Will TarzansKat meet Captain Jack? ~A Pirate's Life for 3 Pre-Trippie~ We're back!

[TarzansKat]

Well, for the first time, Southwest has completely failed me.

I've held out for the "July discount" and so far this year it doesn't exist. I passed up two other dicsount opportunities to book these tickets thinking that some type of fare would be released either last Tuesday or this Tuesday and it hasn't.

I can't begin to describe how upset I am right now. And not even a crying upset or a yelling upset, a quiet upset. Which I think is more scary.

As of now, my options are this...

Pay $777, and have flight times that will essentially knock out my two travel days, thus making my vacation in essence 6 full days instead of 8. Our first day we'd get in around 705 pm which just doesn't sit well with me for a lot of reasons.

Change one of my flight times, pay $816, and maintain that early first day flight, getting into Orlando at 1000 am instead. Total price difference is only $39, not too big a deal when you have to drop OVER 700 DOLLARS ON AIRFARE!!!! Ugh.

Change both my flight times, pay $969 , use same early flight, then a later flight on departure day, ensuring we can get picked up from the airport. This price frightens the carp out of me. I have to talk to my dad and see if there's anyway he can flip a shift with someone and pick us up from that earlier coming home flight.

I am not happy at all.

This is ridiculous.

$816 for airfare? When last year I paid $476? $340 more...

Call it that state of the economy, call it the way things are, I call it ridiculous.

I am really really having a hard time reconciling this. I've looked at Delta, but then I have to deal with the additional baggage fees, so even though their flight times are more palatable, their tickets are totally non-refundable, they charge you to switch them to other tickets, and a stroller actually counts as one of your checked items. So that means each person gets one checked item, and DS' would be his stroller, leaving me to do two suitcases for the three of us. Is it doable? Yes, it's what we normally do. Do I want that stress? No. On Southwest, I can pack us in two suitcases, take our normal carry-ons, and gate check the stroller without occuring any additional fees. Then, if we have any souvies...I'm sure there will be a few, we can put them in the duffel bag that I'll pack empty folded flat on the way down, and it'll become a second checked bag, or carry on depending on the size. But still, no additional fees. And if for some reason I get cold feet, I can always get a credit with Southwest without incurring any additional fees.

Bite the bullet?

Book the airfare?

Wait?

Pay off the trip?

Wait?

I am so quiet angry. Repressing the inner Hulk.

I think I need to go work out.

 

[hlrababy]

2 MONTHS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!​

Woo hoo! It's par-tay time!

I'll have one of these...

one of these...

and one of these....

ahhhhhhhh.....

P.S. Eight more Mondays!

I can't wait to have my first lapu lapu and dole whip!!!!

And the last picture, just heaven in my eyes!

 

[Native NYer]

I am so sorry to hear about the costs of airfare. Is that over $700 per person or for everyone? What city are you flying from? Maybe you can wait and check for a couple of more days. Have you tried cheaptickets? Or one of the websites that compares different airfares? Sometimes going directly through the airline isn't always the best deal.

And I think it stinks that Delta counts a stroller as a checked bag!!! Would you have to check it at the ticketing counter? We are flying American again and get to gate check the stroller. I have never heard of an airline counting a stroller as a checked bag.

And all of these luggage fees are ridiculous. How many people can actually avoid paying the fees? Who travels with zero bags? And because of all the fees, I'm anticipating the overhead compartments to be packed to capacity.

I really hope you can find a better deal.

 

[Princesskeyblade]

Well, for the first time, Southwest has completely failed me.

I've held out for the "July discount" and so far this year it doesn't exist. I passed up two other dicsount opportunities to book these tickets thinking that some type of fare would be released either last Tuesday or this Tuesday and it hasn't.

I can't begin to describe how upset I am right now. And not even a crying upset or a yelling upset, a quiet upset. Which I think is more scary.

As of now, my options are this...

Pay $777, and have flight times that will essentially knock out my two travel days, thus making my vacation in essence 6 full days instead of 8. Our first day we'd get in around 705 pm which just doesn't sit well with me for a lot of reasons.

Change one of my flight times, pay $816, and maintain that early first day flight, getting into Orlando at 1000 am instead. Total price difference is only $39, not too big a deal when you have to drop OVER 700 DOLLARS ON AIRFARE!!!! Ugh.

Change both my flight times, pay $969 , use same early flight, then a later flight on departure day, ensuring we can get picked up from the airport. This price frightens the carp out of me. I have to talk to my dad and see if there's anyway he can flip a shift with someone and pick us up from that earlier coming home flight.

I am not happy at all.

This is ridiculous.

$816 for airfare? When last year I paid $476? $340 more...

Call it that state of the economy, call it the way things are, I call it ridiculous.

I am really really having a hard time reconciling this. I've looked at Delta, but then I have to deal with the additional baggage fees, so even though their flight times are more palatable, their tickets are totally non-refundable, they charge you to switch them to other tickets, and a stroller actually counts as one of your checked items. So that means each person gets one checked item, and DS' would be his stroller, leaving me to do two suitcases for the three of us. Is it doable? Yes, it's what we normally do. Do I want that stress? No. On Southwest, I can pack us in two suitcases, take our normal carry-ons, and gate check the stroller without occuring any additional fees. Then, if we have any souvies...I'm sure there will be a few, we can put them in the duffel bag that I'll pack empty folded flat on the way down, and it'll become a second checked bag, or carry on depending on the size. But still, no additional fees. And if for some reason I get cold feet, I can always get a credit with Southwest without incurring any additional fees.

Bite the bullet?

Book the airfare?

Wait?

Pay off the trip?

Wait?

I am so quiet angry. Repressing the inner Hulk.

I think I need to go work out.

I don't know what you should do... but I wanted to give you a hug!

 

[If U Had Wings]

Well, for the first time, Southwest has completely failed me.

I've held out for the "July discount" and so far this year it doesn't exist. I passed up two other dicsount opportunities to book these tickets thinking that some type of fare would be released either last Tuesday or this Tuesday and it hasn't.

I can't begin to describe how upset I am right now. And not even a crying upset or a yelling upset, a quiet upset. Which I think is more scary.

As of now, my options are this...

Pay $777, and have flight times that will essentially knock out my two travel days, thus making my vacation in essence 6 full days instead of 8. Our first day we'd get in around 705 pm which just doesn't sit well with me for a lot of reasons.

Change one of my flight times, pay $816, and maintain that early first day flight, getting into Orlando at 1000 am instead. Total price difference is only $39, not too big a deal when you have to drop OVER 700 DOLLARS ON AIRFARE!!!! Ugh.

Change both my flight times, pay $969 , use same early flight, then a later flight on departure day, ensuring we can get picked up from the airport. This price frightens the carp out of me. I have to talk to my dad and see if there's anyway he can flip a shift with someone and pick us up from that earlier coming home flight.

I am not happy at all.

This is ridiculous.

$816 for airfare? When last year I paid $476? $340 more...

Call it that state of the economy, call it the way things are, I call it ridiculous.

I am really really having a hard time reconciling this. I've looked at Delta, but then I have to deal with the additional baggage fees, so even though their flight times are more palatable, their tickets are totally non-refundable, they charge you to switch them to other tickets, and a stroller actually counts as one of your checked items. So that means each person gets one checked item, and DS' would be his stroller, leaving me to do two suitcases for the three of us. Is it doable? Yes, it's what we normally do. Do I want that stress? No. On Southwest, I can pack us in two suitcases, take our normal carry-ons, and gate check the stroller without occuring any additional fees. Then, if we have any souvies...I'm sure there will be a few, we can put them in the duffel bag that I'll pack empty folded flat on the way down, and it'll become a second checked bag, or carry on depending on the size. But still, no additional fees. And if for some reason I get cold feet, I can always get a credit with Southwest without incurring any additional fees.

Bite the bullet?

Book the airfare?

Wait?

Pay off the trip?

Wait?

I am so quiet angry. Repressing the inner Hulk.

I think I need to go work out.

Sorry about the airfare woes. I think I paid about $250 for my r/t ticket, which I think is what I paid last year as well.

If you really want to fly Southwest I'd change the one time. That's only $39 more, and that's not too bad.

I probably wouldn't cancel. I believe gas costs aren't going to be getting that much better. As ugly as it is, and as much as I don't want to, I'm going to have to accept that this is what the price of oil is going to be now. Ugh!

I'd be a bit nervous to wait too much longer. What if they rise again?

 

[SwansLoveDisney]

Oh no! I'm so sorry about the airfare. That is a lot of money.

I have had to pay ridiculous airfares lately also and Southwest hasn't been coming out with deals as much as they have in years past.

It really stinks when a trip to the happiest place on earth causes so much stress.

 

[willwriteforears]

Have I been missing the Captain Jack kiosk all these years? I really need to find that this year and pick one of those up myself.

I want to find that kiosk, too!

Well, for the first time, Southwest has completely failed me.

I've held out for the "July discount" and so far this year it doesn't exist. I passed up two other dicsount opportunities to book these tickets thinking that some type of fare would be released either last Tuesday or this Tuesday and it hasn't.

I can't begin to describe how upset I am right now. And not even a crying upset or a yelling upset, a quiet upset. Which I think is more scary.

As of now, my options are this...

Pay $777, and have flight times that will essentially knock out my two travel days, thus making my vacation in essence 6 full days instead of 8. Our first day we'd get in around 705 pm which just doesn't sit well with me for a lot of reasons.

Change one of my flight times, pay $816, and maintain that early first day flight, getting into Orlando at 1000 am instead. Total price difference is only $39, not too big a deal when you have to drop OVER 700 DOLLARS ON AIRFARE!!!! Ugh.

Change both my flight times, pay $969 , use same early flight, then a later flight on departure day, ensuring we can get picked up from the airport. This price frightens the carp out of me. I have to talk to my dad and see if there's anyway he can flip a shift with someone and pick us up from that earlier coming home flight.

I am not happy at all.

This is ridiculous.

$816 for airfare? When last year I paid $476? $340 more...

Aww, TK! I'm sorry. It could be that SW decided not to do July deals this year due to the rising oil costs. Other airlines charge for checked bags; SW has to sacrifice their deals.

If you really want to fly Southwest I'd change the one time. That's only $39 more, and that's not too bad.

I probably wouldn't cancel. I believe gas costs aren't going to be getting that much better. As ugly as it is, and as much as I don't want to, I'm going to have to accept that this is what the price of oil is going to be now. Ugh!

I'd be a bit nervous to wait too much longer. What if they rise again?

I agree with Wings; I'd probably change the one time and go ahead and book now. I think it's getting to the point where the only chance for cheaper tix you may get are the last-minute, one-week-ahead ones. And that's a huge gamble on flight times, seat locations--and cost.

You could do a final sweep through cheaptickets.com and other web sites just in case, but I think you should probably book sooner rather than later.

I'm really sorry.

 

[Lady Lallie]

Well, for the first time, Southwest has completely failed me.

I've held out for the "July discount" and so far this year it doesn't exist. I passed up two other dicsount opportunities to book these tickets thinking that some type of fare would be released either last Tuesday or this Tuesday and it hasn't.

I can't begin to describe how upset I am right now. And not even a crying upset or a yelling upset, a quiet upset. Which I think is more scary.

That generally is more scary.

As of now, my options are this...

Pay $777, and have flight times that will essentially knock out my two travel days, thus making my vacation in essence 6 full days instead of 8. Our first day we'd get in around 705 pm which just doesn't sit well with me for a lot of reasons.

Change one of my flight times, pay $816, and maintain that early first day flight, getting into Orlando at 1000 am instead. Total price difference is only $39, not too big a deal when you have to drop OVER 700 DOLLARS ON AIRFARE!!!! Ugh.

Change both my flight times, pay $969 , use same early flight, then a later flight on departure day, ensuring we can get picked up from the airport. This price frightens the carp out of me. I have to talk to my dad and see if there's anyway he can flip a shift with someone and pick us up from that earlier coming home flight.

I think I would go with option B. I think that I would look around though, cheaptickets, etc. Wherever you think you could find a deal.

I am not happy at all.

This is ridiculous.

$816 for airfare? When last year I paid $476? $340 more...

Call it that state of the economy, call it the way things are, I call it ridiculous.

I am really really having a hard time reconciling this. I've looked at Delta, but then I have to deal with the additional baggage fees, so even though their flight times are more palatable, their tickets are totally non-refundable, they charge you to switch them to other tickets, and a stroller actually counts as one of your checked items. So that means each person gets one checked item, and DS' would be his stroller, leaving me to do two suitcases for the three of us. Is it doable? Yes, it's what we normally do. Do I want that stress? No. On Southwest, I can pack us in two suitcases, take our normal carry-ons, and gate check the stroller without occuring any additional fees. Then, if we have any souvies...I'm sure there will be a few, we can put them in the duffel bag that I'll pack empty folded flat on the way down, and it'll become a second checked bag, or carry on depending on the size. But still, no additional fees. And if for some reason I get cold feet, I can always get a credit with Southwest without incurring any additional fees.

Bite the bullet?

Book the airfare?

Wait?

Pay off the trip?

Wait?

I am so quiet angry. Repressing the inner Hulk.

I think I need to go work out.

I am so sorry TK. I know this has been your biggest stressor. I wish there was something that I could do to ease your stress. I don't want those thoughts of cancelling to circulate in your head again. How does DH feel about the airfare, that even though there is no deal that you still need the vacation?

 

[Sarilas]

I can't believe they haven't released the discounts you were hoping for... I'm sorry, TK.

Only meeting Jack Sparrow could make this better!

 

[TarzansKat]

I am so sorry to hear about the costs of airfare. Is that over $700 per person or for everyone?

That's the total for the three of us. I know it sounds like normal airfare to a lot of people, but I'm soooooooo not used to paying that. I guess I've been spoiled for the past several years by Southwest offering those great deals.

Or one of the websites that compares different airfares? Sometimes going directly through the airline isn't always the best deal.

I have done a bit of research, and as far as avoiding the baggage fee fiasco, it really looks like Southwest is my best option since it's a flat rate, kwim?

And I think it stinks that Delta counts a stroller as a checked bag!!! Would you have to check it at the ticketing counter? We are flying American again and get to gate check the stroller. I have never heard of an airline counting a stroller as a checked bag.

You can gate check it, but the way I read it on their website, you have to let them know in advance that you have a stroller, and it will be part of your total count.

And all of these luggage fees are ridiculous. How many people can actually avoid paying the fees? Who travels with zero bags? And because of all the fees, I'm anticipating the overhead compartments to be packed to capacity.

What with all the shoes and everything.

I'm sorry, I didn't mean for that to be in bad taste, but all I can think of is you agonizing over how to fit your newly purchased duds in the suitcase.

I really hope you can find a better deal.

Thank you.

I don't know what you should do... but I wanted to give you a hug!

Thank you, I needed a hug.

Sorry about the airfare woes. I think I paid about $250 for my r/t ticket, which I think is what I paid last year as well.

I guess that's just a little bit less than what we're looking at.

If you really want to fly Southwest I'd change the one time. That's only $39 more, and that's not too bad.

I probably wouldn't cancel. I believe gas costs aren't going to be getting that much better. As ugly as it is, and as much as I don't want to, I'm going to have to accept that this is what the price of oil is going to be now. Ugh!

I'd be a bit nervous to wait too much longer. What if they rise again?

I'm leaning towards doing the early flight out. I would hate, hate, hate to just arrive, go to the hotel, and go to sleep. I know I'm getting free dining, but it totally irks me to pay for a deluxe hotel room for that night and do nothing else, kwim?

I am nervous about waiting longer. My sister has worked in the airline industry for quite some time (she's a pilot) and although she doesn't fly commercial anymore, I remember when she did. And she always told me to book my flights right around the 2 month mark, after that they always, always start to go up.

Oh no! I'm so sorry about the airfare. That is a lot of money.

I have had to pay ridiculous airfares lately also and Southwest hasn't been coming out with deals as much as they have in years past.

It really stinks when a trip to the happiest place on earth causes so much stress.

And I don't want to be stressed about this. I feel like such a whiner. I'm really grateful that you all have listened to me complain about this ad nauseum. It means a lot to have the support system we do here.

I want to find that kiosk, too!

It's in Adventureland.

However, only Tink and I are aware of the true location, and the secret code to gain entry.

Aww, TK! I'm sorry. It could be that SW decided not to do July deals this year due to the rising oil costs. Other airlines charge for checked bags; SW has to sacrifice their deals.


I agree with Wings; I'd probably change the one time and go ahead and book now. I think it's getting to the point where the only chance for cheaper tix you may get are the last-minute, one-week-ahead ones. And that's a huge gamble on flight times, seat locations--and cost.

You could do a final sweep through cheaptickets.com and other web sites just in case, but I think you should probably book sooner rather than later.

I'm really sorry.

You're right, I don't want to wait much longer. If it were just me and DH we could be more fly by the seat of our pants, but with a toddler, having your travel plans secure is a must.

That generally is more scary.

I think I would go with option B. I think that I would look around though, cheaptickets, etc. Wherever you think you could find a deal.


I am so sorry TK. I know this has been your biggest stressor. I wish there was something that I could do to ease your stress. I don't want those thoughts of cancelling to circulate in your head again. How does DH feel about the airfare, that even though there is no deal that you still need the vacation?

I believe DH's gut reaction was something like this...

"Don't cancel. We need a vacation."

Changing dates - "Isn't that more of a hassle?"

Cost of airfare - "Ah well."

Seriously, could I just channel some of his non-chalance about money?

I can't believe they haven't released the discounts you were hoping for... I'm sorry, TK.

Only meeting Jack Sparrow could make this better!

Thank you, hon.

And you're right. A nice Jack Sparrow meet and greet wouldn't solve all my problems, but it sure would make the view nicer!

 

[willwriteforears]

It's in Adventureland.

However, only Tink and I are aware of the true location, and the secret code to gain entry.

Ahh, but I know your secret weakness! I'm breaking out the Croc flippies as a bribe, you two! Bwa ha ha ha ha ha!

I believe DH's gut reaction was something like this...

"Don't cancel. We need a vacation."

Changing dates - "Isn't that more of a hassle?"

Cost of airfare - "Ah well."

Seriously, could I just channel some of his non-chalance about money?

I think DH has the right of it. Because the TK clan does deserve this vacation. And when all is said and done, I think you'll love it and the memories it gives you.

 

[Lady Lallie]

I'm leaning towards doing the early flight out. I would hate, hate, hate to just arrive, go to the hotel, and go to sleep. I know I'm getting free dining, but it totally irks me to pay for a deluxe hotel room for that night and do nothing else, kwim?

I am nervous about waiting longer. My sister has worked in the airline industry for quite some time (she's a pilot) and although she doesn't fly commercial anymore, I remember when she did. And she always told me to book my flights right around the 2 month mark, after that they always, always start to go up.

I feel the exact same way about "wasting" a night at the hotel. Can I just say...I think it is supercool that you sister is a pilot. How neat!

I believe DH's gut reaction was something like this...

"Don't cancel. We need a vacation."

Changing dates - "Isn't that more of a hassle?"

Cost of airfare - "Ah well."

Seriously, could I just channel some of his non-chalance about money?

I think you really need to just let go and channel the non-chalance. Just this once won't hurt. Again, I repeat that you are not going into debt for this trip and that the TK Family needs this trip.

 

[MRYPPNS]

Oh TK...if only my crystal ball was working! If I were in your shoes (and nice shoes there are) these would be my 3 choices to fix this.

1. Pay the $819 for the earlier flight and be done with it. Chalk it up to playing the airfare gamble and losing.

2. Change departure days to Tuesday/Wednesday if that will bring the airfare down enough for the effort of having to change your resort ressies.

3. (I hate to write this but this is an option) try to downgrade your resort to save money and shift the money to the airfare budget.

If it makes you feel any better...I paid $250 more then I thought I would.

 

[If U Had Wings]

I usually do the early flight from home arriving in Disney early, and usually end up leaving on an early flight out of Orlando arriving home mid-afternoon. At least that way we get a extra day on one end. This time I thought I had lucked out and had booked a 6:30 pm flight out of Orlando. Until they went and cancelled it on me.

I'd go with the early flight out when you leave home. That way your not wasting that first night.

3. (I hate to write this but this is an option) try to downgrade your resort to save money and shift the money to the airfare budget.

I'm not sure but did TK book a free dining package? This would be lost I'm guessing if you downgraded? You'll have to check which way would save you the most money - changing your ressie or changing your flight.

 

[TarzansKat]

Ahh, but I know your secret weakness! I'm breaking out the Croc flippies as a bribe, you two! Bwa ha ha ha ha ha!

NO! NOT THE CUTE AS ALL GET OUT CROC FLIPPIES!!!!!

I think DH has the right of it. Because the TK clan does deserve this vacation. And when all is said and done, I think you'll love it and the memories it gives you.

I think I will too, I don't know why I'm having such a hard time getting past this.

I think you really need to just let go and channel the non-chalance. Just this once won't hurt. Again, I repeat that you are not going into debt for this trip and that the TK Family needs this trip.

I know when I get there, and experience it, I'll be saying...soooooo worth it. I'm having a very hard time reconciling it right now.

Oh TK...if only my crystal ball was working! If I were in your shoes (and nice shoes there are) these would be my 3 choices to fix this.

1. Pay the $819 for the earlier flight and be done with it. Chalk it up to playing the airfare gamble and losing.

2. Change departure days to Tuesday/Wednesday if that will bring the airfare down enough for the effort of having to change your resort ressies.

3. (I hate to write this but this is an option) try to downgrade your resort to save money and shift the money to the airfare budget.

If it makes you feel any better...I paid $250 more then I thought I would.

Thank you, Heidi.

Can I borrow your analytical mind for a minute?

You're so good at numbers, and everything. And anyone else who would like to weigh in, feel free. I need some good objective opinions.

Here are some of my options as they stand, and I'm going to just put this out there. I currently have $3781.86 saved towards this trip.

Wilderness Lodge Package -
Free Dining for 3, 7 MYW Hoppers, 7 night stay 9/14/08 - 9/21/08

Total Package Cost - $2579.37
Total Due - $2379.37
Airfare, Transportation, Gratuity, Tips, Etc - $1165
some of my estimates for gratuity may be on the high side, but better to have a cushion
Total Cost - $3544.37
Total Amount Left in Savings - $237.49
Disney Visa Rewards - $97 (hoping to have more before we leave after charging airfare and the package)
​

So this puts our spending money total at about $334.49. Now granted, we are not big souvie shoppers, but I know we'll end up buying somethings for DS, and I had wanted to pre-purchase the photopass cd. Considering that's about $100, that really makes our spendable cash $234.49. Is it possible I could save more before the trip? Sure. But this is what I have right now, and keeping in mind I know a portion of our regular savings is going towards DS' going to preschool this year.

Port Orleans French Quarter Package -
Paid Dining for 3, 6 MYW Non-Hoppers, 6 night stay, 9/15/08 - 9/21/08

Total Package Cost - $2179.98
Total Due - $1979.98
Airfare, Trans, Grat, Etc - $1126
Total Cost - $3105.98
Total Amount Left in Savings - $675.88
Disney Visa Rewards - $97
​

Now granted, it's highly unlikely that I would spend $772.88 in one vacation. As a matter of fact, we typically end up coming home with most of the spending money that we leave with. But I want to have some cash available to us. And it's nice, don't call me crazy, to have a jump on the vacation savings for next year, if possible.

Now there's a couple of other options neither of which I'm thrilled with, but they are possiblities.

Cut our trip even shorter. Do POFQ from the 16th to the 21st, a 5 night stay, no hopping, 5 MYW Ticket with dining, comes to a grand total with everything of $2846. Would leave us $935.86 in savings. Only problem I see is this puts us arriving on the day of our MNSSHP tickets. Could be very, very bad if we don't get a good nap in if our room isn't ready.

Change our dates completely. Book the special room only rate that's out for the following week. We'd have to change our vacation times at work, but this is a possibility. Potential losses would be the MNSSHP tickets, unless I can EBAY them or beg the good ole World to transfer non-transferable tickets. This would have us at a totally different resort, Caribbean Beach. Which I've always wanted to stay at, despite the reviews about it being big and spread out. To go from 9/20 - 9/26, which would be a 6 night, no hopper with dining stay, would cost grand total $2835.98, left in savings $945.88. Why this is good...Um, Tink? Why this is a nightmare...I'd have to figure out the MNSSHP tix, and rebook all our dining. Now I'm sort of ambivalent about where we eat in that I have a long list of favs and as long as some get in there, that's great. But what a nightmare.

Alright, I've spent WAY too much time on this.

Is it wrong that I really, really want a Reeses Pieces Sundae right now?

 

[Tinkerbellarella]

Okay, I just got THE funniest image of you in my head running around with a pineapple on your head in the Tambu Lounge saying but why is the rum always gone?

I wonder what the odds are that you'll have an actual picture of this in two month's time.

(TWO MONTHS! TWO MONTHS!)

And I'm still thinking about the movie...

Do I detect a Bender reference?

Was it said to him?

You got it, dude. (NOStephanieTanner)

I can't begin to describe how upset I am right now. And not even a crying upset or a yelling upset, a quiet upset. Which I think is more scary.

Change one of my flight times, pay $816, and maintain that early first day flight, getting into Orlando at 1000 am instead.

This has my vote.

I am not happy at all.

This is ridiculous.

$816 for airfare? When last year I paid $476? $340 more...

Call it that state of the economy, call it the way things are, I call it ridiculous.

As much as I agree (which is 100%, mind you), I don't see it changing any time soon, momma. ::sigh::
I wish this had worked out better for you.
I wish I could give you my airfare (though it would total about the same amount for the 3 of you).
Vacations shouldn't cause so much stress.

Change our dates completely.
...
To go from 9/20 - 9/26, which would be a 6 night, no hopper with dining stay, would cost grand total $2835.98, left in savings $945.88. Why this is good...Um, Tink?

As much as I would lovelovelovespending A WHOLE WEEK within proximity to you and my "extended fam", I'm going to be unfailingly honest with you here. I would SO rather you get your dream stay at the WL. I see it this way. You've poured so much of yourself and your family into this trip. You might say otherwise, but I know what your heart's set on. And I worry you'd be disappointed if you changed. I listen (read) to all of your cost-saving measures - you're always careful to splurge without really splurging. I think everyone deserves a GOOD splurge every now and again. Especiall you and your family. All things considered. You know I know you know the future is important. But so is the now.

I think you should discuss it seriously with DH. As much as we love you here on the DIS, our advice only goes so far (gasp!) and really, it's what you both think is best for your sweet fam. And once you come to a decision together, I would ACT on it. Right away. That way you can put the stress to bed for good.

And.

Holy carp.

The both of us in Disney at the same time for a WHOLE week?

I can't even begin to imagine the disturbance in the Force.

I thought we were supposed to bring balance to the Force!

 

[Lady Lallie]

NO! NOT THE CUTE AS ALL GET OUT CROC FLIPPIES!!!!!



I think I will too, I don't know why I'm having such a hard time getting past this.



I know when I get there, and experience it, I'll be saying...soooooo worth it. I'm having a very hard time reconciling it right now.



Thank you, Heidi.

Can I borrow your analytical mind for a minute?

You're so good at numbers, and everything. And anyone else who would like to weigh in, feel free. I need some good objective opinions.

Here are some of my options as they stand, and I'm going to just put this out there. I currently have $3781.86 saved towards this trip.

Wilderness Lodge Package -
Free Dining for 3, 7 MYW Hoppers, 7 night stay 9/14/08 - 9/21/08

Total Package Cost - $2579.37
Total Due - $2379.37
Airfare, Transportation, Gratuity, Tips, Etc - $1165
some of my estimates for gratuity may be on the high side, but better to have a cushion
Total Cost - $3544.37
Total Amount Left in Savings - $237.49
Disney Visa Rewards - $97 (hoping to have more before we leave after charging airfare and the package)
​

So this puts our spending money total at about $334.49. Now granted, we are not big souvie shoppers, but I know we'll end up buying somethings for DS, and I had wanted to pre-purchase the photopass cd. Considering that's about $100, that really makes our spendable cash $234.49. Is it possible I could save more before the trip? Sure. But this is what I have right now, and keeping in mind I know a portion of our regular savings is going towards DS' going to preschool this year.

Port Orleans French Quarter Package -
Paid Dining for 3, 6 MYW Non-Hoppers, 6 night stay, 9/15/08 - 9/21/08

Total Package Cost - $2179.98
Total Due - $1979.98
Airfare, Trans, Grat, Etc - $1126
Total Cost - $3105.98
Total Amount Left in Savings - $675.88
Disney Visa Rewards - $97
​

Now granted, it's highly unlikely that I would spend $772.88 in one vacation. As a matter of fact, we typically end up coming home with most of the spending money that we leave with. But I want to have some cash available to us. And it's nice, don't call me crazy, to have a jump on the vacation savings for next year, if possible.

Now there's a couple of other options neither of which I'm thrilled with, but they are possiblities.

Cut our trip even shorter. Do POFQ from the 16th to the 21st, a 5 night stay, no hopping, 5 MYW Ticket with dining, comes to a grand total with everything of $2846. Would leave us $935.86 in savings. Only problem I see is this puts us arriving on the day of our MNSSHP tickets. Could be very, very bad if we don't get a good nap in if our room isn't ready.

Change our dates completely. Book the special room only rate that's out for the following week. We'd have to change our vacation times at work, but this is a possibility. Potential losses would be the MNSSHP tickets, unless I can EBAY them or beg the good ole World to transfer non-transferable tickets. This would have us at a totally different resort, Caribbean Beach. Which I've always wanted to stay at, despite the reviews about it being big and spread out. To go from 9/20 - 9/26, which would be a 6 night, no hopper with dining stay, would cost grand total $2835.98, left in savings $945.88. Why this is good...Um, Tink? Why this is a nightmare...I'd have to figure out the MNSSHP tix, and rebook all our dining. Now I'm sort of ambivalent about where we eat in that I have a long list of favs and as long as some get in there, that's great. But what a nightmare.

Alright, I've spent WAY too much time on this.

Is it wrong that I really, really want a Reeses Pieces Sundae right now?

Holy carp batman. I really need a Reeses Pieces Sundae after reading all that.

#1 I think it's great that you would have a jump on next year's vacation fund. For a totally selfish reason too...LapuLapu Fabby Fest 2009.

#2 I vote for the French Quarter option. Yes. Really. Why? Deep down I don't think TK can't let herself enjoy the splendor of WL without feeling insanely guilty about the money. Change to French Quarter. LL's gut says so.

#3 Is it wrong to be stressed about a vacation for someone you have actually never met before??

 

[2ScottishPrincesses]

Here are some of my options as they stand, and I'm going to just put this out there. I currently have $3781.86 saved towards this trip.

Wilderness Lodge Package -
Free Dining for 3, 7 MYW Hoppers, 7 night stay 9/14/08 - 9/21/08

Total Package Cost - $2579.37
Total Due - $2379.37
Airfare, Transportation, Gratuity, Tips, Etc - $1165
some of my estimates for gratuity may be on the high side, but better to have a cushion
Total Cost - $3544.37
Total Amount Left in Savings - $237.49
Disney Visa Rewards - $97 (hoping to have more before we leave after charging airfare and the package)
​

So this puts our spending money total at about $334.49. Now granted, we are not big souvie shoppers, but I know we'll end up buying somethings for DS, and I had wanted to pre-purchase the photopass cd. Considering that's about $100, that really makes our spendable cash $234.49. Is it possible I could save more before the trip? Sure. But this is what I have right now, and keeping in mind I know a portion of our regular savings is going towards DS' going to preschool this year.

Port Orleans French Quarter Package -
Paid Dining for 3, 6 MYW Non-Hoppers, 6 night stay, 9/15/08 - 9/21/08

Total Package Cost - $2179.98
Total Due - $1979.98
Airfare, Trans, Grat, Etc - $1126
Total Cost - $3105.98
Total Amount Left in Savings - $675.88
Disney Visa Rewards - $97
​

Now granted, it's highly unlikely that I would spend $772.88 in one vacation. As a matter of fact, we typically end up coming home with most of the spending money that we leave with. But I want to have some cash available to us. And it's nice, don't call me crazy, to have a jump on the vacation savings for next year, if possible.

Now there's a couple of other options neither of which I'm thrilled with, but they are possiblities.

Cut our trip even shorter. Do POFQ from the 16th to the 21st, a 5 night stay, no hopping, 5 MYW Ticket with dining, comes to a grand total with everything of $2846. Would leave us $935.86 in savings. Only problem I see is this puts us arriving on the day of our MNSSHP tickets. Could be very, very bad if we don't get a good nap in if our room isn't ready.

Change our dates completely. Book the special room only rate that's out for the following week. We'd have to change our vacation times at work, but this is a possibility. Potential losses would be the MNSSHP tickets, unless I can EBAY them or beg the good ole World to transfer non-transferable tickets. This would have us at a totally different resort, Caribbean Beach. Which I've always wanted to stay at, despite the reviews about it being big and spread out. To go from 9/20 - 9/26, which would be a 6 night, no hopper with dining stay, would cost grand total $2835.98, left in savings $945.88. Why this is good...Um, Tink? Why this is a nightmare...I'd have to figure out the MNSSHP tix, and rebook all our dining. Now I'm sort of ambivalent about where we eat in that I have a long list of favs and as long as some get in there, that's great. But what a nightmare.

Alright, I've spent WAY too much time on this.

Is it wrong that I really, really want a Reeses Pieces Sundae right now?

Heavens you have so many options here girlie. To be perfectly honest I would go for the POFQ option as it seems to be the middle ground. We loved WL but if you're feeling iffy about spending the money and think you'll continue feeling like that I would leave it for another year when you can enjoy it without any financial guilt or regret.

Now having given that opinion I am possibly going to contradict myself by saying that you should do what your heart yearns for. With what has happen to me and people close to me over my lifetime (especially in the past few weeks) I have learnt that you have to live life for the here and now because we never know what is round the corner...don't get yourself into trouble financially but squeeze every drop of pleasure you can get out of life for you and your loved ones you'll be glad you did.

 

[Lady Lallie]

You got it, dude. (NOStephanieTanner)

I love you Tink but I am going to be rude...wasn't "You got it, dude" Michelle's saying and "How Rude!" Stephanie's saying? I will never admit to how often I have watched Full House on reruns or the fact that I own a season of it either.

*EDIT* I feel like a schoolyard bully now.

 

[TarzansKat]

I wonder what the odds are that you'll have an actual picture of this in two month's time.

(TWO MONTHS! TWO MONTHS!)

Now, I think I NEED a picture of this.

As much as I would lovelovelovespending A WHOLE WEEK within proximity to you and my "extended fam", I'm going to be unfailingly honest with you here. I would SO rather you get your dream stay at the WL. I see it this way. You've poured so much of yourself and your family into this trip. You might say otherwise, but I know what your heart's set on. And I worry you'd be disappointed if you changed. I listen (read) to all of your cost-saving measures - you're always careful to splurge without really splurging. I think everyone deserves a GOOD splurge every now and again. Especially you and your family. All things considered. You know I know you know the future is important. But so is the now.

I think you should discuss it seriously with DH. As much as we love you here on the DIS, our advice only goes so far (gasp!) and really, it's what you both think is best for your sweet fam. And once you come to a decision together, I would ACT on it. Right away. That way you can put the stress to bed for good.

But in a good way. Good lord girl, do you know how to tug at the ole heart strings!

Talking to DH is a must. He is wise. He is strong with the force. After all, he is

And.

Holy carp.

The both of us in Disney at the same time for a WHOLE week?

I can't even begin to imagine the disturbance in the Force.

I thought we were supposed to bring balance to the Force!

The World...and the world...would never be the same.

Holy carp batman. I really need a Reeses Pieces Sundae after reading all that.

Bless you!

#1 I think it's great that you would have a jump on next year's vacation fund. For a totally selfish reason too...LapuLapu Fabby Fest 2009.

This may sound totally irrational but I'm so afraid that I will not be able to afford to go at all next year if we stay at the WL. The question is, am I okay with that decision. Again, something that needs to be hashed out with DH.

#2 I vote for the French Quarter option. Yes. Really. Why? Deep down I don't think TK can't let herself enjoy the splendor of WL without feeling insanely guilty about the money. Change to French Quarter. LL's gut says so.

Wow, I'm surprised. And you're partially right. I'm having a very hard time convincing myself that we deserve to stay there when there are less expensive options available. And then the little voice in my head reminds me that getting free dining in a standard room at the Wilderness Lodge was a huge cosmic twist of fate that could only have come from my relentlessly haunting the wdw.website until said room became available, thus obliterating our budget stay at Pop, and giving us this awesome opportunity. Because the only other thing that's better than free dining at WL is a 40% room code. We all know that's not happening for ye ole TK. I've gone to the World every year for many many moons. A pin code will not be had in this family.

#3 Is it wrong to be stressed about a vacation for someone you have actually never met before??

Wrong? Don't know.

Totally sweet?