"Seven Seven 07" 20070707-11 Night Mediterranean Cruise

[vegs1]

We'll see you and the group on Deck 10!

We have the late dinner seating as well. Are the seating arrangements preassigned before you get on the ship?

Not having cruised before, I have heard that you dine with the same group each night.

Packing - We have a big pile of things that we wanted to take. Now we are trying to get them all in the suitcase! We are trying to take only what is necessary, but not forget anything.

I am so ready to be in vacation mode. No worries, just enjoy. Things never go exactly as planned, but so what. Enjoy the adventure. Sometimes a little uncertainty can lead your trip down a more enjoyable path that you had originally planned. I'm still considering the "all day taxi" in Naples.

Last night the New York area airports got hammered with thunderstorms, and Philadelphia had a power failure at the airport. We had a lot of diverts into Washington DC from that. A significant number of people ended up spending the night in the airport since all the hotels filled up. The airport provided blankets and pillows to make them a bit more comfortable. I know many people had their travel plans disrupted. If something like this happens on your way to Europe, just roll with the punches and make the best of it. It is thunderstorm season.

I know many DisBoarders are starting their trips in the next couple of days. Safe travels and have fun! See you on the cruise!

EPCOT_VA
(Matthew, Beth, Megan & Sarah)

Hey Matthew,
We're looking forward to meeting you and all the other disboarders at the sail away party! I'm sure our daughters will have fun together!

We'll be looking for you!

Safe travels everyone!
See you in Barcelona!

vegs1
(Beth, Randy and Alexandra)

 

[mickeyfanmom]

I am so ready to be in vacation mode. No worries, just enjoy. Things never go exactly as planned, but so what. Enjoy the adventure. Sometimes a little uncertainty can lead your trip down a more enjoyable path that you had originally planned. If something like this happens on your way to Europe, just roll with the punches and make the best of it. It is thunderstorm season.

I know many DisBoarders are starting their trips in the next couple of days. Safe travels and have fun! See you on the cruise!

EPCOT_VA
(Matthew, Beth, Megan & Sarah)

Good attitude- I am doing my best to "roll with the punches" too. We are so blessed to be able to go on this trip of a lifetime- we are going to make the best of any little "glitches" along the way.

See you onboard everyone!!!!!

 

[skibum]

Good attitude- I am doing my best to "roll with the punches" too. We are so blessed to be able to go on this trip of a lifetime- we are going to make the best of any little "glitches" along the way.

I agree! I always tell the kids that it's all part of the adventure. If you think about it, it is really the unexpected moments (both positive and negative) that create the memories. We try to just "go with the flow".

Safe travels to everybody who is heading over early!

 

[Dylcal]

I agree! I always tell the kids that it's all part of the adventure. If you think about it, it is really the unexpected moments (both positive and negative) that create the memories. We try to just "go with the flow".

Safe travels to everybody who is heading over early!

I second all of this! And I got may cruise documents today!!!

Now if it would only be next week!!!!!!


Sheryl

 

[MJGirl]

Hi all ... Made it to the airport and cleared customs ... It's been a long day, My flight leaves in two and a half hours. Can't wait. I cleared the weit limit. One bag was 38 pounds and one was 42 pounds. I also checked a small carryon that was 23 pounds. I've got a ABD backpack and laptop with me! Let the fun begin! Now if I'm okay for Paris to BCN, I'll be happy!!

Ta ta for now!

 

[Hanover]

Hi all ... Made it to the airport and cleared customs ... It's been a long day, My flight leaves in two and a half hours. Can't wait. I cleared the weit limit. One bag was 38 pounds and one was 42 pounds. I also checked a small carryon that was 23 pounds. I've got a ABD backpack and laptop with me! Let the fun begin! Now if I'm okay for Paris to BCN, I'll be happy!!

Ta ta for now!

Have a great/safe flight. It's great to see your ticker on zero. We can't wait until this time next week!

 

[Shercara]

Hi Everyone - I can't believe next week at this time we will be on our way to BCN!!

MJ - glad things are working out for you so far - hope all your travels go smoothly and you have a WONDERFUL pre-cruise vacation! We just missed seeing "We Will Rock You" as it had closed 1 month before we stayed at the Paris Hotel in Las Vegas in Feb of 06! I was VERY disappointed!

Vegs1 - I see over on the cruise critic board you were inquirying about doing Villefranche/Eze on your own - That is our plan too - I just canceled our DCL tour for that port - we want to go to the shop in Eze with the oils/vinegars/etc.. and tour around there, then visit Monaco/Monte Carlo. Still not sure the best way to do this but I printed out all the info and tips and think I will pour over it on our flight to BCN. If you would be interested in tackling that port together - let me know!

I just completed the online registration forms and called the cc companies to alert them of our trip - made copies of our passports and all other cards we are taking - now we have to begin to pack!! YIKES -- I have no idea how we will fit everything my DH wants to bring, or how I can fit all my shoes - I'm up to 10 pair now!!!

We pick up our D Nick (18) from college in NH tomorrow - and then the next few days we will be in true GET READY MODE!

I agree - 07/07/07 maybe a lucky # or date, but being blessed and able to take this "VACATION OF A LIFETIME" with our family is PRICELESS!

Can't wait to meet everyone too! Safe travels to ALL!
Sherri

 

[Kouris_Family]

Regarding dinners, we have only been seated with my parents at a 6 person table on our past 3 Disney cruises. We have been assigned our rotation upon receiving our Key to the World Cards and a table number. Each night you will go to the restaurant you are assigned to for that night and find your table number (a silver number on a small stand).

We just got back late Tuesday night from 5 days at Disney. I took the boys for the last Star Wars weekend. We really had a blast. It was hot and very crowded, but we had a great time and made the most of our days. I'm a bit worried about packing for Europe now. We took 2 rolling duffle bags with 6 outfits, 2 swim suits, 2 pair of pajamas each, a few snacks and our Disney misting fans. Just buying about 6 t shirts and 5 Star Wars light sabers brought us up to 54 and 50.5 pounds at check in. Fortunately they let me slide without the $25 fine.

We are going to go through our excursions later and cut out a few Disney excursions and do them on our own. I've been trying to get in touch with someone in Naples for an all day taxi too but haven't heard back.

We are doing Pompeii and Amalfi Coast with a private driver, we used AP Tours, they have been thorough and get back to me right away. It is 450 Euro for 6 of us. There was someone on one of the other Med. dates that used them and were very happy with them, so hopefully it is good.
Good Luck to you, check out their website.
Kay

 

[calif disney 1]

Does anybody know if it is to late to attempt to book our own tour....I am trying to get through to the vatican, but lines just keep ringing busy..I think we are going to do it on our own...received that letter from Disney yesterday, and it sounds like we will have a much better time doing it on our own. Nothing like waiting for the last darn minute.

 

[OurDogCisco]

Does anybody know if it is to late to attempt to book our own tour....I am trying to get through to the vatican, but lines just keep ringing busy..I think we are going to do it on our own...received that letter from Disney yesterday, and it sounds like we will have a much better time doing it on our own. Nothing like waiting for the last darn minute.

When I inquired with Private Shore Trips... they still had drivers left. However, they are expensive. I had found one for Amalfi Coast & Pompeii it was only $400 Euros but that doesn't include lunch or the entrance tickets (through Driving Sorrento). Private Shore Trips were much more expensive. Plus, it is customary to tip an additional 10 to 15%. So I'm on the fence about it.

What letter did you receive from Disney Yesterday?

Tina

 

[calif disney 1]

We received a letter that said our Rome VIP tour did not include the Fountain, and that we would only see the Colesseum from the outside, and that part of the Vatican could not be guaranteed due to security concerns, so now I am like....well I might as well just go for it on our own. But really want to get into the Vatican, without the line.

 

[OurDogCisco]

We received a letter that said our Rome VIP tour did not include the Fountain, and that we would only see the Colesseum from the outside, and that part of the Vatican could not be guaranteed due to security concerns, so now I am like....well I might as well just go for it on our own. But really want to get into the Vatican, without the line.

Well.... I was trying to change my tour from the Exclusive VIP visit of the Vatican & highlights of Rom to Historic Rome & the Underground Mysteries of St. Clemente Basilica. My oldest dd wants to the Colosseum. While our tour only includes a drive by now when originally it included an outside visit. Anyways, they show availability online but when you try to book it says full. I tried for all the tours and everyone of them said "FULL". I even called Disney and the reps were SO unhelpful. Their reservation system sucks. No doubt about it.

So, I'm also on the fence because my youngest dd still needs a booster seat and I really don't want to rely on the private guides to bring one and it weighs 10 to 15 lbs so it would take up a lot of luggage. So hopefully, we can change once on board. I will have to say I'm totally disappointed with Disney and their tours.... If you don't have carseat issues, I'd go private tours in a heart beat. I agree you'll have so much more time at each place. Some of the private tour companies got the tickets for you advance to. YOu can always ask.

 

[calif disney 1]

Well.... I was trying to change my tour from the Exclusive VIP visit of the Vatican & highlights of Rom to Historic Rome & the Underground Mysteries of St. Clemente Basilica. My oldest dd wants to the Colosseum. While our tour only includes a drive by now when originally it included an outside visit. Anyways, they show availability online but when you try to book it says full. I tried for all the tours and everyone of them said "FULL". I even called Disney and the reps were SO unhelpful. Their reservation system sucks. No doubt about it.

So, I'm also on the fence because my youngest dd still needs a booster seat and I really don't want to rely on the private guides to bring one and it weighs 10 to 15 lbs so it would take up a lot of luggage. So hopefully, we can change once on board. I will have to say I'm totally disappointed with Disney and their tours.... If you don't have carseat issues, I'd go private tours in a heart beat. I agree you'll have so much more time at each place. Some of the private tour companies got the tickets for you advance to. YOu can always ask.

NO car seat issues here, so I will give it a try....I have left e-mails all over the place....I am even going to call AAA in a few minutes.

John

 

[mickeyfanmom]

We just got that letter about VIP Vatican tour today! So disappointed with Disney right now- they defininitely waited until the last minute to let us know. (And to think that I stayed up ALL night on vacation during Spring Break to book my excursions which are becoming more and more disappointed by the day!!)

Oh well- still trying to see the best in all and have a happy attitude!

 

[calif disney 1]

We just got that letter about VIP Vatican tour today! So disappointed with Disney right now- they defininitely waited until the last minute to let us know. (And to think that I stayed up ALL night on vacation during Spring Break to book my excursions which are becoming more and more disappointed by the day!!)

Oh well- still trying to see the best in all and have a happy attitude!

Well, I have been on the e-mail and phone all day. Trying to set something up. If anybody has room for a family of 4 on a private tour let me know. Otherwise, if somebody wants to go in with us, let me know ASAP. I am trying to set someting up through either ENJOY Tours or Presto Tours. Just now wish I was doing this last May.

John

 

[mickeyfanmom]

It is really a bummer that they didn't tell us sooner. They had to know that people on the earlier tours were disappointed.

Also, DCL is telling me that you must cancel the excursion three days before you sail, or you will be charged. (Although if you put up a big fuss on the ship, I'm sure that they would still cancel you.)

Plus the CM's on the phone haven't really been spreading the Disney "magic" lately. I know that they are probably overwhelmed with this stuff- but really.
Very disappointing indeed.

 

[EPCOT_VA]

Well, I have been on the e-mail and phone all day. Trying to set something up. If anybody has room for a family of 4 on a private tour let me know. Otherwise, if somebody wants to go in with us, let me know ASAP. I am trying to set someting up through either ENJOY Tours or Presto Tours. Just now wish I was doing this last May.

John

We are signed up for the Ultimate Rome Experience, but would consider a private tour in Rome (or Naples, if anyone is interested). We also have a family of four (Myself, my wife Beth, and two daughters 7 & 9). Let me know if you find something and want to split it.

Matthew (EPCOT_VA)

 

[vegs1]

We are signed up for the Ultimate Rome Experience, but would consider a private tour in Rome (or Naples, if anyone is interested). We also have a family of four (Myself, my wife Beth, and two daughters 7 & 9). Let me know if you find something and want to split it.

Matthew (EPCOT_VA)

We're also doing the Ultimate Rome Experience so if you don't end up going privately...we're probably on it with you!

 

[vegs1]

Hi Everyone - I can't believe next week at this time we will be on our way to BCN!!

MJ - glad things are working out for you so far - hope all your travels go smoothly and you have a WONDERFUL pre-cruise vacation! We just missed seeing "We Will Rock You" as it had closed 1 month before we stayed at the Paris Hotel in Las Vegas in Feb of 06! I was VERY disappointed!

Vegs1 - I see over on the cruise critic board you were inquirying about doing Villefranche/Eze on your own - That is our plan too - I just canceled our DCL tour for that port - we want to go to the shop in Eze with the oils/vinegars/etc.. and tour around there, then visit Monaco/Monte Carlo. Still not sure the best way to do this but I printed out all the info and tips and think I will pour over it on our flight to BCN. If you would be interested in tackling that port together - let me know!



I just completed the online registration forms and called the cc companies to alert them of our trip - made copies of our passports and all other cards we are taking - now we have to begin to pack!! YIKES -- I have no idea how we will fit everything my DH wants to bring, or how I can fit all my shoes - I'm up to 10 pair now!!!

We pick up our D Nick (18) from college in NH tomorrow - and then the next few days we will be in true GET READY MODE!

I agree - 07/07/07 maybe a lucky # or date, but being blessed and able to take this "VACATION OF A LIFETIME" with our family is PRICELESS!

Can't wait to meet everyone too! Safe travels to ALL!
Sherri

Hi Sherri,

We are definitely going to do Villefranche/Eze/Monte Carlo on our own. I have been in contact with their tourist board and have some (somewhat confusing) directions on taking the train and busses. The problem is that the train takes you to Eze-sur-Mer and not Eze Village. From Eze-sur-Mer you can walk (straight uphill about 50 minutes - I don't think so!) or wait for a bus which I believe is infrequent. I've been told the BEST thing to do is take the train directly from Villefranche to Monaco (Monte Carlo), see what you want to see there; take a bus from Monte Carlo to Eze Village (I believe the 112 goes direct) and then either take a cab from Eze Village to Eze-Sur-Mer and then the train back or look into a cab from Eze Village back to Villefranche directly. I haven't figured out that last part yet but am diligently working on it and if I don't before the trip, I'll ask at the Tourist Information upon debarkation in Villefranche. From what I've been told, it's pretty easy to do. You are more than welcome to hook up with us and we can tackle the train together! It is my husband, 9 year old daughter and myself!

Looking forward to meeting you and your family!

Beth

 

[calif disney 1]

We are signed up for the Ultimate Rome Experience, but would consider a private tour in Rome (or Naples, if anyone is interested). We also have a family of four (Myself, my wife Beth, and two daughters 7 & 9). Let me know if you find something and want to split it.

Matthew (EPCOT_VA)

Sent you a PM