Competition on the High Seas!

There's been a lot of buzz this past week regarding what Disney character you are most like. Many chose a Princess, a good number picked from the "Fab Five", and there were even a few unexpected choices like Tramp and the Cheshire Cat. This got me thinking, and I'm glad the Cruise Line Mom application did not ask, because I don't think Gaston would be the most flattering choice, but let me explain. Gaston can be described as egotistical, self-centered, arrogant, rude, I could go on. However, I look at him as driven, focused and very competitive, which is actually the point of this post, COMPETITION!

I am competitive. There, I said it. If you want to get me motivated, just say "I bet I can do this better that you, or faster than you", whatever. It's on baby! This trait runs through my family, so when the 3 generations are all gathered, look out! The rivalry does not end at home, oh no, we take it on vacation. Fortunately, the Disney Cruise Line offers many outlets to match brains and brawn, within our family, and against other cruisers.

Brawn:

•      All four ships offer a sports deck. Up on the top decks you will find a netted off area complete with basketball hoops, soccer goals and a volleyball net. Bring your family or join in a pick up game while enjoying the breathtaking view. If you are sailing on the Fantasy or Dream, the Goofy Sports Deck also offers mini golf and sports simulators.

•     You don't really need much brawn for these games, but they are my family favorite; shuffleboard, ping-pong and foosball. We spent hours on Deck 4 showing our teens how the game of shuffleboard is done, and they in turn cleaned our clocks in foosball. Our wins cancelled each other out, no bragging rights here.

•      Deck 4 has a jogging track. Early mornings, this spot is crowded with the serious runners, followed throughout the day with people like me who "walk with purpose". Just try to pass me, I dare you! If you keep a sharp eye out, you may even see Commodore Tom running the deck incognito. OK, I confess, he did lap me darn it.

•      Saving the best competition for last, the Castaway Cay 5K, and it's FREE!  Runners are let off the boat first, get a quick photo with Goofy and then off for a run/walk to parts of the island many never venture out to see. The run takes you down the airstrip, around the bike path and to the adult beach. Take in the beautiful surroundings mixed in with themed Disney touches such as treasure chests, cannons, and "abandoned" ship parts. This is a timed race, just in case you wanted a little side wager with your family or friends.

Brains:

•      Trivia. Every day there is one or more trivia contests. The family games are all themed; Disney Trivia, Ultimate Disney Trivia, Disney Music Trivia...you get the idea. Even though it's for adults and kids, there are still quite a few difficult questions. Did you know Donald Duck has 3 nieces? Do you know their names? Let's just say no points for us on that question. Adult trivia has a broad range of topics from 80's music (we rocked that category) to movie quotes to  pub quizzes. I was very disappointed not to win any adult contests, until the host announced the team that kept winning was on the second half of their back to back cruise so they have heard all the questions before. I demand a rematch!!!

•      Get loud and crazy with your family at one of the many games or contests you can find on all of the Disney ships. There is sure to be something for everyone. Show off your wicked moves at the Family Dance Party, juggle flip-flops at the Family Talent Show or sing a song at Family Superstar Karaoke. However, if a trophy or medal is what you're after, then head over to Family Fusion, Mirror Mirror, or So You Think You Know Your Family. If you plan on bringing home the bling, better bring speed and your Disney knowledge.

•      Even the youngest cruisers get in on the competition with Jack-Jack's Diaper Dash. A 20 ft crawl across the atrium on a padded mat, and a DCL bib to the winning baby. So much cute in one place. I don't know if it's more fun to watch the babies or the parents trying to get their child to move in the right direction, or at all for that matter.

Even after all the trash talking is done and bragging gets old, there are still plenty of laughs and hugs to go around. After all, there are no losers on a Disney cruise, just winners in training.

Kelly is a Disney Gal who loves finding fun and adventure on the High Seas aboard the Disney Cruise Line. Whether it's pampering, parasailing or the unlimited Diet Coke, she enjoys all the ships have to offer. She is currently wearing down Commodore Tom to allow her to blow any of the ships' musical horns. As of now, he is disinclined to acquiesce. To learn more about Kelly, click here.

Lots To Do In Line

As we all know, when it comes to attention to details, nobody does it better than Disney. From the story telling of each ride, to the interactive queues leading up to the ride, Disney in a class all by itself.  As great as Disney is for keeping you entertained from beginning to end, we all know that there are times when you just need a little more to do to pass the time.

Enter the Intrepid Traveler Meredith Pierce, author of the book Lots To Do In Line Walt Disney World as well as the downloadable app Lots to Do In Line Disneyland. Meredith has put together the comprehensive fun guide, which is a must have for any Disney fan. Whether is it your first visit to the Parks, or you are a season Disney pro, these must have guides have something for everyone from the young to the young at heart.

          
Set up in easy to use sections divided by both Parks as well as the Lands within the Parks, Meredith gives you everything from challenging questions to fun Treasure hunts to “pop quizzes”. She has cleverly written the book in such a way that everyone from the solo traveler, to families, to groups who want to compete with one another throughout the day can find something just for them. And let’s be honest, truth be told there’s a competitive side to all of us. Who doesn't love to hear the squeal of delight from a child as they out score their parent or the victory you feel showing your teenager that you may just know a little more than they do. Consider yourself the expert in Disney trivia-let’s sees how you fare: