Girls, what do you do before your cruies??

[Littlegoo75]

Girls,
What do ya'll do to prepare for your cruise and deal with the excitement? Am I crazy, because I work out extra hard 2 months prior, hit the tanning salons, buy a whole new cruise wardrobe, pack and re-pack a bunch of times weeks before the cruise, write in countdowns on all of my callendars, get my hair freshly highlighted and cut, get everything waxed, pedicure, nails, ( everything short of appearing on the Swan!)
Am I the only freak out there???

Carnival GLory 11/06/04
Carnival Legend 2/03 ( had to cancel at last minute)
Carnival Pride 4/27/02
Sitmar Fairsea 4/ 1983 ( I was just a little kid!!)

[Cyt4SoreEyes]

No your not alone I pretty much do the same thing you do..only the early packing this time around was my Hubby's idea..i know blew my mind when he said to do it this weekend..a whole two weeks prior..lol!! But I do enjoy the shopping for the new wardrobe..thats definitely my daughters favorite!!! We hope you have a Wonderful cruise!!!!!!

Cyt

Atlantic
Oceanic
Norway
Enchantment of the Seas
Destiny
Voyager of the Seas
Conquest March 30th 2003
Glory May 29th 2004
Caribbean Princess Oct 23 2004

[ralmyers]

Well --
let's see:

had my hair cut on Friday, doesn't need highlighting because that is still fresh and will get lighter on the ship anyhow.

Don't tan -- just do the spray on fake stuff. I learned a big lesson with tanning beds-- nuff said.

I will have a pedicure and manicure Thursday, and not finished shopping or packing.

yep-- I would say you are not the only freak [img]http://messages.cruisecritic.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif[/img]

Unfortunately, I am a last minute packer -- so I will be doing that on Friday night.

I bought two new cocktail/social dresses the other night, 4-5 new shirts, and 2 pairs of shoes. Now... I am on the hunt for a good bathing suit. I have 2, but they are not good enough :-) After my trip to Lazarus/ Macy's the other night I won't be back there. JERKS!

Any ideas on a good bathing suit? Oh yeah -- still need 3 new pairs of shorts. Man, I better leave work early and go shopping. ha!

Triumph
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&timezone=GMT-0500">

Fantasy - 94
Imagination - 95
Ecstasy - 99 (honeymoon)
Triumph - 04 (5 year anniv.)

[InMN253]

Sounds perfectly normal to me. [img]http://messages.cruisecritic.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif[/img]

Pat K.

[weswas]

Sounds like were all crazy [img]http://messages.cruisecritic.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif[/img]

UNTIL WE SAIL AGAIN.......
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[Littlegoo75]

Here is my secret...... I buy a lot of my cruisewear off of E-Bay. I get a lot of stuff that is out of the Victoria Sectret catalog. Great cruise wear! I guess there are people that buy lots at auction....catalog returns. I guess the Victoria Secret company does not re-sell the returns, so they auction them off in big lots, and people buy these and put the individual items up on e bay. I have purchased coctail dresses that are in the catalogue now for over $100, for less than $30, swimwear for pennies on the dollar. This stuff still has tags on them - people probably ordered them, tried them on, it didn't fit and they returned it. No different than at any retail store. The only thing is that if it doesn't fit, most sellers won't take returns - you're stuck. YOu should see all bags of stuff I have for my garage sale for that reason alone! For the most part, the stuff has fit, and there are no flaws. The seller is supposed to inform you if there are any flaws, etc.
As for the tanning, I like to do the "Tropical Sunsations" it's where somebody airbrushes you. I get it done 3 times a week to build a good base for the first week, and then one to two times a week after that. After a few weeks, you are so dark, and it looks so natural. There is no stink, so fake color, no uneven-ness ( as long as you go to somebody that knows what they're doing). It also lasts for weeks or even months depending on how long you had been doing it. It's not Mystic Tan..it's something different - It's kinda hard to find somebody that does this technique.

Carnival GLory 11/06/04
Carnival Legend 2/03 ( had to cancel at last minute)
Carnival Pride 4/27/02
Sitmar Fairsea 4/ 1983 ( I was just a little kid!!)

[ralmyers]

yes, I have not seen anything other than Mystic Tan around here. California spray tan does the same thing as mystic tan. This town is so behing and a** backwards sometimes that it may be a year before we see any tanning techniques like you mentioned.

Now I just have to find a halfway decent bathing suit. I saw a few on landsend, but I cannot buy it without trying it on and the little model I created looks like me, just not sure!

Triumph
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Fantasy - 94
Imagination - 95
Ecstasy - 99 (honeymoon)
Triumph - 04 (5 year anniv.)

[fascination 5/10]

Word of warning to those of you doing the spray on tans.... I saw several people whose tans were fading very unevenly. I talked to a guy while waiting for our tender in Key West (1 1/2 hours...argh!)who had it done and he looked ridiculous.... a redhead with a very dark tan in some spots, blotches in others, and his freckled white skin in yet others.... not too pretty! [img]http://messages.cruisecritic.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif[/img]

[img]http://escati.linkopp.net/cgi-bin/countdown.cgi?trgb=000000&srgb=00ff00&prgb=00bfff&cdt=2004;5;10;17;0;00&timezone=GMT-0500[/img]
Fascination 5/12/03

[ralmyers]

Odd... haven't had any problems with it to date. He probably should have exfoliated before hand to reduce that spottiness.

Triumph
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Fantasy - 94
Imagination - 95
Ecstasy - 99 (honeymoon)
Triumph - 04 (5 year anniv.)

[shabcruzn]

If you are crazy, then I am insane and many others--which would call for a support group. I have over 2mths to go--I just hit the mall this weekend buying everthing I need except a bathing suit and possibly another cocktail dress!

7/17 ON MY WAY TO TRIUMPH CRUISE
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[Rustynail]

shop, shave my legs, shop, diet, shop some more, paint my nails, dream about the shopping in port, hide extra money away from hubby for secret shopping, buy a new bathing suit, shop for a unique stunning expensive formal dress, complain about not losing enough weight on your diet, check out my behind in the mirror every day for two weeks leading to the cruise, buy a new sun hat and magazines, continue to tell hubby that he cannot spend to much money in the casino, start complaining about your tablemates one week before you actually meet them, tell hubby he can't smuggle that second 6-pack in the luggage because you need the space for your 14th pair of shoes, shop for more shoes to match your morning, day and night purse, get a tan, tell hubby you need new sun glasses, bump up the credit limit on your card, and shop some more.

As a guy this of course is just my guess.......

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Until we sail the Carribean Princess<BR


CARRIBEAN PRINCESS JAN 2005
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CARNIVAL'S LEGEND JAN 2003
CELEBRITY'S CENTURY DEC 2003

[ralmyers]

Pretty good Rusty -- but see I think I might have it down to a science. Not sure if your wife does that to you, but here is what I do to precursor all that you mentioned. Under my direction and encouragement the DH just got a new set of Taylor Made irons, bag, 2 drivers, club covers, and a few other accessories. NOW.... I can shop away [img]http://messages.cruisecritic.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif[/img] hee hee

Triumph
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&timezone=GMT-0500">

Fantasy - 94
Imagination - 95
Ecstasy - 99 (honeymoon)
Triumph - 04 (5 year anniv.)

[Littlegoo75]

Yeah, I have heard horror stories about those tans....the airbrush thing is great because somebody is spraying you personally, not a machine like the Mystic Tan does. I had this done in a small town in New Mexico ( when I had to live there) - if I was able to find somebody to do it there, anyone can find one in their local town! I just have to stop being lazy and search for somebody in Woodbridge Virginia! It's not cheap, but it works well and lasts, and does not look crappy when it fades. It's about $60 for the first three sessions, then $20 - $25 each time after that ( entire body). If you are a loyal customer, you might be able to get a discount. It's usually entreprenuers who do this as a side job. The lady that I used to go to was a physical therapist who did this on the side. She went to a weekend seminar type of thing where they teach you how to do it, liscense you, and you buy the products. It's the best thing in tanning since....sliced bread. Do not confuse this technique with mystic tan. Both my friend and I did this and we both looked like we went to the beach everyday, but didn't get the bad side effects.
If I can't find somebody in my town, I might try those tanning towels. I saw an informercial for So. Beach tanning towels. I wonder if they work good. Does anyone know? I did use a product off an informercial once called "Perfect Tan" and it worked good, but was kind of messy. The towels looks like their pretty convenient. Anyone with towel testimonials - good and bad please tell me about them!

Carnival GLory 11/06/04
Carnival Legend 2/03 ( had to cancel at last minute)
Carnival Pride 4/27/02
Sitmar Fairsea 4/ 1983 ( I was just a little kid!!)

[Sweetcharlotte30]

I'm the same way, if you're crazy then I'm right there with you! I got a base tan, waxed everything, manicure and pedicure. Since we cruised in the winter (February) I got my cruise wardrobe from clearance racks back in September.

I prefered the tanning beds since the melanin in my skin was being activated unlike the spray tans which only stain your skin. If you're going for just looks then by all means go for the spray tan but if you're looking to reduce burns and plan on baking in the sun, I'd totaly recommend the beds. If I didn't get a base tan prior to our vacation then I would have blistered in Cabo. When you have too many margaritas you don't always remember to reapply sunscreen [img]http://messages.cruisecritic.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif[/img]

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Official member of O.A.T.C.

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Until we fool around on the Miracle!

Ecstacy, Western Carib. Sept '99
Pride, Mexican Riv. Feb '04 <A HREF="http://community.webshots.com/user/sweetcharlotte30
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Yesterday is history
Tomorrow is a mystery
And today is a gift.

[Brneyznfl]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by ralmyers:
Odd... haven't had any problems with it to date. He probably should have exfoliated before hand to reduce that spottiness.<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

He probably didn't know what exfoliate meant [img]http://messages.cruisecritic.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif[/img]

[email="BrneyznFL@aol.com"][img]http://www.bigotis.com/Glory/Atom.gif[/img][/email]


NEXT CRUISE - MIRACLE 2/13/05!

Triumph, Inspiration, Holiday, Explorer of the Seas, Granduer of the Seas, Glory, Conquest, Sensation

[cruisincantwait]

Hey Littlegoo75!
Here is a link to a thread on self tanning, which has some input on tan towels.[url="http://messages.cruisecritic.com/2/OpenTopic?a=tpc&s=927093444&f=8170905551&m=820109671"]self tanning products[/url]
Leaving soon! [img]http://messages.cruisecritic.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif[/img] Clothes laid out everywhere! [img]http://messages.cruisecritic.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif[/img]

First time cruisin!!

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until Carnival Fascination 5/21/04 Bahamas

[Kartz125]

Yeah- I am going crazy! My first cruise ever coming up in June, and I have a problem! First I found this site and will not get off it. My boyfiend and roomate think I am such a geek! Now, I have all these things listed everywhere that I need to start doing...like working out (ugh).
My roomate and I (who is also going with) have had several shopping spees, and all I have to say is TARGET rocks. Great bathing suits, stiletto's and more.I have a thing for amazing, sexy, shoes that hurt like hell.
Plus, I have begun a change jar, and call Carnival every week for price reductions...$700 in savings so far!

[ChardonnayKJ]

Hey Rustynail- Have you been spying at my house. You are soooo in sync with my train of thought. Sunglasses and swimsuits are my major concern right now. Oh and of course checking out my rear in the mirror..Damn I'm gettin tired of that stairclimber!!

6/27 Conquest let's party!
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[imlulu]

I pack..the night before/the day of flight. I don't really buy anything. Umm don't tell ..I hate to shop!!!!! I have 2 boys and my dh works at nights so I have to drag them everywhere. We went to the mall yesterday for the 1st time since late August!!! My older son needed shorts. We hit Old Navy and Gap.Geeze..it was bad. Tonight I found out my youngest needs shorts. Oh no!!! Another day of shopping coming up with 2 boys in tow....My youngest doesnt need to try the stuff on so I may just look around online.

I may have to book another cruise to recover from the shopping trauma!!!! [img]http://messages.cruisecritic.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif[/img]

No longer cruiseless...donations still accepted! Miracle 2/2005

Last cruise
Sensation 2/17/03

[Littlegoo75]

You know what? As a label snob, I also am amazed at what Target has to offer. I have actually bought some clothing items there. I usually go there for T.P, cleaning products, kitty litter, etc.... but I have browsed their appearal and was pleasantly surprized. Their swim-wear is also very cute this year. It seems that some of the higher end designers launched their lower priced lines at Target. For trendy stuff, that's good because you will probably only wear it for one season.
Thanks for the link to the self-tanning board, I will read it when I have a chance.
I have done the tanning beds, and have had good results, I just don't want to look like a Moroccan wallet when I turn 50.

Carnival GLory 11/06/04
Carnival Legend 2/03 ( had to cancel at last minute)
Carnival Pride 4/27/02
Sitmar Fairsea 4/ 1983 ( I was just a little kid!!)

[imatarb]

Let's see..before our 5/9 sailing on the Victory, I tanned a month prior, got a manicure and pedicure the day before we left and colored my hair two weeks prior. That's about it!

Lisa [img]http://messages.cruisecritic.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif[/img]

[b]Monarch of the Seas - 1994
Royal Majesty - 1996

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Until VICTORY is ours 5/9/04


<MARQUEE>A day at sea is better than a day at work</MARQUEE>

[peanutprincess1977]

Bout a month before, have my hair cut and highlighted.
Didn't start tanning last year, but I definately going to a few times before I go this year.
The day before (or morning we leave - depending on time) get a nice pedicure and manicure.
This year I have lost a bunch of weight and I might need a new wardrobe. I pack about a week before.

[img]http://www.gifs.net/animate/a_4racoon.gif[/img] [img]http://www.gifs.net/animate/am369.gif[/img]

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Saints & Sinners take over the "SINsation"

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[url="http://community.webshots.com/user/pegasus13100"]PNUT's Pictures[/url]

[url="http://community.webshots.com/user/becksk"]PNUT and SIS Paradise cruise[/url]
Paradise 10/03

[Ms Belvedere]

Littlegoo75 wrote:
Girls,
What do ya'll do to prepare for your cruise and deal with the excitement? Am I crazy, because I work out extra hard 2 months prior, hit the tanning salons, buy a whole new cruise wardrobe, pack and re-pack a bunch of times weeks before the cruise, write in countdowns on all of my callendars, get my hair freshly highlighted and cut, get everything waxed, pedicure, nails, ( everything short of appearing on the Swan!)
Am I the only freak out there???
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Wow - you must be my twin! When I shop throughout the year I constantly look for clothes in sale racks that have the look of Cruise Wear. A good time to shop for dressy things is after New Years, one year I got the dearest beaded evening purse for $18.00 at Hecht's marked down from $80.00. Also got a beautiful, and very packable, long black velveteen dress for Formal Nights, $19.99.

Everything I even THINK I might take on the cruise is put in a closet together to be reviewed later. I collect dry cleaning bags of different lengths all year and sock those away. Everything I can possibly read about cruising and the ports we're visiting is read and re-read. If I find something on the net worth keeping I send it to a special folder in my email labeled for that particular port, excursion, cruise ship.

I also listen to Carribean music every chance I get and dance around the house with my cat.

Proud to be a Freak.

[INCHARGE]

Littlegoo75...
Try the # below. I don't think they should be too far from us. 540 area code is down toward Fredricksburg(not far down 95)

Personal Care Tanning Salons Tropical Sensations (540) 854-0854

Blessings 2 U
Miracle Sept 5,2004 7 day
Destiny June 13,2004 7 day
Disney Magic Sept 6,2003 7 day
Spirit Nov.2002 Panama 8 day
Paradise Oct 2002 10 day
Paradise Feb.2000 7 day

[KathyB]

I Love the pre-cruise rituals!!! Waxing, highlighting, manicure/pedicure. Cost a fortune as I go with my teenage daughter it is sort of our girls day before we leave - really look forward to it!!! This year we are leaving 3 days prior to cruise and am hoping our manicure/pedicures will last that long!

As far as bathing suits - Victorias Secret is having a huge bathing suit sale - lots of beautiful suits and styles - just got ANOTHER new one - I need to stop!!!