook & Taste - a traditional local cooking workshop
ALL SESSIONS CAN BE HELD IN ENGLISH, FRENCH OR SPANISH.
COME IN OUR KITCHEN AND ENJOY A HANDS-ON COOKING CLASS FOLLOWED BY A COMPLETE WONDERFUL MEAL

You can start with a walking tour around the famous Boqueria market, getting plenty of tips on picking local, seasonal products, continue with the cooking experience and finish the adventure enjoying the menu prepared in a friendly and casual atmosphere.

Half-day cooking class each day: 11am
Price per person: 72€*
*Rates are inclusive of cooking class, meal with Spanish wine and a booklet of translated recipes.


Scuba Diving

"you would need a Certification card to dive. If you did not complete your open water dives then you would not have one. PADI only allows 1 yr for you to take it after completing the course. Looks like you would need to take the course again. You can do most of it online now.. classroom part that is.

I am thinking I will be diving in Tortola and maybe a second port as well......

I don't mind going with very inexperienced divers as I am used to watching over them. But you will have to be certified to go diving." - Jill TxMermaid1

For those of you who were asking... I am working on putting together SCUBA DIVING EXCURSIONS for Tortola and St Maarten's.... I will let you know when I have it secured.... PM me if you have an interest in this. Once again.. I am a PADI scuba instructor with over 15 yrs of teaching experience. so you will be in good hands.


Farewell DIS lunch on the last sea day

Thursday 22nd Sept at 12.15pm - Restaurant TBD
Pinky166 is taking names


Anyone care to top this luggage collection:

 

[Chirpee]

For those of you heading to WDW this summer or after the WBTA, I thought you may be interested in a number of offers that are currently being advertised for the Richard Petty Driving Experience: http://www.drivepetty.com/fathers-day

DH and I did the ride along experience in March when we were last at WDW. We both thoroughly enjoyed it and now DH is interested in doing one of their classes where he gets to drive the car himself. Being DVC members with many trips to WDW under our belts, we found it a nice non-park activity to do. Getting to and from the track is straightforward as they offer a shuttle service from the Lost & Found office located at the TTC at Magic Kingdom. We were really surprised by how close the track is to the Magic Kingdom; we had driven past it on many occasions not realizing it was there!

 

[JessicasDad]

You have a good man!! I did the same thing recently for a concert that I had wanted to attend, but budget... and cruise funds... dictated otherwise!

OK, I have to do a second post. Great concert; I'm inspired.

HELLO FELLOW PARROTHEADS

Thanks for the compliment Mandy. I really liked the titles you suggested for the FE groups. Even though we aren't using them, I'm sure that we'll have a lot of "sons of a son of a sailor" on this cruise, try plenty of "boat drinks" and keep watch for "fins to the left and fins to the right" as we sail.

Hope the weather stays good because I don't want to be "trying to reason with hurricane season." I just want to go to Pluto's and have a "cheeseburger in paradise". Maybe they serve "fruitcakes" in the dining room; if not, maybe "grapefruit juicyfruit" on the buffet.

Any "volcano" on the islands better stay quiet or we'll have to call for help on the "coconut telegraph". I don't know where Ima gonna go when the volcano blows!

So, we'll have a great time and listen to the "jolly mon sing" while we go through our "changes in latitude, changes in attitude". And then, we'll all be sad when we pull into that "one particular harbor". Many of us will be heading to WDW, but some will do the "Pascagula run".

OK, OK, I'll stop. Sorry if you don't follow JB. You'll think I've gone off the deep end! Besides, my wife wants the computer back.