The Royal Suite on the Fantasy . . . ever increasing costs . . .

[cris0809]

We generally sail in the best category we can get at the time of booking. So, we have, for example, sailed in everything from 12 to R. We even do VGT when a last minute week opens up. So, no, we do not have to be in the Royal, but it would be nice if we were going and it was still available .

DWF

Understood. Would you feel better if you moved to a T and saved let's say half? Or is the pull to "chase" the R because it's available strong enough to justify the difference?

 

[quickcat]

Its really a question you have to ask yourself. Do YOU think its worth it? My DH would definitely spend any amount to go on a Disney cruise- he loves them. If he was posting, he'd say its a good choice
Just a matter of what makes your family happy. The room does sound and look amazing. I think across the board though the rates are going up for any cabin. Disney can get a lot of money for the Fantasy. Maybe go with the classic ships to stay in the same cabin but for a smaller cost?

 

[OMG Andrea]

If you asked me and I had that kind of money to throw at a vacation I wouldn't be doing DCL. You could do amazing vacations for that kind of money and in reality a room doesn't justify that kind of price in my eyes. If it was 10k vs 7k maybe but 31k vs 7k for the same family in another room that doesn't have concierge and you get the same treatment everywhere else on the ship.

For me if I had 31k for a vacation I would be looking at Adventures by Disney. I have always wanted to do one of those and frankly the Fantasy doesn't go to anywhere to me that justifies the 31k price tag vs Adventures by Disney.

Check this out: It is in that price range and to me this would be amazing and in my eyes a huge learning experience for your kids.

http://www.adventuresbydisney.com/asia-africa-australia/south-africa-vacations/

Completely agree!

 

[disneywonderfun]

Understood. Would you feel better if you moved to a T and saved let's say half? Or is the pull to "chase" the R because it's available strong enough to justify the difference?

It is funny you mentioned that! When I called Disney this morning and got the quote, I moaned a bit. The CM mentioned we could get a T for $18K. Again, at that price point, another $10K or so does not matter to me. It is more the overall feeling that the trip itself is getting a bit overpriced for what it is.

DWF

 

[disneywonderfun]

Its really a question you have to ask yourself. Do YOU think its worth it? My DH would definitely spend any amount to go on a Disney cruise- he loves them. If he was posting, he'd say its a good choice
Just a matter of what makes your family happy. The room does sound and look amazing. I think across the board though the rates are going up for any cabin. Disney can get a lot of money for the Fantasy. Maybe go with the classic ships to stay in the same cabin but for a smaller cost?

We have been in Royals in both types of ships. We would not book again on the classics since there are not many amenities we find alluring in that cabin on those ships. If we sailed the Magic/Wonder again, we would be more than happy with two balcony cabins with a connecting door.

DWF

 

[disneywonderfun]

Totally agree

If I had that kind of cash for vacation, I would be travelling to England, Ireland, Scotland, Greece, Tahiti, you get my point.

Different strokes for different folks though....

I know what you mean, however, for us, it is not an "either/or" choice. For example, this summer we did a week on the Fantasy and then a month later went for a 2 1/2 week trip through Southeast Asia (Cambodia, Singapore, Indonesia). The cost of the Disney cruise was almost identical to the total cost of the Southeast Asia trip which included some of the nicest hotels/resorts in the world.

So, I guess I am just trying to decide if the cost is worth it on its own merits. Even if we can afford something, that does not mean our family simply chooses the most expensive option. I do like to think I am not overpaying by multiple factors of what the experience is actually worth to us as a family.

DWF

 

[disneywonderfun]

I've gotta assume that someone that spends that kind of money for the suite is also doing many other amazing vacations!

Are you saying that this is the only vacation you do, and are looking for advice for other places?

I would love advice for a week in March with two kids, 8 and 14. We have traveled with them extensively (Western Europe, Cambodia, Indonesia, Japan, Singapore, various Caribbean islands, Mexico, etc.) and without them have been all around the globe (French Polynesia, Eastern Europe, Egypt, Hong Kong, Israel, Cyprus, etc.) The problem I have with Spring Break is that we are limited to leaving on Saturday and returning no later than the following Sunday. So, my wife is not enthusiastic about any trip requiring an overnight flight since the trip duration is limited. Oh, we are doing Beaches at Turks and Caicos this upcoming Spring Break, so do not suggest that option either.

We live in the Southeast, so even Hawaii becomes problematic. We have done US trips (i.e. DC, NYC, but nothing really in the West). Always wanted to take them to Canada, but March seems less than ideal. Thought about Costa Rica (wife lived there for 6 months) but just do not find it appealing. African safari would take too long. Even thought something as simple as LA . . . hmmmm . . . that might be nice with the kids.

Any suggestions?

DWF

 

[Meghatron]

I would love advice for a week in March with two kids, 8 and 14. We have traveled with them extensively (Western Europe, Cambodia, Indonesia, Japan, Singapore, various Caribbean islands, Mexico, etc.) and without them have been all around the globe (French Polynesia, Eastern Europe, Egypt, Hong Kong, Israel, Cyprus, etc.) The problem I have with Spring Break is that we are limited to leaving on Saturday and returning no later than the following Sunday. So, my wife is not enthusiastic about any trip requiring an overnight flight since the trip duration is limited. Oh, we are doing Beaches at Turks and Caicos this upcoming Spring Break, so do not suggest that option either. We live in the Southeast, so even Hawaii becomes problematic. We have done US trips (i.e. DC, NYC, but nothing really in the West). Always wanted to take them to Canada, but March seems less than ideal. Thought about Costa Rica (wife lived there for 6 months) but just do not find it appealing. African safari would take too long. Even thought something as simple as LA . . . hmmmm . . . that might be nice with the kids. Any suggestions? DWF

Two of the best vacations I was ever treated to growing up were the Virgin Islands (one year US and one year British) and two weeks in a waterfront beach house in Seaside, FL. No cruising involved, and fairly little travel for someone in the Southeast US. My parents are well off, but like to get their money's worth (which sounds like you) so it was luxurious when it "needed" to be: for example we booked private boat excursions to secluded beaches, but no suite at the resort--we had two basic rooms and my sister and I shared. For the FL trip I was given the chance to invite two of my friends along for free, but we drove from TN instead of flying, which cost less at the same time the all-girl road trip added to the experience.

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[cris0809]

I would love advice for a week in March with two kids, 8 and 14.
...
Any suggestions?

DWF

Are you open to cool-weather options? How about skiing in Vail or Aspen? Stay at a gorgeous lodge and have a bunch of outdoor activities at your disposal.

Provence has been on my mind for a while too. Temperatures there should be a little more moderate during that time of year (highs in 60s).

 

[Four Swampers]

I would love advice for a week in March with two kids, 8 and 14. We have traveled with them extensively (Western Europe, Cambodia, Indonesia, Japan, Singapore, various Caribbean islands, Mexico, etc.) and without them have been all around the globe (French Polynesia, Eastern Europe, Egypt, Hong Kong, Israel, Cyprus, etc.) The problem I have with Spring Break is that we are limited to leaving on Saturday and returning no later than the following Sunday. So, my wife is not enthusiastic about any trip requiring an overnight flight since the trip duration is limited. Oh, we are doing Beaches at Turks and Caicos this upcoming Spring Break, so do not suggest that option either.

We live in the Southeast, so even Hawaii becomes problematic. We have done US trips (i.e. DC, NYC, but nothing really in the West). Always wanted to take them to Canada, but March seems less than ideal. Thought about Costa Rica (wife lived there for 6 months) but just do not find it appealing. African safari would take too long. Even thought something as simple as LA . . . hmmmm . . . that might be nice with the kids.

Any suggestions?

DWF

A week in Belize might work well. Four nights in the east exploring Mayan sites. Stay at The Five Sisters Resort or Francis Coppola's resort or one of the other resorts in that area, then three nights at Ambergris Caye for beach / snorkeling / scuba diving. From the southeast, you could fly to India from Atlanta. Long trip, so it really does not at all fit with your wife's "no overnight flight" concern. Still, your family's travels look like my family's travels, so wanted to throw that out there. You would have just enough time for a guided tour of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. Look up geoex expeditions at www.geoex.com Or you could fly Spirit from Fort Lauderdale to Peru.

 

[disneywonderfun]

Two of the best vacations I was ever treated to growing up were the Virgin Islands (one year US and one year British) and two weeks in a waterfront beach house in Seaside, FL. No cruising involved, and fairly little travel for someone in the Southeast US. My parents are well off, but like to get their money's worth (which sounds like you) so it was luxurious when it "needed" to be: for example we booked private boat excursions to secluded beaches, but no suite at the resort--we had two basic rooms and my sister and I shared. For the FL trip I was given the chance to invite two of my friends along for free, but we drove from TN instead of flying, which cost less at the same time the all-girl road trip added to the experience.

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Seaside has been on our radar ever since watching the Truman Show. That is an intriguing thought. Weather in March good?

DWF

 

[Meghatron]

Seaside has been on our radar ever since watching the Truman Show. That is an intriguing thought. Weather in March good? DWF

My trip was in June, so I can't speak for March weather in the FL panhandle. But I am sure there are weather websites and other FL-resident DISers who can help you out there. I *loved* Seaside and begged my mom to buy a house there (because even at 13 I had no idea what responsible investing was, ha!). I have not been back since, but with current prices for Disney (both DCL and the parks) I might be taking my own family sooner rather than later.

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[jjgarv]

For that amount of money........I would book a 4E on the Fantasy as a back to back....to back.......to back.....to back.

 

[moonlily8]

You mentioned you haven't done much in the west, maybe consider the Grand Canyon and Sedona. It's beautiful!!! There's lots to do if you like outdoor activities. And nice resorts all over the area. It's worth checking out if you've never been.

 

[Meghatron]

For that amount of money........I would book a 4E on the Fantasy as a back to back....to back.......to back.....to back.

The OP only has one week for this particular vacation.

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[micheleq]

For a week in March, I'd suggest either Palm Springs, CA or St. John, USVI. You can find luxury accommodations in both, beautiful scenery and wonderful weather. I haven't done any ABD but I think that's in our future as our girls get a bit older.

I agree, it's not necessarily about what you can spend, but it's about what feels like it has value to you and your family.

 

[sayhello]

If you asked me and I had that kind of money to throw at a vacation I wouldn't be doing DCL. You could do amazing vacations for that kind of money and in reality a room doesn't justify that kind of price in my eyes. If it was 10k vs 7k maybe but 31k vs 7k for the same family in another room that doesn't have concierge and you get the same treatment everywhere else on the ship.

For me if I had 31k for a vacation I would be looking at Adventures by Disney. I have always wanted to do one of those and frankly the Fantasy doesn't go to anywhere to me that justifies the 31k price tag vs Adventures by Disney.

Check this out: It is in that price range and to me this would be amazing and in my eyes a huge learning experience for your kids.

http://www.adventuresbydisney.com/asia-africa-australia/south-africa-vacations/

Totally agree with the Adventures by Disney suggestion! You still get the Disney quality, and the amazing Disney CM's (the Adventure Guides!) and something different to do. But it sounds like you've done a lot of traveling.

I would love advice for a week in March with two kids, 8 and 14. We have traveled with them extensively (Western Europe, Cambodia, Indonesia, Japan, Singapore, various Caribbean islands, Mexico, etc.) and without them have been all around the globe (French Polynesia, Eastern Europe, Egypt, Hong Kong, Israel, Cyprus, etc.) The problem I have with Spring Break is that we are limited to leaving on Saturday and returning no later than the following Sunday. So, my wife is not enthusiastic about any trip requiring an overnight flight since the trip duration is limited. Oh, we are doing Beaches at Turks and Caicos this upcoming Spring Break, so do not suggest that option either.

We live in the Southeast, so even Hawaii becomes problematic. We have done US trips (i.e. DC, NYC, but nothing really in the West). Always wanted to take them to Canada, but March seems less than ideal. Thought about Costa Rica (wife lived there for 6 months) but just do not find it appealing. African safari would take too long. Even thought something as simple as LA . . . hmmmm . . . that might be nice with the kids.

Any suggestions?

DWF

Hmmmm.... ABD doesn't do their US trips in March, except for their Southern California/Disneyland trip, which they have a Mar 23 - 28, 2014 departure. They *do* have an April departure for their absolutely fabulous American Southwest trip:

http://www.adventuresbydisney.com/north-america/grand-canyon-vacations/

I'm a huge fan of "See America!". I've done several ABD's and this one is still one of my favorites. Sedona, AZ, the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, Moab, UT & Arches National Park. Amazing, amazing places, and a wonderful trip. You should really look into it! I think you'd have an excellent time on this trip (or on *any* ABD!)

Sayhello

 

[BoJangles76]

I know what you mean, however, for us, it is not an "either/or" choice. For example, this summer we did a week on the Fantasy and then a month later went for a 2 1/2 week trip through Southeast Asia (Cambodia, Singapore, Indonesia). The cost of the Disney cruise was almost identical to the total cost of the Southeast Asia trip which included some of the nicest hotels/resorts in the world.

So, I guess I am just trying to decide if the cost is worth it on its own merits. Even if we can afford something, that does not mean our family simply chooses the most expensive option. I do like to think I am not overpaying by multiple factors of what the experience is actually worth to us as a family.

DWF

Have you thought of a different line with a much longer cruise (depending on your personal availability to be gone for a while). Then you would get the travel that you obviously also book to more foreign destinations and a cruise at the same time. Although with kids I don't know how exciting some of those cruises would be since they tend to be the older crowd.

 

[cris0809]

Have you thought of a different line with a much longer cruise (depending on your personal availability to be gone for a while). Then you would get the travel that you obviously also book to more foreign destinations and a cruise at the same time. Although with kids I don't know how exciting some of those cruises would be since they tend to be the older crowd.

OP has already stated that for this specific vacation they have a week.

 

[disneywonderfun]

For what this is worth, I checked the Oasis of the Seas for the same week. The cost for us in a similar cabin is actually a little more than the DCL option.

DWF

PS. As mentioned, I am looking for viable alternatives with a Saturday departure and return no later than the following Sunday. Makes choices limited.

PPS. Thought about Grand Canyon but it seems very cold in March.