Good Morning…..how are you ? Here we are again in the land of blog together. I feel drained today having had one of those nights where sleep feels as far away as sharing a Jacuzzi with Angelina Jolie while Brad Pitt serves me Fish and Chips.
Anyway, no time to complain as it is already 6:30 am and a very busy day is ahead. Yesterday, Carnival Freedom was at sea and the sea was really not happy with the world and decided to move around in large swells which caused the ship to roll every know and then in a gentle motion. Most people seemed not to be affected because the Lido deck was doing a roaring trade in FOOD and the formal night dinner was very popular with guests as they dove into Lobster or Prime Rib.
One thing that passengers may not realize is when the ship moves one of the things that may be effected most are the shows. “A ship is not Broadway” as a wise man once said and how correct he was. There are times (rare that they be) that we have to cancel the shows because of the moving of the vessel and the consequent danger to the dancers who could sustain injury. Imagine jumping in the air as they do and find that at the moment of landing the floor has moved to the left!
Anyway, last night was one of those nights and at 6:00 pm I talked to our Dance Captain Ian and we discussed what to do, it was touch and go.
Then, at 7:45pm, just 45 minutes before Showtime, the sea suddenly said “OK, I am in a better mood and I think I will have a nap “…..and it did and the shows went on as scheduled. The show last night was AMAZING. Ticket to Ride is the Beatles tribute show and the audience loved every minute of it especially the second sitting who stood as ONE to sing Let It Be and Hey Dude (sorry Jude)…………………I think Bob was singing louder than anyone and I saw, I think, a president who knew that Carnival still had the BEST ENTERTAINMENT AT SEA.
The cast consists of 16 dancers, two singers, two backstage managers, seven backstage hands, one lighting technician and one sound technician plus a separate technician for the other lounges and entertainment areas. They come from six different countries,: The UK, U.S.A., Canada, Australia, Russia & New Zealand. The cast stays together for nine months and then a new cast will join the ship. During this time they become very close which is no surprise as unlike on land you never say goodnight, see you tomorrow as everyone is always together. For this reason people tend to fall in love much quicker on ships than on land. The bit where you say, “See you next week and let’s get together” never happens as again you are always together and for this reason relationships are formed at warp speed.This is a good thing for the most part but sometimes the moving in together so quickly can result in the relationship ending as quickly as it started.
Today, we are in Rhodes, Greece and apart from a three-minute sprinkle of rain (or “liquid sunshine, mon” as they say in Jamaica ) it was a beautiful day and the ship was empty by 1 pm with only 57 people out of 3,000 opting not to get off the ship. There are on every cruise on every ship people who never disembark and I guess they are the ones who just love the ship and the relative peace that can be found while everyone is ashore ………….or they simply just can’t find the gangway!
Time for Q & A…..and also an apology as I found a load of questions that I had not answered from the Doghouse Blog thing, so again sorry for the delay.
MISSINGTHESMOKEFREEPARADISE – And there is me thinking that you and I were from Essex U.K and now I find out your Essex is in Vermont! I wonder if they have anything in common, hopefully when you sail we will have time for a cigar. We do use dance instructors for the trans-Atlantic crossings and maybe if your interested you should check out www.carnivalentertainment.com for information, etc. It is one of my ambitions to do a crossing on the QM2 or QE2 and I have asked my PA if they can book me passage. Hope to see you soon mate and thanks for your continued support of the blog.
KENA AND DAVID – Thanks for confirming what I think is a good combination of some shows before and some after dinner as it seems to be working. You also mentioned about the 500 guests who went to Sorrento, Capri, etc., and that same time. We actually split them up in two groups with one group going to Capri first and another Pompeii. Saying that, Capri is a very small island and although it is one of the most beautiful places you will ever see it is always busy. Please keep writing and sorry I took so long to reply.
ED MILAN – I am glad you like the blog and thanks for the compliments. I am going to ask FRANK or ROBERTO who work in Miami on the technical side of this blog to find out exactly where the CARNIVAL FREEDOM will be sailing to on February 23. I am also happy to hear that your favorite Caribbean port is also Jamaica as you are correct when you say that sometimes it gets bad press only when it deserves so much good said about it and its people. I will get back to you re: the route and sorry for the delay in writing.
LINDA AND GEORGE – I investigated your question about lamb served in the dining room and have attached the menus that include lamb as a main course. If you love lamb chops you must try the ones from the supper club, they are…well mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm.Here are the menus featuring lamb.
Menu with Lamb 1
Menu with Lamb 2
Menu with Lamb 3
BARBARA PHARO – I hope you get to have your gondola ride and I am very much looking forward to welcoming you onboard. Thanks for the support on the blog thingy and see you soon.
SHIRLEY – Thank you for your kind words and suggestions about show time. I have added two early shows between Istanbul and Athens with the remaining ones after dinner. This seems to be good for everyone and I hope you will find it works for you as well. If you want you can stay at both shows and I will have dinner brought to youI hope you are indeed ready to get off your diet because the CHOCOLATE MELTING CAKE IS WAITING! See you soon.
KAREN STEWART – I have just finished the schedules for the first GRAND MED cruise (Venice, Dubrovnik, etc.) and because of the later port times I have to host shows ONLY AFTER DINNER for the late sitting as the time in port is longer. However, the port times are mostly shorter on the Greece and Turkey run so as I noticed attendance at the second show was 50% less by the middle of the cruise I have adapted a few shows to be presented before dinner but with no loss of time in port. Like you I need naps now and I also miss the Midnight Specials with people like; MALCOLM KENNEDY, EDDIE CAPONE, HAPPY COLE AND AL ERNST ETC.
Again, sorry for the delay in the reply and see you soon.
CHRIS IN TN – Hello mate and congratulations on marring a blond. Do you ever tell blond jokes? Thank you for remembering Heidi and I from the Victory back in 2002.That feels so long ago and I am humbled by your generous comments. We will be on the Freedom again next year…..I mean the CARNIVAL FREEDOM and as soon as I know my dates I will let you know. Thanks for reading my incoherent ramblings and I hope Heidi and I can meet with you and your blonde bombshell very soon.
WENDY – Your vote has been counted and you won 9 well mostly ). Thanks for your comment and sorry for the delay in the reply blog thing.
SUE GROHOL – Your daughter is a very lucky young lady to have cruised so many times ( unless she is not 14 like I am thinking and in fact she is my age or older and then what I just said does not make any sense so its best I shut up now ). The shows on the crossing will all be late shows as with seven straight sea days you do get to stay in bed for as long as you want. The only negative aspect is that we have to change the clocks one hour forward – SIX TIMES ! Anyway, it will be great to have you here and I look forward to our fun time together.
SHARON – Again sorry that it has been a few days in getting back to you but I did not see that so many folks had blogged back. I agree with what you said about the drink, dinner, show scenario and again I think on the Freedom you will be very happy with the mixture we have. As for a little about myself, actually at the bottom of this blog are the answers as requested by a bloggerist to what I like and don’t like. Hope you and family are well and I hope to see you soon.
MEAN JEAN – Thank you for the explanation of why you are called MEANJEAN. I think I am going to change to HIJEAN ( HYGEINE ). I appreciate your feedback as well about the shows and you are correct when you say that “You do not have to drive ” when you take a cruise. So, please let it be known at work that to me and the 155,000 bloggers you are henceforth to be called HIJEAN.
BIG ED – You and I have a lot in common mate as the Porterhouse is indeed a MAN’S STEAK. I will take a photo to add to your collection. Best to Mrs. ED and see you soon.
MARY – I am happy that the family liked seeing Ayr’s photo on the blog and they are correct when the say their Aunty is “COOL. ” I will post another of her again soon.
Stingray 310 – Do you really think I should write a book? Maybe its is something we can do in the future. I remember the cruise after 9/11 well and the spirit shown among the guests was unforgettable. A big “hello” to KUKI and the gang from that memorable week. I hope our schedules do work out so we can do it all over again.
RICHARD – I am sorry to report that you are about to get “THAT LOOK” because we do not have Dr Pepper onboard. I know when you tell her that you will get that stare that sends beads of cold sweat down my back when I get it for leaving underwear on the floor. On a happier note we do have COKE products and hopefully amongst them is one she will enjoy. Hope you survive and if you do, see you soon. PS – STAY CLEAR OF THAT DOG THAT NEARLY ATTACKED YOU BUT GIVEN THE CHOICE BETWEEN THE DOG AND THE MRS WITH NO DR PEPPER, I THINK I WOULD TAKE MY CHANCES WITH FIDO!
KATHY – When you get onboard go straight to the CHIC DINING ROOM and check your table is what you want. If not, ask KEN or DINO for a table change and I will let them know to help you out. See you in may.
CHRISTINE AND BERNIE – Thank you for the message of condolence for Joanne. I know it came as quite a shock to the people who had sailed that cruise to learn of his passing. I have passed your thanks on to Ken and I am glad that your friend Althea had such a nice surprise. I am hoping that the itinerary of the Splendor will be announced soon and I can then pass it on to all of you. Thanks and please keep reading the blog.
MEHYDER – Thank you for your comments on the show times and they are noted. I am sure September feels a long time away but before you know it you will be here. See you than and my best regards to you and your family.
BIG ED – The comments about the places of worship are well noted and a great idea which I will make sure is standard practice. Thanks mate, and that’s you promoted again to DIRECTOR OF NEW IDEAS AND SECURITY SECRETARY CHEF.
SUE – Sounds like you have your seven days of trans-Atlantic “fun” already planned. I will add a few activities for the times when you are not eating, sleeping, gambling, eating, hot tubbing, eating, drinking, shopping, eating and dancing. It will be a seven-day cruise to FUNWHERE.
LINDA – I am sorry to hear you got the wrong tags for your cruise on the Glory. As I do not have your address I will need your booking number or can I suggest you call CARNIVAL directly and ask for ORANGE TAGS to be sent. Personally though you should not stress as you can easily change them upon arrival. Please have Mike put the drill down and let me know a booking number so I can help further. Don’t worry, all will be well.
BELLA – The couples massage is $220 for two people and it is, I am told, divine. I am not much into massages, creams and lotions, I prefer soap on a rope! However, the spa treatments are divine – let me know if you want me to book for you before you cruise (does not matter what ship). Thanks for reading the blog.
VICKI – I will pass the message onto Robert and Suzann as you requested. They are eating in the supper club tonight !
CARLO – Actually a free cruise is part of the package we offer for Ministers to sail so I hopefully we will see an increase as I know it means a lot to some people to be able to worship while onboard. Hope you are enjoying the blog and see you soon.
KENA AND DAVID – I can only imagine how much fun it must be to be at the Kentucky Derby for the pre-race celebrations and the race itself. The fireworks video is a great idea and I have already passed the idea onto ANDREW WICKS who works in our Audio Visual Department and hopefully we can get together with Zambelle as the display would look great on the big screen. Sorry about the extra pounds but the chocolate cake is heaven in a bowl (or so they say as I am not allowed it)
As I mentioned above Capri is always busy but we do divide our tours between the various locations so they are never to many of our people there at one time. Thanks for all your comments and see you soon.
JOYCE – First of all, on behalf of all in blog land, we salute the amazing work you do with the kids who need that extra attention and compassion that you obviously provide them with. Secondly, please do not worry about the mushroom allergy you have. Our staff handle concerns like this every day and all you need to do is to tell your maitre d’ when you arrive onboard. There will be a dining room reservation inquiry time listed in the Carnival Capers and you can meet the maitre d’ there. Also, every time you order something just remind your waiter to check with the chef to make sure there are no mushroom ingredients included. Most importantly please do not worry as this is very common and our friendly staff will assist you as they do many others each and every week. I am allergic to penicillin and coconut. Heidi is allergic to underwear on the floor, it makes her face go read and her arms pick up things and throw them at me……..strange one that. Let me know if I can be of any further help.
DOUG – Please do not skip the shows. The only thing that is possibly slightly PG – 13 would be the shows with the dancers that do include some ‘skimpy ‘ costumes but nothing bad. As for Camp Carnival, it is fantastic and will leave you to relax while your kids enjoy the times of their lives. Looking forward to seeing you very soon.
JERRY – Your training methods are to be applauded by all as I am doing now. Eating as much as you can before boarding makes perfect sense and it is a regime that I have adopted over the years and it has worked for me, If you need a training partner then I volunteer BIG ED and myself ! See you in June.
JIM – Unfortunately we can only do early shows on a few occasions as the ports of Cannes, Venice and Livorno are all late ports. The weather in June will be perfect for you to cruise so I hope you are looking forward to it and Heidi and I will be ready to welcome you home.
CINDY – It is always a pleasure to welcome travel agents to the blog. I will be here on the Carnival Freedom in October but as yet I am unsure about February but will let you know as soon as I can. Thank you for all your support and see you soon.
WWWWW – welcome back from your spring break. Yesterday – April 22 we were at sea all day and as I said above the sea was a little choppy. With regard to Herculaneum and Pompeii you can indeed do both tours with one in the morning and another in the afternoon with a nice break for lunch in between. If you do not fancy dinner in the dining room one night we have alternative dining every evening from 6 – 9 pm. This includes special selections, a carvery, salads and nightly specials and of course 24 hour a day Pizza with or without Mushroom
ANDY – I love the TEA and TANGO idea and tomorrow (it’s 12:30 am) will discuss this with the musicians to see if they can provide the music. You are very kind to provide everyone with the details of the mask shop so thanks on their behalf. We do have another brilliant lobby duo who play music for dancing every night until 1 am so I know they at least will know one tango. Don’t worry about the Queen’s English as I understand she does not read this blog…………………yet.
SHEREE – please don’t worry about me with this blog thing. I hope it is something that our parent lines take up as well as what better way to get information about a cruise than to ask someone who is actually there. Now to the tours. I checked and none of the tours are sold out and I am not sure why it saying that online and will find the reason tomorrow. Naples is a beautiful town and the area around is simply stunning. Now, I do not want to influence you, but honestly we do not come to these areas for beaches and quite honestly the beaches cannot compare to those in the Caribbean and therefore please think seriously about seeing the real reason we call at this port. I suggest Sorrento with Pompeii as a combination, they are two highlights of most people’s trip. Remember also that you have a sea day between Naples and Venice so you can catch up on sleep and do nothing at all. These ports are not like the Caribbean where a quick trip around the island followed by shopping or beach time is the norm. These ports are full of history, culture and a chance to step back in time with the Carnival Freedom as your time machine. Still unsure? Then wait until you get onboard and come to my Adventure Talks which I host before each port and afterwards at the Q & A session we can design a package just for you. See you then and get ready for some time traveling.
ESSEX MAN – Smoking is allowed on the starboard side of the outside decks mate so you will not be met by the “smoke police.” While 90% of the public areas are non-smoking there are still a few bastions of pleasure available. BLOGGER CRUISE INFORMATION WILL BE FORTHCOMING – PROMISE.
AND FINALLY……………………..QUESTIONS POSTED BY FRANK FAIRCLOUGH WHO POSTED THESE FOR ME TO ANSWER ( SORRY ITS BEEN SO LONG BUT I JUST NOTICED THESE ON AN OLD BLOG AND I NEVER DID ANSWER THEM ).
Why you want to know these I will never know but here goes…….sorry I cut and paste but I couldn’t be asked to type them all out again
FRANK FAIRCLOUGH
Myself and my wife cruised with you last year on the Liberty and thought you were brilliant.. Anyway, although we saw you on stage we never got to know the real John so I thought the people reading your blog would like to know the answers to these questions.
WHEN IS YOUR BIRTHDAY AND HOW OLD ARE YOU
I was born on January 22nd 1965 – that makes me %$, sorry &!, bugger I just cant bring myself to write it !
WHEN DID YOU START WORKING FOR CARNIVAL CRUISES
I started as a bar waiter (the worst they ever had) in June 1987
WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST SHIP AS A CRUISE DIRECTOR
My first ship was the TSS Carnivale in 1990
WHO HAS BEEN THE BIGGEST INFLUENCE ON YOUR CARREER AS A CRUISE DIRECTOR
Wow, that is a tough one. I think there are quite a few from the people in the office who first gave me the chance (Roger, Brendan) to Gary Hunter who trained me. In more recent times, It has been Heidi who always keeps me on the straight and narrow and most importantly mum and dad who have always been there for me as I traveled the world. Mum tapes all my favorite TV programs that I miss and I know Dad prints each blog out and is keeping them in a file. My Dad looks after all our finances, etc. while we are away and they has always been a major influence on my life .
WE ALL READ HOW DIFFICULT THE CRUISE OF SEPTEMBER 11TH WAS – ARE THERE ANY OTHERS THAT STAND OUT AS DIFFICULT OR CHALLENGING.
Each cruise has its own challenges and you never know what is going to happen. It may look routine but each cruise is always difficult. I do have one or two that stand out but I think I will save them for a later date !
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE DRINK
I do not drink alcohol at all and have not for 11 years. Now I know what you are thinking but that’s not the reason. I never really liked it and I always feel that if there was ever an emergency onboard that the most important person to the guests is the Cruise Director so he or she must always have a clear head. So, my favorite drink is my Mum’s good old Cuppa Tea.
WHAT BOOK IS BY YOUR BEDSIDE
A Novel by Ex SAS soldier Andy McNab called CRISIS FOUR and the Auto Biography of Richard Branson – chairman Of Virgin Atlantic.
IS THERE ANYTHING YOU WOULD LIKE TO DO THAT YOU HAVE NOT YET DONE WITHIN THE CRUISE INDUSTRY
OK, I paused here for ten minutes to think about this one and considering it is 1:30 am I hope these answers make sense.1. I WOULD LIKE TO HOST A TALK SHOW WITH GUESTS FROM THE TRAVEL AND CRUISE INDUSTRY – CRUISE TV – MAYBE ON THE TRAVEL CHANNEL OR SIMILAR. THERE ARE ENOUGH PEOPLE WHO LOVE CRUISES WHO WOULD WATCH – ANY BLOGGERS AGREE
2. AS STATED ABOVE, I WOULD LOVE TO DO A TRANS-ATLANTIC ON A CUNARD SHIP – THERE IS SOMETHING SPECIAL ABOUT THAT I AM SURE
3. MOSTLY, I WANT TO CONTINUE FOR AS LONG AS I CAN MAKING PEOPLE LAUGH – YOU CAN NEVER GET ENOUGH OF THAT.
FINALLY, IF YOU COULD HAVE DINNER WITH ANYONE FAMOUS IN THE WORLD ALIVE OR DEAD WHICH FOUR WOULD YOU CHOOSE
Frank – this one is easy:
WINSTON CHURCHILL – MY PERSONAL HERO
JOHN CLEESE – MY COMEDY HERO
MARGARET THATCHER – MY POLITICAL HERO
ANGELINA JOLIE - IF THE OTHER THREE CAN’T MAKE IT – OH WELL.
On that note, I am off to bed for hopefully a better nights sleep than last night.
Goodnight
Your friends
John and Heidi
Look, friends — there are a few things you should remember before you comment. The space below is for you to post your comments about the post I've just written above. If it is something that's unrelated, please use the Ask John tab above. Now, while I may not be able to reply to your comment below, I do sit in my underpants almost every morning and read everything that is here. So feel free to comment on the comments and then if someone wants to comment on the comment to the comment then go ahead as well. Please be courteous unless the poster is French...........then you can say whatever you want.
Dear John,
I just read about your blog from MSNBC.COM http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/18156725/ and had to take a look. I haven’t been on a Carnival cruise in years but after reading through your pages and seeing your menus that have lamb on it (yum!) I know I’ll have to check Carnival for a future cruise.
Take care and I’ll be reading your blog!
Monica Pileggi
John…you may call me HIJEAN, as long as you are thinking of it with exactly that spelling, which is cute and original…as opposed to HYGEINE…which has been done. I know how much originality matters to you! Besides, as I will be on the ship having the time of my life I expect to keep MeanJean in check…she will be reserved for the crazy clients at work and the occasional person handing out flyers at the top of the subway steps during rush hour.
On a side note, my niece and I have booked many of our excursions, but haven’t decided on Cannes. Any suggestions?
Thanks for keeping this blog going; it is a great start to my day.
“HIJEAN”
John, Thanks for the new title “DIRECTOR OF NEW IDEAS AND SECURITY SECRETARY CHEF”. But I think we should change it a bit to DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND SECURITY SECTION or D.O.M.A.S.S. for short.
I’m sending you some CHAP STICK. With Heidi coming back and “Uncle Bob” onboard I’m sure your lips will be getting a work out. Also including a tube of Preparation “H” just incase something goes wrong, goes wrong, goes wrong, goes wr………….
John:
Thank you again for taking the time out of your really busy schedule to share with us your everyday experiences, and aswer all of our questions. We consider this blog an extension of our cruise experience. Just a quick question, did you tried the link for past shows of “Desperate Housewives”? did it work for you?
We’ll see you on May 1st!
Daniel and Marina
John:
I may have missed it, but have you talked about your bedtime story with Mary (asleep in the audience) from the cruise of April 7th? I can honestely say that was the funniest thing I have seen in many many years and it is still running through my head.. You have to have had some bruises from that adventure.
I wanted to mention all of the excursions we did were arranged by Carnival. We had the most wonderful experiences with the tours in Pompeii and Pisa. Many others that we spoke to on the ship agreed that the Carnival Pisa tours were the absolute best. They weren’t rushed and there was plenty of time for us tourists to spend our money in the multitude of stands in the square. Athens and Izmir were excellent as well. Istanbul needed more time. We never made it to the Grand Bazaar as my quest was to purchase rugs and that took a bit longer than expected – though I did leave with 3 rugs. I am still saddened by not getting to the Bazaar but it is just another excuse to have to go back.
The service on the ship was fabulous. The cabin stewards, waiters, assistant waiters, Ken (matre D du jour) even the casino staff and bartenders were awesome. Carnival handled all of our arrangements from the flights on and we did not have one problem the entire trip.
Congratulations to you and your staff for the wonderful job everyone does to keep the guests happy, they really do.
Oh yes, I also vote you write a book, you have to have more stories than most of us would have in our lifetimes.
Thank you for a great time,
Michele
Can you tell me the square footage of inside cabins on Freedom? Do they have a sofa?
(5 couples considering 10/13/08 sailing)
Hi John, Thanks again for the blog thingy. We love it. I would like to ask a question about Livorno. Last year we sailed on the Carnival Freedom. We did the Florence on your own tour. This year there are two things I would like to see in Florence – the leaning tower of Pisa and the Ponte Vecchio bridge. I don’t want to go into the tower. I do want to visit the jewelry stores at the bridge. I may not buy anything but I will enjoy looking. What will be the best way to do this?
We are flying into Rome an August 29th from Newark, NJ. I am sure you know most of the flights from the east coast of the US are overnight flights. Ours arrives around 7:30 AM. We have purchased transfers from Carnival. Last year we also had a early AM flight that arrived around 7AM on September 4th. When we got in we were met at arrivals by Carnival Reps. They took our luggage which was good. We hadn’t signed up for a Rome tour because we had already visited Rome several years ago. We were tired and just wanted to go to the ship. The people who were signed up for tours were loaded on buses for their tour. The reps told us we would have to wait at the airport until about 9:30AM to go to the ship. They suggested we find a place to sit and have some coffee until 9:30. The Rome airport is dirty and has few places to sit or even use a restroom. We don’t speak Italian and didn’t have any Euros. I know that those early morning hours are busy with people leaving and arriving for the cruise. Should we expect the same thing to happen this time? At least I have leftover Euros from last year to bring along.
Thanks ,
Jo and Dave
.
Hi John,
I am so glad that I found your blog – it has been several months since our last cruise and I am ready to go again. Reading your blog has brought back so many happy memories of the great times we have had on the many “Fun Ships” we have sailed on. I was impressed on the first cruise and every one since by the friendly and very efficient staff. We just went platinum on our last cruise, so only 490 more until we get our own ship
The blog was a great idea and it has been very entertaining and informative. Try not to burn yourself out, in addition to your regular duties I’m sure that throwing in a blog must have erased some of your personal time. However, on the plus side you may become an internet celebrity and get to meet Angelina Jolie!
Take care of yourself, and Heidi (who sounds like a wonderful woman, congratulations!). We hope to be on the blogger cruise!
I just had to clean my screen off !!! Maybe it’s just me but I thought it was so funny when you told Missthesmokefreeparadise that you would love to get together for a cigar on their upcoming cruise !!!
Juanito:
Please tell me all about bedtime stories , I dont remember that you did anything like that on the Ecstacy 15 years ago.And I would remember because I will have it on tape I have even bingos with you and Michell Andrew (extremely funny)What is that all about? Im very curious (ok dying to know)especially after what Miki76 (above) said about one on April 7. Bruises ? Adventure ? What is a bedtime story?
Nanette
hey MISSINGTHESMOKEFREEPARADISE, I am also from Vermont, just north of Brattleboro…small world. I think I have gained ten pounds since reading this blog thingy…there is alot of food discussion and since the melting choc. cake isn’t available here, I find myself searching the fridge after I log out.
I did a fantastic Transatlantic cruise, with you, on the Carnival Liberty Nov 3, 2007 and we turned our clocks BACK a total of six times before reaching Ft Lauderdale…….those 25 hour days are fantastic. We had 3 Priests onboard who said mass for us…..maybe their boss knew something we didn’t. I will be doing the New England/Canada cruise on the Carnival Victory in Sept. then saving my pennies as I am booked on B2B on Carnival Freedom sailing on Oct. 25, 2008…….28 days of cruising, I can’t get enough. More than likely you will have moved on to the Carnival Splendor by that time……sure hope its itinerary is what I’m praying for……….really want to see St Petersburg.
We will soon be welcoming the cruise ships here in Juneau for the summer…….you must visit some day.
Wow, you are a youngster John! You were born the year I graduated High School! So, your dad prints out all your blogs huh? So do I! I have a BIG scrapbook FULL of them (March and April) so far. I love reading them, and thanks for all the personal info. NOW I really feel like I know you! You are like a friend to so many of us bloggers! It is so nice to be able to hear and read about all that goes on in your life on cruise ships. You were young when you started out, it must be a wonderful life cruising around the world, seeing so many beautiful cities and countries. You MUST write a book someday! That would really be awesome. Keep us informed on the bloggers cruise, also let us know when the Splendor sails its inaugural cruise and what the itinerary will be. I want to definitely cruise on the Triumph in the next year or so, since you give it such rave reviews, the bloggers cruise on the Triumph would be great! Just two days and Heidi will be back with you! Hope you are able to sleep the next few nights without her there! I can tell you really miss her, but then you two are still newlyweds practically! Talk to you soon! Linda & Mike (the handyman) P.S. If you can get those luggage tags sent to me that would be great – I emailed you earlier with the booking number etc. Thanks John!
Hey John, re: Ed Milan’s question: the Carnival Freedom will be on the Eastern Caribbean cruise 2/23/08 going out of Miami to San Juan, PR, St. Thomas and St. Maarten, that is actually the same itinerary as the one we will be on Thanksgiving week. It is posted on Carnival’s website. Linda (Mike the Handyman’s wife). I would be glad to be your personal secretary in Heidi’s absence if you need one!
John I sent this to you awhile back-March 20th, 2007 at 11:58 pm- I hope you don’t mind if I send it again….Please correct me if I am mistaken.
Hi John – thanks so much for starting this blog!
A few years ago, (September, 2001), we had the pleasure of enjoying your hospitality on our very first cruise to the Caribbean. We sailed on the Carnival “Sensation”. Needless to say it was a very un-forgettable experience. I remember your words the last night of the cruise, you said,” unfortunately when you remember your vacation on this cruise you will also remember 9/11”, and yes you were right John, whenever I talk or think about my first cruise I do remember what a wonderful cruise we had & it was because of you, but also what a terrible sad time it was for our country. We were just arriving in the Cayman Islands when 9/11 happened and being from New York with all my family there and also a nephew with the N.Y fire department, I was freaked out to say the least. But with you as our cruise director this terrible time was made as comforting as possible. The show that was performed the last night of the cruise was a fabulous tribute to our country and brought tears to my and many others eyes. We had the un-expected pleasure of cruising with you again in April ‘06. This time it was on the Liberty’s maiden voyage across the Atlantic, truly another un-forgettable experience! We have been on a total of 6 cruises and all of them have been with Carnival and we’ll continue cruising with Carnival, the NUMBER ONE cruise line in the world! Hope to see you again real soon! You are truly the best!
A Carnival Cruiser Forever,
Inez
Hi John,
We just found your blog and are having fun reading it. We are sailing on the Freedom in September with a 50+ group from Massachusetts (will we get the Red Sox?). This will be our first time in the Med and more importantly our first time on Carnival. We are looking forward to it. See you in September.
Hi John,
My name is Cindy Bruce, and I will be sailing with you on the May 1st voyage. My husband, Bob and I are celebrating our 30th anniversary. We are very excited about this trip. It is a first cruise for him, a second for me. I sailed on the Triumph 2 yrs ago. We are looking forward to meeting you! See you in a week!
I have booked Pompei, Sorrento and Capri for my excursion in Naples based on your “blog thingy” recommendations. It looks like quite an adventure. I have not booked any other excursions because I wanted to hear your “Adventures” recommendations. Do you feel it is wise to wait until I reach the ship or will the excursions be fully booked? I’m especially interested in Ephesus and Pisa/Florence. Also, if I book online, may I change reservations once I’m onboard? Count me in for the “Bloggers” cruise in January ’08!
John, you mentioned doing a Cruise TV show? Have you ever thought of doing a podcast? You could do a short 5 minute one daily just by recording it into your computer. I’d be happy to help with the technical aspects since I do one myself (on dentistry) … the problem would be getting the recordings off the ship, I notice the internet connections were very slow, unless the one the crew has is faster.
We could talk about this in detail when I get onboard in July if you prefer.
David
Hi John. In May, my husband and I will be going on our 4th Carnival cruise. We are going to the Eastern Caribbean on the Miracle. What can you tell me about this ship?
Thanks!
Hi John!
I just read that you have diabetes and my wife does too but I had to chuckle a little bit because I wondered if that passenger with the special tea might be looking to send you some for that condition as well! ! !
On a more serious note though, how many formal nights are there on the 12 day cruise? We will be on the Oct. 16th cruise and want to plan our packing accordingly. Thanks for the help.
Big Dom from New York ( aka Stix132)
ATTENTION: John’n'Lisa
Your PLATINUM CARNIVAL CARD is scheduled for termination. Due to your improper use of the word “MAY” in your above statement. John IS already a internet celebrity as attested to by an article on MSNBC.COM which states “HEALD WAS POPULAR LONG BEFORE HE BECAME A CYBER-CELEBRITY ” http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/18156725/
You will also be fined 5 cruise credits so you will not regain your platinum card till you cruise with John Heald on 5 more CARNIVAL cruises.
“BIG” ED
Head of D.O.M.A.S.S.
PS you can read full article by just clicking on my underlined name at the top.
Hi,
I traveled a year or so ago aboard the Carnival Pride….Steve was our Cruise Director. I had read in another post where somone wanted to know how to come about a job on a cruise ship. I have requested information….but wondered what type of activities are great resume builders for someone who would love to work as a cruise ship staff memeber!!
Thanks,
Mike
HIJEAN (aka MeanJean80): A guy I work with said last summer when the ship docked (Carnival Liberty, I think) in Cannes his family did the Monaco and Monte Carlo excursion. He said it was fabulous. He and the sons especially enjoyed looking at all the fancy cars. After considering the options we have decided to do the same one. Many of the excursions that stayed in Cannes or the surrounding area were wine related. Since I don’t drink it and we live within 2 hours of many wineries, there are lots of opportunities to to have wine tours here.
We have most of our shore excursions booked. We simply didn’t want to miss out on the ones we really wanted. I know some wait and only book onboard. I see the benefit to this since one wouldn’t have to part with the $ so early but since this is our first cruise, I didn’t want to end up disappointed because I waited too long to book. We did ours way back in January. Good luck with your decision.
SewingNut 8/17/07
Hi John
I am booking back to back cruises on the Freedom for 11/30/08 and 12/6/08. Will the menus be similar to what you posted above? It looks so good, it will be hard to choose 
Hello John and Heidi,
There is a group of nursing and medical professionals that will be cruising with the group CE’s at Sea on July 21stst on the Carnival Freedom. What a fabulous idea right–education and fun in a wonderful environment. Our official leader is Barb Herrera so please give a shout to her when we are onboard (yes, I will remind you closer to the actual date of sailing). We have a few questions that we tried to ask the customer service reps at Carnival but, they didn’t know the answers. What detergent is available to wash clothes with on the Freedom? Is it hypoallergenic? There are a lot of private car tours which we haven’t seen on other cruises (in the Caribbean). Why are there so many in the Mediterranean? Can a private car take us from Barcelona to Paris over the new bridge? (That’s what one of the surgeons said but we think he may have had his own brain surgery done but, just in case, we thought we would ask). Some of us are fluffy and don’t meet the weight restriction for the gondola ride–is there a way to still do it or is the motorlaunch close to the same if we sing our own songs? I applaud your effort with this blog-thing. It really is a great vehicle to provide a lot of information to many different people. See you soon. Can’t wait to meet you!
John, my wife and I have been trying to access your blog, hell I just learned how to use e-mail. What is “mail?” Are you getting this message??? If so, please answer “Yes.” Thanks.
John,
I hope those opportunites to: host a talk show and sail the transatlantic on a Cunard ship present themselves to you. I have a feeling you’re going to always keep people smiling. As I have said before your blog is entertaining and informative.
I would definately watch your show on the travel channel. You’re lucky you work for the big guns in cruising. Carnival could afford to produce the travel show on the travel channel (better then all of the poker programs travel channel runs) AND send you on any one of the Cunard Grand Queens of the Seas.
If none of that happens write your book (you know all of us bloggers will buy it).
Cheers.
mehyder
John, we are booked for next May on the Freedom out of Rome, please tell me you will still be there and not a landlover by then!
We sailed on the Liberty last July out of Rome and loved your humour so much that we and two other couples are coming back hoping you will still be on the Freedom in 08.
You are by far the best Cruise Director we have ever had in all our cruises!!! Thanks so much for your humour, updates, professionalism, and just caring about every single person onbaord every sailing.
I love that you keep this blog and we can still be in touch with your adventures.
Hi John,
Is Heidi back yet? Seems like She has been gone a long time. We are here in Tampa and now have the Carnival Leg end which took the place of the Miracle. My husband and I are going on a Travel Agent luncheon and ship inspection on Sunday. Looking forward to it. Our favorite ships have beed the Carnival Pride, Paradise, Glory and the Triumph. Although back in the day we really enjoyed the Celebration. We are looking forward to adding more to our Platinum status on the Freedom on May 25th.
Just a little story, 2 weeks ago we were at the beach for a long weekend and while we were waiting for our table at lunch we sat at the bar to have a drink. We meet this couple from Michigan and had a nice conversation. Later that night when we went to dinner the same thing happened as we were waiting for our table and we ran into the same couple. This time we started talking about cruises and discovered they are also going on the Freedom a month after we go. We exchanged email addresses and already we have made friends due to The Carnival Freedom. I told them about your blog and I hope they are reading it.
I will keep you posted on how the luncheon and ship inspection goes. Ron Horne is our district manager and I believe he has been with Carnival over 30 yrs. 4 weeks from today we will be in Rome for our pre cruise trip.
See You Soon
Barbara and Jim Pharo
Thanks for mentioning the dancers John – I’ve been a panicked Mum in the audience a few times!What is your favorite production show on all the ships you’ve been on? Great to see a photo of Ayr – she’s a lovely person.
John -
Alas, I feel so ashamed at having misled you – please give me a moment while I take my fifty lashes with wet spagetti.
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OK – first to the connection question. As near as I can tell, there is no direct connection between Essex VT and Essex UK, although I strongly suspect that the former stole the latter’s name. Yet another case of those colonies usurping the perogative of the throne.
On the issue of enjoying a cigar, absolutely – you select (I am not a connoisseur) and I will buy.
—–
One great thing about this blog is that it allows your passengers and you to get to know each other before you sail – already, I consider you a friend, and we have not even met.
I have fond memories of the many individuals we have met over the years on our cruises, both passengers and crew. Obviously, J&D are most dear to our heart, but we have also had the pleasure of several cruises with various wait and room staff – its great to see familiar faces when you board.
Looking forward to your next blog.
MTSFP
Hi John. I wanted to once again commend the Pursers for their help to my friend Margaret, especially Elisa. My friend finally made it on the Freedom and actually got her lost baggage delivered to Rhodes where she finally joined the cruise. A few more snags came her way after that, but I think they’ve been solved. Please commend Elisa and the Purser’s desk staff for all they have done to make my friend comfortable despite the difficulties she faced. Elisa has also be kind enough to keep me informed of the progress and and has worked with me to mend things. Between speaking with Elisa, watching the web cam, and reading the blog, I almost feel like I’m on the Freedom with all of you! My kudos and deep appreciation to Elisa and all the others!
John,
Well, it’s been a couple days since looking at the blog so let me remind you what was said by you,
“I have a CD for you. Now, how do I get it to you. Do you feel comfortable adding your address to this blog thingy?”
Well I don’t mind but I live in Kuwait so if you don’t mind shipping it that far and I’m not sure if it would cost you any money. Let me know how you stand on all that and if you can ship it still, I’m happy to put my address here.
Hi John,
Would you consider participating in an email interview for my new website WorkOnCruiseShips.com?
We have an ‘Interview with a Crewmember’ section and I’m sure you’d have some extremely valuable info to share with my readers who are all looking for jobs in the cruise line industry.
Let me know and I’ll send you the questions.
Neil
Hello John,
Still enjoying your blog every day and will continue as long as you do. I think a book is a great idea. People like to read about what really happens on the ship and you’re giving a good overview.
I need help with a table reservation. I sent an e-mail to Dino with this request but since I have not received a response maybe the address is incorrect and he never received it. We would really appreciate a table for two in the aft dining room at 8:00 PM in the upper level by the railing. On the Glory there were only two tables like this, one on the port side and the other on the starboard. It doesn’t matter which side it is on. We sent the request to Dino because we met his cousin, Wilson, on the Elation in February and he said he could help us. This would be for both the June 6 and June 18 cruises. Our cabin is 7440 if that helps.
Thank you very much for your help.
Hope you make it another couple of days until Heidi comes back. I know how hard it is to be apart from the one you love even for a short time.
Five weeks until we leave for Rome and six weeks until the cruise. We can’t wait.
George and Linda Mattie
Hi John,
Glad to hear the shows on the Transatlantic will be late. Not so glad to hear we will lose 6 hours due to time changes during the crossing. By the way – - that Platinum daughter of mine isn’t 14. She’s tall, blond, beautiful and married! And I’m the lucky one to have her as my cruise buddy.
I wish I knew how to send you a photo of her on this blog thingy. I took one of her last June on our tour at the entrance to Pompeii. Our tour bus guide handed Jennifer the “Lollipop” (paddle with our group number on it) while she went off to locate our Pompeii guide. The look on Jennifer’s face says, “Do you realize the power I hold in my hand? I could go off and have 40 people follow me like lemmings!”
Seriously, that tour is one of the best. I highly recommend it. Also – - Dubrovnik is one of my favorite ports. The “Best of Dubrovnik” is a good overall experience. But last year Jennifer and I did the “Three Island Yacht Tour.” Another wonderful perspective of this beautiful port. After returning home Jennifer was curious about the cost of real estate. Online she found a 2-bedroom, 2-bath home listed as being “inside the walls.” Not just inside the walled city – - it was literally inside between the inner and outer walls. Really neat looking. Year built: 1400. Our good old US of A hadn’t even been discovered yet!
Sue
I enjoy reading your blog and am counting down the days to our next cruise! We will be sailing with you April 12, 2008 on the Western Caribbean with 8 other couples and cannot wait. This is our second cruise and we look forward to many more with Carnival! See you in 352 days!!!
John, first of all, I love your blog thingy!! And I am so looking forward to meeting you — we sail with you on the Carnival Freedom on May 13.
In your introduction of the entertainment staff, I noticed that one of them, Stephanie Meads is from Richmond, VA, which is where I live! (well, actually, I live in a little town just a little bit south of Richmond). Anyway, would you please ask Stephanie if there is anything from Richmond that she would like me to bring her?
My husband and I will be sailing on the Carnival Freedom on June 30. This will be our sixth Carnival Cruise. Our first was on the Celebration in 1987 for our honeymoon. We will be celebrating our 20th anniversary and my 50th birthday!
When we arrive in Rome and are transferred from the airport to the ship, will we be able to leave and go into Rome after we have dropped off our luggage?
John I enjoy reading your blog. Caroly and I are sailing on 25 May. We will be celebrating 16 years of marriage that day. We hope to get to meet you.
Ken and Carolyn
John…
I just wanted to tell you that I just uploaded the chat we had yesterday as a podcast. You can find a link to it on the CruiseMates Website. (www.cruisemates.com).
I also just confirmed to day that we have set aside cabin space and hope to be bring just a bunch of people from CruiseMates to join in on the Blogger’s cruise. Hopefully Dick Wooden himself!
Really looking forward to it, and I enjoyed talking about some of the funnier and the more serious topics of cruising as well with you by telephone yesterday.
Talk to you soon!
Paul – CruiseMates.