Good Morning everyone. How are you?

It’s a scorcher in Izmir, Turkey today with a high of 88 degrees. For the first time this season, another cruise ship is docked alongside us in Izmir (as it not part of the family, so it gets no free advertising ). This however means that we will have 5,000 passengers returning at the same time and they all have to pass through a terminal that’s as small as a supermodels lunch. I have extra staff outside and hopefully things will go smoothly but I fear there may be a bit of a delay to our sailing…….we shall see.

Heidi is back from the pier and now I am going let her type what has just happened. I was not going to say who the ship next to us was but I will now, it was NCL’s the Norwegian Dream. Listen to this.

Hiya! Heidi here. Just got back from the pier. John was worried that there would be a very long line with so many guests coming back at the same time. Luckily this didn’t happen, so instead of having to control the crowd, we had the time to welcome our guests back to the pier and the ship. We had a group of staff from entertainment, shore excursion staff and pursers at the entrance of the terminal, greeting the guests. As our guests and the NCL guests were merging in to the terminal together I saw a lot of NCL guests who recognized me and said they missed me (and oh, yes, I suppose they said that they missed John too…..his head is so big now, that he won’t fit through the door to go to the Repeater’s Party in a minute). I also saw our friend Kuki, one of the editors of Cruise Mates and a good friend of John’s. We will see him and a group of Cruise Mates again here on board in November.
The temperature really has picked up now, yes, the shorts came out today, not sure Turkey was ready for my white legs.  Well, the Turkish men were looking anyway, I think I am going to have to dye my hair black tonight. Or maybe I won’t and let John be jealous. That’s all for me, I had fun out there with all our guests, the Mellow Yellow group came back from Ephesus and the Terraced Houses tour and told me they had a great time. It’s a very special tour, the only one that actually goes inside the Terraced Houses, a great tour for guests who have seen Ephesus before. Anyway, I will just keep going, as I feel like I am writing to family by now, every cruise I meet so many of you and get to see faces to the names.

Here is a photo that just popped up as I was typing this blog of my Dad, eating fish and chips. I hope he has more luck with his fish than I did with mine. I will let you all know if it effects him in anyway tomorrow.

Time for the Q & A……….Hooray.

CHAZON – Thanks for the report on the Holiday. I am sorry Steve was not more visible but happy to hear that B Rad his assistant was so enjoyable. It doesn’t take long to become a cruise fan and you are joining the millions of fans around the world who have discovered this amazing way to take a vacation. I hope I get a chance to meet you and your wife soon.
HIJEAN – I am still blaming Francesco the Fish (it was Italian) for my bout of sickness but I guess I will never know. It has put me off enjoying anything from the sea, unless Angelina Jolie happens to be going for a swim in which case I would be in my Speedos before you could say”Brad Pitt’s a big girl.“  Keep counting down, your cruise will be here before you know it. Thanks as always for reading the blog thingy.
BARB AND HER BIG BEAR – Thank you for the joke on behalf of us all. Heidi did catch up with our “scared of going to Istanbul friend“ and hopefully she will realize it will be OK for her to be blonde and proud in the Grand Bazaar tomorrow. Thanks again for your kind words towards Heidi and I and see you soon.
LINDA AND MIKE THE WATT – Your gift of sugar-free candy is going to be very gratefully received, so thank you so much in advance. Heidi will share that with me so no need to bring her anything.   Ahhhhhhhhhhh, Aston Martin, I must admit that is still one of my dreams and I will keep giving the company free air time as hopefully one day they will realize that they should give me one for free. See you in November.
RENEE – If a comment from me makes you behave like a schoolgirl, don’t worry about your husband. If you want to put that school uniform back on, you go right ahead! And with that comment, I am firmly back sharing accommodation with a canine.
It’s funny how some posts on the various sights tend to exaggerate on some topics and taking hours to get ashore in Cannes is one of them. If you have a private tour in Cannes at 9:30 am you should be fine. We start tender ticketing at 9:15 am so you will be ashore by 9:30 am to meet your tour. The operation is so smooth and last cruise we had 2,700 guests ashore in two  hours……..pretty good even if I do say so myself. Thanks for reading and I hope I have made you feel “school girlish again.“ Time for Math’s!
BIG ED – After the last few days my underwear does having racing stripes and they are definitely a result of “going faster.“ I agree, there must be a blogger who is reading this with a contact at Aston Martin who wants to make me happy. Tell Mrs. Big Ed that you and I will need some guy time on the ship together, plus an hour to un wedge ourselves from the booth. See you soon mate and congratulations on the fantastic photo album.
ZSOLT AND MARIA – Thank you for allowing thousands of us to read your beautiful and heartfelt words. I have noted your address and will be mailing a DVD to you later this cruise. I am sorry to report that the photos from last cruise have been recycled and I should have thought to find them for you before. My apologies. Please can you tell your Mum that we are all thinking about her and I will put some photos of the ship and the ports in the same envelope as the DVD. We will see BOTH of you on the Splendor and I will have a big WELCOME HOME cake ready for MUM. See you soon.
SOUTHERNDREAMS – Sounds like Bonnie Prince Charlie and I have a lot in common. Are you at your summer home yet?
HOTLANTA – The June 30 cruise will soon be here. Without knowing the demographics of your group, it is a little difficult to choose tours for you but I am going to give you my favorite two tours in the ports you are undecided on. They are as follows:
VENICE
DAY 1…………………..EVENING GONDOLA TOUR. This is a must, of course, and booking through the vessel makes sure you don’t fall into the hands of a maverick gondolier who will charge you the earth and give you very little. Our tour has a guaranteed 40 minutes in the gondola which will glide you down the candlelit canals of this most romantic of cities. Afterwards you can sit at the cafes on St Mark’s Square and listen to some beautiful classical music.
DAY 2………………..MURANO AND BURANO. Venice is so much more that St. Marks. Here you will visit the two outer islands and of course the stunning Morano glass factory and watch master glass blower Senior Fonari blow glass through his mouth and nostrils into something quite amazing.
BARCELONA……………Seeing Gaudi’s work is a must here and this can be done on our highlights and shopping tour. However, for me, not to see Montserrat (as featured in a previous blog thingy) would be a real shame so I highly recommend the Barcelona and Montserrat tour. It is the BEST of everything.
LIVORNO……………..Pretty much the same applies here. Do you see The Leaning Tower Of Pisa or Florence? Answer, BOTH.. This is the cruises most popular tour as many guests take the Florence and Pisa Tour. You will not regret this or any other of the recommendations I gave you. Please let me know if you need further information and I am looking forward to meeting you.
BELLA – It is indeed a shame that some people feel they can judge Carnival without even trying our product. I can understand people liking different lines or styles of vessel but to make a face when she heard Carnival is a real shame. Do you know here name, if you do, tell me so I can make a face. I mean, I have never met her but why should that stop me. Thank you though for your support to our great company and please keep reading the blog.
CATHY SNYDER – Scottie drove his car home to Newcastle as I would to my home as well. Oh, well a man can dream. What’s your favorite car?
BIG ED – Feeling much better now, mate. I have a special photo for your collection, it will be ready in a few days. How is Mrs. Big Ed’s fear of flying. Do you remember the A TEAM where MR T used to get a glass of milk before he would fly and it would have a sleeping drug in it? Could we do the same to Mrs. Big Ed?
DON IN KENTUCKY – Thanks first of all for reading the blog on a daily basis, I am honored (spelt correctly). Let’s answer your questions.
SUSHI
All our Destiny-, Conquest-and Spirit-class ships have sushi bars which are open serving complimentary sushi from 5 pm – 8 pm. On the Carnival Freedom, since we are in Europe, we also serve mezza and tapas as well.
CRUISE DIRECTORS CONTRACTS
Most cruise directors with Carnival will work from four to six months before taking a six- to eight-week vacation. More often than not, they will return to a different ship but sometimes if things have worked well there, the cruise director will return to the same ship. I will be working all the way through to November on the Carnival Freedom which is unusual but all will be well.
Thanks again for reading the blog and I hope you continue to do so.

Just a quick question for bloggers. Who have you had as cruise director that really impressed you? Let me know.

MAYLEE –  Just before I read your comment I was about to tell a blonde joke but with you and Heidi here I am outnumbered, so I surrender. Best to you and your DH.
KIM NOTTINGHAM – The bloggers cruise continues to be a hot topic of conversation, however, your one-year-old may have to sit on Mummy’s knee as I bestow gifts upon her and while she watches the best entertainment at sea. I will be posting soon all the planned activities but keeping a few surprises up my sleeve. Are you going to sail with us? I hope so as I promise it will be a fantastic cruise vacation.
SHEL – Please return the greetings to your esteemed travel agent Jackie whom Heidi and I remember fondly. Please tell her that we look forward to seeing her next year aboard the Carnival Splendor.
DAVE – One of the nicest surprises from this blog thingy has been the ability for some old cruise ship friends to get back in touch with me and that certainly applies to you mate. How are you? Congratulations on finally meeting the girl of your dreams  — and she is a dream as I can see from the Web site. I have great memories (most of which can never be printed in this blog) of our time together on the Holiday. I was a young social host and you and Doug were this young, hip duo who every guest and every crewmember wanted to know. I remember my favorite song you did was Jersey Girl! How is Doug these days? I wish you a great contract on the Princess ship and I truly hope we meet again someday. Cheers, mate.
GLENN AND LEANNE – I am so glad that my sickness is over. It was so hard to do a job like mine when you have just redecorated the bathroom in orange with a splash of lime. The Olympic Stadium is close to the vessel and there will be photographic stops there on our highlight tours. Later in the day you can take a cable car ride over the stadium itself. Just think you will be here soon to enjoy all those Platinum Perks and I see you also booked the Carnival Splendor…..Congratulations. See you soon.
GLENN – I highly suggest you book a transfer on the Internet from the airport to the ship. Doing this takes away all the hassles and worries you have mentioned in the comment you posted. Many guests do this and I do recommend this to you as well. I was real “crook“ mate but all is well know. What’s happening in Neighbours? Do they sell Aston Martins in Australia?
PAULETTE’S MUM – It would be extra icing on my cake if your daughter could be in the cast as well. However, the Carnival Splendor will give us all a great chance to catch up and enjoy amazing ports of call.
LINDA FROM MICHIGAN – Hope you are enjoying a Michigan spring. I am sure you will have a super cruise on the Crown Princess and next spring. Who knows, you and I may finally meet. I will keep blogging if you keep reading. My best to you and Gary.
MEDIUM CRUISER – It is very important that you send me a note once you are onboard for your parents’ anniversary.  Since it is their 50th, I will make sure it’s a cruise they never forget. See you in August, mate.
JOHN FROM NEW JERSEY – I am glad you got to hear about the blog thingy mate and welcome aboard. I remember your cruise very well and maybe one day soon we can do it all over again. Please keep reading and its great to welcome you along with 249,000 other hits.

Showtime tonight is the one and only Penny Mathisen and here she is

The sales for the Carnival Splendor are going great and so of course are next year’s voyages for this amazing ship, the Carnival Freedom. She will be back in April next year and will continue this incredible Greek/Turkey run and of course the massively successful Grand Med. Have you done Greece now, then maybe its time for the Grand Med or visa versa? Anyway, you have two ships to choose from next year. Let me know if you need help in making your mind up which one to choose.

What else has happened since yesterday’s blog thingy? Hmmmm. Ah yes, I had a chat with a guest last night in between shows who really had me laughing. I have no idea of their name, it was just a quick chat in the lobby but over a very strange subject. I was walking through the lobby, it was about 9:30 pm and there was a bit of a commotion going on around the lobby dance floor. There in the middle, surrounded by loads of laughing and one or two dismayed guests, stood a very……..ummmmmmmmm, let’s say buxom lady who was dancing.  Which is fine, except she had decided to remove her tent……sorry…….her blouse and was now dancing in a skirt and bra!

I signaled the duo to stop playing…………….they had been playing Zorba The Greek and the entire lobby and the decks above had been dancing but scared as to what might happen next I thought it better that I stop the music. The fact that the music had stopped did not deter this lady who just kept dancing. She had lots of support from the audience. I mean this lady needed lots of support! I had now been joined by Gary, one of the entertainment staff and by Christine, one of our pursers. We walked over to her and I asked her in a very polite way if she would mind putting her shirt back on……….I expected a torrent of abuse as she put her face close to mine and I braced myself for a good telling off……………but instead…..she kissed me………………..on the lips……………………and this lady was sponsored by BUDWEISER

She told me she loved me but then saw Gary who is 120 pounds of skin and bones. She smiled like she had just found an unlimited supply of Mars Bars, forgot about me and gave Gary a hug so tight his face was pressed between two huge, massive, gigantic………………….%$#@. After the hug, the lady was not the only one smiling as Gary had a smile as big as……….well….the things that caused him to smile. That was that, the lady put her blouse back on and walked into one of the glass elevators and as it went up she received a massive round of applause from the 200-plus people who had watched the whole thing. I took a photo of this but I have been told by my editor that it would be better if we do not put this on the blog thingy…and besides…………I don’t think there were enough pixels in my camera!

Goodnight

Your Friends,

John and Heidi

Hello Bloggers:

I managed to get through the day and hosted my Morning Show (more about that later), the Rhodes, Izmir and Istanbul Travel Talk and then met with THE MELLOW YELLOWS group from Cruise Critic. We had 40 minutes of fun and I answered some questions and met many bloggers personally, which was just great.

Then it was time for the Captain’s Cocktail parties and then the two Big Easy Shows for early and late seating diners. Right now it is midnight and we have to put our watches forward one hour because Greece and Turkey are one hour ahead. Adrenalin is a wonderful thing but I think my tank is a little empty, so I will refill with a cup of tea, the British kind, as that herbal stuff would be like throwing petrol on a fire!

Let’s move on to a very sensitive subject that I faced today.  I had received a letter from one of our guests who was asking about some recent incidents in Turkey.  Rather than asking me about this during the Q&A, the guest wrote to me directly so that I could give him a private response.  However, I thought that this topic was important to our guests so I decided to include it in my travel talk.
While I am certainly not qualified to comment on the geopolitical situation in Turkey, I offered the following information to guests who attended the travel talk:

1. NO WARNINGS HAD BEEN ISSUED BY ANY WESTERN GOVERNMENTS ADVISING AGAINST TRAVELING TO TURKEY
2. THE BOMB HAD EXPLODED IN A RESIDENTIAL, I.E., NON-TOURIST AREA, AND WAS NOT AIMED AT TOURISTS IN ANY WAY, SHAPE OR FORM
3. THE LAST THING THAT TURKEY WANTS OR COULD AFFORD WOULD BE AN INCIDENT AGAINST TOURISTS
4. CRUISE SHIPS FROM HOLLAND AMERICA, COSTA AND OTHER LINES HAVE CALLED AT IZMIR SINCE THE INCIDENT WITHOUT ANY SECURITY-RELATED INCIDENTS.
I went on to reiterate that Carnival has never and will never do anything to jeopardize the safety of its guests, crew or vessel. Everyone should look forward to a wonderful day in an historic and city and experience a culture that would embrace them with Turkish delight! Applause followed.

OK, hope this information is helpful. Let’s get on with the today’s Q & A: 

Thank you for all your kind words. So many of you have written with get-well messages and rather than reply individually to all of them, can I say a big collective “thank you.” I am still feeling a bit drained and my temperature is still a bit high but at least I have stopped praising before the altar of the porcelain. My headache is still with me, except Paris Hilton has moved out and she has been replaced by a slightly hung over French person. So once again, my sincere thanks to all of you who posted get well soon messages and I feel like I am amongst real friends. A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO ALL MY REGULAR COMMENT POSTERS, YOU KNOW WHO YOU ARE AND I THANK YOU FOR YOUR COMPASSION.
JACKEVANS – Thank you for sharing the link to the www.themarinerscabin.com and my thanks to this web site for featuring the blog (cheers, Jim). I am glad you are taking the time to read the blog everyday. Hope to see you soon.
BIG ED – ok, Ed I will double what I was paying you before and I will make your business cards and have them ready for when we meet next year. I am hoping that Aston martin (the best car in the world) will allow me a complimentary car so you and I can drive Route 66 together, the wind in our hair and in our hotel room no doubt. I will make sure that all the light bulbs are totally burnt out when you sail and I will pay you one warm chocolate pudding for every bulb you change. Deal or No Deal?
SUSAN JORDAN – Sorry to hear your husband was not feeling well during Hurricane Ernesto on the Leg End, there is no worse feeling in the world then feeling sick. Well, except realizing that your fly is open as you stand in front of 1,500 people. Heidi says it’s no big thing! I will be ready by the May \25 cruise and we are really looking forward to seeing you then.
NANETTEALI – Buenos Borito me amigo para siempre. Mi mucho sicko in the toileto, no bweno para Heidi, mucho sicko on the flooro. Thanks you so much for the DVD you are making, I am so excited to see the good old days with Michael again. Phantom is ready to play and gifts are waiting for you. Adios astra la yugo.
KENA AND DAVID – Thank you for your kind invitation to the racing in Kentucky; that would certainly be a thrill. I have always loved horses. My mate Alan Adkins and I found a horse that had been treated really badly and we called the police. They were going to put it down but we found someone who would look after it and we helped clean out the stable. It was a big old thing we called SPOT and Alan and I used to play cowboys together down at Bulbous farm……sorry, I went back in time for a minute but I am back now. What a great choice to take the Carnival Liberty to the Caribbean. I have not been to Grand Turk and I will therefore contact a colleague to get you some first-hand advice. Thanks for writing and I will get back to you soon.
NANETTEALI – Teachers are the best of the best.  Don’t worry about a thing and just keep looking forward to your cruise, it will be here soon.
THE RED NECKS – Thank you for the education on what makes a redneck. I particularly loved the RESTLIN one. This will certainly prove useful when I visit the South. I am heading to South Beach in Miami, is that the same? I admit I was a big baby when I was being sick; I guess all of us me are. I am sorry that there was a big gap in the postings but as promised I will be doing extras this week. I thank you again for reading and see y’all after supper!
IVERNON – So firstly , thank you for booking the bloggers cruise, you will not regret it. Then secondly, your husband is not sure if he wants to cruise on the Carnival Splendor for your 14th wedding anniversary. Here the, are the top ten reasons to for your husband to take that cruise.
10. The Carnival Splendor is a brand new design to the Carnival fleet and will be the largest and most exclusive “Fun Ship” thus far.
9. The ship features a 21,000-square-foot spa and wellness center, which I will personally show you around
8. The ship will cruise to St. Petersburg, Russia, one of the most beautiful and amazing cities in the world.
7. Also featured is Amsterdam so while Inez is in the wellness center I can show you the sights of Amsterdam
6. I will send free alcohol to your cabin
5. The ship leaves out of the UK, so you can come to my house for tea and crumpets
4. I will send more free alcohol to your cabin
3. I will get the ship’s godmother Angelina Jolie to sign a pair of my underwear for you
2. It will be the best 12-day cruise you have ever had. Imagine sailing this incomparable ship into Russia, Estonia, Denmark, etc.
AND THE NUMBER ONE REASON YOU SHOULD TAKE THIS CRUISE.
1. Because you love your wife and she really wants to go…………….enough said.
CAPT CHUCK – Thanks for finding the blog thing and coming up Chuck (something I have been doing the last few days) is confirmation that I was indeed the cruise director of the Carnival Triumph. I remember the man who had sang “I Believe I Can Fly” and I do remember my awful attempt to sing like him. I apologize, my voice sounds like a cat being neutered with a blunt spoon. Congratulations on winning the free cruise while on the Carnival Spirit. What cruise are you going to take? Let me know if you need advice. Now, as for protocol with the blog, there is none. Say what you think and write it down, I do. Welcome to the blog thingy world, you are amongst friends.
LINDA HERNACKI – How could I ever ignore you? Actually, I should explain that sometimes, I write these blogs and answer the questions that have been posted. Then, sometimes, I forget to go back and look at previous blogs to see if new questions have been posted and then sometimes I forget to answer the original questions after the new ones but before the next blog and sometimes I get confused and then write the same blog I did the day after and before and sometimes I run around the smokestack naked with a feather sticking out of my……………sorry, lost it for a minute………but I am OK now. Linda, Mike’s job is secure as he has first dibs on the light bulb changing job. Anyway, Big Ed and I will still be trying to get our selves out of the booth we are going to share at dinner. I have not secured a date for the Carnival Splendor’s bloggers cruise just yet but I will soon, promise. I honestly think that I had eaten something as usually I don’t get sick but you are also correct about being diabetic –it does mess with your insides. It is funny that I ate nothing for two days but my sugar level was higher than usual….any doctor bloggers like to advise why that is? I send my best to you and Mike the All Round Master Engineer and King of Bulb Changers.
PAUL F. PIETRANGELO – Sorry to hear you have been sick, as well. I got it from a dodgy piece of Italian fish and you from your granddaughters Cheerios. I am happy to hear that the future honeymooners have chosen to spend the start of their married lives on a Carnival ship, we are honored. Please can you remind me when they sail so Heidi and I can look after them? My best to Mary Lou and I hope my days of kneeling in the place named after the second part of her name are over. See you soon.
WENDY – I am not sure what Princess ship Heidi and I will be on. Roger Blum, my boss and friend, is booking the cabin for Heidi and I for mid-November. He is contacting my PA to make sure I get a suite with an unlimited supply of Diet Coke and an Angelina Jolie movie ready in the DVD player. Seriously, it will just be nice to have seven days together in any kind of cabin that does not have a phone ringing 24 hours a day. However, I promise to write a daily blog from their Internet café. We were hoping to cruise the Queen Mary 2 but I think that will have to wait until next year before we deliver the Carnival Splendor but it will be great to see a cruise……from the other side. See you soon and please keep reading the blog thingy.
NED RIFKEN – I am glad you found the blog mate. I am sure many readers will find it fascinating that one of our entertainers is taking the time to read it and mail a reply. I hope you are enjoying working for the best cruise company in the world and thank you for entertaining all our guests each and every week. Now, as for Sean, the cruise director, she loves goldfish, not the snack, but a real goldfish.. I just heard that her fish died last week and she is a little upset, if you want to get in her good books and more, buy her a goldfish………..call it BLOG.
PAM – let me know if  your bosses need their minds changing into letting you cruise……..if not…………….I am calling in………………BIG ED !
JERRY FRIEDMAN – You are correct. Being sick is the only time I can make music from both ends at the same time!  Sorry, but hey, we are friends aren’t we?
JULIE TAYLOR – Correct on all three. The kids just won trophies for themselves and champagne for Mum. Drop me a note when you board and I will deliver them personally. See you soon.
BILL – At the moment it has not been decided if there will be a revenue cruise from Genoa to Dover but rest assured if there is, then you and Brad will have a cabin together. Thank you for the links and please keep reading and soon as I hear anything I will let you, “Bill Pitt,“ know.
KAY – You can ask as many questions as you like, that is one of the main purposes of this blog thingy. A convertible sofa is a very comfortable sofa and indeed it converts every night to a very comfortable bed which your stateroom steward will do each and every night. Hopefully someone will cruise with you but if not I know you will make many new friends. See you soon.
GRACE – There are very few certainties in life but one of them is that I will do my best to make sure your parents 50th anniversary cruise is the best vacation they have ever had. I look forward to meeting them, you and your family in August.
MIKE – Glad you liked the formula. Our Camp Carnival staff is standing by and I am sure that mum and dad will be content and happy as they tour historic Europe knowing that their kids are in a safe and fun environment. See you all soon.
RPS – It seems there is a lot of people who have booked or are going to book the Carnival Splendor so your question about its home port Dover, UK gives me a chance to tell you something about it. Dover, is in the county of Kent, which is called the Garden County because of it’s beautiful villages with contain many typical English country gardens. Dover is reached by flying into one of the two London Airports.
LONDON HEATHROW   2 HOURS TRAVEL TIME
LONDON GATWICK   1 HOUR, 30 MINUTES TRAVEL TIME
Of course, Carnival can as always arrange great flights for you and I am sure they can assist on pre-cruise packages as well. If you have never been to London then, of course, you must see this great city but also, the county of Kent is stunning and if you prefer the countryside there is plenty of the finest examples close to the port.
The most famous landmark in Dover is, of course, the White Cliffs. Sir Winston Churchill wrote his most famous speech atop of the cliffs as he looked out to France during World War II as he scribed “we shall defend our island, whatever the cost may be, we shall fight on the beaches, we shall fight on the landing grounds, we shall fight in the fields and in the streets, we shall fight in the hills; we shall never surrender………………….and he never did.Then, there is the song, by Dame Vera Lynn, “The White Cliffs of Dover,” which was probably one of the most famous songs of the same period.
So, as you can see Dover, Kent and London are places that if you can, a pre- or post-cruise package of a few days is really a must. Please let me know if you need any further information. See you soon.
KIM GALLAGHER – Wow, sounds like you need a vacation. In reply to your supper club reservation question, may I suggest you book for the night we leave Venice. It is the perfect finish to two perfect days in the most romantic city in the world. Please let me know if you would like me to make advance bookings for you and I of course will. My best to your family and see you in a few days.
ANN – We are all working very hard now on the tour package for the Carnival Splendor and the tours are going to be amazing. Please let me know if there is anything anybody really wants to see and I will make sure I pass on your suggestions. What is everyone excited to see the most?  Thanks for reading the blog thingy.
PAULETTES MUM – Hello from us both and please say hi to your two beautiful daughters.
VICKI AND MATT – Thank you for the kind offer of bringing me something to make me feel better but I am sure you could not fit an Aston Martin in your suitcase. Therefore, just a photo of Angelina Jolie, please, which I am sure will soothe my troubled breast. See you soon………….I knew I could get the word breast in this blog somehow!
MRS BIG ED – You are correct to ask me rather than John about laundry. He thinks it is done by small pixies who come out at night and when he wakes up his laundry is folded and hung back in the closet. There is a laundry on every deck and they are forward, midship and aft. Also, twice a cruise there is a $15 set fee for as much laundry as you can stuff into a bag provided by your stateroom steward. If you move cabins on a back-to-back cruise, the moving is done by us on board (not me and John) but by the wonderful crew who will do it for you. John has also volunteered to wash your husband’s underwear by hand if you book the bloggers cruise.
AMBER – I am ecstatic that you are so ecstatic about your cruise. See you soon.

Today, I would like to feature the Carnival Freedom’s Musical Director, Mr. Charlie Rounds, whom I asked a few questions to. Here is Charlie and his answers.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU HAD A LOVE FOR MUSIC AND WHERE DID YOU FIRST START PLAYING AN INSTRUMENT?
I first started playing an instrument when I was fairly young.  My parents started me with piano lessons with a family friend Bonnie Edwards, and then I started playing trumpet in summer after my 4th grade year.  I really started to enjoy music in junior high school, which in the U.S. is from grades 7-9, as that was when I switched over to low brass, moving to the euphonium.  Our high school music program in Rapid City, South Dakota, was very strong under the direction on Milo Winters, and I think that is what led me to choose a career in music.  It was also in High school when I first played the trombone.

HOW DID YOU GET A JOB WITH CARNIVAL AND HOW DID YOU GET PROMOTED TO MUSICAL DIRECTOR AND CHOSEN TO BE THE MUSICAL DIRECTOR ON THE FLAG SHIP

I was first hired by Carnival in 1998 to play trombone in the band on the Carnival Destiny.  I didn’t know it at the time, but my current lead trumpet player Floyd, whom I had met while at the University of Wyoming, had put my name into the Miami office as someone to bring to that ship. 

As far as becoming a musical director, I think that is related to who I have been dating for the last seven years.  I was following around my girlfriend Wendy Andrews as she was at the time an assistant youth director, and then was promoted to youth director.  By following her, I was able to work with some amazing musical directors, and eventually had a chance to fill in for a good friend Rich Ellis, and from there I eventually took over the band on the Carnival Ecstasy in Oct. 2002.   Wendy and I both here on the Freedom, and will be getting married this October.

It was a true honor to be chosen to be the musical director here on the Carnival Freedom.  I’d had the opportunity to work with John Heald early on in my career, and was very fortunate to meet him again on the Carnival Liberty in January 2006.  I was lucky enough to sail with him for 11 months, from the ports of the Caribbean over to the beautiful ports in the Mediterranean.  Myself and nine other musicians had a great time on the Carnival Liberty, and when John brought up the opportunity to work with him again, there was no question.  How can a musician pass up working with the best entertainers, the best technicians, and the best people in charge of your department?  It makes all of our lives easier, and much more fun. 

TELL US ABOUT THE ORCHESTRA, HOW MANY MEMBERS AND WHAT SORT OF MUSIC DO THEY PLAY

The orchestra here on the Freedom is a 10-piece band consisting of the following instruments and musicians (I listed their home states and countries, as well):

Alto Sax  – Ben Burget,   Washington
Tenor Sax  – Shannon Stone,   North Carolina
Bari Sax - Jana James,   Kansas
Lead Trumpet - Jason “Floyd” Springston, Wyoming
Solo Trumpet –  Iain McLachlan,   New Zealand
Trombone - Charlie Rounds,   South Dakota
Guitar  –  Jason Cadamy,   Oklahoma
Piano - Misha Shramko,   Ukraine
Bass -   Chris Posteraro,   New York
Drums  - Jim Milner,   Montana

The group of musicians are all players that I had known and worked with in the past, or in the case of drums and bass, I had heard amazing things about them. Luckily for us, they were all true.  The band is very versatile, playing everything from Dixieland to R&B, jazz standards to operatic pieces.  One night we will be backing an opera singer, the next a cellist, and then a Big Band singer, so we always have to be on our toes.  Playing all these different styles has helped us all grow as musicians. 

WITH SO MUCH ELECTRONIC MUSIC AND MP3 COMPUTER GENERATED SOUNDS BEING MADE THESE DAYS, DO YOU THINK THERE IS A FUTURE FOR BIG BAND MUSIC AND JAZZ?

I really do believe that there is a future for live jazz and Big Band music, you just have to look at how you package it, and who you choose as your audience.  I honestly think that as long as you are playing the music at a very high level, people will always be there to support it.  The emotions that are in live music cannot be matched by a synthesized sound no matter how good the program.

IF YOU COULD INVITE 4 FAMOUS MUSICIANS TO DINNER FROM NOW OR THE PAST WHO WOULD THEY BE

This is a very hard question, but I think it would be Frank Sinatra, Frank Rosalino, Kia Windig, and Harry Connick Jr.

WHAT ARE YOUR PERSONAL FAVORITE TOP 5 TUNES
Just Kiss Me -  Harry Connick Jr.
Over the Rainbow - Israel Kamakawiwo’ole
Smile  -  Michael Buble’
Send in the Clowns - Stan Kenton 76
Anything from  Gordon Goodwin

YOU ARE TRAPPED IN AN ELEVATOR FOR 5 HOURS AND HAVE TO LISTEN TO THE SAME TUNE THE WHOLE TIME, WHICH WOULD YOU CHOOSE

1. ICE, ICE, BABY – VANILLA ICE

2. OOPS, I DID IT AGAIN – BRITNEY SPEARS

3. Y.M.C.A – VILLAGE PEOPLE

4. IT’S A SMALL WORLD – FROM DISNEY WORLD, thankfully I always carry my company-issued earplugs

John here again…
I made a decision today and that is to take a long vacation at the end of this cruise…………………………….don’t panic May 25 cruises. I will be leaving on May 23 in Livorno, flying home and returning on May 25 ready for the next cruise. This means I have a one and-a-half-day vacation. Heidi will remain onboard and run things but I want to be home for Mum’s birthday.
I will send a blog from home with riveting information about my dinner and how I sat around and did nothing. I will be honest though, I need a little “R & R” even if it’s just for 48 hours
Carnival have decided that I should get the royal treatment for my vacation…………….listen to what I get.

A PRIVATE JET FROM PISA TO LONDON AND LONDON TO ROME
A HUGE LEATHER RECLINING SEAT WITH A HOSTESS THAT LOOKS LIKE ANGELINA JOLIE
I GET TO THE AIRPORT AND FIND THAT CARNIVAL HAS HIRED AN ASTON MARTIN FOR ME

Back from the World Of Dreams
Either that or it will be an Easy Jet flight with a seat on the back row next to someone who smells like my bathroom did 2 days ago and my rent a car will be a Mini.
Oh well (:

Your friends

John and Heidi

Good Evening……it’s me …..back from the bathroom and feeling 80% back to normal so I thought I would sit down at the computer and have a little blogging time with you. It was another beautiful day in Naples today and the temperature was up to 80 degrees, perfect for exploring Sorrento, Pompeii and Amalfi.

I stayed on board today and tried to rest ready for tonight’s show.

This morning, I received a call from Wayne our shore excursion manager that as we were pulling into Naples that the 150 guests from Hong Kong were all on the open deck doing the morning exercise where you wave your arms around (I think its called Tai Chi). Anyway, he said it looked remarkable as they were all doing it in unison.

I have received letters and gifts from bloggers TERRI910, TOM AND MARY LOVE, SHARON SOLIE AND KATHY HADOULIS whom I called just now and welcomed them all onboard and thanked them for the doughnuts, coffee, sugar free mints and a Canadian Sweatshirt (for Heidi).  How wonderful they are and how grateful I am that no only did they find the time to read the blog thingy but brought Heidi and I things as well. Heidi says it is very rude to ask for gifts and that she would never do so………………………I would though, so please can I have

1. SUGAR FREE CHOCOLATE
2. A COPY OF ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY MAGAZINE
3. AN ASTON MARTIN DB9 VOLANTE

Tomorrow, we have a roll call of bloggers meeting at 2 pm and I will host a Q&A and we can all have a chat together. Speaking of which, I know many of you have booked the blogger’s cruise which is going to be brilliant. I am working on lots of “surprises” for this and hopefully more of you will have a chance to come as well as I know cabins are now very limited.

I had better get started with today’s Q&A and I am sorry that I have been a little behind with these.

To start, here are the answers to some questions as asked to our chief engineer by a blogger whose name I have misplaced, my apologies.

Would you mind answering these follow up questions for the guests from the website. Many thanks
How many gallons (or liters) fuel does the Freedom use in a cruise: 
An average of 1,500 Metric Tons. (1,500,000 liters or 400,000 gallons). 

How many gallons of water are processed each day :
We produce onboard an average of 550 Metric-Tons / day ( 550,000 liters / day or 145,000 gals. / day).
The average daily consumption is 1,050 Metric-Tons. (1,050,000 liters or 280,000 gls.)

My thanks to the Chief Engineer Gastone for this information and I know I can always count on him for information. We always say here onboard that if you are going to do something properly to give it a “Good Gastoneing.” Chief engineers as I have said before are some of the biggest unsung heroes on cruise ships.

BIG ED – Now you are doing comedy as well. It looks like I finally found someone who can take over my job, do the shows, make people laugh and share my underwear.
JIM AND JANE – I will pass your comments on to Vicki about the Platinum Card benefits as I am sure she will find them very interesting. I will let you know what she says. Keep the Diet Coke cold and drop me a line when you get onboard. See you soon and get ready for a wonderful cruise.
MARK TWAIN AND A HALF – Welcome to blog land on behalf of Heidi and I and the thousands of daily readers. So far we have had 235,000 thumps on the web blog thingy and now we have you and the half a twain as well, so welcome. I loved the name HEALD’S COLLEGE OF CARNIVALOUS KNOWLEDGE” and, as you suggested, I am thinking about making this blog thingy into a book. Please keep reading and I do hope that you will sail on one of our Fun Ships very soon.
DEBRAH HEHN – Great story, you were a Gow and now you are a Hen. Thanks for the explanation and If you have any more please share them with us all.
RPS – Thanks for the kind words about the blog and I guess if people are talking about it on another cruise line then we must be doing ok. I assure you that my mate AL ERNST will be on the bloggers cruise. Best to Suzann and see you on the Carnival Splendor.
RENEE – there are going to be many bloggers on the cruise with you and I am excited to meet you all. I am glad that you enjoy the blog and when you said that you felt like “a little kid that just got her teen idol’s signature” after I replied to your question I want you to know that you made me feel like a pop star. Heidi ……………….just read this…………………and said ……..yea…………….MEATLOAF!

Back in a minute, just going to put the lid up. Ok, I’m back. Now, although I mentioned to Mike M that he could leave his kids with Camp Carnival rather than take them to Florence and Pisa, I can tell you that many parents each and every week take their children with them. I guess it is just personal choice depending on your kids ability to handle a 10-hour tour with some time on the bus. I do not think you made a mistake booking it because I am sure you thought this through and then you read my blog thingy and now you are second guessing yourself. Whatever you decide, I am sure it will be the right thing and I look forward to meeting your family soon.

DOUGNEWMAN – Great photo Doug. All those ships in Barcelona did make for a very busy day and it was perfect proof that Europe is now a major destination and as someone said “the new Caribbean.” Thanks for the lunch invitation and I will meet you for sure. Can we have a Nathan’s Hot Dog ?
SUSETTE……………………I am glad you had two fantastic cruises on the QE2 but I am sorry to hear you did not enjoy the entertainment there and thanks for recommendation that I should be their cruise director. I know you cruised with me on the Carnival Triumph and that seems a long time ago. Heidi and I have been married for nearly three years and thank you for your kind and thoughtful words about us both. I hope you will sail with us again soon.
TIM ( PAM’S B/F) – Congratulations on booking the bloggers cruise and I am very excited about it. You asked about employment as a night auditor/purser. May I suggest that you read the employment section on www.carnival.com and on there is a link to who to write to regarding a purser or accounting position. Meanwhile, if you have any job specific questions, please let me know. See you in January. it’s going to be great !
MISSINGTHESMOKEFREEPARADISE – the sunshine is back !
BIG ED – mate, I have spent the last 24 hours on bended knee in close conversation with my friend Tom the Toilet (yes I have named him) and I hope not see any more of Tom for some time. I do not want to go into too much detail but you are correct that sometimes a suction toilet system is good although I disagree that you should sit down and flush at the same time otherwise Big Ed may lose his family jewels. You would then be called ………ok, I have been told to stop by Heidi but I think you get the picture.
JOHN – What a great name. Thank you for your kind words and I am glad you have discovered this blog thingy. I hope you will keep reading and hopefully one day you will be able to come and witness the fun first-hand.
FUNITURE BLOGGER – To the guest who asked who designed our chairs, my PA has taken time out from filing and making the coffee to tell me the designers name is MR BLEIJENBERG and he is not just a wonderful designer but one of the most fun people you will ever meet. I have not seen him for some time but if he reads this blog or if my PA can take time away from organizing my social calendar I would like to pass on my best to him and his wife.
VALERIE PHILIPS – Congratulations on winning bingo here on the Carnival Freedom and I am glad to hear you are spending your winnings on another cruise with me on the Carnival Splendor. Your sister is from Devon in the UK which is one of my favorite places to visit when I am home. I am glad you like my “British humor” so here is a Devon joke just for you:
TWO COWS ARE STANDING IN A FIELD, ONE SAYS TO THE OTHER “ARE YOU WORRIED ABOUT MAD COW DISEASE?” THE OTHER COW SAYS “I HAVE NOTHING TO WORRY ABOUT, I’M A SHEEP ” .
ANGIE – Sounds like you had a lot of fun with Wee Jimmy although I am not sure you deserved to see him in a bathing costume. I hope Heidi and I get to see you again soon and thanks for your continuing support of Carnival.
BIG HEAD – Heidi here and thanks for the drink recipe which I will try tomorrow night (formal night). I have a feeling you and John are going to become great friends and maybe you can teach him some BATHROOM manners.
CAROL VOSS – May 25 is just a few days away and I know how excited you must be. Please let me know which night you want to go to the supper club and I will book for you. Please keep reading the blog thingy and I will await your advice.
CHAZON – Fantastic news that you have decided to join us on the Carnival Splendor. Sounds like you converted your future wife to cruising following your trip on the Holiday. Did you meet the cruise director? You can request a dinner seating through your agent or directly with Carnival whenever you want to. Hope to hear from you very soon.
EBBIE – I will promise to make your first trip out of the United States the most special time especially as you will be celebrating the “big 50.” Thank you for your kind offer of a New York bagel, Heidi is embarrassed to ask for a cinnamon bagel so I am doing it for her and can I have a regular plain old bagel please. Drop a note to me when you arrive at the Information Desk and I will give you a call. See you soon. Any chance of a diet root beer?
ZSOLT – I am sure I join all my fellow bloggers in wishing your Mum all the best and we all hope she gets better very soon. I cannot imagine how hard it must have been for you to leave the ship in Barcelona and watch your Mum put into an ambulance, I to am sorry that I did not get to say goodbye to you both. Your wonderful and kind words about our staff onboard and ashore are gratefully received and I have sent them to the people concerned. I wish you much happiness and if you can post your mailing address in Hungary I would like to send you a DVD of the cruise and some of the places you and Mum missed. Please write soon and again, we are all thinking about Mum and wish her a good health.

Just got back from the Welcome Aboard Show and, although I was certainly “running on empty,” the great audience and the characters I choose to come on stage got me through it. Here are a few photos of last nights show.

In one of the Q &As above we mentioned the QE2. As also mentioned in a previous blog our esteemed Maitre D Ken Byrne used to be a waiter on that ship back in the 1970s. He shared this story with me and I thought I would pass it on to you. While Ken was working in the famous Queens Grille Restaurant aboard the flagship of Cunard he had a friend, another waiter called Harry Macintyre aka “Scottie” known as he came from Scotland.

Scottie was a little five-foot nothing waiter who Ken describes as “the best waiter I have ever worked with.” The QE2 was on its world cruise and there are passengers who had been on board for the whole time, some 200-plus days. One of these was a very important member of the Saudi Royal Family. Scottie had been serving him all cruise long and they had become great friends. As the majestic ocean liner returned to its home port of Southampton and the final stop of the cruise Scottie had been telling Ken and his other waiter friends that he hoped he would receive a “royal family size tip.” So the last night came and Scottie served him expectantly salivating at the thought of what he was about to receive……………….the meal was over……………….the Prince said his goodbyes and gave him ………nothing.

Scottie could not believe it as they relaxed in the Pig and Whistle — the famous Crew Bar on the QE2.  Poor old Scottie was the laughing stock. The following morning the ship arrived in Southampton and the guests all left. Scottie was later called by the executive officer to come immediately to the gangway. This was unheard of and Scottie thought he must be in trouble. He arrived to the gangway and was met by the executive officer and other important members of the Cunard ship. But that was not the only think on the pier, for there gleaming in the sunshine, on the pier, was a car, not just any car, but a ROLLS ROYCE CORNICHE with a simple note under the windshield wiper that said, “SCOTTIE, THANK YOU FOR EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE” signed by the Royal Prince.

This became a famous story in the folklore of the ship and the photo of the car, Scottie and the ship still feature onboard and this was also featured on a TV program that ran in the U.K. called “Whickers World.”

If nothing else it shows that you never know what is going to happen and also hope springs eternal that one day somebody may tip me an ………..ASTON MARTIN.

It’s now the sea day before Rhodes and the med is still, the sun is shining and it is a perfect day for our guests to relax.

I am off to the Mellow Yellow Meeting now with Heidi. I just finished my travel talk and the following Q & A. These are done live on the microphone so everyone can hear each question as many times the questions are exactly the same. These sessions always produce the unexpected and today was no exception. Here, word for word, as witnessed by Heidi and 150 guests including some blogger friends who are sailing is the question of the day asked by a Sophie from San Diego, California.

“ I have blonde hair, is it dangerous for me to walk around in Istanbul?  Now, I had a choice of answers here but I decided to be nice and ask her what she meant. She said she had heard that young blonde women were often “kidnapped “ in Turkey and sent to……….and this is the best bit, she meant to say Harems but she said….HARLEMS…………..I could not resist and once again and regardless of the warning shot I got from Heidi’s “don’t you dare face.” I said “,It may be better to wear a hat or a head scarf.” She thanked me and left, with Heidi, who is blonde, running after her to tell her I was joking.

Moments like this are just priceless.

Your friends

John and Heidi

Good Morning One and All…………..and can I start by getting a collective  AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH from all of you because I do not feel well. It started last night during our Carnival Legends guest talent show when I felt a bit yuckish and this morning I have woken to start the debarkation process and feel pretty sorry for myself. My throat feels like someone has given the roof my mouth the good news with a pointed stick, and my head feels like Paris Hilton is living in it.

So, in between announcements for guests to disembark the ship, I am sitting here writing this blog and feeling pretty sorry for myself. Heidi says I am a big baby and that its “just a cold ” so I thought I would ask all my blog friends for tea and sympathy this morning.

Yesterday in Livorno guests explored Florence, Pisa and Tuscany with the added addition of beautiful sunshine. Therefore, the final score was;
RAIN 1
SUNSHINE 11

Here are two photos taken yesterday by one of our entertainment staff members Jamie. The first is of Pisa and the tower and the second of the Cathedral at Pisa

Overall. I think last cruise went well. I have to improve some things regarding transportation which is provided by the various port authorities and together we must improve the system in Venice, Dubrovnik and Barcelona. Apart from that, I was very satisfied with what was our first Grand Med cruise of the season and I am sure the guests had a great time.

We are back to our Greece and Turkey cruise this week and I see from the passenger list that we have again many international Guests onboard including 100 Japanese, 500 from Hong Kong, 45 from Korea, 137 from Australia and 1 from Idaho!

OK, I am ready to start today’s Q & A which is sponsored by BY WINDEX, THE BEST THING TO USE WHEN YOU SNEEZE ALL OVER YOUR COMPUTER SCREEN AND BY EX LAX, IF YOU HAVE A COUGH TAKE EX LAX, THEN YOU WILL BE AFRAID TO COUGH.

ZYDECOCRUISER – Great news, you are booked on the Carnival Splendor. This is going to be such a great ship and I am looking forward to seeing you mate. The ship is going to feature many new concepts for us at Carnival and soon I will be featuring a lot of these features on this blog thingy. See you soon and thanks for booking.
KATHY KROLL – You booked, too! Wow, this is going to be quite a bloggers get-together on the Carnival Splendor. Kathy, as I am writing this you are just a few hours away from boarding the ship and I am very much looking forward to meeting you AND Paul.
JO AND DAVE – That’s three for the Carnival Splendor and you booked back-to-back cruises, as well. What a fantastic way to celebrate your 43rd wedding anniversary. Dover is not to far from London and I am sure we will be organizing tours there. Or, you can come and have tea at my house. As for your Platinum question, I will chase that up right now as I have yet to hear back from the people in charge. I am honored that you have chosen to cruise with me again
LINDA – And another who has booked the Carnival Splendor. The ship is actually being built in Genoa, Italy not Venice and I am sure we will sail directly to Dover, UK straight from there with no guests, but I am not sure yet. Looking forward to seeing you on the Carnival Freedom soon and we can chat more about the Carnival Splendor. I am very happy you booked especially and thank you for your kind words. It will be a very special cruise.
KERSPLOTT – That’s two more people booked on the Carnival Splendor and I am (excuse me, just sneezed) very happy to hear that you will be joining me. I will do my best to have Penny Mathisen perform on the Carnival Splendor. You are right, she is fantastic and she has the voice of an angel. Now, regarding Amsterdam, I will make sure we have a tour to Alsmeer which is the largest single story building in the world and the home of the International Flower Auction. It is amazing and if you love flowers and gardening you will be in heaven. Let me know if you need anything else and again, thanks for booking.
The TAYLORS – I am very excited that for your 25th Anniversary next year that you have booked the Carnival Splendor. Even better is that in a months time you and the entire family will be here on the Carnival Freedom. I am glad the kids like the blog thingy………….hello kids…………..and find it better than the boring reading they have to do for homework! Kids, here is a question for you and if you post the right answer, I will leave a prize in your cabin. In Izmir you will be visiting Ephesus. What famous Greek Goddess has a statue there which inspired a famous company to name their clothing and shoe company. See you soon, and let’s see if the kids can work this out…….I have no idea how old they are so maybe that was too easy or too difficult so just in case, let me cover ages.
1 + 1 =
If a train leaves the platform at 11:32pm and travels and 45 miles an hour what time does it take to dig a hole before the man got on the train to the square of right angle on the hippopotamus.
LINDA AND HER HUSBAND – Princess are indeed part of the family and I am sure your fifth cruise with them will be a wonderful experience. Heidi and I are taking a Princess cruise in November. Now, you say you have never sailed Carnival before but would like to in Europe. OK, then book the Carnival Splendor, go on, I will be there to look after you and I promise you it will be a cruise that will far exceed your expectations. If you have any questions or concerns before you do, please drop me a line on this blog thingy and I will be here to assist you. Best regards to you and your husband with no name:)
KAY – What you have done (to answer your question) is to book your first ever cruise on the brand new, sensational Carnival Splendor. What a first cruise you will have and Heidi and I will be so proud to make sure that between now and sailing time that we answer all your questions as will your fellow bloggerists. You are just a year away from the time of your life ! See you soon.
NANCINURSE – You said you have three days to explore Rome before the cruise starts and that is fantastic as there is so much to see. The Hilton can arrange tours for you at the hotel as we have a Carnival representative there who if needed can arrange what you need. The Vatican is about a 45 minute ride by taxi from where you are staying and I am not sure but I think the Hilton also has a bus that can (for a few euros) take you into Rome. As far as what to see, there is so much, but here are my top five favorites.
1. THE VATICAN
2.THE COLOSEUM
3.THE CATACOMBS
4. THE TRIVI FOUNTAIN
5. VIA VENETO – FULL OF RESTARAUNTS AND NIGHTLIFE
Have a fantastic time and enjoy your time with the St.Peter’s excavation team. See you soon.
BIG ED – I have asked our technical department to see if indeed we can refresh the web cams a bit quicker. It was a great sight though to see the QM2 and us docked bow to bow. I had no idea Mrs. Big Ed would not fly………..is she scared of flying? Why not sail the QM2 on a trans-Atlantic cruise and drive from Southampton to Dover and join the Carnival Splendor and then sail and afterwards drive back to Southampton and take the QM2 back to New York? See, I have it all worked out for you !
INGRID Z – Thank you for your kind words about the blog. I am happy to hear that you find it fun and inspiring………sorry, had to stop to blow my nose. right in the middle of writing to you………you must feel very special. Let me answer your questions now. There are just two formal nights on a 12-day cruise on the first and last sea days. You then ask if heidi and I have been to the perfume factory during our visit to Cannes………………we have and I have to tell you……………it STINKS !
Seriously, it is an amazing place and you even get to make your own perfume so I think it might be something that you and Lillian your daughter really enjoy. When Heidi and I went I made a perfume called ‘ Sperm of the Devil ‘ ………….available form all good gas stations. Please let me know if you have any other concerns and Heidi and I are looking forward to seeing you.
Heidi has told me at this point that she wears a perfume called Bulgari should they be reading this and want to sponsor a blog page. Sorry heidi, Aston Martin are first.

 ASTON MARTIN, ALL CRUISE DIRECTORS SHOULD DRIVE ONE………………………………………….PLEASE
AMY BENDEKOVITS – I am so glad you had a great cruise on the Carnival Leg End and your mention of how friendly the crew were is also wonderful to hear. You asked where Carnival buys it furniture from? Most of the furniture is from different suppliers that our Architect Joe Farcus uses to complement the ship’s design. Most of the chairs come from Holland (Heidi is proud) and we have to great friends who have supplied us with these chairs for some years. I would tell you their names but the spelling is quite difficult so maybe my PA can e-mail me the correct spelling. Is there a special piece of furniture you would like to know about Amy? If so, please let me know and I will try and find out its history. Hope you can sail again soon and thanks for reading this blog thingy.
BIG ED – Thanks again mate for your kind words to Kay especially about the Carnival Capers. If you and Pat ever decide on a career change then you should be cruise directors. What do you do for a living?
DOUG – You are on the front page of the blog about your article about the blog which I am talking about on my blog!  It was very nice of you to write and again thanks so much for the fantastic article.
PAUL F. PIETRANGELO – Great comments mate and I am glad your son liked the Speedo references. Thank you for the kind mention of the two crew members who made your cruise special on the Leg End. I have passed their names onto the hotel director there. You are correct that Mr. Stanley Woods was indeed a special and inspirational man. His volley of praise was extraordinary and his happiness was infectious. Carnival takes huge pride in the way we are able to look after guests with special needs. We have a dedicated department ashore for this and all the ships have constant training programs to assist the crew in the correct and proper ways to best give these guests the best cruise possible. My regards to you and your family and please keep reading the blog.
JONATHAN HALL – May 25th will soon be here and how brilliant it will be for Austin to turn 14 while we are in Dubrovnik. Thank you for your kind words and please make sure you leave me a note at the Information Desk when you board to remind me of Austin’s birthday. See you in 12 days.
SHARON – Apple and Custard…………..mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm. Heidi is very excited. Most important is that you have a good flight and leave me a note at the information desk when you get onboard. See you soon.
NUMBER 12
Here are the answers to your questions.
1. We only tender in one port which is Cannes. The first tender for guests will be at 9:30 am and you will be ashore by 9:45 am. All other ports will allow you to go ashore as and when you want.
2. You can purchase wine throughout Italy but most shops will not ship for you. Many guests buy wine and pack it into their suitcases because you can not put it into your carry-ons anymore. Another option is to mail it home from the airport, there is a big post office in the terminal.
3. The weight limit in the Gondola is unofficially 250 pounds however on our organized tours we are able to adjust that when needed so do not worry.
4. We do have Poker in the Casino so I hope it is your lucky week.
See you in July and let me know if I can help further.
JODI – I totally understand that you cannot sail in the Med due to work commitments but the fact that you have booked the Carnival Splendor for her first Caribbean cruise is great news as well. The “SPA CABINS” are going to be just outstanding and I will be posting some information ASAP. Now casino cabins, that’s an idea and how about a cabin in the dining room . Big Ed and could have a bed with wheels on it so the crew can just push us around the various food outlets…..MEALS ON WHEELS. Many people have booked the bloggers cruise and if there are any cabins left I hope you can change your cruise over as it would be marvelous to have you onboard. I will be blogging for some time to come so please keep reading.
BIG ED – Thank you for the description of where you are from by the use of the “hand.” You live at the base of my thumb as you say and it must be beautiful because it is very green at the moment so you actually live in Snotville! Thanks for the key to hell. See you there. Now, as for Aston Martin – the best car in the world – I agree that I should keep mentioning it so they end up giving me one. Then you and I can cruise the streets of Michigan and pick up hot chicks. What do you say?
SHELEE – Your husband is a redneck you say, how about telling an Englishman what makes a redneck. Please send my best regards to your travel agent and thank her for booking the Carnival Splendor. What date are you sailing for your first-ever cruise on the Carnival Sensation? Please let me know.
BONNIE AND PRINCHE CHARLES – The seat is down (for now). I wish it were that simple to get Angelina Jolie to be godmother just by offering her a solid gold plastic trophy. I might have to upgrade her to a trophy and a chocolate covered strawberry. If I can get Aston Martin to provide me with a car then I can pick her up in that. Heidi says she can take care of Brad for a while. I am hoping that someone reading this blog from Carnival’s HQ is putting together a proposal to make this happen. Heidi suggested Paris Hilton or Britney Spears be the godmother but I explained that there has to be champagne In the bottle when it smashes against the bow.
ANDY – I have posted this question to Vicki and knowing her as I do I am sure she will be back with an answer very soon. Thank you for offering me a vice president position but for now I belong onboard however maybe one day I can be based on land, I know that is what heidi would like as well. Thank you for the kind words about the blog and stand by for an answer from Vicki.
BILL – I have also added your question to Vicki’s inbox. I wonder what she will say about Angelina? The Internet question is a great idea and I am sure very soon we will have all the answers when she hosts a guest blog. She is the best in the industry and one of the main reasons that Carnival’s sales force and marketing departments have won so many awards. Thanks for writing again mate.
ADAM – Heidi’s birthday on April 28th. Sorry I missed yours so a happy belated birthday to you.
VICKI AND MATT – We do not have a link to the Spa treatments onboard yet but we will soon as it is a must. The hot stones treatment is I am told amazing, lots of little stones massaged into your body or for me and Big Ed, just one big rock. Thaks you for your promotional advertisement for Carnival and we are so proud to hear how loyal you are to us. I hope you find another crew member who is as excellent as Suleymann was and just as good looking………….oh wait a minute, there is one…..me!
Thanks again and please keep reading the blog thingy.
HIJEAN – As you are allergic to Kiwis I will lock them all away for your cruise of 6/30. Naughty Kiwis. The lamb shank is not on the menu yet but will be one day soon. It will not be long before the fun begins so see you soon.
NANETTE – Buenos tacos mi amigo. I am so sorry you had a bad day at school. I know I used to give my teachers a tough time so I hope that things get better very quickly for you. We do play Phantom of the Opera on the big screen and it is as you say a perfect movie to watch under the stars. Heidi sends her best and we both hope you have a better day at work today. See you soon.
MAYLEE – You are correct, there will be lots on bloggers on the June 6 cruise. I hope you will all leave a note for me at the information desk so I can chat with you all. Have a wonderful pre cruise trip in Europe and we will see you soon.
KENA AND DAVID – Thank you so much for the Kentucky Derby information. I did see the Queen on the BBC news and she looked like she was having a great time. Her Majesty has always had a passion for horses as has Prince Charles but enough about Camilla! Sorry, about that. Anyway, in answer to your question about where heidi and I have been in the States I am sorry to say that we really have not traveled much. You see, after a long contract, a vacation for us is just going home and being with family and friends. However, if this is a personal invitation to come to Kentucky then I except. I too hope that the weather is good in Venice for you and I am sure it will be a cruise to remember. Thank you so much for reading the blog thingy everyday.
MISSINGTHESMOKEFREEPARADISE – Thank you for the correction on my nautical terms, I shall consult you before I attempt any more as you are an ex-Navy man. It must be wonderful for you to be on a ship and relax instead of working under what be tense conditions. Joe Elvis is one of the many talented musicians to come out of the Philippines. It seems the country breeds music into them at a very young age and Joe is a shining example of how good they are. How nice of you to give them your tie. Little gestures like that mean so much to the crew and I thank you for making his day. I am looking forward to meeting you and we can chat about your Navy days. See you soon mate.
KERSPLOTT – Bonjour mes enfants. What a wonderful sight it must be to see the Carnival Spirit sail the Gastineau Channel. As for your comments about Donovan, well he and I are old friends and I have actually been to his house in Ocho Rios. He truly is one of those people who sum up the Jamaican catch phrase “no problem, mon” because nothing is ever a problem for him.
Montserrat is the perfect choice for your visit to Barcelona, it really is one of the most peaceful places on earth. I appreciate you reading the blog thing and your wonderful comments so very much. Please KEEP reading.  427 DAYS AND COUNTING
GLENN AND LEANNE – A Chinese Boomerang – you throw it but it comes back the Wong way
BILL – You are nearly correct. The Carnival Splendor plans have been posted but unfortunately your cabin does not connect to Angelina Jolie’s but to mine. I will leave something on the bathroom floor for you.

OK, I am back. I left for 24 hours because my cold turned into something else. After debarkation I realized that as I was typing the blog that something was not right and just after that I was proved correct. I knew I was going to be sick, I must have eaten something (I had some fresh fish ashore in Livorno that probably was as fresh as a marathon runner’s sock) and sure enough a few moments later I was speaking to the God Of Porcelain. I started to feel hot and cold and shivery (new word) and, of course, I had to do my Welcome Aboard Travel talk in a few hours time. How I got through it, I will never know, although it is the first time I have ever performed on stage by sitting on a stool, I was that weak. I apologized to the whole audience as I felt they would see for certain that I was out of sorts but everyone was very kind. I always start of the talk by randomly interviewing a few people in the audience to see where they are from, etc. I interviewed one lady and it turned out to be one of our great blog friends Cruising Canuck and she had, as promised, brought me a Tim Horton’s doughnut………….something tells me Heidi had better eat that. Seeing a friendly face on the front row helped me get through it and I really do not know how I did and sure enough straight after the talk the toilet and I became best friends again.

It is now Monday lunchtime and I have been sick all night but I feel much better today although my stomach does not know what has happened and is making some very strange sounds. My head is still pounding away but the nausea has gone and I just ate something for the first time in 24 hours. Heidi made me some dry toast, why?  If I want to see if I am better I should be eating a cheeseburger and some ribs not dry toast. Hopefully I will feel better tonight for the Welcome Aboard Show as I have never missed one in 20 years and I don’t intend to start now.

So, all in all it was quite a day and one of the results of this was the lateness of this blog thing for which I apologize and of course I will post an extra one to make up for it.

One more thing, I was not sure I should tell you this but if I do not then I am sure other bloggers who are onboard this week will be sure to write about it online, As I sat on my stool, with a temperature of 100 degrees, feeling sick, my head about to explode a lady on the front row waved me over. I though she had a question so I said that if anyone had questions that the staff would remain afterwards buy she insisted. So, I stood up and as I did the audience began to snigger and the lady then confirmed why this day would be one to forget……….my fly was open…………………………wide open……………………..as the audience laughed and as the nausea built I said on the microphone ” Don’t worry folks, the mouth of the cave is open but the beast is asleep ”

This blog is dedicated to all the mothers as yesterday was Mothers Day. I could have done with my Mum being here yesterday as Heidi made me clean up my own mess in the bathroom.

I will write another blog very soon

Your friends

John and Heidi

Can I start this blog by welcoming all the new readers who have hit this page web thing because of the write ups in Cruise Critic and CruiseMates. I welcome each and everyone of you and thank you for adding to the 223,000 smashes we have had on the blog thingy.

Today we are in Barcelona…………what a day……..here’s why.

9 CRUISE SHIPS IN
13,000 PASSENGERS
HALF-TERM SCHOOL HOLIDAYS IN SPAIN
FORMULA ONE GRAND PRIX PRACTICE

The shuttle bus service provided for all the guests to return to their various ships were very, very busy and the lines were long and long lines = unhappy guests = unhappy cruise director……………………..we have to do better and I will make sure that we do.

On the plus side there was a majestic site in front of our bow as the Queen Mary 2 docked next to us, here sleek and regal lines glimmering in the Spanish sun. (Wow, that was good stuff. Maybe I should write a romance novel). The QM2 is stunning and I want to use that segue into thanking somebody for contacting Cunard regarding my dream to sail on a trans-Atlantic cruise because Heidi and I have been offered the chance to go. I am not sure if my schedule will allow us to sail this year but next year we will for sure and can I say a HUGE thank you to all concerned for allowing me this chance. What a blog that will be, LIVE FROM THE QM2. We also will be taking a Princess cruise in November and will be blogging from there, it will be nice to meet other family members.

The weather was the hottest it has been yet this season with temperatures touching 80 degrees. I just spoke to some guests who went to Montserrat. For those who have no idea what Montserrat is all about, it is a place that defines the word “tranquility.”  Two thousand meters high and accessible by a mountain train it is the home of 185 Monks who spend their entire adult life there. It also has the most beautiful cathedral where, if you are lucky, you will get to hear the world famous Montserrat Boys Choir. Their music resonates around the Cathedral while you discover this amazing monument to faith and visit the Black Madonna which people come here from all over the world to see. The guests I just spoke with, Mr. and Mrs. Roper, told me that it was the highlight of their port days so far. It is certainly on my “must see” list and you can do so on our Montserrat and Barcelona tour. Mr. Roper was celebrating his 80th birthday and said in a letter he wrote to me that this would probably be his last trip from Kansas City to Europe. He was stationed in parts of Europe during World War II and he wanted to come back to “let rip” one more time. Not sure what that means but he and his wife Christine are having the times of their lifes. Here are a few photos of Montserrat.

OK, it is time for the Q & A session which is brought to you by GAS X tablets.

NATE’S MUM – Thank you for the congratulations message on being promoted to the front page of the Web site. In answer to your question, I will keep writing the blog thingy for as long as possible or as long as people keep reading it. Many thanks and please keep reading.
JTODDINMAN – Thank you for your questions and I will have the answers posted on my next blog. Watch this space.
BIG ED – Maybe once your photo album of bloggers is complete you could sell it on eBay, I am sure it will fetch a dollar and you could then be chief auctioneer with the title eBay auctioneer targeting price, originality & ordering – E.A.T.P.O.O. Congratulations………………………I have a feeling that you should have been a cruise director 
DEBRA HEHN – Do you pronounce that Hen? I am glad you enjoy meeting the crew. Is there any where else in the world where you can live along side people from 50 different countries? The Carnival crew are simply the best……………Bloggers, are there any that have made a huge difference to your cruise experience? Tell me about them. Thaks Debra and please keep reading the blog thingy.
LORRAINE AND BOB – How fantastic that your Grandkids first European trip will be here on the Carnival Freedom. You ask if I have any advice for a successful trip? Most important I think is that you come to the travel talks where I will do my best to give you the information that will in turn help you decide what is best to do ashore for you and your family. After each talk, I will host a Q & A so that we can have a chance to chat one on one. Please do not let your family miss any of the shows and, most importantly, relax and let this vacation become the most amazing family time you have ever had. I will be here to help you throughout. See you soon.
MIKE M – June 6 is going to be like a mini Bloggers cruise as you are sailing as well. Let me answer your questions.
1. Should You Bring Your Laptop? – If you are the sort who cannot live without being attached to the World Wide Web thing then, YES, bring the Laptop. The entire ship has no wires and you can open it and use it anywhere. Do not ask me how, you just can. We also have an Internet Café which if to be honest does get very busy and at times, you may have a short wait before getting on to the line or whatever. So, you have options.
2.Now to the more series stuff about leaving your kids onboard while you take a shore excursion. Judging by your comments, I think you are feeling a little guilty about this, well you should be. How could you possibly think…………..I am kidding. Of course, you should not feel guilty although you would not be the first. Simply, this is what Camp Carnival is for. Here is the mathematical equation to prove that leaving them there is the right thing to do.
KIDS, 5 + 7 ON A 10  HOUR TOUR  IN FLORENCE = SCREAMS + ARE WE THERE YET+ I NEED TO PEE = TEARS AND STRESSED MUM AND DAD

CORRECT MATHEMATICAL SOLUTION
KIDS, 5 + 7 + CAMP CARNIVAL + PLAYING+MOVIES + ICE CREAM + NAP + SAFE ENVIROMENT + PROFESSIONAL STAFF= HAPPY KIDS = HAPPY MUM AND DAD.

AS I AM DOING MATH:
UNDERPANTS + FLOOR = 0 THAT NIGHT FOR ME.
See you soon.
CAROL SCHOENBERGER – What a question. According to you in Norwegian Viking Times instead of a godmother new ships would be offered a human sacrifice to bless them. You ask, can I think of anyone I would like to sacrifice for the Carnival Splendor………………………no……………………….but I would like to give the man who called me Sperm Of The Devil a swift kick in the Fjords! Thanks for the laughs Carol and write soon.
BIG ED – If you win the royal flush at the poker table then I would be a happy man, you and Mrs. Big Ed deserve it. Think BIG.
BELLA – I do try and not think about Angelina and I am going to seek professional help:) Let me answer your questions and this may help me forget.
1. What is the average age of the cruise guests. ……………..This week it is 51 but that gets a bit younger as we go through the summer.
2. Which dining room is better, The Posh or the Chiq……………They are both fantastic. They serve the same food and have the same fun and courteous ambiance. It just depends on what time you want to eat.
3.What is the front and the back of the ship called. ……………..The front is called the forward and the back the aft. The left hand side facing forward is the port side and the right hand side facing forward is the starboard side.
If you need an explanation on the facts of life, please ask Big Ed 
I appreciate you writing and reading every day and I look forward to meeting you.
VICKI AND MATT TILL – Thank you for your kind words and Heidi and I cherish every moment we have together.
CANUCKCRUISER – Please send me your postal address, it will not be posted on the blog thingy but will be sent straight to me and I will mail you that book. I am so sorry it did not reach you. I will be on the Carnival Splendor in September and I hope you will be too.
M MORAN – Children on cruises go together naturally. The experience is a family vacation in the safest and most fun environment in the world. Your cruise of May 25 will be a chance for your kids to see Pompeii, volcanoes, Venice, as well as play and have fun with other lucky youngsters. The only island I got see when I was a kid was Canvey Island, Essex UK, look it up on the web!  I do think that there are times that you should let your kids stay at Camp Carnival allowing you and Mrs. Mike to enjoy some romantic, quality time together. If you need anything while onboard please do not hesitate to ask.
KATHY KROLL – I hope you and Paul have a safe flight and if your suitcases do not make it please tell Paul that he is welcome to borrow some of my underwear. See you in a couple of days.
JIM AND ARLENE – I want to say a huge thank you for being a bloggist since day 1. I have no idea how many blog thingies I have done. I would think I will soon reach 50. Can anyone tell me? In 14 days you will be here, so let me answer your questions.
1. Upon arrival, please call 1078 to confirm your supper club reservation which I have made for 7:30 pm. If you wish you change the time you may do so. We will be leaving Dubrovnik that evening.
2. With regard to transportation to and from Rome, this can be done via the internet or directly at the airport for $75
Shuttle services will be provided as well at the end of the cruise back to the airport. However, you also asked about the Papal Audience, we will be offering tours for this also on board. Heidi and I are looking forward to seeing you soon. Have a safe flight.
DAVE (AND KATHY) – You have given me 2 big smiles in the last 20 seconds as I read your comments. The first was at the reminder of your husband being my “Trigger” and the second, hearing the name Gary Hunter, you are correct he had a wonderful style and could reduce an audience from laughter to tears within a few minutes. Have a wonderful time in Alaska. Please give my  best regards to “Trigger.”
GLENN AND LEANNE – What size head to I have? It’s a big one. How about swapping a boomerang for a special bottle of wine for dinner? Looking forward to seeing you and to my becoming Australian.
INGRID Z – Heidi and I thank you for your lovely words and we are both sure that you and Lillian are going to have the most fantastic time on board. What a way to celebrate your graduation. See you in June.
TAZMAN – Glad to hear you are still reading the blog every day, we certainly can provide you with a table for 7 at the supper club.In answer to your question, the craps tables do tend to get busy later into the night and often are a great place to meet new friends as they create a great party atmosphere. Looking forward to meeting you in July.
BARBARA AND JIM – I am not sure, as you asked, if the big wigs have time to read my blog, but I am sure if they do they will enjoy reading statements like yours. I agree with your comments about Big Ed and as time goes along, I can assure you, he will receive his just rewards. We will do a roll call of bloggers as you requested and I hope you enjoyed the Leg-End. Heidi and I will see you on May 25. Cheers!
ROBERT AND SUZANN – Thank you for posting the Cruise Critic article. If I get only get on the front page of GQ, I would be even happier.
BIG ED – I hope all the Bloggers take the time on day one, to drop me a note with their cabin number so I can arrange a time for us all to get together. We will start this next cruise, and drinks will be on me. (OK, Bob, Roger, and my PA will be paying ).
PAM – Tell Office Depot that unless they do not give you vacation time then I will buy my pencil from someone else. Seriously, do not worry as I am sure we will be able to see each other soon. You asked what ships I have been on and the answer is, mostly all of them except the Carnival Spirit, Miracle and Pride. You asked for my postal address: It Is.
MV CARNIVAL FREEDOM
JOHN HEALD – SENIOR CRUISE DIRECTOR
CEMAR CIVITAVECCHIA
LUNGOPORTO GRAMSCI N.19
00053 CIVITAVECCHIA (ROMA) – ITALIA
I hope you will keep reading the blog and if you send me anything please make sure it includes a return address. Thanks and best wishes to you and your family.
ADIAS.ANGEL – I promise whoever the Cruise Director is on your New Year’s cruise that he or she will be part of an amazing way to bring in 2008. Happy New Year in advance.
BIG ED – I did not get a chance to see the Big Queen By the way, I love Elton John. Anyway, I did get a very gracious invitation for Heidi and I to take a cruise and hopefully next year our dream of sailing into or out of New York on a trans- Atlantic on the QM2 will come true.
RAY McTEAGUE – Thank you for your kind words and I hope that your Carnival Miracle cruise is a very special one. I also hope that you know what a difference your wonderful comments make to Heidi and I. I will now check on your aunt and uncle and give them your kind regards. Keep on blogging, see you soon.

So, another Q & A is over, if I did not answer yours, I promise I will tomorrow.

I just received a photo of a cruise director from another cruise line trying to jump the fence at Carnival’s Headquarters in Miami and he was caught on our security cameras. He even had the cheek to wear a Carnival Polo shirt.

He was arrested and charged with impersonation our Vice President of Cruise Programming, Roger Blum (wearing a Polo shirt was, I admit, a great disguise)

Sometimes, this blog allows me a wonderful avenue to embarrass people )

I admitted at the start of today’s blog that there are things we can improve on, such as the shuttle service in Barcelona. I am finishing this blog in Cannes, South of France, where today we disembarked 2,800 guests in less than 2 hours on tenders. This may not sound like a big achievement, but I assure you, it is and today was the perfect example of perfect team work from all departments.

Today in Cannes, there are 60,000 people living here plus cruise ship and hotel visitors. The next time we are here, there will be 300,000 people all visiting for the world famous Cannes Film Festival. It is amazing to see already the billboards advertising all the films that will hope to be winners, the mega yachts that are moored in the harbor and the smell of money is in the air. This time last year, when we were here on the Carnival Liberty, the film Du Jour was the Da Vinci Code and it will be interesting to see what blockbuster and its stars will be paraded down the red carpet this year. ………………..please let it be Angelina. If she is, she will have the biggest mega yacht in the harbor, the Carnival Freedom!

I just heard that the phones have been ringing off the hook with people trying to book the Carnival Splendor. Please know that I never want this blog thingy to be just a sales pitch site but it would be remiss of me not to point out the amazing buzz that this ship and its itinerary has caused in the cruise world. I am as excited as you are!

It’s now 5:15 pm and I need to get back to being a cruise director.

Just before I go, it is time to salute two fantastic crew members who have won two very prestigious awards given by the BACARDI RUM company. They are: Mario Jalic who won Bartender of the Year
Bipin Sharma who won Chef of the Year.

Both these young men won these titles by inventing a new cocktail and a new entrée using Bacardi products…………..and here are the winning entries.

I came 317th with my recipe of BACARDI RUM AND PRUNE JUICE – A COCKTAIL CALLED THE PUERTO RICAN ROAD RUNNER.

Thanks to you all, it really warms the cockles of our hearts to know you are all reading this simple blog thingy.

Your friends

John and Heidi

Good evening from the majestic Mediterranean Sea.

It is Wednesday 9 May and I am writing today’s blog at 8 pm. It has been a hectic day for me but I am sure a very restful one for the guests. The seas were a little choppy this morning but the day has been bright, hot and sunny. Once again, the open decks were full of sun worshippers, beautiful ladies in bikinis, ladies who should not be wearing bikinis, men with toned muscular bodies wearing Speedos and men who looked like Buddha in Speedos (I hope that’s not offensive – to Buddha, I mean ).

Yesterday, as mentioned we were in Messina and here are some photos of Taormina taken by Heidi who went on a tour inspection

What else has happened………..ah yes, we bloggers got a great write-up on Cruise Critic.  Here is the attachment to the piece written by Doug Newman who I know reads this blog. He is a very talented writer and I thank him for his wonderful words about the blog thingy. Here is the thing that takes you there by pushing the mouse on it….or something like that:

http://www.cruisecritic.com/features/articles.cfm?ID=461

Let’s have a chat about the Carnival Splendor. Tomorrow, May 10, is apparently the day when you can all book a cruise for next year. There seems to be a lot of questions from the blogosphere about this ship and it certainly seems to have created a bit of a excitement and also you are all asking if I will be onboard……….answer, once and for all………….YES…………..God willing, Heidi and I will be there. So, tomorrow, May 10 , you can call  any travel  agent or  1-800-CARNIVAL to book your ride to the Baltic of the Med onboard the Carnival Splendor.  Very soon I will be be able to release some details about the  massive new 21,000-square-foot spa and other features that  will make the Carnival Splendor a truly amazing vacation choice. I am going …….are you?

Now, do not forget that next year Carnival will have 2 ships in Europe as the Carnival Freedom will return in May for a season of Grand Med and Med/Turkey/Greek cruises, so you are now all spoiled for choice.

To complete the Carnival commercial, there are also many new and exciting Caribbean cruises as well and of course Alaska and Hawaii. How the heck are you supposed to decide what to take………………..well………….that’s what I am here for so spread the word and let me be your guide.

Ok,time for the daily Q & A brought to you by Diet Coke, the best diet soda in the world (trying for a sponsor and free Diet Coke) and by Aston Martin, the makers of the finest sports cars driven by movie stars, musicians and cruise directors.

BILL – You are correct in your praise for Ken our maitre ‘d.  I love the clip you have placed of him on (or in) YouTube. His voice and personality make him a true master of his work. You are also correct in your summary of the various cruise boards and again its great that everyone is allowed a free and clear chance to express their opinion, except the man who said I was a cheap Robin Leach and the man who called me Sperm of The Devil and the lady who on one of the boards said she expected her cruise director to be handsome and sophisticated and not a “Benny Hill clone” and the man who posted a thing saying my blog was self-gratifying or the person who said cruise directors are failed entertainers.  Apart from them………..everyone is entitled to an opinion! Thanks again Bill for all your promotions on your Web site, I hope you are well and we will see each other soon.
MR PETE – I know Carnival pays a lot of attention to what is said on the various cruise opinion web sites. Although there is, as you said, a lot of statements that are “personal,” there are many more that are invaluable to us, constructive criticism is worth so much. You asked if I knew Dave Armor, who was a cruise director for Carnival for many years, the answer is yes and his passing was a very sad for me, the company and indeed the entire industry. He was a true gentlemen and had one of those personalities that would adhere himself to each and every passenger without him really ever having to try. He was funny, sincere and, above all, a man who really loved his job and the industry he worked in. He is missed every day by the guests and crew who knew him. Thank you for allowing me to mention him on this blog…………………………I miss the old tinker.
FORGOTTEN THE NAME – of the guest who asked where two waiters they had on the Carnival Glory are now working. Chon is on the Carnival Liberty and Chris is home on vacation at the moment. Sorry for the delay in getting back to you.
LINDA – Your tour time is fine and you will have plenty of time to enjoy Venice. So. From now on I will call you Polcatski, as you are Polish, you love cats and umm, you love to ski. Three weeks tomorrow you will be in Rome and we will be waiting for you. Have a safe flight.
LYNN AND MIKE – I have let the cruise director James know that you are coming. Please drop him a not at the information desk and write these words “John said to let you know we are aboard.”  Carnival Liberty is a great ship and I know you will have the most wonderful time. I hope my tour recommendations were helpful and I hope to meet you on the Bloggers Cruise.
SHEREE – You asked how strenuous the Barcelona by Bike tour is……….simple answer…………..if I can do it, anyone can. There are no hills, not fast sections, no forced pace and no saddles on the bikes Seriously, it is  a great excursion and a wonderful way to see Gaudi’s Cathedral and the other famous Barcelona landmarks. Let me know if you need any further help.
NANCINURSE – Thanks for your question about Dubrovnik. Just before we talk about the tour you mentioned here is a photo of beautiful Dubrovnik. I have not taken the Three Island Yacht Cruise but Heidi has and she says it was wonderful. However, she prefers the Best Of Dubrovnik tour as it gives you a much broader overview of this incomparable country and then leaves you a lot of free time to explore the Old Town itself. I hope this has been of some help and let me know if you have any further need of help. Now, as for the temperature it will be hot but not humid like the Caribbean. Temperatures should be around the mid 80s. See you in July.
SUSAN JORDAN – So lets get this correct. You and your new wife want to know if you can mail home from the ship with postmarks from foreign ports to show your ex-wife where you are and with whom……….I find that quite sick and, to be honest, I cannot possibly charge you for the stamps…….I will pay for them You can, of course, purchase stamps for every port from our Information Desk………………….I will send her one as well. There is a place in Grand Cayman called Hell – there really is. It is called this because of the large black coral formations that rise out of the water and when Sir Francis Drake discovered the islands he called it HELL. It is still called this today and there is a post office there that carries the post mark HELL. Years ago, I used to buy a postcard there every week and postmark it Hell and write to my ex-girlfriend, “I have been to Hell, wish you were here.”
See you soon.
CSPICE – Welcome to the family and congratulations on your job on the Carnival Liberty. Working at sea is a unique experience and the best advice I can give you is the only stupid question will be the one you do not ask. Enjoy each and every moment, remember to stay in touch with your family as much as possible. Please let me know if you need any specific information and on behalf of all the bloggers and myself, welcome aboard.
JACK EVANS – I have passed your message to Ken and he sends his best to you, mate. Thank you also for your kind words to Heidi and I and we both wish you a great cruise on the Carnival Liberty. As for the Carnival Splendor, I have a feeling this is going to be one popular ship. Please keep reading the blog thingy.
ANDREAS GOEDDE – It is interesting as you mentioned that some of the cruise lines have similar names for their new ships, Liberty, Splendor, Freedom etc. I have no idea if they are copying us or even us them, what I do know is that we have the name Carnival in front of all of our ships including the Fantasy Class now as well. We also started with Destiny, then Conquest so Freedom and Splendor were obvious names that followed. Just for fun, let us list the Carnival prefix Ships.
CARNIVAL FANTASY
CARNIVAL ECSTASY
CARNIVAL SENSATION
CARNIVAL IMAGINATION
CARNIVAL ELATION
CARNIVAL INSPIRATION
CARNIVAL PARADISE
CARNIVAL DESTINY
CARNIVAL TRIUMPH
CARNIVAL VICTORY
CARNIVAL SPIRIT
CARNIVAL PRIDE
CARNIVAL LEG END
CARNIVAL CONQUEST
CARNIVAL GLORY
CARNIVAL MIRACLE
CARNIVAL VALOR
CARNIVAL LIBERTY
CARNIVAL FREEDOM
Looks good doesn’t it? Anyway Andy, lets see what the future holds for names. I suggested the Constipation but it hasn’t come out yet!
BUSTER – Looking forward to seeing you on the 13th. As for the supper club, may I recommend Istanbul night for the supper club, it is the perfect finish to an inspiring day. Let me know when you get onboard by leaving a note at the information desk. See you soon.
BILL EDGAR – I am sure that we can find somewhere on the ship for you to practice. Let me know when you are onboard and I will arrange a room for you. You are obviously a master musician and it will be easy for me to find somewhere for you to play as we have a wide range of areas designed for this.
BIG ED – and after everything else, you are now my agent as well. I guess my limited fame has not reached the personal vacation planners, so let me take this chance to say hello to all of them especially Laurie Pandzik…Hello, I am John.
There, Ed thanks again for looking after me and you are now my  Gifted Special Trainer, Researching, Investigating & Nurturing Giant (G.S.T.R.I.N.G.).
JENNIFER – Don’t try and resist. You know the sight of me dressed as a French Maid will only result in the end of your relationship with your new husband so it will be probably best if I just send you the Chocolate Covered Strawberries instead of delivering them myself. If you do book a honeymoon cruise I promise you it will be the perfect start to what will be I am sure the perfect marriage.

No guest blogger today but more will follow. Soon, we will have our beautiful Senior Vice president of Sales and Marketing Vicki Freed grace our humble blog thingy and we will ask her about the amazing Platinum Club program

Also, next week, we will have Roger Blum, vice president of cruise programming, blog with us about the award winning fleetwide entertainment and his 35 years in the industry

Now, on to the most important part of today’s blog. ANGELINA.

I have decided as mentioned yesterday to pursue and stalk her a little into becoming the godmother of the Carnival Splendor. Therefore, I am going to call her agent and offer her a Solid Gold Plastic Trophy, A Photo Of Me In Bed and just when she is undecided, I will pull out the trump card and offer her…………..dinner with me at the supper club…………..how can she refuse.

Dear Carnival,

On behalf of all the people who have smashed their mouse on this blog thingy 219,000 times as of today, we the people all demand that the beautiful goddess Angelina Jolie be crowned Godmother of the Carnival Splendor.

John Heald
Chief Blogger

P.s. – If cabins are a problem she can share mine.

Heidi asked me to tell you that she discovered a new delight today, the Hot Stone Massage at the spa. The cast had bought her the treatment for her birthday and she wants me to tell all of you that it is the most amazing, most relaxing, most rejuvenating experience she has ever had……..except eight years ago in a hammock in Jamaica but that’s another story (albeit a short one).

Let’s see if she is so relaxed that she fails to notice my underwear is on her pillow and the toilet seat is not in her favorite position.

I just returned from the show and, as usual, it earned a massive ovation and the entire audience singing a long to When The Saints Go Marching In. After the show, I stood at the doors to the lounge chatting to people when I met a Mr. Stanley Woods from Ontario, Canada. Stanley and I chatted for some time as he told me who much he enjoyed the shows. He said the music and the atmosphere at all the shows had given him such a thrill and wanted to thank me and the entertainers for making his cruise. Nothing remarkable about that I hear you say and you would be correct if Mr. Stanley Woods was not…………….blind.

He told me he has been blind (for 42 years, following an illness) and explained to me how the music and the description of the costumes given to him by his wife Doris enabled him to enjoy the show as much as anyone. He was also quick to point out how accommodating the crew had been and how courteous most of the guests were when they saw his white aid stick. He did say MOST as he said there were a few people who pushed past him when getting on and off the ship, ” I think because maybe I walk slow,” he said. He also told me how much he missed his guide dog ” Brandy ” but he did not feel she could make the nine-hour flight as she is getting old.

The last thing he said was again how much he enjoyed the shows and that this cruise had been the best vacation he had ever had and that even though he was blind he saw things he had never seen before.

I sometimes take the shows and the places we visit for granted. If that should ever happen again, I shall try and remember Stanley Woods who probably enjoyed them more than anyone.

Goodnight

Your Friends

John and Heidi

Hello to my friends in Blogville.

I want to apologize for the late blogs over the weekend. I know some of you get disappointed when you turn on the computer to find no fresh blog but it is something to look forward to on Mondays instead.

Oh, I just learned we got promoted. Congratulations we are now on the front page of www.carnival.com. Thank you all very much for your help and if we can keep going with this we may make the front page of www.angelinajoliewantstobethegodmotherofthecarnivalsplendorandhaveacloselookatjohnsblogthingy.dream.com

A beautiful day today with the open decks full of sun worshipers in various stages of undress listening to the band and enjoying the deck games.

Indoors, I hosted my Barcelona and Cannes talk and afterwards the shore excursion desk was busy with Barcelona Shopping and Highlights and The Colours (spelt correctly) Of The French Riviera being the most popular.

Today I had another interview this time with Mr. and Mrs. Seldon for their Web site and Porthole Magazine which is run by an old friend of mine Bill Panoff who used to be a cruise director before becoming editor and also running a successful cruise ship promotions company called PPI.

The blog thingy, at the time of writing, stands at 209,000 thumps, hits or whatever they are called……………..all I can say is WOW and I am still mystified as to why.

I had better get on with the Q & A as it will soon be showtime………..tonight’s show features the Beautiful Penny Mathisen who is firmly becoming one of my favorites and I wish you were all here to hear her angelic voice.

Oh, just wanted to show you these photos from our Venetian Mask Sail Away Party. We had hundreds (yep, hundreds) of people wearing masks and some were obviously very expensive……it was a great party and a great atmosphere.

I must also tell you that during the party I got a phone call from the bridge. They had received a message on the VHF radio from the port authority saying that the music and the noise of the guests was too loud and we should turn the music down immediately which of course I……….fill in the blank here

So, it is time for me to type my fingers to the bone all in the aid of the Q & A.

And we start with……………………

EDWARD THE LARGE – The Web site you are putting together of all of the Carnival Fun Photos is amazing and because of this work I have decided to honour (spelt correctly) you with an award, I PROUDLY PRESENT LARGE EDWARD WITH THE ” BLOGGERS INTERNATIONAL GRAND BRITISH UNIVERSAL MEDAL” — B.I.G.B.U.M. award. Congratulations
GLE AND LEANNE – Tell you what, bring me a hat and I will provide the champagne. You can indeed provide surprises on board. We have a shop on Deck 5 called FORMALITIES. From here you can order cakes, cabin decorations and other in-cabin surprises. The currency onboard is all U.S. dollars. I do hope you have a safe flight over and please let me know if there is anything else I can do for you before you arrive. See you in June.
ADAM – I am glad to hear you had such a great time on the Leg End, it is a wonderful ship and I have so many great memories from there. In fact, some of those memories are going to be repeated on the Carnival Splendor as we sail back to the Baltic. I am glad you liked the photo of the I Nengah and I just asked him which ship he would have been on with you and it appears you met him on the Carnival Glory. I will indeed keep bloggin as long as y’all keep readin (not spelt properly but spelt Southernley)
SUSAN – Congratulations on becoming a Platinum Club Member. Thank you for your kind words about the entertainment and I agree that I think our entertainment is second to none. I remember the cruise you mentioned very well and with a lot of emotion. Katrina changed the lives of many thousands of people some of which were on the cruise with us and who had no idea what they would find when they got home. Carnival sent the Ecstasy, Sensation and Holiday to assist with housing and I wish I could have also gone to help. Also I wanted to mention that the Carnival Freedom has dedicated an entire show to the city called THE BIG EASY. It features our very own Mardi Gras parade and is a reminder of what an exuberant city New Orleans was and will be again. By the way, did you know that our director of production entertainment is from the West Midlands. Her name is Kerry Stables and before she had that job she used to race pigeons Please keep reading the blog thingy.
DAISY AND KRYSTA – And excited you should indeed be. It will be June 6 before you know and you and your daughter Krysta will be here. What an amazing gift you are giving her for her sixteenth birthday. I got a pair of socks!
I am glad the blog thingy has helped you prepare for the cruise and for me that is the most important aspect of me doing this every day. If I and the fellow bloggers can help people decide which ship to cruise on, what to do and what to expect then it is worth every minute I spend at this computer. See you both soon.
LANCE AND ILDA – You sound so excited to cruise on the Carnival Miracle and indeed you should be. There is a special “something” about sailing in and out of New York. Your cruise director is a chap called Chris Roberts. He is a great cruise director and if you can please pass on my regards to BUBBA as we call him. He is from Alabama. Now, you mentioned that we should publish an article about the blog in Carnival Currents and use the photo of me in bed as a centerfold. My only concern is that two pages will not be enough Thanks for reading and please let us all know how your cruise was on the Carnival Miracle. Bon Voyage.
BOB MEANS – Ahhhhhhhhhhhhh, the Carnival Pride, please do not miss the supper club there! The cruise director is Jeff bronson from Ohio. Although I did not train him I know that he will provide you with much fun and you and your family will have a brilliant time. A nervous time tough for the fiancée, sailing with the future in-laws! Please keep reading the blog and write soon.
LINDA THE MOUSE – Thanks for your comments about your cruise. The fact that you have sailed on so many different cruise lines and find our food to be “on top of the list” is a wonderful testament to our shipboard and shoreside staff who have taken this line to new heights. I respect WEATHERMANS views and I hope he still enjoyed his cruise and thank him for his opinion.
You want to meet an Italian, may I suggest that next time you sail you let your Cruise Director know so we can send one your way. I am sorry that you did not get to meet anyone at the singles party and maybe we should run a  “lonely hearts” column in the Carnival Capers. Thanks again Linda it was great having you onboard.
JO AND DAVE – Etna was indeed very naughty and we were there. Please read below. Now, as for the aquarium I think it will be to far for you to go. Valencia is about 100km from where the ship docks and as all guests are back on board by 4:30 pm it may be a little too far away. However, I will check with our shore excursion department and we can see what they think. The Carnival Splendor is going to be a beautiful ship with an outstanding itinerary and probably there will be a Bloggers Cruise there next year…………….if my fingers haven’t fallen off.
PAUL – Just as my Mum and Dad were for me, I am sure you were the perfect role model for your son. If he decides to take a honeymoon cruise and needs advice on what ship, etc. please just let me know. As for you, just drop me a line and say  “Hi, it’s Paul from the Blog” and I will give you a call straight away. I am with you on the nude cruise thing however maybe you me and Big Ed and my mate Alan Adkins (the ugly one) should all go together. See you soon.
BILL AND SUE – And large it shall be. See you soon.
KERSPLOTT – Sorry to hear about the rain in Juneau. We have been luck here because after Venice the rain has stayed away, touch wood, can’t find any wood so I touched plastic, that should work as well. Thank you for your kind words towards Kay our single cruiser. I am hoping she will book soon so I can make sure she sees why taking a cruise is the best vacation experience in the world. I am counting with you by the way so see you soon.
ADIAS.ANGEL – You asked how cruise directors get assigned a ship. This is done by a man called Chris Prideaux who is our director of entertainment. Chris started life as a bandleader on our ships and after a few years in our corporate office in Miami, he was promoted to director. It is a big job to schedule cruise directors on 22 ships and it is not just a case of filling spaces. Chris has to work out the right cruise director for each specific ship — a job which he does nine amongst many others very well indeed. I am not sure who your cruise director will be when you sail but rest assured whoever it is I promise you that he or she will be part of the best group of cruise directors at sea.
CARL AND BARB, THE TWO BEARS – I can’t wait to meet BUSTAH. Thank you for considering the Bloggers Cruise which I understand has many people already booked. As for the Splendor, well there is a lot of excitement about this ship and yes, I think we will be doing another Bloggers Cruise on it. Please keep reading and best wishes from Heidi and I.
BIG ED – fantastic photos from a fantastic guy, thanks mate.
GLORIA – Sorry I made you cry. The comments you have posted are so great to read and they and others like them continue to give me the reason to continue be a blog man. Thanks again. By the way, I have decided to go all out and go  for Angelina to be Godmother…….that way Heidi gets Brad as a consolation prize….personally I don’t know what the girls see in him.
NATE’S MOM – he is doing a great job by the way. You asked how a godmother is chosen and honestly, I have no idea but I will ask my PA to let me know what goes into the thought process as I am sure many of you will find that interesting. We will wait for his/her answer with great anticipation and once we know how a godmother is chosen we can see if Angelina meets the requirements………………she certainly meets mine.
CARLA SCHILLEREFF – Sorry I addressed you as Carol, sometimes I begin to squint after staring at this computer all day. Thank you for your kind comments and I hope that you can indeed sail with me again. A 2009 Bloggers Cruise is looking promising.  Please keep reading.
DAISY – Sorry that the Leonardo Museum is closed now in Florence. You will indeed get an automatic refund and may I suggest that you take our BEST OF FLORENCE tour which will include a VIP pass to the Academia Museum and the Statue Of David. There is lots of shopping which should please the duck and the mouse:) See you soon.
CAROL SCHOENBERGER – Two excellent suggestions which have now been read by the powers that be. I intend to get the cruise directors to be guest bloggers very soon so they can tell you about their ships and ports they visit. Watch this space. Thanks for reading the blog and I appreciate your suggestions so very much.
BIG ED – You are a natural food critic and I think you should adopt a screen name of PETE ZARIA !
ESSEXMAN – You need a cruise !
MARTY – It will soon be here, your Carnival Freedom cruise awaits and I had better get down to answering your questions otherwise I will be still writing this blog when you get here.
1. The Butterfly Farm Excursion in Rhodes is seasonal and as of yet we have not run it. We start next cruise and I will send a report to you and the bloggers straight away.
2. In Turkey, the Grand Bazaar will except U.S. dollars and euros and bargaining is allowed and expected.
3. There are many good restaurants in the Old Town of Rhodes. There is one right at the gated entrance which serves the BEST Gyros. I will check on the name for you but I think it ends in the letters OS 
4.If you cannot find the magazines for Stephanie maybe you get her a menu from a Waffle House, she misses something called smothered, covered and chunked on or up or something.
See you soon mate.
NANETTEALI – Heidi says she likes your idea of a secret handshake whenever you meet and whenever you see a handsome Italian, I have actually never met one though. Hurry up and get here. See you soon.
KERSPLOTT – Heidi just heard the words “Electric Toilet Seat” and has told me to order one. I think that would not be a good idea, supposing it comes down during the actual process of ……….well you know……………… Thanks for the kind words as always.
CANUCKCRUISER – I also am disappointed that we did not meet, did you get the little gift I sent you. Your kind words on THE BEST VACATION YOU HAVE EVER HAD have been passed to the heads of department and I thank you for making their day. I hope that you will keep reading the blog thingy until the next time you cruise.
SOUTHERNDREAMS – Thanks for the info on PODUNK, sounds beautiful and maybe this blog will help make it the new Metropolis of Georgia. The seat is down ……..for now.
ARLIN GUESS – As always myself and the people in blog land salute your wife during her Active duty in the U.S. Army. Your advert for Disney vs Carnival Is so fantastic to read and while I will never say anything negative about them or any other cruise line to hear that you think our “Camp Carnival” program is the best has made me and a lot of others who read this blog very happy. As for the Carnival Splendor, I think that this will be one heck of a ship, COME AND JOIN ME !
LATERIZER – I am going to have some conversation with our photo department about readers suggestions as I think they have a lot of merit. Carnival sells more photos than any other cruise line and if we can make that process easier for the guest, then indeed we should. Please stand by for an update soon. See you in June.
JAMESEMM – If you send me your address I will see what I can do mate.
CATHY NYC – I remember with fondness our conversation during the Morning Show. Your comments are so kind and again they have been passed around the vessel. I especially am glad you liked Ticket To Ride, we are very proud of that show. Our President and CEO Bob Dickinson said it was his favorite show as well as it is mine. I will keep blogging and keep posting photos as well and I send my best wishes to you and the family.
VICKI AND MATT – I seem to have done a lot of interviews these past few days so I guess another one won’t hurt………….here we go
5.) If you could picture yourself being an animal, what would you be???
I think of myself as an Buffalo. Calm, built for comfort and horny  – as in ready to take a challenge head on, not the other horn.  Never mind.
Heidi has just seen my answer and says that right now and because I had a Curry for dinner I am a Skunk
4.) If you could walk off the boat and be anywhere, where would you be? (Now remember I didn’t say be with anyone, I said anywhere)
SIMPLE……………….HOME
3.) If you could possess any three items; what would they be?
Angelina Jolie, An Aston Martin DB9 Volante with her in the front seat and faster typing fingers
2.) Your favorite holiday on a boat?
I really want to do a Trans-Atlantic, New York to Southampton but I think a carnival Cruise anywhere is hard to beat.
And here we go with our number 1 question ….
1.) If you turned the corner and saw Angelina Jolie standing there you would say ……….
Would you be the Godmother of the Carnival Splendor…………….and “Have you ever seen Wife Swap ”
KATHY HADOULIS – I miss George the Greek. He is one of the great characters that still works for us and I have not seen him in years. You will love KEN. He is from Ireland has the charm and wit that usually is associated with that country’s people and sings just like Frank Sinatra. See you and the rest of the Mellow Yellows very soon.
SHELEE – .there is indeed a formal night on the three-day Sensation cruise. This will be on the second night and is a wonderful tradition on all our ships and a chance to meet your captain. Have a wonderful time and let me know how you get on.
JAN IN WA – June 6 will be here before you know it. Please write me a note when you get onboard.
This blog is a perfect example of how long it sometimes takes me. I started this on the sea day and am finishing it after leaving Messina, Sicily. Talking of that, what a thrill for Captain D’Aita to dock the ship in his home town, you should have seen the grin on his face as he family came to visit and he also got to go home (I think he needed some of Mom’s cooking). I had mentioned to guests that I would not be able to get off the ship today and if they saw a canoli shop could they get me one…………I got 29. Being Diabetic I have passed them on to the staff and next cruise I am going to ask someone to bring me a Rolex ! We just sailed past stromboli, here are a few photos.
 

NOW, HERE IS SOME NEWS.
Do you remember how I mentioned that all the Destiny, Spirit and Conquest class all have the word CARNIVAL in front of them, well know during a series of refits the FANTASY CLASS ships will all now be changed to have the name, CARNIVAL in front of them: carnival Fantasy, Carnival Ecstasy, etc. I think this is a great idea, here is the press release for your reading pleasure. I wonder if they thought of this after reading my blog………………I think I just stepped into the realms of Fantasy there, or should I say Carnival Fantasy.
 
Today, I would like to feature a guest blogger who has agreed to answer some questions. May I introduce carnival’s 21st best looking Casino Manager………MR. GARETH MILLAR.

1. HOW AND WHERE DID YOU START IN THE CASINO BUSINESS – I started working in casinos in London (Barracuda Club) in 1993. I had just got back from traveling in Canada, was unemployed and finding it hard to get a job that didn’t involve fast food. I saw an advert in the Evening Standard for a training college for croupiers that guaranteed a job or you got your 500 pounds training fee back. I had to borrow the money but I suppose it was the best 500 pounds I ever spent.

2. WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST CARNIVAL SHIP AND WHAT IS YOUR HISTORY WITH THE COMPANY – My first Carnival ship was the Fantasy, which I joined in 1995 and  I worked for Carnival as a dealer until the end of September 1997. I took a couple of years off during which time I spent about a year at home in England and then I went backpacking to South Africa, Zimbabwe and Australia. In 1999, I returned to Carnival as a casino dealer, worked my way up through the ranks and was promoted to casino manager in 2003.

3. HOW MANY EMPLOYEES DO YOU HAVE ONBOARD AND FROM HOW MANY COUNTRIES – The Carnival Freedom has a casino staff of 46 and between all of us we have pretty much worked on all of the cruise lines operated by Carnival Corporation. There are 15 different nationalities working here. We even have someone from SCOTLAND!

4. EXPLAIN THE ROLE OF THE CASINO HOST – As a job description our casino hosts are responsible for all of the marketing and promotional activities in the casino, including the operation of the Ocean Players Club; much the same way as a land based casino host.

5. WHAT MAKES A CARNIVAL CASINO IN YOUR MIND A BETTER EXPERIENCE THEN LAND BASED CASINOS – Our casinos are more relaxed and friendly than land based casinos. Playing in a casino for the first time can be quite intimidating and our staff appreciate that and are more welcoming and helpful than you may find on land. Our staff are from the four corners of the world and the guests enjoy that diversity.

6. WHAT IS THE MOST POPULAR TABLE GAME – In North America blackjack is still the most popular table game, Europeans tend to favor roulette.

7. FOR A FIRST TIMER IN THE CASINO, WHAT GAME WOULD YOU SUGGEST THEY PLAY AND WHY – I would say Blackjack. Most people play card games so they understand the value of the cards and nearly all of us have played a variation of blackjack at home, 21′s, Pontoon etc. so it’s probably the most familiar game. In reality though Roulette is the easiest game to play, put your chips on your favorite numbers and if they come in you win…that’s it!

8. WHAT IS THE MOST OUTRAGEOUS OR ANNOYING THING A GUEST HAS EVER DONE IN THE CASINO DURING YOUR TIME AS MANAGER – As a manager there are quite a few, it comes with the territory. The most outrageous thing though happened to a mate of mine when we were dealers. He was dealing Caribbean Stud Poker to a rather well endowed young lady who said if she got a good hand she was going to flash him! A few hands later she got a full house…..she stood by her word! 

9. OBVIOUSLY WE CANNOT MENTION WINNIGS ETC BUT WHAT IS THE LARGEST AMOUNT OF MONEY YOU HAVE EVER SEEN ONE PERSON BET ON A HAND OF BLACK JACK. – Blackjack not much, maybe a total of $4,000 on one hand. When I worked in London I saw a guy win over 200,000 British pounds on one number on roulette!….he lost over 1 million pounds that night though!

10. YOU HAVE ONE MILLION DOLLARS TO BET OF CARNIVAL’S MONEY WHICH YOU HAVE TO DOUBLE IN 30 MINUTES….WIN AND YOU ARE PROMOTED TO VICE PRESIDENT OF CASINOS, LOSE AND YOU GET TO BE A DEALER IN A GAME OF STRIP POKER IN A MEN’S PRISON. WHAT DO YOU BET THE MONEY ON AND WHY – If I had 30 minutes I would probably play blackjack. By playing proper strategy you can almost get the odds to 50/50 but as with any gamble your never guaranteed a win. If I only had one bet then I would play roulette and put the whole lot on red….for no reason other than 19 is the date of my birthday it is red. I just hope I would double up…..the option of losing that bet just doesn’t bare thinking about.
So, all in all a busy few days and now it is time to get ready for the Talent Show. There is just enough time to tell you a story from yesterday at sea. I was chatting with a guest after my Travel Talk who was telling me — or at least trying to tell me what he wanted to do — in Messina and Barcelona.
I really did not understand what he wanted to do and I could see he was a little uncomfortable, so I asked him not to worry and tell me what he wanted and did……………he wanted me to tell him where he could find …….ummmmmmmmmmmmmm, some entertainment provided by some of the local ladies ………….if you know what I mean.
Heidi and one of the other Entertainment Hosts were with me and they they both looked a little shocked and somewhat embarrassed. Now I know of many such places but of course I could not admit to that with Heidi there………………KIDDING……………..I AM KIDDING.
I was also a little embarrassed as was about to tell him no when the devil inside me said  “I have no idea sir, but please have a word with Ken your Maitre d tonight as he is the ship expert on such places.  Needless to say he did, …and Ken is not happy
It never ceases to amaze me what guests think they can ask…………………..and long may that continue because as long as it does, so will this blog thingy.

GOODNIGHT

YOUR FRIENDS

JOHN AND HEIDI

And it did……………………………………..come out………………………the sun woke up and said  ” OK, yesterday I lost out to Mr. Cloud and Mrs. Rain but today, I am going to give the people of the Carnival Freedom a sunny, blue skied, warm and happy day.”

All of the sudden, this blog has turned into a children’s book.

To put it another way, the sun turned into Mike Tyson in a bad mood and knocked the stuffing out of the clouds and rain especially the cloud that was shaped like an ear which Tyson (the sun) bit off and spit out! That’s better…………much more masculine!

Here are some photos from Venice Day 2.

Once again I am sorry that the postings over the last two days have been a little slow but that is my fault as I mentioned it is extra busy for me at the moment on this our first Mediterranean cruise of the season.

We have just docked in Dubrovnik, Croatia and how wonderful it is to be back here. It looks like there is going to be another cloud vs. sun battle today but hopefully it will stay dry. The orange roofed houses stand defiant and proud as a reminder that the people of Croatia are united as one and at peace with the world, ready to welcome  our 3,000 guests to their beautiful country. We have 2,000 people taking a tour and I know already that the comments I will receive about the guides will be nothing but positive and full of praise.

Did you know that one of Carnival’s top executives, Natko Nincevic, one of our senior vice presidents is from Croatia? He is also another example of someone who started on the ships (he was a Food & Beverage Manager) and has made a very successful move to the corporate offices. Natko was one of the masterminds behind our very successful supper club concept and I am sure every guest that has and will eat in one of them will thank him for these great additions to our ships.

Natko is now one of the three most famous men in Croatia along with Goran Ivanisevic, the tennis player who won Wimbledon and the one Heidi drools over, the doctor guy from E.R., don’t know his name, you know, the ugly one. Seriously, all three are proud Croatians and I cannot wait to go ashore for an hour and enjoy some local food called CHEBAT CHEE CHEE (spelt wrong I am sure) but it is fantastic. Try some when you sail.

OK, make a cup of tea, sit down and let’s get on with today’s Q & A.

ERIC THOMAS – Thank you for your wonderful testimony of praise for the ship. I am glad you had clear skies for the whole five days and that as you traveled along in the sunshine that you and your wife enjoyed your celebration. I am sorry that we did not offer any fishing tours but as you suggested I will pass on your request for more of them across the fleet. Hope to see you soon.
SHEL – It must be so exciting that you are about to take your first ever cruise on the Sensation. A three-day cruise is a perfect way to get started. What advice can I give you? Well, simply, do not miss a thing, get up early, stay up late. Go to every show, every activity, find time to walk the decks at night and enjoy the hospitality, fun and friendliness of the Sensation’s great crew. As for Nassau, what to do ? Are you beach people, snorkeling your thing or do you prefer sight seeing? Let me know and I will be happy to point in the right direction. Hope to hear from you soon and thanks for reading this blog thingy.
CHRISTIAN – Me – Cool…………….if you really think I am, please let Angelina know
GACRUISER – Interesting that some people really like this idea from my friend and blogger Nina about choosing your photos direct from your cabin T.V. It is also interesting that some seem to prefer the “hunt for your photo method” that we currently use. Any other views on this?
VINKEVEEN – OK, John will now try and write in Dutch. Danke well fur lezzer mi Blog Thingy. In ein jaar compt das boat naar Amsterdam und ich bin zo blei. Kan ich hept from jai winkel: Fla mit slagroom und fur mi frinkyer Roger Blum can ich hept stropwaffles. Hartslecker bedankt und toot zins ich how von Angelina Jolie !
SHEREE – Wow, I think you have broken the record for the longest Blog thingy comment. Thanks for taking the time to write and I will now answer your questions in the order you asked them.
1.Your tour selections are excellent and they include two of our very best in the Sorrento, Pompeii and Capri and Colours ( you spelt it wrong:) of the French Riviera.The others are also fantastic, good picks.
2. You asked about private tours in Livorno. I do recommend that you take one of the ships tours or book a tour yourself on the internet through a private company. Please do not wait until you get here as taxis are so over priced – 200 euros for round trip transport to Florence and with no guide.
3. Bad news about the Leonardo Da Vinci Museum. It’s closed and has shut down for the foreseeable future. The owner has decide to sell the collection and, until this is resolved, the museum will remain closed. If this changes I will let you know.
4. What then to do in Florence? May I suggest the Florence and Pisa tour. You obviously want to see both places and rightfully so. When you get to Florence you have the choice of staying with the guides or exploring on your own…………..you might want to consider going to the Academia Museum and seeing the Statue of David and also the new statue created by master sculptor Michael De Angelo of me wearing only a fig leaf and a smile.
5. Now to Rome. Lets start with Viatours who apparently are a tour company. I have not personally hear of or dealt with them so I am sorry but I really cannot give you any further information about them. You also asked if Carnival offers tours to Rome on the day you disembark and YES we do. We offer tours to the Catacombs (which Dad is correct, are amazing), the Vatican with both private and exclusive tours and also a complete tour of Rome called The Best of Rome. If you decide to go straight to your hotel you can disembark as early as 6 am, however remember you will not be able to check into your hotel room until 3 pm. If you do decide to take a tour on the day of debarkation the ship can arrange transportation for you and your suitcases to your hotel.
6. Dress code in the churches is your next question. You are correct that ladies should have their shoulders covered and a crocheted (spelt correctly shawl will be just fine. There are no rules for footwear as long as you have some on
So, in 57 days you ill be here with your newly graduated daughter. We will be celebrating July 4th and overall it will be a vacation you will never forget. Please let me know if I can be of any further help and please also keep reading the blog thingy.
BOB AND MARY – Tell you what, come and sail on the Splendor and a bottle of champagne and some chocolate covered strawberries will be waiting for you .As for this years cruise on the Carnival Freedom, please let me know  when you get your flight details and what you are thinking to do in Rome and I will be happy to help. See you soon.
BELLA – Please let me know your current e-mail address and the French maid outfit is ready and waiting.
ROBERT AND SUZAAN – Thank you for booking the Bloggers cruise. You will be part of what I am sure will be a memorable week of fun and laughter and a chance to meet great new friends. We both love the Taffy and all that’s missing is some Jersey root beer. We miss you both.
SOUTHERN DREAMS – The average age since March has been 45 – 50 but we have a whole cross section of ages. I will check on this cruise and get back to you later. PODUNK? Is that a real place name? What do you do all day in Podunk? Only 55 days to go until you take the first of your three Carnival Freedom but after a few weeks in PODUNK you may not want to leave. Please send me PODUNK information. Best to you and the Prince.
NANETTE – That’s another vote for Angelina for godmother of the Carnival Splendor. Sorry you did not get an upgrade but I promise you that your cruise will be very special. Please leave me a not when you board and a gift will magically appear in the cabin. Buenos Sombrero, your amigo, Juanito.
KERSPLOTT – Heidi is indeed going through her  I LOVE ITALIAN MEN stage. So not to get left out, I am also wearing things that don’t match, opening my shirt buttons all the way down, loads of jewelry round my neck and I now say “Ciao Bella ” every morning.  How do Captain’s get selected for a new ship was your question of the day. This is decided by a group of people in our Miami office and it is always a different captain for a each new ship. The Carnival Freedom’s Captain is Orazio D’Aita who is from Sicily and a man I have worked with as a first officer, staff captain (second in command) and now captain of our newest “Fun Ship.”  I will include him in our guest blog section soon. I will try and order that special sunset but instead of Andrea Bocelli singing on the big screen I have chosen a Pavarotti concert at the Acropolis……..it’s amazing. So, that’s one vote for Heidi as Godmother…………………….Angelina is still way out front.
BIG ED – A day with out a blog comment from you is like a day with out sunshine, eggs without bacon, a garden without flowers and a bedroom floor with no underwear scattered around. Mrs. Ed was not the one who gave you the nickname Eddie the Elephant in fat it was Alan Adkins who you seem to be have become a role model for, goodness knows he needs one. So, once again a new title is added to your repertoire. ALAN’S ROLE MODEL POTRAYING INTELIGENT TENDENCIES ( A.R.M.P.I.T.) Heidi sends her best to you and Mrs. Big Ed and says that you and I are two peas in a pod…………..BIG POD.
PAUL F PIETRANGELO – Ah, the old problem of the suit not fitting after three days of the cruise. I have suffered with this problem before many times and I think the only solution is…….take a nude cruise. On a more serious note getting married onboard one of our ships is very easy. We have a special department who will take care of everything and I mean everything. The number to call is 1 305 599 2600 and ask for the bon voyage department or ask your travel agent if you wish. It would be a beautiful ceremony and I am sure your son will be proud to have his Mum and Dad by his side.What role models you are as well after 33 years together through the ups and downs of life. I am sorry to hear about your stroke and how lucky you are to have your wife to get you through those tough times. I can only hope that Heidi and I are together for many years as well as without her I would be nothing. Please drop me a line when you are onboard and I will make sure we have a photo together and I will make sure your wife has something special to thank her for being your rock of ages. Thanks for reading the blog thingy and see you soon.
MYREEN – The ships are now “cell friendly” on all of our 22 ships. No special modulation of your phone is required however it might be worth checking with your service provider as to the rates, etc…………………..CAN YOU HEAR ME KNOW?
CARL AND BARB THE BEAR – What a cute sounding couple. Please let me know when you have booked the Carnival Splendor and I know that it will be a very special cruise for you and the Bear. Thank you so very much for the wonderful comments and that’s another vote for my Mum

SCORE SO FAR
MUM   2
HEIDI 1
ANGELINA JOLIE 3

ESSEXMAN – I understood the joke mate, do not worry and so did Bill Ericky
KICKIASKI – Is that Polish for kicking someone in the ____?  I am sure that we will be organizing a second Blogers Cruise and a third very soon due to the success of the first which is selling like hot doughnuts. (That’s a reference for Big Ed and I ). Here are your questions answered.
1. Thank you for asking about extra tips for the crew. If you feel they deserve more than the standard amount which is taken automatically off your sail and sign card then U.S. dollars would be the most welcome however euros are fine as well. Thank you for your kindness.
2.The ship dock’s at 2 pm approximately in Venice so the earliest you will be in St Marks Square will be 3 pm.
3. The Carnival Splendor is mostly the same in terms of deck plans as the Carnival Freedom except the public areas are different. This means that you can indeed look a the cabin layout as being more or less the same the same. May 10 will soon be here and you can book away. Looking forward to meeting you in five weeks time here on the Carnival Freedom.
BILL AND SUE – I have stuck, glued or taped (whatever the correct term is) your question here so everyone can understand my answer.

Just read ‘cruise critic’ review by ‘weatherman’ on the Freedom and he goes for 3 out of 5 overall rating. More concerning to us is his rating of 2 out of 5 for the food and same rating for the entertainment,
Why do you think he gives such poor marks?
Good Question. I could spend hours defending these ratings but I will not, instead let me just say this. By its nature and it’s name Cruise Critic is an opinion site, that’s it, pure and simple. It allows people to express their own opinion and in this case WEATHERMAN’S opinion was that he thought the food and entertainment was average. That is his choice and his right to an opinion. On the same sites are reviews that give the food and entertainment 5 out 5 and also 1 out of 5, again, all varying opinions.
Please come and make up your own mind, do not be influenced by others BEFORE YOU CRUISE.
Cruise Critic, Cruise Mates and other related sights are wonderful tools for us onboard as well as passengers and I salute them for bringing this concept to the cruise industry. Keep reading them and then after your cruise post your own opinion. It may be the same as WEATHERMAN …………..but somehow, I think not.

JEAN – I am so glad you enjoyed your Carnival Liberty cruise last year. I am very excited about the Carnival Splendor and I will be there from her delivery in July as I hope will you be. Thanks for reading the blog thingy.
THE WONDERFUL BLOGGER SISTERS – It was great to have you onboard and your kind and gracious comments have brought a HUGE smile to my face. I read with much despair your comments about the guide you had on the Athens tour. We did indeed receive a few negative comments about the guides and that is something we take very seriously and have addressed this with the tour operator we use there so your constructive comments were very useful. I hope because the cruise is now over that you will not stop reading the blog thingy and it won’t be long before we get to sail together again.
MISSINGTHESMOKEFREEPARADISE – Thank you for recognizing Carnival’s wonderful crew. They are indeed the best. Here are two more crew who both work in the Sun King supper club. Thanks as always for your stick on, glue, thingy comment and I hope to see you soon.

NAME: ANDREI TIKHONOV
NATIONALITY: BELARUS

NAME: VERONIKA PIATRIKOVA
NATIONALITY: SLOVAKIAN

JIM – It feels like ages since we have seen you mate and I hope that will be rectified soon. Can you post a link to your site Jim as I am sure Bloggers would find it very informative and lots of fun. Hope to see you soon.
MARCIA014 – David Fee, now there is a name from the past. He, like Gary Hunter was one of the Legends of Carnival Cruise Directors. I remember the cabin stewards making animals out of your nightdress and sometimes they use to wear them as well!  I would love to see your old photos sometime, hopefully when we cruise together. Please keep reading.
ANNMARIE KATOSH – Heidi and I send you our deepest sympathies. We both know how it is lose someone so unexpectedly. I am sure you are correct when you say that Dad would have wanted you and Mum to cruise and Heidi and I will do everything we can to make sure that we bring some happiness and laughter back to your lives. Please send me a note when you are onboard and see you all soon.
JAMES EMM – I have good and bad news mate. I do have a DVD of the ship being built. The bad news is that as it was made by the shipyard it’s in Italian. If you would still like a copy let me know and I will arrange it for you.
LEE TIP – I am happy to hear that you and Sally will be getting back together for another try together. The cruise ship a perfect place to mount a recovery and hopefully we can bring the romance back into your lives. Send me a note when you get onboard and I will see what I can do to help. See you soon.

TODAY’S HIGHLIGTED EMPLOYEE IS………………………………MR.KEN BYRNE…………………..MAITRE D.

Ken is one of the most famous and certainly one of the finest in the cruise industry and I posed a few questions to him. Here are his answers.

Heidi and I decided to have a walk this afternoon for an hour or so. Even two hours in the fresh air and sun is really important. Heidi makes me do this as when I am not carrying out my duties as a cruise director both on and off stage I am blogging. Therefore, Heidi makes me get off the ship which is something I probably would not do if she was not here.

1. How many years have you been at sea and what your first job was and on what ship? My first ship was the QE2 as a commis waiter in 1976, one contract and then back to hotels in Dublin to complete my training as a Chef De Rang. In 1982 I worked for Poseidon Services on the Big Red boats, Oceanic, Atlantic, Majestic, then went to RCCL in 1986 which was under Poseidon umbrella, working as a busboy, waiter and Head Waiter. I then had another brief spell on the QE2 then changed over to Carnival Cruse Lines in 1990. I worked on The Holiday again starting as a busboy, worked on the Festivale, Tropicale, Celebration, Ecstasy as a waiter, went to the start up of the Fascination in 1992/3 season as assistant head waiter, was promoted to maitre’d in 1996 on Destiny  If I’m remembering correctly, Carnival Freedom is my 15th new ship.

2. What do you enjoy the most about being a Maitre D? Meeting many different cultures working on board and discovering their policies of work ethics back in their countries, meeting 3,000+ guests every cruise, which certainly takes the boredom out of cruising. Love guests to have ‘The Big Picture Attitude” and come on a cruise to have fun, which is what Carnival offers.

3. What is the strangest request you have ever had from a carnival Guest in the dining room? I have had many in my years, hard to pick one, its very difficult, one that pops up at least once a cruise, when a guest enters the dining room wearing flip flops and short pants for dinner, I will politely approach the guest and request that they wear pants and shoes. I once had a guest ask if she could cook her own food because she was “allergic to everyone in the world.” My other favorite was a passenger on the Carnival Triumph who complained to me before the first meal had ever been served that he hated French food and wanted to eat elsewhere. I told him I had no idea what he meant and he stated that he was eating in the Paris dining room and he wanted to move to the London dining room because he liked British food better than French!

4. If you were a guest on one of our ships, what time would you want to eat dinner, early or late sitting? I would prefer late seating, gives me more time in ports, and time to prepare for dinner and enjoy the shows and entertainment late into the night.

5. From all of our dining room menus, please choose your Ultimate Dinner.

APPETIZER…..New England Lobster Crab Cake…..always Gazpacho..

SALAD…Greek salad tops them all for me..

MAIN COURSE….Osso Bucco (your favorite, John)

DESSERT….Tiramisu & Crème Brule and of course the warm chocolate pudding available every night.

6. You have become known as the ” Singing Maitre D.” How did you discover your singing voice and can you tell us your three favorite all time Sinatra tunes?  One guest on The Triumph asked me to sing “Acapulco” one night, and a waiter picked up on it and approached me to provide him with some of my favorite karaoke music, which is Sinatra off course, and we took it from there, started to sing one song a cruise, now they cant shut me up….my favorite Sinatra tunes…My Way….Nice and Easy…All or Nothing At All….amongst many of his collection of 600+ songs.

7. Your Choice…Maitre D at one of the following.

THE WALDORF ASTORIA HOTEL…………..NEW YORK

THE SAVOY HOTEL……………….LONDON

BUCKINGHAM PALACE

A LADIES PRISON

Would have to be The Waldorf Astoria…the home of the famous Waldorf salad. Having said that, Carnival have allowed me to be a Fun Ship maitre’d, which suits me fine, as having fun with great staff and guests is the epitome of life itself.

Here is Ken in action singing ” No Surrender ”

Now, as we were back to the vessel today Heidi and I saw a young crew member crying, I mean really sobbing her heart out. I asked her if she was OK and could I help. I recognized her as one of our assistant waitresses from the dining room. She told me that her parents who live in Croatia had been to visit her today and she had just said goodbye. I took it that she was sad to see them go but that was not the case. Helena told me that never in their wildest dreams had they thought that they would ever get to see where her daughter worked until today. She said they had been so happy to visit the ship and the fact that she would be seeing them twice a month had made her happy, so happy that (as women often do), she was crying.

It made me think just how far Carnival has come. Each crew member can bring family onboard for a complimentary cruise but this is not always possible for many of them. By visiting these ports in Europe and next year in the Baltic many family members will have the chance to proudly see where their sons, daughters, husbands and wives work, something that maybe with cost of flying and visa concerns they would never have had the chance to do.

So this blog is dedicated to all the families of cruise ship employs who wait for that twice a week phone call or the daily e-mail and for that chance to see the magnificent ship the one they miss calls home for eight months a year.

Goodnight

Your friends

John and Heidi

Good Afternoon.

I feel so bad for the guests today…………it’s raining……………it rained this morning as we entered Venice and it’s still raining now. As a Cruise Director you do your best to control everything onboard but even though there is nothing I can do to change the weather, it still makes me sad to se the disappointment on peoples faces, especially  as Venice is so looked forward to by so many people.
All I can do is try to persuade the people that Venice is still a romantic and charming place even in the rain and hope people still get off the vessel. For those that stay onboard I have organized extra activities and events………………we shall see how the day goes. I will keep you informed.

I had a wonderful Morning Show today with some very interesting letters, especially the one from Mr. and Mrs. Helmut . They wrote to tell me how they met and I asked if I could add this to the blog today and they agreed.

Mr. Helmut ( Al ) worked for the Unites States Coastguard aboard a Cutter based out of San Juan, Puerto Rico. During a routine patrol they spotted a small Yacht called the  ” Away Mission ” ( apparently a Star Trek reference ) in distress. The Coast Guard Cutter went alongside to render assistance and there they found three people who reported that the yacht had lost power and they had been drifting for over an hour.

Al was sent aboard to see if he could repair the damage and it was while aboard he met Sally. Sally says that she fell for him immediately although in her letter she says ” It was not that he was handsome or even his uniform, it was just that at that moment he was my knight in shining amour and for all I knew he had saved my life “.

Later, after the boat had been towed back to San Juan the Cutter went straight back out again and Sally thought she would never see her Knight again. Skip forward now THREE YEARS LATER. Having been so impressed with Al and with the love of the sea in her blood, Sally joined the Coastguard at the age of 24.She was stationed in Norfolk, Virginia and as she boarded her first assignment, guess who was Captain of her boat…………….yep…………………..Angelina Jolie……………….sorry, got confused……………….it was of course Al. “It was Destiny” Sally says and three years later they were married and have been now for 12 years and have two beautiful children Barclay and Sandra and as promised I have to mention her Cat called Molar who is staying at a Travel Lodge for cats who she misses very much.

I love letters like this and you have to say that there are times when you really have to believe that some people are meant to be together.

Talking of that, saw this cartoon today and thought it may represent Heidi and I in a few years time

Lets do a few bits of Q and A……………it’s now 1:40pm……………………still  raining

Starting with a follow up on the guest who asked about Sushi on the Carnival Destiny….here is your answer direct from their Chief Purser Marcus.
no sushi bar …however we do have it at a lunch time on the lido desk as part of taste of the nations.
So, there you go, at least you will get to have some Sushi at lunch time.
Also, for the guest who was asking about a groups Coordinator called Jeanne – Marie I am sorry to say that she no longer works for Carnival. She left to get married and we understand she lives in Toronto now. I am sorry I could not help further.
Now, for the guest who wanted recommendations on tours in Panama and Costa Rica. Here are the recommendations from the Shore Excursion Manager and Cruise Director on the Carnival Liberty.
I think that in Panama the best tour is the one that the guest has already mentioned  as it gives a great overview of the scenery and history and is also the one that gets the most positive feedback from the guests. In Costa Rica. It very much depends on the guest’s mobility level. The coffee plantation tour is great but very similar to the plantation tours in Jamaica that they may have done previously if repeat guests. Other recommendations would be the Sloth Sanctuary and Canoe adventure, which is a little more physical as you paddle a canoe through the rainforest before visiting the cute and cuddly sloth’s which are native to Costa Rica, a great opportunity to see some of the native flora, fauna and wildlife. Alternatively the Rainforest Aerial Tram tour is really neat as you get to see the rainforest from above the treetops via cable car.
Hope this helps a little.
Cheers
James
HAYLEY AND THE TWINS
As requested here a few photos of medieval Lucca and some facts.
    
Did you know that Puccini (that’s who the statue is) smoked 80 cigarettes a day until he died at 66!  That’s 29200 a year…. If he smoked from the age of 16 that’s 1,460,000 in his lifetime! Lucca is also the city of 99 churches and only 8000 people live in between the walls….. AND people pilgrimage to Lucca (that’s the church pictured) to touch a wooden statue of Jesus feet… his feet are a different colour than his head because of it.
KEVIN – I hope we get to meet you and your mysterious blond very soon as well. You are correct that Heidi and I do have a great life together. I guess soon we will have to stop cruising and live a ” normal life ” but we will never forget the wonderful experiences we have had together.
KAY – I am so happy that you appreciated and enjoyed the bloggers reasons on why to cruise. If you decide to take a cruise then I suggest first, you pick a ship and then choose your ports. Also, you have to decide what length of cruise you want to take. May I suggest a 5 day cruise to start. Check out the Carnival Web Site
www.carnival.com and let us all know what you decide to do. You will make new friends I am sure and have the time of your life.
CHRIS AND STEPHANIE – I am glad you liked the cruise news daily article and I am happy also that we are all getting some press coverage. I would like to thanks Vance Gulikson and ALI BELLO in our press office for all they have done and also their secretary and junior assistant Jennifer. I am not sure about March 08 yet but as soon as I know my schedule, I will let you know. Cheers.
CHERYL – I remember that cruise so well. The Mayor Of Pisa told us the day before that he was stopping all tourists from visiting the Tower of Pisa to allow the Tour Of Italy bike race to go around Miracle Square. This will not be happening this year so I assure you that you will get to see this famous landmark. I also hope that you persuade your Hubby to come on the Carnival Splendor as that to will be a great cruise. See you in a few days and please leave me a note when you are onboard.

UPDATE:…………………3:20PM………………..STILL RAINING

LORRAINE BRIDGES – I have a feeling that this is not the real Lorraine. If it was then you would not be calling my mate Alan ‘intelligent and red blooded “. Here to prove that is a picture of Alan Adkins who if you want to see him in the flesh can be found every night at the Cliff Pub in Southend On Sea Essex. 

GACRUISER – more brilliant reasons to cruise and I know like you, many people have withdrawal symptoms after returning from a cruise vacation. Thank you and thanks to everyone as I think we have successfully turned Kay away from land based vacations to joining us all at sea. Thanks again and please keep reading this blog thingy.
MARY AND MOE – Do you need help with your blog addiction? If so call 1800 UNBLOGME and a trained professional will be there to take your call I am really excited to hear that you will be on the Bloggers Cruise and I can confirm I will be on the Carnival Splendor next year in September. Great times are ahead. See you soon.
JEFF AND KELLY – Yes, I will be on the Carnival Splendor but only if you are there as well. That special cruise from Dover to Rome will be very special, is that the one you are thinking of.? Let me know if you need more information. Please keep reading this blog thingy.
JAN – Please allow me a few hours to check on your question on SKYPE phoning from your laptop. This is a little out of me field of knowledge but I know a man who will be able to answer ……..back to you soon.
Here is your answer and I am sorry its not a positive one. Skype is blocked due the band width it takes up

3:45pm……………………………..still raining, but much less

LINDA AND MIKE THE BRICK – Sorry about the late blog. Yesterday I worked 17 hours straight and by the time I had posted the blog to the office it was too late to get it up on the site thing because the logistical department had to push the red button but the hard drive had flopped and then the warp drive was returned to the giga thing and because of that there was to many Rams and Sheep or something and then it was bedtime. So, you get to today and more information will follow on the blog cruise on the Splendor. Hope you are both well.
PAM – I am sure your boss is very jealous about the number of cruises you have taken and he can see why from your top ten list of reasons you love it so very much. What a great idea to look up your Grandmother’s friend in London and I am sure it will be a vacation to remember. As for an offer of a gift from Office Depot, I will swap you a bottle of champagne for a decent roller ball

4:10PM……………………STOPPED RAINING AT LAST

ALAN AND CHRIS – I am so excited that your first Carnival Cruise will be with me on the Carnival Freedom. You have asked about the Supper Club and what makes it so special. It is without doubt one of the best examples of Today’s Carnival and each cruise 1000 people will pass through it’s doors and sample the finest food at sea. The Supper Club is a restaurant that can be found on all our Spirit and Conquest Class ships and Make your cruise that more special with a fine dining experience. Enjoy culinary delights exclusively prepared for your dining pleasure while listening to the soft melodies of the in a candlelight atmosphere and elegant ambiance.  Traditional chef servers and sommeliers will tend to your every need providing the full experience of fine service.  Select from a perfect 14-ounce New York
strip loin, 24-ounce Porterhouse steak, 9-ounce of Filet Mignon or a succulent lobster tail,  just to name a few…………………OH, THE BEST BIT………….ONLY $30 PER PERSON. It is a must do event……………………I hope you decide to eat together in this restaurant and for anyone sailing on the Carnival Spirit, Carnival Pride, Carnival Leg End, Carnival Miracle, Carnival Conquest, Carnival Glory, Carnival Liberty or the Carnival Freedom there is no higher recommendation.

I am so hungry now I am going to pause and have a snack………….LET ME CALL ROOM SERVICE…………………….HEIDI

OK, one BLT later ( Heidi

SEWING NUT – and pampered you shall be. See you in August.
NINA FRANKLIN – I have passed your comments on the photos to the relevant department for consideration. There are constant new forms of technology that are being considered to improve all aspects of onboard facilities and I like your suggestion a lot. Let’s see what happens and I will get back to you shortly. Thanks for reading the blog thingy.

7:00PM……………………………..raining again.
So, we just had to cancel 400 people of their Gondola tour. With it raining so hard I could not really expect people to get soaked in an open Gondola………it is a real shame and I feel very sad for the people. I hope the weather improves tomorrow, these guests deserve to see some Sun.

The weather being bad also means that the overall enjoyment of a port is effected and that also is a real shame.

Because of the bad weather I scheduled more activities and movies but many people still got of the ship and went to explore Venice at night. I was hoping to post some photos but I will wait until next time when hopefully the weather is a little better.

I just finished another interview this time with Paul Motter from www.cruisemates.com. It was a great interview and I thank him for his time and interest in the blog thingy.

Lets talk about something fun, and what better to get smiles back on our faces than a story from the old days of cruising. For this, our time machine takes us back to
The Fantasy in 1990. I was a social host, a young, skinny, 22 year old social host who had been chosen to be on the start up team of the Fantasy and boy was I excited.
I traveled down to Miami from Gainesville Florida with my mentor and Cruise Director Gary Hunter who, as I mentioned before was and still is one of the finest people I have ever met and the best CD I have ever seen.
Also in the car was another great friend Tim Harkelroad who is a brilliant ventriloquist, comedian and all round entertainer. We had left Gainesville at around 6:00pm and after a few hours of driving Tim said he was hungry.
Tim has a very healthy appetite and demanded refueling so Gary pulled his Bronco over to a place called Bobby Rabinos Rib factory. Tim jumped out leaving Gary and I to chat about life and, if my memory serves me right, basketball which was his one true love.
So, Tim returned with a huge bag of ribs and we set off. Gary was driving, with Tim in the front seat and me in the back. It was dark as we traveled down the road which I think is called Crocodile Alley or Alligator Avenue or something. Well, I had not been hungry but as Tim devoured his ribs the sweet smell of the barbecue sauce was intoxicating and gave in to  my hunger urges and asked Tim for a rib.
Tim’s huge hand reached back and passed me a rib, and then 5 minutes later another and then another. Now, I was very much the JUNIOR in this band of brothers and did not want to talk out of place but these ribs were the worst I had ever had. There was little or no meat on them and all I could taste was a bit of the sauce. Still I said nothing and then from the darkness of the front of the truck came a giggle from Tim and then from Gary and then both started laughing hysterically. Being a naïve young Englishman I had no idea why……………..until it dawned on me………………………I had been chewing on the bones of the ribs that Tim had already eaten.

I miss seeing Gary and Tim…….both are great people and we had some wonderful times together.

It is now very late and I am going to take off all my clothes and dance naked around Lido Deck in praise and homage to Mother nature whom, I hope, will look upon my nude offerings with grace and favor and send the sun to shine tomorrow.

Goodnight

Your friends

John and Heidi

Good Evening Everyone

If the sun won the battle yesterday the clouds won by a knockout today as we sail to Venice. However, that did not deter a great feeling around the vessel and the incredible response for the Ticket To Ride Show just now as the ovation echoed around the theatre.It is now 9:50 pm and today has been very tiring. It started with a meeting on the bridge to discuss the arrival in the ports of call as, for many of the ship’s personnel, it will be their first time they have been there. I then had a morning show, travel talk,staff meeting, two formal parties to host, two shows and a walk around the vessel before bed.

Also today Heidi and I hosted a Cruise Critic ( www.cruisecritic.com ) party where I met many faithful bloggers. One of the great things about this blog thingy is that I am starting to put faces to names like:
TEAPOT
CRUISING KANUCKS
KATHY
ALAN THE CLAM
CRUISING TEDDY BEAR
HAIRY CHICKEN

To name but a few.

The compliments I have received about the blog from them are a little overwhelming and Heidi and I have always had a close association with Cruise Critic and we were pleased to be able to spend some time with them.

Heidi is going to take over the typing as she is much quicker than I am (or so she says) and I am going to sit in my chair and dictate. If any words appear in this blog thingy that question my manhood or ability as a husband, please note, these words have been added by my wife, without my knowledge.

So, ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, I proudly present our mammoth Q&A.

ANN MARIE – How many votes do we have now, Ann Marie? I am officially making you my press agent and will officially give you 10% of the prize of we win, which is a photo of Big Ed and myself covered in whipped cream (sugar free).
MINNIE MOUSE – Thank you for the Congratulations on the Orlando newspaper link. Glad to see us bloggers are getting some fame, even in the land of the mouse. Please keep reading the blog thingy.
BIG ED – Thanks mate, for sending me the Sun Sentinel clippings and your business card has grown further as I am now making you chief reporter and press preview edit reporter (C.R.P.P.E.R). Talk to you soon mate.
ANITA A – Anita, I am sorry to report that the Vatican is indeed closed during your visit to Rome. All Saints Day is a very holy day in Italy and therefore the Vatican will not be open to the public. However, the other major tourist areas such as the Coliseum etc., will be open. I am sorry, but even the powers of this blog can not change the Pope’s mind, although I will call and offer him a bloggers T-shirt and see what happens. Please keep reading, see you in June.
JTODDINMAN – Hello mate, I do recall you and the group of course, on the Carnival Triumph and who can ever forget Norman. How wonderful to hear that crew members in the Conquest are reading my blog and a special thank you to Cindy Rabbit and Mark Price, the cruise director, two great friends of mine. I have known Junior for many years and he is now a hotel director on the Carnival Miracle and from what I understand, he is doing very well. I am glad you like the blog and as requested, very soon I will be posting a behind the scenes of the job of the hotel director. I do hope we can see you on the Splendor and I am sure even though you had a good time on our competitors’ ship, that we can make this cruise to St. Petersburg, Amsterdam and all the other great ports, one to remember. See you soon.
PAUL – I am glad you enjoyed Wee Jimmy and I continue to be very proud of him. Even though he hit on my wife the first week he came on board the ship.  I do not think the cloning world is ready for another me. Although it would be handy, as I could write the blog and the other me could run around the cabin picking up the various undergarments that some how find their way on the floor. HEIDI HERE: PLEASE DO NOT CLONE JOHN, LOOKING AFTER ONE IS HARD ENOUGH, THANK YOU.  I hopefully will see you in March and thank you for your lovely comments about the blog thingy.
BIG ED – That was not Mt. Everest you saw on the Web cam, it was Capri, or at least I think it was, unless we are really lost.
As far as comparing our wife’s to Angelina Jolie (HEIDI HERE…HERE WE GO AGAIN) I think it is only fair that as when buying a new car, you get to drive all the models before you decide. (HEIDI HERE…IF WE ARE TALKING ABOUT A CAR, JOHN IS A PINK VOLKSWAGEN WITH 2 FLAT TIRES)
ANDREAS GOIDDE – Andy, thank you for your insight regarding the Web site and corrections have been made so that when you click on Copenhagen, information on the Eiffel Tower does not come on the screen, unless they have moved it. I am dropping many hints to my P.A. to have the beautiful Angelina as the godmother and I am prepared to make a contribution to the charity of her choice if she would accept. I am now looking over Heidi’s shoulder to make sure that she is typing exactly what I say, as I do not want her to substitute Angelina’s name with her choice: Roseanne Barr. See you very soon mate.
JANA.P – Thank you for your wonderful words about the blog and the fact that you have been reading since it started means that you are really enjoying it, or you have no TV. As far as which Splendor itinerary to take, they are both fantastic, however, I really think the Northern Europe tour is a knockout and is a perfect place to celebrate your 30th birthday (again). Let me know if you need any more advice. See you soon.
HONEYMOONERS – If you decide to celebrate your honeymoon on a Carnival ship, I personally deliver a dozen chocolate covered strawberries, dressed as a French maid. Please come and sail and see you soon.
KATHY HADOULIS – Thank you for your kind words about your loyalty to Carnival Cruise Lines and I hope Kay has read what you have said and will decide to take the plunge and come and sail on her first ever cruise. Thanks for your support and see you soon.
JANINWA – I am glad you liked the photos, although you are correct, Heidi did not select them. It was payback for the photo of me in bed. I look forward to welcoming you Cruise Critic group and as for you formal night photo, I suggest 7:45 pm in the lobby which is between the early and late sitting dinners. Please book this with the photo department upon arrival and they will be happy to help. I am glad I am not the only one who has bought a card in a foreign country although I am sure the temperature was warmer in your house than it was in the cabin when Heidi realized I had said “Happy Divorce.” I have been friends with the dogs with the house for some days now. Thank you for reading the blog thingy.
ESSEXMAN – I can picture you now, sitting in your garden with a Blue Tit jumping around your rose bushes while Mrs. Essex man fans you gently while feeding you grapes as you enjoy the lovely sounds of Motorhead and AC/DC. See you in August, and “What do you call four Essex girls standing in a row?…….A wind tunnel” Heidi sends her best wished back to you, as do I.
ROBERT AND SUZANN – HEIDI HERE, I AM ENJOYING A SALT WATER TAFFY WHILE I AM TYPING THIS………Sorry I got your numbers wrong and anyone who has done 30 cruises with me, should get their own ship or a long weekend on a private yacht with Angelina Jolie (your choice) Can’t wait to see you for number 31.
NANETTEALI – Your reasons for taking a cruise say it all and I challenge anyone to find a better value for money vacation. Looking forward to the start of our friendship and K, listen to her advice. See you soon.
TERRY910 – HEIDI HERE. TERRY, YOU REALLY DON’T WANT TO LIVE IN MY WORLD. ONLY TODAY I WENT TO THE BATHROOM TO DISCOVER AN EMPTY TOILET PAPER ROLL. I MEAN, HOW HARD IS IT?? JOHN IS NOW FIRMLY BACK WHERE HE BELONGS, IN THE HOUSE OF DOGS. THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT. YOUR FRIEND, HEIDI

OK, time for me to take over the typing I think.

JEFF AND KELLY – If I had known I had been to bed with you I would have worn my pyjamas with the flap at the front which sometimes, if I am feeling saucy, I wear the wrong way round so the flap is at the back! Now, for those bloggers who think I have gone crazy, Jeff and Kelly were on the cruise last week and were watching my shows in bed, hence their comment that I was in bed with them! I am sorry we never had a photo taken with each other but I promise next time I will rectify this situation. I hope to see you very soon and thanks for reading the blog thingy.
BIG ED – Giving me as a reason for Kay to cruise is very gracious of you and because of that I have now made you BIG ED DIRECTOR WORLD ENTERTAINMENT TELEVISION,THEATRE,ELECRONIC RECORDING ( B.E.D.W.E.T.T.E.R.) whether you take the position or not DEPENDS on you.
KATHY KROLL – The chief engineer is indeed a handsome man but, unfortunately, because of his wife and security, he and his engine room are “no go” areas. I hope the Splendor rates are out at the time of writing this blog. The Splendor is going to be an incredible ship and I hope I meet many bloggers there.
RAY – So I guess from your comments that the rates for the Splendor are out on May 10, I am sorry, I had no idea. It will be worth the wait though as I am positive this will be a highlight in everyone’s cruising calendar. I will speak to your aunt and uncle later in the cruise and let them know you send your best wishes. Let me know when you have booked the Splendor and I will congratulate you then. Cheers.
LEONA – Heidi is excited to be getting her T-shirt…………….what T-shirt? Your reasons to cruise are indeed worthy of praise and I hope Kay will give it a go and then I know she like you will discover a passion for this world we all share. See you very soon.
ANDY – I have asked housekeeping to change the labels in the bath robes to read ONE SIZE FITS MOST. 
I have seen the movie mate and now Heidi has gone to bed I can say that indeed Angelina is very “hot” as you say in the movie. What airline do you fly for?  I’ll give it a mention on the blog. I have decided to start hinting that Angelina should indeed be the godmother of the Splendor! Unless, other bloggers have a suggestion………………in fact………….can I ask all bloggers who you think is worthy of this great accolade. Remember, they do not have to be famous but just somebody who deserves this one of a kind opportunity. SO ……………………WHO SHOULD BE THE GODMOTHER ?……………………………..lets see who wins the popular vote and maybe we can persuade Carnival to consider our winning suggestion.
VIKKI – You are welcome. I hope having heard what we do on board our ships for New Years Eve has got you excited and looking forward even more to your cruise. Happy New Year from Heidi and I.
JO MYERLY…………….FRANK/ROBERTO………………….Can I kindly ask that you check into Jo’s Platinum Club request. Jo, I promise you an answer in the next 48 hours.
COOLIEMOM – It will be such an honor to recognize your Dad who fought so bravely in World War II and Korea to allow us to have the FREEDOM to cruise. I salute him now and will salute him again when you are onboard. Please leave me a letter at the information desk upon boarding and I will take care of a special celebration for him. You also need an award for bravery for teaching 4 year olds
PRIS & BUCKY – I cannot believe that in 10 cruises we have never met. I hope number 11 will be our lucky number. Can you sail on the bloggers cruise? I have passed your information to our office and they in turn will pass your e-mail to Jeanne – Marie. I am so glad she took great care of you and please let me know if you here from her. My best to you both and again, let me know if you get back in touch.
SHIRLEY – You came to the right place for a pizza recommendation. I am going to suggest that in Capri, you have a slice of Pizza Diablo, a spicy sausage and tomatoes. Don’t forget that on the Pompeii, Sorrento and Capri tour lunch is included. I am on two diets because I was not getting enough to eat on one. See you in 104 days.
JO – How was the PBS show about Herculaneum? It is a fascinating and somewhat sad place to visit. Thanks for tipping off the bloggers on this.  Are there any Angelina Jolie movies on tonight?
BELLA – I have forwarded this to the office and I will do all I can to get your credit reinstated. I will let you know ASAP as I think it would be a nice gesture. Thanks for letting me know.
MEANJEAN80 – Hi Jean. Your comments about why Kay should take a cruise deserve to be turned into a song…………..country I think………..sung by Garth Brooks and Shania Twain…………….it’s a sure fire # 1 smash hit! Thanks and I am sure Kay is now calling her travel agent.
PAUL – I am sure if Heidi were awake it would be she who would be saying how lucky she was to be with a superb male specimen like me. My best mate Alan and I were both sex objects as young men……………………….that’s because every time we asked, girls would object   It was Alan’s fault. He was and is so ugly that girls would never look in our direction. I mean, he really is ugly, I once saw a frisky dog attached to Alan’s leg, doing what frisky dogs do, except this one had its eyes closed. So I guess I should count my blessings that I am married to such a beautiful woman like Heidi. Thanks mate for the support you are giving to the blog thingy.
STEVE – see you in a few days. The wine list is waiting.
RISA – hello to you in the beautiful Philippines. I have so many friends from there and your fellow countrymen are some of our best employees. I am also a great fan of your food, my favorite is Pork Adobo. I heard Angelina will be in Cannes and I hope to catch a glimpse of her. If she sees me, it’s all over for Brad! To know I have readers in the Philippines, Australia, Malta, Dubai and many other far-off lands shows how this blog thingy is giving us a chance to share a CRUISE HUG across borders and time zones. Have a great night, please keep reading and MAGAN DANG GABY.
BIG ED – The ship has stopped listing, I have moved to the center of the vessel.
PETER – Man U were dreadful and the Italian officers are not letting me forget it. The pint is waiting, COME ON LIVERPOOL.
SARAHM – Heidi and I will be on the Carnival Splendor in August and please tell your Hubby that this will be the best cruise he has ever had. Let me know if you have any questions about the ports etc and I will be happy to help you. Hope to see you aboard the Carnival Splendor.
GACRUISER – FUN, FOOD & FRIENDSHIP……………………..Kay, are you there?
ESSEXMAN – Thanks to you for the clarification of the word BLOG. I know understand that I have Viking roots and will now go forth and pillage my wife………………..unless as per usual “SHE COMETH OVER WITH A HEADACHE.”
VICKIE – Your 10th cruise will entitle you to you very own bright and shiny PLATINUM CARD. The Carnival Destiny is a beautiful ship and the ports are amazing. Do you need any advice about them ? Have a great cruise and thanks to people like you who have sailed since the Mardi Gras days and enabled Carnival to earn its position as The Most Popular Cruise Line In The World.
KATHY DORANSKI – Thank you for your comments about your cruise and I apologize for the paint smell. Sometime the up keep of the ship does interfere with the guests, we try not to let it happen but sometimes we fail as in this case. I am truly sorry. The tribute to the Virginia Tech students was as you said, very moving and something I will never forget.
I have passed your transportation requests to our agency and I totally agree with you that we should offer a shuttle service for guests disembarking on that first day back in Rome. Have a great time on the Carnival Conquest and please keep reading the blog thingy.
MRHOLLYWOOD – I remember you like it was just yesterday and the fun we all had together. Please try and swap to the Bloggers Cruise, we need to make a sequel.MR HOLLYWOOD 2..THE RETURN. Please stay in touch and I hope to see you soon.

SO ENDETH TODAY’S Q AND A

It is now 12:17 am and it will be time for bed in a moment. There is a special buzz around the ship which is always the case before arrival in Venice. There is something magical about this one of a kind city and for those guests who have never been before it is the port they are most looking forward to, I always go on the bridge and give a little commentary of what the guests are seeing and I hope the weather is fine tomorrow for our arrival.

One of my favorite memories of Venice was last year on the Carnival Liberty. As we were sailing into Venice, Micky Arison, chairman and chairman of Carnival’s parent company, Carnival Corporation & plc, and his beautiful wife Madeleine were ashore watching us sail by. I had all the guests on one side of the vessel and as we sailed by 2000 plus people all shouted “HAPPY BIRTHDAY MICKY” at the same time. It was a great thrill I am sure watching the latest addition to the fleet of “Fun Ships” sail into Venice and it got me out of trouble because I had forgot to buy him a birthday card…………..which probably would have said Happy Divorce anyway.

May I introduce you to  I NENGAH, one of our fabulous State Room Stewards from Indonesia. I was walking pass his section of cabins and as he smiled at me I had to take his photo. He has been with Carnival for nearly 10 years…………………here he is, just look at that smile.

Then, a little further down deck 7 I came across Evgeniya from Bulgaria and I had to take her photo as well. She is on her second contract with us and here she is with her latest towel animal creation called BIG EDDIE THE ELEPHANT.

It is smiles like these two young people share with our guests every day on all of our ships that make Carnival’s Crew, the best in the industry.
Just before bed, two quick things.

Thanks to all of you who have booked the bloggers cruise, space is selling quickly and I hope to see many of you soon.

I look forward to your suggestions on who should be godmother for the Splendor and at the moment Angelina is winning with my Mum in second place.

And finally, to Kay, who has never cruised before, January 18th, Bloggers Cruise, new friends and new adventures await…………….operators are standing by to take your call.

Bed Time…………………………….Heidi’s headache has gone. I know, she’s asleep

Good Night

Your Friends

John and Heidi