-=*September 10 2011, Westbound Transatlantic from Barcelona to Port Canaveral*=-

[granmaz]

Hi Jan.

When do you arrive in Florida in December/January?

Actually, forget that as I think your cruise begins on the day we arrive, 3rd Jan. What a shame. Not for you of course setting off on the cruise.

Now, if the rumoured photo op of the 3 ships takes place then I will think of you over on the Wonder, and wave!!!! Won't that be so exciting. I really can't think DCL would miss that opportunity.

 

[goofieslonglostsis]

Connie, what a shame you weren't able to get the days off! At least you've stil got another one that will happen but I can imagine you're being totally bummed out about not getting the days of for this one. Hope you have a huge blast on the MR soon!

Yet again makes me realise just how lucky I am I've got such freedom to be able to basically plan any trip whenever I want to. I've got some things I need to take into account but compared to most folks I've got a great freedom on this deparment.


Ebony/Jan; did we run into eachother earlier? Your name sounds so familiar. Could it be you were on the sept 26th '09 eastern cruise?


More info about me was asked for? Let's see, I'm 31 have a passion for travel and everything Disney except for DLRP (sorry, DLRP-lovers ), am Dutch, while I don't work I am an avid advocate for the rights of those with a disability and/or chronic illness which basically keeps me rather busy enough. Discovered DCL after first thinking I'ld hit me a bargainprice (read a 'per person' price as a stateroomprice, oops) but was too amored by all of the info and pics on here about DCL to just flat out cancel it. Decided it would be one of those "once in a lifetime" things. It was, but it sure could use some repeating.


Has anybody been following the Dream? I'm a bit back-and-forth with that one. Made the choice to sail on the Magic and not sure if I really want to know too much about the Dream, IYKWIM. Before you know it it's another "I'ld like to........". On the other hand, very soon it will sail the Atlantic. To do so it'll literally sail through our waters. It'll sail the sea that's my backyard. Can't see it from here unfortunately (Dream is too big to sail that close to our shores) so it would mean taking a drive or sail out, but it keeps having me go "yes", "no", "yes", "no". It's not like you get the option to see a DCL ship begin on it's first trip home, allthough the Fantasy will follow soon enough. Argh. Decisions.......

 

[goofieslonglostsis]

Now, if the rumoured photo op of the 3 ships takes place then I will think of you over on the Wonder, and wave!!!! Won't that be so exciting. I really can't think DCL would miss that opportunity.

They'ld need a shrink if they'ld let that opportunity slip. Now with the 3 ships and later with the 4. There is no way to gain better exposure for their ships and the company as a delivery of a new ship while it's being welcomed by it's two family-members.

I can already see DCL having an add with that moment of the 3 ships meeting, some special fireworks up on their website to promote the Dream and further hype the excitement of the Fantasy coming.

 

[granmaz]

C

More info about me was asked for? Let's see, I'm 31 have a passion for travel and everything Disney except for DLRP (sorry, DLRP-lovers ), am Dutch, while I don't work I am an avid advocate for the rights of those with a disability and/or chronic illness which basically keeps me rather busy enough. Discovered DCL after first thinking I'ld hit me a bargainprice (read a 'per person' price as a stateroomprice, oops) but was too amored by all of the info and pics on here about DCL to just flat out cancel it. Decided it would be one of those "once in a lifetime" things. It was, but it sure could use some repeating.

We aren't too enamoured with DLRP either, though it is a great quick fix between Florida trips, or fantastic if you just can't manage to get to the US for whatever reason. The main park is lovely. I think it is mainly the way the French CM's behave, plus the smoking and lack of queue etiquette that spoiled it for us.

Having said that I would go back if I was in the area, but wouldn't go specially.

 

[goofieslonglostsis]

We aren't too enamoured with DLRP either, though it is a great quick fix between Florida trips, or fantastic if you just can't manage to get to the US for whatever reason. The main park is lovely. I think it is mainly the way the French CM's behave, plus the smoking and lack of queue etiquette that spoiled it for us.

Having said that I would go back if I was in the area, but wouldn't go specially.

To me it's a very poorly done "not even wanting to imitate" imitation of the real thing. I did DLRP as a first "disney experience". Boy, what a shame after now knowing the real product!

Combine that with the fact it's just as expensive as WDW or certain DCL cruises for me and it's not even close of a competition when deciding where to go.

Actually had a chat about DLRP with many CM's this last trip that had actually done DLRP and/or lectures for DLRP CM's about WDW and the sentiment across the board; such disappointment of it not really "being" Disney.

 

[squitty]

I havent got a face book account either.
I have seen the trouble that 'can' come out of it. . So this has put me off somewhat.

I know exactly what you mean Jan. I am glad I'm not the only one without a FB account. Maz you will have to relay all of what happens on FB to us here on the thread

Has anybody been following the Dream? I'm a bit back-and-forth with that one. Made the choice to sail on the Magic and not sure if I really want to know too much about the Dream, IYKWIM. Before you know it it's another "I'ld like to........". On the other hand, very soon it will sail the Atlantic. To do so it'll literally sail through our waters. It'll sail the sea that's my backyard. Can't see it from here unfortunately (Dream is too big to sail that close to our shores) so it would mean taking a drive or sail out, but it keeps having me go "yes", "no", "yes", "no". It's not like you get the option to see a DCL ship begin on it's first trip home, allthough the Fantasy will follow soon enough. Argh. Decisions.......

We were originally booked to sail on the Dream, but after our cruise on the Wonder in September we knew we wanted to do a longer cruise. We've never cruised on the Magic before
That horn of the Dreams sounds amazing, I got shivers listening to it on the Youtube video.

Can't wait to see the Fantasy itineraries after Aug 2012

Maz, the 3 ship photo op sounds great, what a photo to get.

We weren't impressed with DLPR, have been once and not again.

 

[Pinky166]

Has anybody been following the Dream? I'm a bit back-and-forth with that one. Made the choice to sail on the Magic and not sure if I really want to know too much about the Dream, IYKWIM. Before you know it it's another "I'ld like to........". On the other hand, very soon it will sail the Atlantic. To do so it'll literally sail through our waters. It'll sail the sea that's my backyard. Can't see it from here unfortunately (Dream is too big to sail that close to our shores) so it would mean taking a drive or sail out, but it keeps having me go "yes", "no", "yes", "no". It's not like you get the option to see a DCL ship begin on it's first trip home, allthough the Fantasy will follow soon enough. Argh. Decisions.......

Ohhhh I would go & see it!!! I've been watching them build it on the webcam & reading as much info as I can find.......I am on the Maiden Voyage, roll on Jan 26th!

 

[birkner]

Good morning fellow WBTA'ers.

It was Bonfire Night yesterday, but we are going to the town organised bonfire and firework display tonight with most of our family. Always a great community time - the only such thing all year!!

They actually do a fantastic firework display, and I don't ever need to complain about how poor it is up to Disney. They did music a couple of years ago, but we couldn't hear it, and I don't think the fireworks were done to the music, but the show is still fantastic.

Then back to or son's for baked potatoes, pie and peas and toffee.

Sounds like you had a fun evening. We are off to GD Bailey's play today.

 

[birkner]

That would be me

Both my DD's have one but I don't like it.

I like that with FB I can correspond with my friends and family around the world every day. My GK's send me pictures every day.

 

[MandyGirl]

while I don't work I am an avid advocate for the rights of those with a disability and/or chronic illness which basically keeps me rather busy enough. .

Bless you for your work with that!

 

[MandyGirl]

I like that with FB I can correspond with my friends and family around the world every day. My GK's send me pictures every day.

That's how we try to be with the grandparents --- since they can't see their only grandchildren often, we try to post pictures regularly and update often.

 

[birkner]

More info about me was asked for? Let's see, I'm 31 have a passion for travel and everything Disney except for DLRP (sorry, DLRP-lovers ), am Dutch, while I don't work I am an avid advocate for the rights of those with a disability and/or chronic illness which basically keeps me rather busy enough. Discovered DCL after first thinking I'ld hit me a bargainprice (read a 'per person' price as a stateroomprice, oops) but was too amored by all of the info and pics on here about DCL to just flat out cancel it. Decided it would be one of those "once in a lifetime" things. It was, but it sure could use some repeating.
You are very lucky to have such flexibly in your career. Your job sounds interesting and must be very fulfilling. Connie (Con5421 is also Dutch.
Has anybody been following the Dream? I'm a bit back-and-forth with that one. Made the choice to sail on the Magic and not sure if I really want to know too much about the Dream, IYKWIM. Before you know it it's another "I'ld like to........". On the other hand, very soon it will sail the Atlantic. To do so it'll literally sail through our waters. It'll sail the sea that's my backyard. Can't see it from here unfortunately (Dream is too big to sail that close to our shores) so it would mean taking a drive or sail out, but it keeps having me go "yes", "no", "yes", "no". It's not like you get the option to see a DCL ship begin on it's first trip home, allthough the Fantasy will follow soon enough. Argh. Decisions.......

DH's vacation timing allows us to do the inaugural Fantasy. We are avidly following the Dream in eager anticipation of the Fantasy float out.

 

[squitty]

I like that with FB I can correspond with my friends and family around the world every day. My GK's send me pictures every day.

It's nice when it doesn't cause rifts. I know FB can be a great way to keep in touch with people.

I am not a grandparent yet and both my DD's live at home.

The friends I have, have my phone number or email address and can email or call me everyday if they like.
When we're on holiday I used to email our photos to my girls back home. I am happy without having a FB account

 

[goofieslonglostsis]

Ohhhh I would go & see it!!! I've been watching them build it on the webcam & reading as much info as I can find.......I am on the Maiden Voyage, roll on Jan 26th!

You're just biast. Only 3 more short months for you, getting excited yet? I just heard some rumours the Dream is scheduled to come into Amsterdam for a couple of days, flying in crew. Now what is true of that; WHO knows? Amsterdam does have a large cruise terminal and it tends to have spots on a "last minute" base but I find it hard to believe they'ld pick Amsterdam. Doesn't sound as the smartest/easiest move navigational and logisticalwise. If that rumour does turn out to be true, I'm doing my best to go and check it out. Knowing AMS it'll be locked off, but maybe I can finally benefit from our we-know-them-who-knows-such-and-such in the shipping industry. Just a real shame they can only sail a ship the size of the Dream into AMS one way. The other way into AMS is soo more scenic. Obviously my preferance for that way has nothing to do with the fact the Dream would've been sailing around in my own backyard.

Bless you for your work with that!

Honestly? I'm beyond blessed to be able to do this. I love it, really do. Also it's my way of "giving back" and "contributing". Society has so many to offer that I benefit from daily, it's only normal I'ld do something to "give back". But honestly; I could never "give back" as much as this is giving me.

You are very lucky to have such flexibly in your career. Your job sounds interesting and must be very fulfilling. Connie (Con5421 is also Dutch.

Ah, I'm not 'alone' on here. *waves to Connie*

Don't tell anybody , but it's no career or job. I view it as such, it feels as such at times , but it's volunteerwork. My health ain't the greatest but I'm in the fortunate position of being on a type of disability-income pay. Don't love the fact I need it, but do love the security and freedom it has given me. Including travelling to Disney whenever I want to and can afford it. What luxery!

 

[LittleDisneyLovers]

Hi, Just checking in.
Have been reading about the fireworks, We live within 5 minutes of 3 major theme parks, Dreamworld, MovieWorld and Wet'n'Wild. They often have events where they let off fireworks, My furbaby is getting better with them but still shakes like a leaf everytime. She doesn't like storms either. I worry about her little heart giving out, poor little things.....

Connie and I were discussing using the card from last year on the back and a new design on the front that will match the pin. We really need to get the theme firmed up so I can ask Jordak to help us design a pin.

Like last year we will need to have 100 pins on order for about 4,5 to 5 Euros each for us to make the pins.

I like the picture that you and I have on our signature. I think it would make a nice pin? What do you think? What does everyone think?


I have facebook, just for the record.....

 

[goofieslonglostsis]

It's nice when it doesn't cause rifts. I know FB can be a great way to keep in touch with people.

I am not a grandparent yet and both my DD's live at home.

The friends I have, have my phone number or email address and can email or call me everyday if they like.
When we're on holiday I used to email our photos to my girls back home. I am happy without having a FB account

We just do MSN Messenger with "phonecall" with our family around the world. Love technology , now you can be part of eachothers every day life again. There have been afternoons where both sides simply keep the screen open for hours, mic and speaker on full and just have a "afternoon hanging out together". No longer just talks about the bigger things that happen, but being able to have whole discussions about who turns a page quicker on their Kindle, "watching" favorite tv together etc.

FB; never really seen the attraction in it. Have an account thanks to a previous cruise, but it basically got used for that cruise and kinda died. It's in the FB-IC waiting for me to decide to pull the plug.

 

[goofieslonglostsis]

LDL, I'm probably on repeat here since I just joined and the thread has been going on for a long time but if you don't mind; I'ld love to hear ALL about the TA you did this year. Let's spill the details. Food, the extra special menus, the special activities, the weather you had, anything and all; I'm all ears.


Queensland; talk about a place I'ld love to visit one day! Just such a little hint of sweet irony, me running into you on this topic. We had a trip to Ozzie planned as a family in 2011, which would result in me doing a cruise around Oz. Have only seen some of WA, Sydney and Blue Mountains and it's left me hungry for more. Esp. some parts of Queensland. The trip would be a special gift from our parents to us kids. I'm no longer up to the trip healthwise, so the plans are now off. Which resulted in me booking this TA-cruise. I guess if I can't go to Oz, somehow a small part of it will be with me on that cruise next year.

 

[MandyGirl]

Honestly? I'm beyond blessed to be able to do this. I love it, really do. Also it's my way of "giving back" and "contributing". Society has so many to offer that I benefit from daily, it's only normal I'ld do something to "give back". But honestly; I could never "give back" as much as this is giving me.

Yep. Families of those with chronic or auto-immune illnesses totally understand, and appreciate the advocacy efforts.

 

[granmaz]

LDL, I'm probably on repeat here since I just joined and the thread has been going on for a long time but if you don't mind; I'ld love to hear ALL about the TA you did this year. Let's spill the details. Food, the extra special menus, the special activities, the weather you had, anything and all; I'm all ears.

.

Just ask all the questions you want. The weather was absolutely amazing, far better than any of us dared to hope for. Calm seas apart from some swell(not high seas, just gentle) for a couple of days early on, coming all the way down from the effects of Hurricane Igor right up in Newfoundland or somewhere. You couldn't really tell, but a few people did feel a bit sick one day. Temperatures were into the 80's the whole time, and it wasn't humid until we reached St Maarten. Just wonderful. We had our Verandah door open so much, and we never have before because our cruises have always been too humid, with one being cold and wet!!

I expected cold windy evenings and days too on the 5 days at sea in the middle of the Atlantic, but no way!!! No rain apart from once in the Caribbean. Wouldn't it be great if it was just the same. I really can't believe it could be, but I'm going with that.(But still taking a thick cardi just in case)

Not that we were swimmingrotfl2, but the sea temperatures were mid 80's more or less the whole time too. I never would have expected that, though apparently the seas were warmer than they normally are.

We were blessed with the spread of the Tropical Storms etc it has to be said, and an officer we were chatting to at the end of the cruise said we(passengers) would never know how hard the Captain and crew worked to keep us away from any rain throughout the crossing. I love our Captain and crew. We travelled a bit faster(leaving Madeira earlier than first planned) and further north at first to outrun a storm.

I'm not a good one to talk about menus. I loved the food mainly onboard, but a couple of menus I didn't fancy anything, and one of those I believe many folk didn't like. But, I can't remember which it was. Could have been Taste of the Caribbean. I know it was near the end of the cruise. There was a Flavours of the Med menu and a Transatlantic menu. I wonder if anyone scanned them?

I will leave others to their comments, and mention entertainment. I didn't get to much at all.

It was THE BEST CRUISE!!!!!!

 

[LittleDisneyLovers]

LDL, I'm probably on repeat here since I just joined and the thread has been going on for a long time but if you don't mind; I'ld love to hear ALL about the TA you did this year. Let's spill the details. Food, the extra special menus, the special activities, the weather you had, anything and all; I'm all ears.

Hi, the TA was our first cruise and quite obviously we loved it as we re-booked the next one! I don't know what to tell you, the food was fantastic, especially Palo, make sure you go there, the choc souffle is amazing!
I don't know which were special activities, being our first cruise. There was always something going on, everywhere we went there was dance parties for the kids, craft activities like masquerade masks and tile painting, trivia, bingo, art auctions, deck parties, shows, etc....
The weather was perfect, I think it rained once for a few hours in the afternoon. Some people were feeling a little green on our first day in the Atlantic, but most were fine and everyone was good after the initial sea day. We had a few changes of course to avoid some bad weather and the Captain did a fabulous job.
What I loved about the cruise was that it was long enough to really get to know everyone. CM's get to know you by name and it's nice being able to say Hi to people all over the ship, kinda feels like your at home by the end.
If you have any questions, please ask away, I'm not sure what you want to know, I'm happy to tell you anything and everything.
Oh, and we got the most amazing gift from Disney that both the EB and WB were given, it's a gorgeous little leather suitcase, about the size of a kids shoe box, it has stamps of all the ports of call on it, and the date of the cruise stamped on it, really cute!


And Queensland....It's the best place in the world, wouldn't want to live anywhere else. We are so lucky, Not to be biased at all, of course!