*Sept 10th 2011 WB Transatlantic* - From Spain to Space Mountain - Part 5

[sue l]

reading through last year's navigators, and (really sad but i got really excited! :rotfL) the adults get to invade the lab and make flubber one night!!!!!!!!! i'll definately be there! man, i'm such a big kid!

OOOO, cool. What day do you get to do that? I would love to do that? Will it be in the Navigator?

 

[sue l]

so see you all in the lab then?!?!
for those on late dining, you might need to hurry up and eat faster. the flubber won't wait for you

i've always wanted to go explore the lab, and getting to make all this cool messy stuff with new friends sounds an awesome way to spend a night! do you think the cruise staff and kids counsellors will be ready for a bunch of big kid dis-sers, fuelled by good food and plenty of FABs and RABs?!

I'm a big kid too. I would love to "play" with all of you. I can eat fast.

 

[karentan]

i hope disney finish early, as the crane is due to be in the magic kingdom til the 26th september for the dream lights installation. don't they know this is going to ruin my photos?!

 

[melonz]

so see you all in the lab then?!?!
for those on late dining, you might need to hurry up and eat faster. the flubber won't wait for you

i've always wanted to go explore the lab, and getting to make all this cool messy stuff with new friends sounds an awesome way to spend a night! do you think the cruise staff and kids counsellors will be ready for a bunch of big kid dis-sers, fuelled by good food and plenty of FABs and RABs?!

All I can say is God help them and God bless them.

any of you repeat cruisers may find yourselves downgraded for bad behaviour

 

[auntlynne]

Weekly Recap - July 21- 27
page 33 - 75 (42 pages)


I think they underestimate the obsessiveness!

Disney, please release cabin numbers and stop torturing me!!!!

How do people know that today is THE DAY for room assignments?

I think it is just serious cases of HOPE!!! But, it really must be very soon!!!

This is worse than waiting for Christmas morning to arrive!!!!

I just have this feeling that tomorrow will be the day!!! I will be here waiting..

I think you should all "NO LONGER CARE" then maybe it will happen.

I no longer care....I no longer care....I no longer care....SUCH A LIE!!!

Maybe if I STOP checking it will finally happen......



NEW CRUISERS

TheViking

"We're going without the kids (me and my wife, both 37) - my wife is the Disney nut of the family, so as we talked about doing a trans-atlantic cruise, and I came across this one, she told me to just stop looking and book it, so I did.

It will be our third cruise, but first trans-atlantic and first on Disney. We booked a guaranteed verandah for this cruise, and are spending 2 nights in Barcelona before the cruise...."We are Heather and Erik, and we live in Minnesota. Our kids are 15,13 and 10, but won't be joining us for this trip."

CaliPenna

"Just found this message board so thought we'd say hi. We are Larissa (30), Robert (35) and Liam, who will turn 3 while on the cruise. We live in the Philadelphia area now, having moved out here a few months back from California."

heatherLOVESmickey

She and DH are from the Twin Cities, MN. New to DISboards, too.

STLUCIELADY

"My daughter and I have finally booked. We did the last Med cruise last year and begged to be able to continued on to Cape Canaveral...no room at the Inn. Oh well. We are doing it this time!! .... My name is Lisa, 47 and my daughter is JoAnna, 27. We are from Florida. I think it is our 9th Dis cruise but daughter thinks it's out 10th. "

Cartmeller

"We're from the North of England, my name's Graeme and my wife is Margaret, returning to the Magic after a great Mediterranean experience September 2010."


OUR SYMPATHIES GO TO

GA-yaya - "Okay, I'm back on the DISboards....

My Mother passed away last Saturday after a lengthy battle with MS & ALS...this last month was difficult for her. So sad.... This week was a long, sad one, but it is over. I did find out that I have absolutely wonderful friends...I am so fortunate! Now back to my normal, crazy life. Looking forward to an enjoyable cruise to rejuvenate my spirit." - Peggy & Roger

goofieslonglostsis

"Hi guys. Quick post, op went well but havent been able to eat or drink really anything since. Darn hosp sent me home cause protocol is home in 2 days. Was thursday afternoon, ambulanced to own hosp satmorn. Back on ivfluids and trying rebuild my feedings. At least proper care here. Not Sure when can go home.

Candyswap; sign up in my pm, but answer not coming soon, sorry! If box is full, contact me via MY facebook. Can be found on wbta facebook.

Sorry for language, phone and brain not working." Jacqueline, July 24

"Think it was Marilyn who asked? Wont be home soon, week or longer. Still problametic and new problems from fluidlack found. Seriously talking about cancelling. :cry: Time will tell. Truely apprec. the support." July 26

Hi guys. Just called DCL, cancelled it..... Its too clear Im not even close to making it. ... For all; Enjoy this one a bit for me also" July 27


Happy Birthday

Lorelei - Namsupak Lauren's daughter turned 2


TotallyAngelic's DD working at WDW

"If you are going to Hollywood Studios ... pop into Mickey's of Hollywood and Keystone Clothing stores ( left side as you enter the park ) to see if you can spot Taryn. Sometimes she can be working at a hub cart on the left hand side of the hat.

This is what she looks like:

When on the hub carts she wears something different .... shirt and long shorts with a white cap. Didn't get a photo of that costume though as she hadn't done a shift on those until we left."

"Apparently this one is modelled on the style of clothing Lillian Disney would have worn."


FE (GIFT) EXCHANGE

"Welcome new cruisers!

If you are interested in participating in the FE Exchange, please send me a PM (or Visitor's message if you don't have 10 posts) with your name(s) and room assignment if you have it. I must have this info before I can add you to the list and approve you for access to the Google group info.

Please also include "WBTA FE" in the subject. I've been coordinating the exchange for the October cruise (that we'll be cancelling), so I need to know which cruise you are on. I've had a couple of people message me that they want to participate, but I can't find them in either thread and have not had replies to my requests for cruise info.

The deadline to sign up is August 1" - PFlamingo - Pat


ALTERNATE FE DESIGN

poohluv2u - ...The pocket is 7"W x 6"D will it be ok do you think? We never got anything too bulky as a gift, and with the crazy baggage allowance that most people will choose something fairly small ...

EVOLUTION OF AN FE

hazelandannie - "...I have added 2 photos, the first shows what it looked like when we brought it at the car boot sale for 50p!!, the second shows how we have turned it onto something ready for Disney! the third shows close ups of each section.

Hazel handmade the bows, which she was very proud of ! Then she sewed buttons all over, even some made into mickey head shapes.

WHEN VIEWING YOUR STATEROOM ASSIGNMENT

I thought I'd give you a heads up about something that throws people for a loop.

The stateroom CATEGORY on your reservation will remain listed as what you purchased. When you see a stateroom NUMBER listed, you may need to look at a deck plan to determine what category you are assigned.


CRUISE TERMINAL ADDRESS

"The ship is docked at Cuise Terminal C The address is:
Portal de la Pau, 6
Moll Adossat, Terminal "c"
Barcelona 08039

Good info to have handy for your cab driver if you are taking a taxi to the port!"


GIBRALTAR

Visiting Europa Point

"Disney has an expensive excursion to Europa Point with "tea" afterward. How hard would it be to go to Europa Point on the city bus, and find somewhere for "tea" after?> Much risk in not getting back in time for sailing?"

"It is VERY easy to get to Europa Point.

Once off the ship walk to Casemates (the focal point in Gib and the start of Main St which is the shopping area) It is about a 20 minute walk from the ship. Once there, you will see the small bus station and you can catch a number 2 bus (check this as the numbers have recently changed) and the bus journey if FREE (yes, honest). For afternoon tea, I would recommend the ROck Hotel which is on Europa Road (the road to Europa point and on the bus route). It is a 1930's style hotel and has lovely views! Have a good time and let me know if you want any other help!" - thanks to dooledoo (Doodle Doo)

"Do they have bus maps/schedules available at Casemates as well? I found various maps & schedules online, but didn't find them overly helpful."

"As you walk into Casemates through the gates, on the immediate right is the tourist information office. Go in and pick up one of their maps, they are free and very good. They make a good souvenier as well, so get 2 and keep one for home!

Just read this properly! I have never seen a bus timetable but ask in the information office and they may have something. However there are only 5 bus routes and all of them are free apart from bus route 5 which takes you to the border with Spain!"

Cheeky Monkey

Here are a couple of our pictures from Gilbraltar, ...The first one is ape with my DH, I asked my husband to get closer. The one picture is of the ape taking over our van, he would not stop blowing the horn. - DISNEYFAN_SD

This is what we had happen at our Ape visit. They went into the giftstore and "freed" one of the "trapped" Monkeys. - Donaldcp98


GROUP ROOM FOR PALO BRUNCH

"Not sure who I need to ask this to, but is there any additional interest in a 3rd group for Palos brunch in the private dining room? Looks like we have several new cruisers and they may not know about that one. Palo's brunch is so good! And its especially fun to have it with a group of Dis'ers! " - sinnika


VAT REFUNDS

"I found some useful information here:

http://www.ricksteves.com/plan/tips/vat.htm

When we went to Barcelona on the last cruise, the limit was $130 in order to claim and it usually had to be from the same store. You have to get the stamp. They may have something at the port, but honestly, I can't remember, we did it at the airport." - Fontabel


CURRENCY

"Have to echo about Capital One. We have a card we have used for about 10 years for traveling because they do not charge conversion fees on currency. Now the rate they use to convert might be a bit higher, but it does not compare with our Visa or our Chase cards. If you can get one before you go, I would advise it.

Just my two cents, but I would not stress about stocking up on cash before you go. ATMs will be available in all of the ports (including the Caribbean--where you can use $$) and I have found that you often get a better rate at an ATM than any money exchange in Europe or even from banks in the U.S. Now I cannot speak to AAA or other membership like places that would provide you a better rate as members, but we have always done fine with ATMs. I have never paid more than $1.45 in an ATM these days. So I am shocked that you all are paying over $1.50 in the U.S. Wow. I know it is only a difference of a few cents, but every little bit helps. Check with your banks to find out the fees for ATMs and do the math, but in my experience it has been a better deal overall.

Also,I agree with those who said use the currency of the country you are in. If you only plan to spend money in Morrisons, then just use a credit card, but it would be better to have a small amount of pounds as you will get ripped off on conversion with the Euro. We have had this happen in other EU countries that do not use the Euro, if you use local currency you get a better rate and better service (Hungary and Czech Republic for example.) I am sure there are ATMs there as well, at least that is what we are planning since we have no way to get pounds in advance." - Fontablel - Amanda


ST MAARTEN CURRENCY

Dollars on Dutch side and Euros on French side though we used dollars everywhere.


REFILLABLE MUGS ONBOARD

"Someone mentioned taking old refillable mugs to use for drinks whilst onboard - would this still be ok, or is it frowned upon?"

"Mugs are fine. Although ecologically non-PC, use a fresh cup for each serving you add to your mug. Cuts down on viruses spreading through the cruisers."


UKRAINE

I know this is off topic a bit, but I just couldn't resist posting some pictures of our favourite spots around Crimea, Ukraine (where we live). 3canadianslovedisney

This is the Khan's Palace in Bachisarai.

This is the boardwalk in Yalta.

This is called Swallow's Nest and it is also in Yalta.

There are some kids dressed in traditional Crimean Tatar costumes and doing the traditional dance.


MAGICAL STORY

hazelandannie -" Not sure why I have not thought to share this story with you lot before but just thought I would now.

Before we opened up our childminding from home I was a nanny as was Annemarie (this is how we met).
Well many moons ago I decided I would like to work on a cruise ship with the littlies, and low and behold Disney had a new ship they were getting ready for, the ship was called Magic !

So I called over to Florida and alas interviews in London had already taken place and onto round two.
Never mind I thought, but then I get a call to say we would have put you through due to your experience so be in London tomorrow.

So I went and did all the maths tests ect and waited for a call back which then consisted of a panel interview. I was offered the job and went for a briefing of the terms of the contract. Money was just not enough (I was on a very high wage due to the calibre of people I worked for) and although I could prob have dealt with this I didn't like the idea I might also have to call bingo lol.

So years later I am finally making the "magic" happen for me and wonder if they will let me take a nosy in the nursery." Hazel

"Funny how things work out. Do you ever regret not taking the Disney job ?"

"No I don't Regret not taking it, I wouldn't have met Annemarie and she really has made me have so many happy memories and shown me what love and life really have to offer.

Also my nanny work was very rewarding especially way back then.
Glad to finally get to go on the magic though feels like an Oprah full circle moment."


PACKING TIPS

Try this thread http://www.www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=388591&highlight=cruise+packing+tips


LINKED DINING

cliffy97 - "I will be submitting the list to DCL around 10 Aug. I will be submitting in Groups of 5 so it should not affect any additional reservations/bookings (Palo, Spa, Child Care etc) you want to make."


MISC

• PFlamingo was deciding between WDW + Dream or 7 nts WDW for her anniversary in October - she went with WDW
• Tod&Copper Mary & Stevie off to WDW
• Cheesecake Factory
• WDW Wishes Dessert Party
• Protein spills
• Europeans who booked at MEO rate have difficulty making pre-cruise purchases (wine, beer packages) through DCL
• Money Exchange
• Advantages to Onboard Booking a Future Cruise
• Portion Sizes of DCL Meals
• Pickpockets and Safety in Metro Areas
• PacSafe Products for anti-theft protection
• Snow
• Luggage
• Transportation from hotels to port
• UNESCO World Heritage Sites

LOVELINESS

Here are a few from Disneyland Paris in December - Pinky166

Caribbean & snow just don't go together........

 

[karentan]

another great recap lynne!

 

[jsassy]

8 nights in Disney! Did you have a wonderful time? I am so jealous.

Sounds like you are in for an adventure with your flights!

We did have a great time and the crowds were no where near what we expected. Kids got to ride everything they wanted each day and some multiple times like Space Mt, Mt Everest, Test Track, Rockin Roller Coaster, etc. Most days were finished off going to the beach at Ft Wilderness and watching fireworks from Magic Kingdom. Gdaughter and I "dared" to ride the EPCOT People Mover 4 times. Ha!

 

[granmaz]

Lynne, how long does it take you to do one of those recaps? You are very good at it!!

 

[jsassy]

You are adventurous!! We used to military hop alot when DH was active duty and I was in the reserves. We could go in-conus with me using my reserve ID and out-conus using my dependent ID. Miss those days. DH is now retired but "gray" - did 6 yrs active and 14 reserve and not yet 60 so no beneftis yet till he turns 60. Though we do get DCL and WDW discounts when offered! We've flown to or from Mindenhall, Ramstein, Rota, and Signonella NAS (Catania, Sicily), and numerous other bases worldwide!

We hopped a lot while in Okinawa from 79-82, mostly to PI and Korea; but went back last year and hopped from Korea to Oki to Yakota to Singapore back to Oki and Korea. Flew commercial from CONUS to Seoul and back. Future plans (or dreams) include Hawaii (we were stationed there 82-85), Australia and Alaska; we'll see. I got new knees this year and now I'm "ready to go." Ha!

 

[GA-yaya]

Thanks Lynne - for the weekly recap!
You Rock!

 

[birkner]

Christina; deleted my post on page one. Thanks for raming over and making it so easy.

You guys rock, appreciate the support. Cant remember who asked, but having op one week earlier? Would've been big difference, but dehydration did me in combined with a slow recovery and that failed try. As that was one of many medical mistakes, it probably wouldnt have made it any way. Im mad and sad, but it is as it is.


Lynne; Palo brunch and just loungeing on deck with the kindle were my main thing. So enjoy those. shame I cant give the ladies mickey earrings as the FE gift. Was psyched about that.


Sorry to be so self centered, be more normal soon.

I for one think you are remarkably cheerful. Personally, I would be foaming at the mouth at so many medical mistakes!! Please keep us posted on your recovery!!

 

[birkner]

Noel and John thanks so much for all of the info. I'll need to talk it through with my wife and then we'll be in touch. Cheers!

You are very welcome!! Please feel free to PM me if you have any questions about the WBTA or any of the activities.

 

[sue l]

You are very welcome!! Please feel free to PM me if you have any questions about the WBTA or any of the activities.

Hi Noel,

Since we are not spending anytime in Barcelona, boo hoo first off, do you think 50 pounds for Gibraltar and 50 Euro for Madiera is enough for 1 day each? We would only use it for food, drinks and anything bought off the street that won't take a credit card. Opinion?

Also, any takers on the mini-meet in Disneyland? You and John?

 

[birkner]

Hi Noel,

Since we are not spending anytime in Barcelona, boo hoo first off, do you think 50 pounds for Gibraltar and 50 Euro for Madiera is enough for 1 day each? We would only use it for food, drinks and anything bought off the street that won't take a credit card. Opinion?

Also, any takers on the mini-meet in Disneyland? You and John?

If you are going to buy anything in Barcelona at the terminal like alcohol, you may need a few extra Euros. Are you not spending the day in Barcelona before the cruise? We bought all of our items except from street vendors with our Euro credit card. 50 Euros each should be fine if you are not buying much.

If you are touring in Madeira, you may need extra money for the cable car, toboggan, lunch or wine unless you plan to use your credit card for all but toboggan. The toboggan is 12.5 euros each, plus they take a picture and there is a CD available, cash only.

I haven't heard anyone else is available for the mini meet at Disneyland in August. Not sure if John can make it either.

Hope others in the area may be able to make the time.

 

[3canadianslovedisney]

so far i've found that adults can:
make flubber
make foaming volcanoes
do the cars piston cup challenge
animation cells and invade the lab

sounds awesome for us big kids!

Definitely count us in! We love that kind of thing and I was wondering how I was going to sneak some time in there when my daughter is not shy and doesn't need mom to stay with her.

 

[sue l]

If you are going to buy anything in Barcelona at the terminal like alcohol, you may need a few extra Euros. Are you not spending the day in Barcelona before the cruise? We bought all of our items except from street vendors with our Euro credit card. 50 Euros each should be fine if you are not buying much.

If you are touring in Madeira, you may need extra money for the cable car, toboggan, lunch or wine unless you plan to use your credit card for all but toboggan. The toboggan is 12.5 euros each, plus they take a picture and there is a CD available, cash only.

I haven't heard anyone else is available for the mini meet at Disneyland in August. Not sure if John can make it either.

Hope others in the area may be able to make the time.

I thought we were paying for the West Madiera tour in advance? Does that not include the cable car/tobogan/lunch?

I wish we had time to see anything in Barcelona. We don't get in until 10:00 AM the day of the cruise and DCL is taking us right to the port.

We don't drink really, so we will not be buying any alcohol.

It's ok if no one can make it. It is kind of last minute and it is far for you guys to drive. We will just meet at the 3:00 PM meet at the lounge on board.

 

[birkner]

I thought we were paying for the West Madiera tour in advance? Does that not include the cable car/tobogan/lunch?

I wish we had time to see anything in Barcelona. We don't get in until 10:00 AM the day of the cruise and DCL is taking us right to the port.

We don't drink really, so we will not be buying any alcohol.

It's ok if no one can make it. It is kind of last minute and it is far for you guys to drive. We will just meet at the 3:00 PM meet at the lounge on board.

What the West tour includes is transportation and the guide.
1. Cable Car (one way) - Adult: 10 euros; Child from 4 to 14 years: 5 euros.

2.Toboggan Ride - 12,50 euros per person.
Check out this video for an idea of what the toboggan ride is like.

Toboggan ride

Lunch will be a cost of 12 Euros per adult and 9 Euros per child plus tip.
Here is the menu link: Menu

 

[sue l]

What the West tour includes is transportation and the guide.
1. Cable Car (one way) - Adult: 10 euros; Child from 4 to 14 years: 5 euros.

2.Toboggan Ride - 12,50 euros per person.
Check out this video for an idea of what the toboggan ride is like.

Toboggan ride

Lunch will be a cost of 12 Euros per adult and 9 Euros per child plus tip.
Here is the menu link: Menu

And all of this has to be paid in cash on that day? Do we do the cable car both ways, or just one way? Can we pay for the tour with a credit card? Do we pay on the day of or pay in advance? Sorry for all the questions, but I just want to know how many Euros/pounds to get.

 

[heatherLOVESmickey]

reading someone's trip report from this year's EBTA, and they were on late dining, started at 8.30 and they were done by 9.45pm or 10pm every night. on all of our cruises we haven't been out before 10.30, sometimes closer to 11. think it must just be the company we've had on the last two

I really hope we're done closer to 10 rather than 11. Unless, of course, we'll have GREAT company, then I can talk FOREVER!

 

[birkner]

And all of this has to be paid in cash on that day? Do we do the cable car both ways, or just one way? Can we pay for the tour with a credit card? Do we pay on the day of or pay in advance? Sorry for all the questions, but I just want to know how many Euros/pounds to get.

I prepaid the tour to Daniel Taxi on Paypal as a "gift" so for two it was 60 Euros. However, you can pay that day with a credit card.

We take the cable car one way only one way as we take the toboggan to where the driver will pick you up to continue the tour. I paid for the cable car and the toboggan rides in Euros and site for cable cars does not indicate if they take credit cards. If you want, I can email Daniel Taxi to ask. Please let me know.

Cable car