May 10, 2008 Ship of Thieves! Stealing the Magic..AGAIN!!! Panama Canal FL to CA!!! Part 5

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They both sound awesome....let's do whichever one is your favorite! I can't wait to ride the slantavator and go sideways...what a trip!!!!

I can't wait for this vacation, we're going to meet so many friends who have now become more like family and we're going to have the time of our lives!!!!:laughing: :cutie: :laughing:

Well were game for anything. Lots to do and see there . I think the tournament would be fun to see and eat there and then go over to the Rio to see or we can be in the parade above the casino.

I agree with the becoming like family. Im an only child and Holly and I have kind of become like sisters since we clicked on the cruise a few years ago. Nice to ahve friends like that !:love:
 
Why am I getting little red X's and can't see the pics???? Even if I refresh, it doesn't show.:confused: :confused3 :confused:
It's because I tried to just copy & paste from another site. Apparently that doesn't work. I don't have them saved on disk anymore (or at least I have no idea where), so nevermind! :rolleyes1
 
It's because I tried to just copy & paste from another site. Apparently that doesn't work. I don't have them saved on disk anymore (or at least I have no idea where), so nevermind! :rolleyes1

Ill have Tom look at them later Holly and see if he can post the one of them dancing here.
 
Expensive? That store about melted Mickey on my Disney Visa! Just wait until your daughter is old enough . . . Did I tell you you can buy matching outfits for the doll and your daughter?

I loved ALL of the pictures....how cute you could get the dolls hair done....wow.:goodvibes What a great idea with the matching outfits. Very cool...but I'm sure scary expensive for the parents.:eek: I'll hold her off as long as I can....she could stick to webkinz and littlest pet shop for now;)
 
Did Tyler enjoy Thomas? We took Jaide when she was 4 and she didn't care at all....she whined until she got some ice cream:lmao:
Well, ice cream is pretty enticing! :goodvibes Tyler loved it. We went last year too and he's been looking forward to it ever since because he missed out on some of the activities last year. I yanked him out of there early because he was misbehaving. I felt horrible about him not getting to do everything, but he sure remembered that! But I doubt he'll be interested next year because he's starting to lose interest in many of the PBS kids' shows he used to love.
 
I can envision how expensive American Girl can be....my girls have not seen on to my knowledge. They just opened a Build A Bear Workshop here and we passed it at the mall and Samantha was begging to go in. There would be no way I could take them both and only one get a bear so that will have to wait for a special outing or maybe Grandma can do it.
 
Well, ice cream is pretty inticing! :goodvibes Tyler loved it. We went last year too and he's been looking forward to it ever since because he missed out on some of the activities last year. I yanked him out of there early because he was misbehaving. I felt horrible about him not getting to do everything, but he sure remembered that! But I doubt he'll be interested next year because he's starting to lose interest in many of the PBS kids' shows he used to love.

Thomas the Train is one the girls never got in to. Every time it comes on they want the channel changed. PBS shows, they really like Dragon Tales. I think DH likes it too, I always catch him watching it and he knows all the characters names.:rotfl2:
 
Some of our systems are down and we can't do anything...very frustrating.


I will accomplish some form of housework tonight if it kills me. Maybe start with something small like the girls bathroom!
 
Brrrr, just had a salmon salad!!! Whatever for when it is so cold?:confused3 We had strawberries and raspberries for pud, but I could really have done with a lovely hot pudding and custard!:love:
 
We're already booked and paid for at the Luxor...I just couldn't resist the pyramid. I want to ride the elevator. We have a car rental, so we'll be able to get to some other sites to check out as much as we can. Where do you suggest dinner and drinks?


The Luxor is nice. I have stayed there too. Your going to ride in the "slantavator" as they go sideways and not up and down.
Well the Excaliber is next door and they have the "Tournament of Kings" dinner show which is awesome . Been to the one here and the food and show is definitly better in Las Vegas . If your not into that , there are tons of good food places. I love the Rio too, they have the parade in the sky, where you can ride on a float over the casino and throw beads and wave for 10 bucks and you get your picture taken.Sounds like I should be a tour guide:lmao:
"Slantavator"? How cool! Sounds freaky, but fun! :banana:
 
Well were game for anything. Lots to do and see there . I think the tournament would be fun to see and eat there and then go over to the Rio to see or we can be in the parade above the casino.

I agree with the becoming like family. Im an only child and Holly and I have kind of become like sisters since we clicked on the cruise a few years ago. Nice to ahve friends like that !:love:
:hug: :hug: :hug:
 
Ill have Tom look at them later Holly and see if he can post the one of them dancing here.
Thank you! By the way, this is another record for you! 5 or so posts in a day?! Dang girl, you need to have days off work more often! LOL!!!!!
 
Brrrr, just had a salmon salad!!! Whatever for when it is so cold?:confused3 We had strawberries and raspberries for pud, but I could really have done with a lovely hot pudding and custard!:love:

Salmon salad sounds good, what do you put in it anything special?
 
Thomas the Train is one the girls never got in to. Every time it comes on they want the channel changed. PBS shows, they really like Dragon Tales. I think DH likes it too, I always catch him watching it and he knows all the characters names.:rotfl2:
Ooooh! I love Dragon Tales too! We went to see it live last year and both thought it was great!
 
Here's some excursion info that was posted on the EB thread.....hope they don't mind me helping myself!
Puerto Vallarta

Excursions:

Tropical Rainforest by Horseback (6.5 hours)
Meeting Time: 9:10am
Your unforgettable day starts with a 45 minute ride to the village of Las Palmas. You'll go to a working ranch where your guides will determine which horse best suits you. After getting safety instructions and equipment, your adventure begins. You'll be led through tropical jungles, lush orchards, and riverbeds for the first part of your ride. After riding for about 50 minutes, you're at the halfway point and will stop at a riverbank to enjoy the 60 foot natural waterfall and to go for a swim if you'd like. A complimentary soft drink or bottled water is provided during this 30 minute break. You'll saddle up again for the 50 minute trot back to the ranch. When you arrive, you'll have a flavorful lunch with complimentary beverages including soft drinks and beer. The return ride to the ship takes about 45 minutes.
NOTE: You must be in good physical condition to participate and be over age 10. You cannot weigh more than 240 pounds. You will be provided with a riding helmet that must be worn. Long pants and closed toe shoes are recommended.
Price: $89.00 (ages 10 and up)

Paradise Beach Adventure (4 hours)
Meeting Time: 7:40am, 12:40pm
You'll spend the day at the Paradise Village Beach Resort that is located 20 minutes away in Nuevo Vallarta. When you arrive, a complimentary cocktail will be served. The resort has wonderful amenities that you can enjoy. There's a pool with two water slides, underwater caves and Mayan style pyramids that you can explore. Its location on the beach makes it the perfect spot to relax in a lounge chair under the shade of the umbrella. You can swim in the surf or paddle out on an ocean kayak. There will be beach volleyball and other activities for your enjoyment. If that's not enough, there are lions, tigers and spider monkeys in residence. Lunch and snacks are available for purchase. The return trip to the ship is 20 minutes.
Price: $38.00 (ages 10 and up), $22.00 (ages 3 - 9)

Puerto Vallarta City Tour (4.5 hours)
Meeting Time: 8:40am, 12:50pm
The beautiful city of Puerto Vallarta is yours to explore as you visit the best that it offers. You'll take a 20 minute ride to the center of town. Here you'll find the magnificent Malecon sea wall that borders the city. Your knowledgeable guide will talk about the heritage of Puerto Vallarta while pointing out the historic buildings, craftsmanship, and many notable sites. A highlight of this tour is a visit to the cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe. There will be time for shopping before the 30 minute trip to a restaurant where you'll be served complimentary snacks and drinks. You can browse among the displays of local crafts or simply enjoy the views from this picturesque spot. The return trip to the ship takes 45 minutes. For guests wishing to spend some time in the city on their own, there will be a stop in the downtown district. You can choose to leave or stay on the bus and return to the ship.
NOTE: If you elect to visit the downtown area, you will be responsible for your transportation to the ship.
Price: $35.00 (ages 10 and up), $25.00 (ages 3 - 9)

Sierra Madre Hiking (4.5 - 5 hours)
Meeting Time: 7:30am
If adventure is your vacation style, then it's time to lace your boots and head out on this 3.5 mile hike. You'll take a 50 minute ride to where the trail begins. One here, you'll be led along varied terrain. From dry riverbeds to tropical rainforests to rugged riverbanks and open fields, challenges await you. At the midpoint of your expedition, you'll climb to a point high above the city that offers magnificent views. You'll stop and take a break while enjoying refreshments. Your descent is through the rainforest. Upon completing your expedition, you'll stop at a restaurant where complimentary snacks and refreshments will be served. The return trip to the ship takes 50 minutes.
NOTE: This excursion is for guests age 12 and over. It's recommended that you have intermediate to advanced fitness levels.
Price: $39.00 (ages 12 and up)

Historic Towns and Tequila Making (5.5 hours)
Meeting Time: 9:20am
You'll start with a 20 minute ride to the quaint village of Mezcales. While here you'll visit one of the last tequila distilleries still producing the famous liquor by hand. Guests who are over the age of 21 will be invited to sample the different varieties of tequila and can try their hand at agave-mashing, one of the key ingredients of this potent drink. Next there's a 20 minute trip to Porvenir. While here you'll sample handmade tortillas. Following Porvenir is a 30 minute ride to San Juan where your stop will include a visit to the historic church and the plaza. El Vale is the next village that will be explored. It's a 40 minute ride away and features quaint shops, a town square and a church. You'll travel 45 minutes to a restaurant where a delicious Mexican lunch is served. A 30 minute trip takes you to your final stop of the tour, a woodcarving studio where skilled artisans display their crafts. The return trip to the ship takes 40 minutes.
Price: $39.00 (ages 10 and up), $29.00 (ages 3 - 9)

Canopy Adventure (4.5 - 5 hours)
Meeting Time: 7:45am, 8:15am, 9:45am, 10:15am, 12:45pm, 1:15pm
This is an excursion like no other. You'll glide through the air from zip line to zip line high over the rainforest. You'll begin with a 5 minute boat ride that's followed by a 50 minute ride to a private reserve. You'll be greeted by skilled guides who will assist you and provide all of the required safety equipment. Once you're in your harness, with two safety ropes for added security, you'll zip from platform to platform 90 feet above the forest floor. There's a unique Gorilla Swing to add to the thrills, with hanging bridges built into the trees. From your lofty vantage point you'll have the perfect view of the wild orchids, lush landscaping and wildlife below. Your adventure ends in a speedy rappel descent to the ground below. You'll be served complimentary snacks at the end of your high flying jungle escapade. The return trip to the ship takes 50 minutes.
NOTE: Guests must be in good physical condition and weigh less than 250 pounds. The minimum height is 4 feet. Shorts or pants and closed toed shoes should be worn. (No sandals please.)
Price: $85.00 (ages 10 and up)

Marietas Islands Snorkel & Kayak Tour (7.5 hours)
Meeting Time: 8:15am
Your adventure begins with a 90 minute catamaran ride through Banderas Bay to the Marietas Islands. This National Wildlife Preserve is home to an amazing array of wildlife. From tropical birds to marine mammals and vibrant fish, you'll find it the perfect spot to explore. The catamaran will first take you on a bird watching tour before dropping anchor. You'll have 1 1/4 hours to snorkel and kayak. When you're back onboard, a deli-style lunch is served before taking a 30 minute voyage to a secluded beachfront. You'll be able to spend the next hour and a half swimming, relaxing or taking a guided nature walk. The return trip to the ship takes 1 hour and 45 minutes.
NOTE: Guests who are going on the Marietas Islands Certified Scuba Dive may ride in the same catamaran as friends/family who are on the snorkel/kayak excursion.
Price: $69.00 (ages 10 and up), $39.00 (ages 5 - 9)

Marietas Islands Scuba Dive Adventure (7.5 hours)
Meeting Time: 8:15am
You'll embark on a 90 minute catamaran ride to the Marietas Islands National Wildlife Preserve. This protected area is considered one of the best diving spots on the Mexican Pacific coast. Vibrant reefs and dramatic drop-offs provide the perfect environment for a vast array of marine life. All scuba equipment, including wetsuit, is provided for your two tank dive. The first dive is to depths of 60 feet and lasts 40 minutes. The second dive lasts 30 minutes and you'll dive to depths of 50 feet. Throughout the excursion, complimentary bottled water and soft drinks are served. After the second dive, domestic drinks and lunch are provided. You'll next set sail for a secluded beach that's 30 minutes away. You can enjoy the sun and surf for an hour before the 90 minute voyage back to the ship.
NOTE: You must produce a current diver certification card and have completed a dive in the last 12 months. Participants must be age 12 or over. Divers' friends/families can choose to take the Marietas Island kayak/snorkel excursion and travel on the same catamaran.
Price: $99.00 (ages 12 and up)

Dolphin Encounter (3 - 3.5 hours)
Meeting Time: 9:00am, 11:00am, 12:00pm, 3:00pm
Your destination is the Nuevo Vallarta Marina. After your 25 minute trip to the park, you'll start with an informative presentation explaining the characteristics of these genial mammals. Through a hydrophone, you'll be able to eavesdrop as they "talk" to one another underwater. You'll take a quick shower before heading down the dock to the 14,500 square-foot dolphin enclosure. In waist deep water you'll be able to interact with the Pacific bottlenose dolphins that call the marina home. For 15 minutes they'll socialize with you and give you a dolphin kiss that will be photographed and available for purchase. You can visit the gift shop before the 25 minute trip back to the ship.
NOTE: Sunscreen and jewelry are not to be worn as they can be harmful to the dolphins. Cameras are not permitted in the pool.
Price: $120.00 (ages 10 and up), $99.00 (age 9)

Dolphin Encounter for Kids (3 - 3.5 hours)
Meeting Time: 9:00am, 11:00am
This excursion is designed for children ages 4 to 8 with a parent/guardian accompanying them. A 30 minute ride takes you to the Vallarta Adventure Dolphin Center where you'll find these friendly mammals waiting to interact with your little one. This 30 minute program begins alongside the enclosure where a family of dolphins, including baby dolphins (alongside their mothers), take part in the encounter. The children will stand in knee-deep water for a magical hands-on experience. They'll touch, feed, hug and "dance" with the dolphins under the watchful eye of a qualified trainer. Each child will get a kiss from a dolphin. As the dolphins "wave" goodbye at the end of the program, they'll perform dazzling spins and jumps to the delight of their audience. You can visit the gift shop to purchase a souvenir photo of your encounter before taking the 30 minute ride back to the ship.
NOTE: The child must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who is required to purchase the Dolphin Observer package. Sunscreen and jewelry are not to be worn as they can be harmful to the dolphins. Cameras are not permitted in the pool.
Price: $99.00 (ages 4 to 8)

Swim with Dolphins (3 - 3.5 hours)
Meeting Time: 9:00am, 11:00am, 12:00pm, 3:00pm
You'll take a 25 minute ride to the Nuevo Vallarta Marina. Here guests age 5 and up can take part in an unforgettable swim with the dolphins. You'll begin with an instructional session hosted by knowledgeable trainers. Via a hydrophone, you'll be able to eavesdrop as the dolphins "talk" to one another underwater. After a quick shower you'll be given lifejackets and taken to the 15 foot deep dolphin enclosure. After the trainer gets you acquainted with the residents through kisses, hugs and rubdowns, you can play and swim with the dolphins for 30 minutes. You will have a chance to be towed by a friendly dolphin's dorsal fin or enjoy a "belly" ride. The encounter is videotaped and will be available for purchase at the conclusion of the program. The trip back to the ship takes 25 minutes.
NOTE: Sunscreen and jewelry are not to be worn as they can be harmful to the dolphins. Although lifejackets are required, you should be able to swim in the 15 foot deep enclosure. Cameras are prohibited in the water.
Price: $165.00 (ages 10 and up), $149.00 (ages 5 - 9)

Dolphin Observer (3 - 3.5 hours)
Meeting Time: 9:00am, 11:00am, 12:00pm, 3:00pm
If you have a child participating in the Dolphin Encounter for Kids or a friend or family member taking part in the Swim with Dolphins and you don't wish to take part, you can ride along and watch them.
Price: $35.00 (all ages 3 and up)

Las Caletas Hideaway (7.5 hours)
Meeting Time: 8:30am
The secluded former home of John Huston is your destination. Accessible only by boat, this beautiful spot is a 60 minute boat ride away. Located at the tip of Puerto Vallarta, this beachside estate is known for its unique three sided architecture offering spectacular views of the water. The famed director's mementos and furnishings are still here offering a glimpse into the lifestyle of this film icon. This luxury retreat is yours to enjoy for 4 and a half hours. There are secluded beaches, nature trails, or you can take a kayak or snorkel tour if you prefer. There will be cooking demonstrations of traditional tortillas and paella. Massages are available for a fee and there is a small souvenir cabana. A delicious buffet lunch and all of your beverages are included. You'll wave goodbye to paradise as you head back on your 60 minute voyage back to the ship.
Price: $75.00 (ages 10 and up), $45.00 (ages 3 - 9)

Banderas Bay Sailing Adventure (6 - 6.5 hours)
Meeting Time: 9:55am
If you're an experienced sailor or wish to learn, this is the excursion for you. Before leaving, you'll be instructed in the basics of sailing. Once you depart, you'll head northward on your 2 hour odyssey. During this portion of the voyage, you'll have complimentary beverages and fresh fruit. You'll drop anchor at a secluded beach. While here you can snorkel, swim or simply relax. Lunch is served onboard and the crew is available to assist you with snorkeling equipment and to acquaint you with the colorful marine life. You'll spend two hours at the beach before your 1 hour and 45 minute voyage back to the ship. As the sails are raised, you'll be given the opportunity to get hands-on experience sailing the boat.
Price: $95.00 (ages 10 and up), $79.00 (ages 5 - 9)

Sierra Madre Off-Road Expedition (6.5 hours)
Meeting Time: 9:00am
If you enjoy taking the road less traveled, this excursion fits the bill. You'll take a 20 minute ride to this tour's location. Here you'll climb aboard the Mercedes "Unimog", a unique all-terrain vehicle that gives you the perfect view of the rugged terrain that you'll traverse. You'll take a 45 minute ride to a quaint Mexican town. You'll stop for complimentary snacks and beverages during your 30 minute break, and can take a walking tour if you'd like. Next there's a 60 minute trip to the center of the Sierra. You'll be greeted by guides who will escort you on a 30 minute nature walk. As you explore the jungle, you'll be shown the many species of flora and fauna that inhabit this area. You'll have complimentary fruit and beverages before leaving for the 30 minute ride to a secluded beach. Here a barbecue lunch buffet will be served. Your outback adventure takes you through mountain streams, over rutted roads and past sleepy villages. The return trip to the ship takes 60 minutes.
Price: $82.00 (ages 10 and up), $65.00 (ages 8 -9)

Tropical Jungle Paradise Expedition (5.5 hours)
Meeting Time: 9:50am
This unforgettable nature walk starts with a 45 minute ride along the coastal highway. After stopping at Mismaloya for a quick photo op, you arrive at your destination. You'll take a walking tour of the jungle covered foothills. Beautiful wildflowers, soaring trees, and a natural pool are yours to savor and enjoy. You can go for a swim in the cooling waters if you'd like. Family activities and games are hosted and you'll receive a complimentary lunch and beverage at a restaurant along the river's edge. After spending 2 and a half hours at this idyllic setting, you'll take a 45 minute ride to downtown Puerto Vallarta where you're welcome to browse through the shops before the 10 minute ride to the ship.
NOTE: It's recommended that you wear swimsuits under your clothing and comfortable shoes suitable for walking.
Price: $39.00 (ages 10 and up), $29.00 (ages 3 - 9)

Pirate Sail & Snorkel Adventure (6.5 hours)
Meeting Time: 8:00am
YO HO! It's the pirate life aboard the Marigalante. You'll be welcomed aboard this "pirate ship" by the congenial captain and crew. You'll be served breakfast, watch the sails be hoisted, and cheer for your favorite contestant in the pirate contest. There's lots of fun in store as you set sail for the two hour voyage to Majahuitas Beach. You'll drop anchor at this secluded spot and have 2 hours to swim, surf and sun. There's a sand sculpturing contest, beach volleyball and other games for you to enjoy. You'll head back onboard the Marigalante for a delicous barbecue lunch. During your two hour cruise back to the port, the captain and crew will put on a pirate show with fun contests for you to take part in.
Price: $62.00 (ages 10 and up), $52.00 (ages 3 - 9)
 


Hi Lisa, I have good days and bad days and I'm muddling through it all...exhaustion, illness, never ending to do list...it all kind of takes its toll, so I try to find down days and rest inbetween. My spirits are high and my outlook is still good. I know everything is for a reason. I know there are many bright spots among the dark and I have two cruises to look forward to. After the cruises, John and I will be readying to build our retirement home in DE. That's going to be great! Life goes on and when you get thown lemons, you make lemonaide.

Thank you for asking. It's very sweet of you. How are the boys? Are they starting school soon and are you ready for it? What grades will they be in? Hope all is well in your family too!
:flower3: :hippie: :flower3:


Funny you say that about the lemons...for my birthday a good girlfriend gave me a beautiful lemonade pitcher, with a bunch of lemons and a lemon squeezer and she put a note on it that read: "A lot of days it's like life is handing us a bunch of lemons. The solution: make lemonade. If you drink all yours away, chances are I will have plenty for us both." It was so cute and so appropriate. So Deb, I'm giving you a "virtual" lemonade pitcher and I want you to make lemonade and drink all yours away!!!! :goodvibes

The boys are good, thanks for asking. They started school a week ago...my youngest is now in kindergarten, so the house has been quiet in the mornings. I did decided it's now my time, after being home for them both and I've started going back to the gym while they're in school. The time has come!! :rolleyes1

Well, keep taking care of yourself. I try to keep up with the thread as much as possible, catch stuff here and there, but I just wanted to pop in and let you know I've been thinking of you!
 
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