Good Afternoon from Rome where it’s another sunny day. Today, the Vatican Museum is closed as it is a Holy Friday celebrating Sts. Peter and Paul. The Pope is giving Mass this morning and some 8,000 people are expected in St. Peters square.

I have to talk to you quickly about something a guest said to Stephanie, one of the entertainment staff yesterday. After the travel talk she saw Stephanie and said ” Why was the cruise director talking about the Pope – doesn’t he know he died?”

Today, I want to start by slapping on three more photos from Heidi’s collection.

1. This is a beautiful photo of the “Walk Of Life” at Ephesus with Hadrian’s Grand Library in the back ground

2. The second photo is of Ephesus again. Note the lights and rigging which were being set for a concert which is being played tonight (Friday) by a full 52 piece orchestra from Germany.

3. Finally for today and also from Ephesus is the statue of the Goddess Nike. Look carefully and you can see where the Nike symbol comes from

More photos later.

Today, I have a full staff meeting to discuss various events and procedures and also to say goodbye to various staff members whose contract is completed and tomorrow will be heading off on a well-deserved vacation. I have lots of paperwork and hopefully I will get this done quickly so that I can take Heidi out to dinner ashore tonight, if not it’s a first class, non-stop trip to the Dog House for me.

I think the guests have had a great time this cruise. The only area that has been a concern was the heat in Turkey and Greece but that aside I am very satisfied with the cruise but as always there are always areas we can improve on and we must do so.

Sorry, just stopped blogging for an hour as I see on the news that a car bomb has been discovered in London and defused……………what a world we live in.

OK, back to the blog and now I present a gentlemen called Steve Williams who is Carnival’s director of medical services and responsible for all the nurses and doctors on board our ships. I asked him some questions and here are his answers.

Can you tell us about your medical background and your career with Carnival leading to your current position? I trained as a nurse in the UK at St Mary’s Hospital in London. I have been a nurse for 21 years. I worked in Accident & Emergency before moving to the US. I have worked mainly in trauma and emergency departments. My previous work was as Director of Nursing for Mount Sinai Medical Center, Emergency Department on Miami Beach, where I also worked as Chief Flight Nurse for the Lifeflight Critical Care Transport program, where we flew a Sikorsky S – 76 helicopter. I joined Carnival in October 1999, and now am responsible for coordinating the work of the shipboard physicians and nurses, hiring and scheduling and the logistics involved in managing medical centers on 22 ships. I work with our Medical Director Dr. Art Diskin, and our Senior Fleet Physician Dr. John Bradberry.

How many Doctors and Nurses are currently employed throughout the fleet? Please can you tell us a little about their demographics and qualifications you look for in both positions? We have a total of 24 senior physicians, and 28 ship’s physicians, who rotate through the ships on contracts that range from four- six months. We have approximately 90 registered nurses working for us at any given time. All our physicians and nurses have to had emergency and critical care experience, and are certified in Advanced Cardiac Life Support. Most of our physicians and nurses come from the UK, South Africa, Europe or Australia and New Zealand. Our infirmaries exceed the CLIA/ACEP guidelines and are designed to treat and stabilize most emergent medical conditions until we can get the patient to the hospital.

The old image of a ship’s doctor is long gone although it still has a certain “romantic image “about it. Obviously you cannot discuss individual cases but can you tell us something about the diversity of today’s “doctor onboard.” Our medical teams deal with everything from seasickness and colds and flu, to heart attacks and traumatic injuries from falls or accidents, such as moped and Jet Ski accidents. One minute they may be advising a mother on how to treat symptoms of a sore throat in a child, the next running to a call about an unconscious guest, or helping to manage a patient in an emergency situation.

Let’s chat about the nurses who are often the unsung heroes onboard. What is a typical day like for a cruise ship nurse? Our nursing staff typically works long hours, often times many hours more than they are scheduled to work. As well as the very varied clinical cases, there is a lot of paperwork involved, because of US Coastguard and CDC regulations. There is emergency equipment and supplies to check, reports and medical records to copy, endless copying and scanning…..Then some of our staff are also involved in on board and shipboard activities, such as training staff, or working with a shoreside clinic or charity. They really are the core and backbone of our shipboard medical centers, and we are very fortunate to have an amazingly talented, hardworking and compassionate group of nurses.
Now, onto the dreaded word…………………….Norwalk Virus. There seems to be a perception that this can only occur on a cruise ship. Can you give us your perspective on this and what cruise ship guests should do to try and prevent this from happening to them? Now we call it Noro, the citizens of Norwalk, Connecticut got a little ticked off at continually being associated with diarrhea and vomiting! It is the most common cause of gastro-enteritis or “stomach flu” in the world. Probably 30 – 40 million shoreside cases a year in the US alone. If guests frequently wash their hands, especially before eating, smoking (if they really cannot give up), putting on make up or touching their mouths for any reason, we would have far less cases. Folks also need to understand that the alcohol-based hand gels are also pretty ineffective in killing Noro, because they evaporate before they can kill the virus. We are in the process of trialing a new disposable hand wipe, which we believe will be far more effective than the alcohol based gels.

OK, as always we finish with a couple of personal “lighthearted ” questions. What’s your favorite Doctor/Nurse/Medical Joke? A young woman, who has a bit of a lisp, goes to the doctor with a case of bronchitis. During the medical exam he takes his stethoscope out of his coat pocket, and places the listening piece on her back, the other end in his ears, leans forward and says to her… “Big Breaths”…. She blushes, and says,…. “Yesth, and I am only sixthteen”

If you had to treat one of these people for an upper thigh injury, who would you choose

Angelina Jolie
Pamela Andersen
Hale Berry
Tom Cruise
John Heald

I have to say that Angelina Jolie would certainly be a pleasure to look after, although you would always be very good for a laugh…!!!!

My thanks to Steve and we pay tribute to all ships doctors and nurses who have treated and saved so many guests………….THANK YOU ALL.

I hope you are enjoying the guest interviews, many more will follow.

Yesterday’s anagrams were pretty easy but incase you were having trouble, here are the answers.

ZUIDERDAM

CELEBRATION

CARNIVAL CAPERS

Here are today’s

BARSTARDO ESDI

PRESUP BULC

LANA SKINAD SI GLUY

And with much fanfare we herald the arrival of today’s Q & A

LUV 2 CRUISE – What wonderful words when you said “I am still glowing after my cruise.” I think this glow also has something to do with your husband and once again I thank him for all he did to make sure the cruise was a special one for all. I will make sure I add to my talk the fact that clothes do shrink on a cruise and even more so this cruise from the weather being so hot, there has been a lot of “sweating” going on this week. Anyway, Heidi and I send our best to you both and hope you are having a yabba dabba doo time.
STACY – It seems to me that both you and Big Ed have come up with great names for the new Carnival Splendor’s spa. It seems that in the event of a draw the decision will be made by deciding who looks the best for the spa’s promotional photos. This will include.
Stacy and Ed wrapped in a towel by the entrance of the spa
Stacy and Ed covered in oils and creams
Stacy and Ed using all the keep fit equipment
So it is obvious therefore that the winner is…………………………………………….BIG ED.
BIG ED – I’m Spartacus!
LINDA HERNACKI – Of course you will get a signed photo and a book. Please let us know when your grandson arrives and we wish him, his parents and of course his grandparents many happy times ahead. I hope Daniel is as good at changing light bulbs as his granddad. Let us know the news.
IVANA – Thank you so much on behalf of Alan and I for the Prague information which will prove so very useful. I especially enjoyed the food and pub recommendations which I shall pay special attention to. You must be very proud of your hometown and I will be sure to take some photos and put them on the blog. Thanks again, I owe you one so let me know if you need anything.
MTSFPBLFTTNSFCF – I am glad you liked the story about my over friendly Russian friend, who by the way was found fast asleep in one of the public bathrooms last night at 2 am……I say asleep……..more sleep induced by his favorite tipple. He has become famous this cruise and really is harmless. I understand how smoke can bring on asthma for many people and I know your wife is concerned. As far as the ship is concerned there is no smoking in any restraint or theater and if you stay out of the casino, cigar bar and disco you will not come into contact with any smoke. I am at your service as your friend and as cruise director should require any help. My best to you and your wife…Heidi still needs a mask, especially as I am eating some pistachios.
BARB AND HER BEAR – It is always great to hear from you both and your comments are so kind as always. The young kids from Istanbul really enjoyed their time onboard and I hope we can do it again before too long. People do think that I can control the weather, it’s only a few out of 3,000 but they never cease to amaze me. I am sure your grand kids must really appreciate you sending them so many postcards and photos of all the amazing and historic places you have visited. Again, thank you so much for your kind words which mean so much to Heidi and I.
RONANOKE HOO – I remember very well the tour which arrived late from Panama and as you said it was good that it was a Carnival organized tour so we knew where you all were.
You asked about the dress code for the mosques in Turkey for ladies. Ladies must have their shoulders covered when entering the Blue Mosque in Istanbul. If you are wearing shorts they should be on or over your knees please. However, there will be no need to cover your head. Remember that everyone must remove their shoes and therefore we recommend that your wear socks if you do not want to walk around barefooted. Now, apart from the taking your shoes off, the same applies to the Vatican and is one of the many similarities between the two religions.
The Private Vatican Tour is one of the most amazing things I have ever done as you explore the areas of the Vatican that nobody else gets to see……….the Pope’s Cars and Carriages, the Private Chambers and art collections and of course the highlight is being alone ion the Sistine Chapel. There is nothing else like it. See you in a few days and let me know if you need anything else.
MARK CHAMBLISS – I have a feeling that you need to be on stage with me as its time to make you a star. See you in January on the Bloggers Cruise and I look forward to seeing you and your family……………..It will be a brilliant cruise and I cannot wait to spend valuable time with my friends from cruise critic and cruise Mates. Keep reading the blog thingy until then and I am glad you got a call from Vicki, she is one of a kind.
LOVE TO TEACH – The weather was 12 degrees above the normal monthly average in Athens this week. I hope it is a bit cooler but do come prepared with a sun hat and lots of sunscreen with a high SPF factor. Twelve days and counting and we will get to meet each other……..hope you have a safe flight and if you need anything before you travel I remain at your service.
ELVIRA AND ALEXANDER – Congratulations on writing one of the most beautiful postings I have read on the blog so far and in perfect English. I remember you both very well and remember you dancing so beautifully at the talent show and also showing the ship your photos on the morning show. You have written so many wonderful things that I don’t know where to start but I will say thank you to all the crew you mentioned especially Darko, Dino and the dancers who you loved so much. All of us who are going to the Carnival Splendor as crew or as guests are so looking forward to St. Petersburg or Peter as you said it is known and hopefully we can see you there one time so we can meet again. I am sure all the bloggers enjoyed reading your letter and we thank you so much for taking the time to do so. I wish you and Alexander much happiness as does Heidi. Spasiba my friends.
ESSEXMAN – For you, I would happily sign a copy of anything as would Heidi and even Alan will sign an old pair of his Y Fronts.
J – JOHN – hello J -John, its John here John and yes there will be lots of Johns on the Carnival Splendor John. Great to hear your friends have now booked the ship as well and Ken will be here and Heidi some of the time. I have never been to Arizona but if you invite me then indeed I may. Stay cool and write soon.
LISA AND ELAINE – Glad you enjoyed the story about my Russian friend. The T-shirts will be ready within the next few days. Watch this space.
COLEEN O’LEARY. – Just to confirm that I will make supper club reservations as follows:
Table for two on July 14 at 8 pm.
Table for four on July 21 at 8 pm
Heidi is e-mailing the supper club as we speak. Look forward to meeting you all.
SWEETSUNSHINE – Welcome to my blog thingy, I am glad you found the site. I see that you are sailing on the Carnival Splendor and until then please let me know if you have any questions on the ship or ports of call, etc. and I will be happy to help and answer them.

That’s all the time I have for Q&A for today, otherwise I will be in the doghouse for not taking Heidi out for dinner.

Today, we received a care package from NANCI KOPERSKI. It contained a beautiful card, Heidi thinks it has been hand made and delicious sugar-free chocolate, a wonderful CD and vanilla shower gels. Nanci, from Heidi and I a very big thank you. Getting packages like that is such a nice surprise and we really appreciate it!!

I am also very privileged to have had an article written about the blog by our Cruise Critic friends.

Here is the link:

http://www.cruisecritic.com/features/articles.cfm?ID=496

I am looking forward to meeting all my Cruise Critic friends very soon. It was a brilliant article and thanks again.

AND NOW BREAKING NEWS FROM PA 007 WHO FOUND A DRAFT OF A PRESS RELEASE WHICH IS DUE OUT ON MONDAY.

THEREFORE, THIS BLOG IS THE FIRST TO PASS ON THE NEWS OF ONE OF THE MOST EXCITING CRUISES EVER UNDERTAKEN BY A SHIP FLYING THE CARNIVAL FLAG. HERE IS SOME INFORMATION ON THE SOUTH AMERICAN ITINERARY OF THE CARNIVAL SPLENDOR.

For the first time, Carnival Cruise Lines will operate voyages to South America with 14- to 18-day departures featuring extended visits to magnificent destinations in Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Ecuador, Chile and Peru aboard the new 113,300-ton Carnival Splendor beginning in January 2009.

Representing a new class of “Fun Ship,” the 3,006-passenger SuperLiner will offer a host of innovations including a luxurious 21,000-square-foot health club and the line’s first spa staterooms and suites.

Carnival Splendor will operate three special South America departures in 2009 — a 17-day, six-port cruise from Fort Lauderdale, Fla., to Buenos Aires, Argentina, Jan. 31-Feb. 17; a 14-day, six-port voyage from Buenos Aires to Santiago (Valparaiso), Chile, Feb. 17-March 3, and an 18-day, six-port South America/Mexican Riviera cruise from Santiago (Valparaiso) to San Francisco March 3-21.

Carnival Splendor will become the first Carnival “Fun Ship” to operate a South American itinerary when it embarks on a 17-day, six-port cruise from Fort Lauderdale to Buenos Aires Jan. 31 – Feb. 17, 2009. The voyage, which will sail across two hemispheres with the crossing of the equator, will feature visits to the tropical islands of Dominica and Barbados as well as day-long calls at four spectacular Brazilian ports — Fortaleza, Recife, Salvador and Rio de Janeiro, each of which offers a rich history with architecture dating back to mid-16^th century, along with gorgeous beaches, outstanding restaurants and shops, and unique cultural experiences.

Following this voyage, Carnival Splendor will sail on a 14-day, six-port “Cape Horn/Strait of Magellan” cruise from Buenos Aires to Santiago (Valparaiso) Feb. 17 – March 3, 2009. The voyage begins with an overnight call in Buenos Aires, Argentina’s cosmopolitan capital, then visits the charming cities of Montevideo, Uruguay; and Puerto Madryn, Argentina, followed by scenic cruising of historic Cape Horn – South America’s southernmost point. The voyage continues with a visit to Ushuaia, Argentina, a charming fishing village in the territory of Tierra del Fuego home to unique sub-Antarctic forests; another day of scenic cruising of Cape Horn/Beagle Island, and a call at Punta Arenas, Chile, which lies at the entrance to the Straits of Magellan and is considered the gateway to Antarctica. Highlighting this voyage is a day-long cruise of Chile’s majestic fjords and a visit to Puerto Montt, Chile, founded by German colonists in 1853 and boasts sparkling lakes and lush mountainous landscape.

Carnival Splendor will then operate an 18-day “Andes, Peru and Mexican Riviera” cruise from Santiago (Valparaiso) to San Francisco March 3-21, 2009. Prior to crossing the equator, Carnival Splendor will visit Arica, Chile, nestled in the Andes Mountains and founded in 1570, with exquisite collections of pre-Columbian artifacts; Lima (Callao), Peru, whose historic city center was declared a Word Heritage Site by UNESCO; Manta (Quito), Ecuador, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site founded in 1534 and featuring the Monastery and Church of San Francisco, one of the oldest religious structures in the New World. The voyage concludes with visits to the popular destinations of Acapulco and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico and Long Beach, Calif., before arriving in San Francisco.

The first in a new series, as well as the largest Carnival Cruise Lines ship ever constructed, Carnival Splendor will feature an innovative new design introducing a host of guest-driven features that will usher in an exciting new era in “Fun Ship” vacations, highlighted by a luxurious 21,000-square-foot spa.

Adjacent to the elegant and modern facility will be 68 spa staterooms and suites, which will be accessible by a private elevator and offer exclusive privileges and amenities for guests. Also featured within the spa will be the line’s first thalassotherapy pool covered by a glass dome and an elaborate thermal suite, with four rooms offering varying degrees of warmth and coolness.

Other features include a 5,500-square-foot children’s play area – the largest in the “Fun Ship” fleet – as well as a water spray park and a mid-ship pool covered by a sliding Sky Dome. The line’s signature amenities such as cell phone and Wi-Fi service, a reservations-only supper club and the Carnival Seaside Theatre – a massive LED screen displaying movies, concerts and other programming – will also be featured.

Prior to its new South America program, Carnival Splendor will launch the line’s first-ever Northern Europe cruise program from London (Dover) July 13, 2008, followed by a series of voyages to the Mediterranean and Greek Isles through October 17, 2008.

Carnival Splendor will then sail on a transatlantic voyage from Rome (Civitavecchia) to Fort Lauderdale, positioning the vessel for a series of seven-day Caribbean cruises from that port beginning November 22, 2008. The ship will then sail on the three South America voyages, then reposition to Long Beach to launch year-round seven-day Mexican Riviera cruises beginning March 29, 2009, continuing the line’s expansion of its West Coast operations.

I HOPE PA 007 DOES NOT GET IN TROUBLE FROM “M” FOR THIS AS THIS IS REALLY HOT NEWS AND REMEMBER, YOU HEARD IT HERE FIRST. THANKS PA 007 AND GO BACK TO YOUR CUBICLE AND KEEP YOUR HEAD DOWN.

So, it looks like the Carnival Splendor will have one of the most exciting inaugural seasons of any ship in the world as she travels the world.

The only thing missing is you and ……………………………..Angelina Jolie.

However, I just can’t stop thinking about Catherine Zeta Jones.
Goodnight

Your friends,

John and Heidi

GOOD MORNING TO ALL THE PEOPLE WHO HAVE CONTRIBUTED TO 400,473 SLAPS ON THIS BLOG THINGY

WE STARTED IN MARCH, WHICH MEANS WE HAVE BEEN GOING FOR 115 DAYS. I HAVE STUCK ON 95 BLOGS – THIS IS NUMBER 96 AND I HAVE ANSWERED

2,913 QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS WHICH YOU HAVE ALL WRITTEN
WE ARE AVERAGING BETWEEN 3000 – 6000 READERS A DAY, EVERY DAY AND AS WE HEAD TO 500,000 I THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR SUPPORT.

GROUP HUG.

Oh what a beautiful morning, do you know why…..it’s only 84 degrees today and its so much cooler than the rest of the cruise I advised everyone to wear a thick coat when they left to explore Pisa and Florence.

So, that’s where I am today, Livorno and 2,200 people are on organized tours and have left for what I know will be a very happy day. The other 1,000 guests will be off on their own including one group of 12 people who told me something about their day. They are all going to Tuscany to spend eight hours learning how to cook Italian style.

Apparently, this day will include lessons and instruction in Italian cuisine held at a big house in Sienna, Tuscany. The group has both men and ladies in it and all seem very excited…..so….my question, is this something you think we should offer as a tour? I mean, honestly, do you really need lessons in this? It’s easy, you take the pizza out of the box, open the microwave, turn the thing on…………when it goes PING you take it out and eat it. The only difficult thing is making sure you don’t drop it on the way from the kitchen to the TV………….let me know if you think I should add this tour please.

Talking of Tuscany, the new movies I have been showing this week have been so very popular with the biggest attendance for Top Gun and Casino Royale although Jaws on Classic Music night was very well attended. When the music starts, you know the……bom bom bom bom ……..bombombombombombombom….. (how many of you just sang that by the way) we turned the music up really loud and even though you most people had seen this movie it was funny to see everyone jump at the same time when the shark strikes its prey.

I did have a problem during the night we showed Casino Royale though. I had planned to start the movie at 7:45pm and repeat it at 10:45pm. However it was so hot on deck, the transformers or something that sounds like that were affected by the heat and caused a surge………listen, the thing blew up and the techs had to put in new things which caused a 40 minute delayed start to both movies. One of the staff went to explain to the guests on the mic and once again 350 people said no problem and two or three….well……you know the rest. Have you seen though the final scene in the movie where the house on the Venice canal collapses – it is brilliantly made and overall I think the movie was super stuff and after my misgivings at the casting of Daniel Craig, I think he was tremendous……but a complete ba%$#@D for crashing a brand new Aston Martin.

Also, a record today…………..TEN PEOPLE MISSED THE SHIP IN LIVORNO. We have since heard from most of them and they missed the train back to Florence. They will now have to get to Rome to meet us tomorrow. Seeing these places by taking the train is a good way to explore but you always run the risk of a train strike or as in this case, a cancellation of the train due to mechanical faults. We waited as long as we could and luckily they took our Carnival Capers with them that contain an emergency contact number on the front page so they could call.

Unfortunately, with the next train not for another hour and with a one-hour journey time we could not wait……………so, it’s a night in a hotel for them then. I will call them later tonight as I have got to know one couple well. A follow up story will follow…………..what a stupid sentence that was……of course it will………what an idiot I am….and I am talking to myself and typing what I am saying………….help.

OK, what else – I have been having a look through Heidi’s photos and found lots more I have not slapped on the blog before so here we go with four of my favorites.

1. This is a photo of the donkey that took Heidi up to Lindos, which is part of the Lindos Tour in Rhodes, Greece. For those who cannot walk the 400 steps, here is a way to go up on an ass. For some reason the donkeys ran away when they saw me.

2. Here are some photos of the reward that awaits you after the donkey ride or climb. This is the view from the top and marvel at the amazing Temple Of Athena atop the Acropolis

3. Finally for today, here are two photos from Ephesus. The first is of the Amphitheater and shows you the sheer size of this amazing structure built in 5 B.C. and then we have the Hadrians Library. Wow.

That’s it for now. By the way, hope you like the new way we are slapping the photos on the blog thingy.

I would like to introduce you to Mr. Natko Nincevic who is our Senior Vice President of Hotel Operations. I have had the pleasure of getting to know Natko over the last 20 years and have watched him reach his current position thanks to his tremendous knowledge of the industry. I asked a him a few questions and here are his answers.

1. Natko, please can you tell us something about your Career in the cruise industry from the beginning to your current position.

I first joined Carnival in 1978 in the position of Assistant Maitre d’ Hotel on the most beautiful ship, the TSS Carnivale. In 1981 I left the company and went to Montreal to further my experience in the hotel industry, including the Trust House Forte and Hilton. In 1984 I returned to Carnival and joined the line’s newest ship, the MS Tropicale, in the position of F&B Manager. In 1990, Everette Phillips, at the time General Manager of Carnival’s Catering Division, offered me a job in the office as Director of F&B for the fleet. In 1993 I was promoted to VP food & beverage followed by promotion to VP Hotel Operations in 1997 and in 2000 to SR VP Hotel Ops a position, which I presently hold.

2. As Senior Vice President for Hotel Operations you have a very responsible position. Can you tell us for what areas of the operations you are responsible for and how many staff you have working ashore?

Hotel Operations’ group consist of food and beverage, housekeeping, pursers, Camp Carnival/youth and teen staff, and most recent addition tour operations and entertainment; shore side support departments: hotel purchasing, hotel commerce, shipboard human resources, special services operations (Bon Voyage), logistics and warehousing. There approximately 200 staff working in the office to support shipboard operations.

3. Natko, one of the most spectacular success stories in recent times have been the addition of the Supper Clubs on our Spirit and Conquest class ships. Please can you tell us how this came about and why you think that they have become the most talked about restaurants at sea?

Supper Club: at the time of design of Carnival Spirit, there was the location which Joe Farcus designed a small restaurant originally meant to be a pasta place. In those days prime steakhouse restaurants were quite popular, i.e., Morton’s and Capital Grille. Actually we approached a leading steakhouse to co-brand but they wouldn’t entertain our offer. We said good we can do our steakhouse better than you and the rest is history.

4.Obviously, I have to ask you to please tell us what your favorite dishes are in the Supper Club, so off you go, appetizers through dessert please.

It’s difficult to pick a favorite dish when they are all good; however, today’s pick would be lobster bisque, New York steak and of course flourless chocolate cake

I know that you are very proud to have been born in Croatia. You must therefore be so proud to see the Carnival flag flying high and proud in Dubrovnik, which has become a firm favorite with our guests. Can you tell us how that feels and also just how far the country has come and how.

Croatia is a great centuries-old country and Dubrovnik is a very special place. To see the Carnival flag in Dubrovnik it’s a great feeling, especially since I was involved in planning that itinerary.

5. Finally, as you are responsible for so many crew, please can you find a position onboard for these famous people.

ANGELINA JOLIE – supper club hostess

GEORGE BUSH – bossun

BILL CLINTON – social host

PARIS HILTON – crew bar tender

Thank you Natko, we all appreciate your time so very much

Let’s do the answers to yesterday’s anagrams.

CAROL MARLOW
DUBROVNIK
YACHTS OF SEABOURN

Here are today’s

READMIZDU

CLEARNOTEBI

RAINVALC CRAPES

They were easy today.

OK, we are off and running with today’s Q & A

PAUL F. PIETRANGELO – As always Paul, you write with such fluency and sincerity, we all appreciate it very much. I am happy to hear that your son will be sailing with his new wife on the Carnival Victory. Please can you remind me nearer the time (yes, I will still be blogging then), as I would like to send them something special? I am glad also you are enjoying the guest interviews and it was a special honor for me to interview Carlo Marlow from Cunard. As requested I will take some more photos of Heidi and I, we never seem to have time to take some together. Hope you are doing well and we both send our regards.
BILL – ZYDECOCRUISER – Vicki’s interview will be posted to at the end of the week Bill. I am continuing with the written blog thingies until we get the audio files started when we will also do as you suggested and have someone else type the blog. The reason I am going to do this is so that I will be able to add more blog have heard of voice recognition devices that do the typing for you. My only concern with all these gadgets is that for some strange reason I tend to write better when I am typing it myself. Strange that. ROBERTO AND FRANK…HAVE A LOOK AT THIS LINK THINGY AND TELL ME WHAT YOU THINK /……..www.nuance.com/talk
Thanks for your interest and concern Bill and hope you continue to enjoy the blog thingy. By the way I am listening to Brian Jack and a track called Going Home – very cool
KEVIN – Now you have piqued my curiosity…………what do you do for a living? ….you say it has something to do with what a man does every 30 minutes……………….OK, let me think………………nope, no clue……………let me know and if a condition of you getting a job on a cruise ship is that I can use your Aston Martin then YOU ARE HIRED!
You asked if they put something in the water to make people addicted to cruising? That may be the answer but I think it also has to do with the fact that it is like no other vacation in the world and it continues to get more and more people addicted every day. The only known cure is to take more cruises. I can’t wait to hear your answer and I hope you put me out of my misery soon. All the best mate…………………Heidi says I annoy her every 30 minutes but I don’t see how that can relate to a job unless you plan on marrying me.
CAPTAIN CHUCK – Those were very interesting stats Captain and bearing those in mind I think I should continue with the written blog and have audio as an option. It was indeed a shame that the kids from Istanbul were not able to have their photos taken. When we were told this it made me feel even more glad that we did indeed arrange this to happen. It was a day of days for them and hopefully we can do it for others less fortunate than us soon. Thanks Captain, all the best.
JTODDINMAN – You asked about the fly on entertainers. Well, in the Caribbean they do hop from ship to ship. Well, they don’t actually hop the fly but in Europe we have hired our acts all from the U.K. and although one or two may fly to another Carnival family vessel most return home. I will be hosting a Q & A with Chris Prideaux who is in charge of the entertainment hiring as well as cruise directors soon and I am sure he will have some further insights to this.
I will be passing on your wonderful ideas on advertising to our marketing department and let us see what they have to say.
One thing that I have been thinking about is a live chat………………..ROBERTO / FRANK – IS THAT POSSIBLE – A LIVE Q & A CAFÉ – MAYBE WHEN I AM HOME?
Anyway, thanks for taking the time and I personally love the idea of a newspaper clipping earning you a gift onboard – maybe you could suggest this as well to you travel agent………..or as you have so many brilliant ideas, open one yourself:)………..I think it deserves looking at and promise to let you know what was said by the powers that be. Write soon and watch this space.
BOB POLAND……………………Great to hear you enjoyed the interview with Carol Marlow, it was so kind of her to take the time to do so. How fantastic that you are sailing on the QM2 to New York, it is something that I really want to so and Carol has invited Heidi and I to do so and hopefully one day I will be able to go.
You are also correct that Anita is a brilliant writer and she and her daughters have had a brilliant time here and also and more importantly we have become great friends. The caricature I hope will be made into T Shirts and that should be very soon. Thanks to Anita and many thanks to you, have a fabulous time on the QM2.
CAROL SCHOENBERGER – Indeed, The QE2 will be missed but the future is just around the corner with The Queen Victoria on her way soon. We did a cruise around the UK on the Carnival Leg End in 2002 calling at Ireland and Scotland and it was amazing. I hope one day we can do it again soon…..with you onboard.
Hope you are well Carol and Heidi and I send our best to you.
SHEREE – By the time you read this you will be here so …..WELCOME ABOARD.
LINDA HERNACKI – the caricature of me was a little flattering to say the least. I have very few dark hairs left on my head, most are white now and also my waist was a little slimmer in the photo…just a bit though. It’s Thursday today so keep them crossed…..the fingers that is.
Best to you and Mike and his garden of bulbs.
DAISY – What great news. I am sure you had a good time on your Disney cruise but you have to give us a try. Now, you said you are just a few hours away from Mobile, Alabama so have you considered a shorter cruise on the very Fun Ship Holiday. She may be our oldest ship but you will be assured of the most fun you have ever had. Also, how about a seven-day cruise out of Florida? Let me be your guide so I expect a deluge of questions from you……it’s what I am here for. Hope to hear from you soon Daisy.
SOUTHERN DREAMS – How are the leaves.
CAT MAMA 044 – We need to talk about Angelina and we will do so a little later. I am happy that you are still enjoying the blog and as long as there are readers I will keep blogging for as long as I can. I am now wearing boxers…………….I have no fight in me and I have no support………….I mean, I really don’t have any support.
BIG ED – I saw the transfer you did of the photo and it was so well done. Take the bloggers cruise and you and Mrs. Big Ed get free T-Shirts and a pair of my old briefs to use to wash your car……..or do you drive a truck? T-Shirts should be ready soon. Thanks for your advice for James. I have to say that if we had a cabin next door to each other I am sure there would be a lot of creaking and moaning….what do you think? Hopefully, we would never flush the toilets at the same time, I can only imagine what would happen. As far as I know the winner of the Name the Spa Contest will be announced in August.
As for the Bodacious Spa……..even if you don’t win the contest and you book the Bloggers Cruise I will name a lounge or bar after you on board the Carnival Freedom. Big Ed’s Restraint Bar and Grill………………….come on, what are you waiting for?
Yes, thanks to Interactive Marketing Team for helping with the new layout of the photos……cheers.
Please apologize to Mrs. Big Ed and tell her to forget the belly dancer however if needed I will perform one myself for her. As for there never having been any photos of a Small Ed as a baby, how about;
BABY BIG ED
BIG ED THE BABY IN DIAPERS
TODDLER BIG ED
PRE PUBITY BIG ED
TEENAGER BIG ED
Any chance?
KEN CANTRELL – OK, I understand now. Yes , your plans should be OK and I hope the military plane is available to get you home. Let me know if I can help with anything else mate.
VICKI AND MATT TILL – Heidi here, just want to say thank you for the offer of a gas mask. This low carb diet is causing havoc and this is a small cabin where the windows do not open. Express mail please
R D C ETTE DEBBIE – Thanks for the heads up on Paris Hilton. I know very little about her except she seems to have been in jail and is now out and the entire world is reacting as if they had discovered the identity of my PA 007 was Elvis.
I have to talk to you about AJ later in this blog but I will keep Paris in mind….the woman…..not the place where you find the Leaning Eiffel Tower.
Head and I send our best back to you as well.
JAMES EMM – James – you asked about noise in the aft cabins on ships and that it has been mentioned that you should never book a cabin located at the aft part of the vessel. While this may be true on older and on lower decks I assure you that a deck 8 aft cabin on the Carnival Glory will be just perfect.
Remember, when a ship – any ship – is moving through the ocean you are going to hear the odd creak and moan and not just from the honeymooners in the next cabin but from the ship itself. So, don’t worry about a thing and as for the blog I will continue to offer a written blog and soon an option of an audio one as well.
Thanks mate and let me know if I can help with anything else.
ESSEXMAN……………..ROBERTO/ FRANK/ CHRISTINE……………Essexman has suggested selling the caricature onboard. What do you think?
I love the suggestion of the money going to the orphanage …lots to think about. We will be opening an online shop soon………selling t-shirts and briefs (second hand). I just made a cup of tea; all that is missing is a Hob Knob. Hope all is well at home mate and the floods don’t return. I wish I looked as skinny in real life as in the caricature but I am working on it. I think though when I have lost the weight we should celebrate with a fry up down the arches.
MARK TWAIN AND A HALF – hello, This is Heidi. I am glad you liked the blog that I sent. I will send another one soon. I know it is not as good or as funny as John’s but I want you to hear my side of the story, especially about his change of underwear which I am mad at him for sharing with the world! Anyway, look out for another blog over the weekend.
OK, I guess that’s me back in the Dog House. I agree with you that Carol’s table on the QE2 would be incomparable and anything with Mr. Churchill and you can count me in.
As for the Cigar Bar…………..it does get a bit smoky at times however there are many non-smokers who frequent the lounge just to hear Gavin and the trio play every night. They will be on the Bloggers Cruise and I hope you will enjoy them with me, it is as you said, a great place to hang out. Even MTSFPBLFTTNSFCF will be joining me.
I send my best to you and your 1/2 a partner and hopefully I will be out of the dog house by the time I write next.
LFTTNSFCF – I loved the caricature as well and I am trying to see what I can do to make copies, I will let you know. Not long and you will soon be here, I will still call you LFTTNSFCF even whne I have a coffee with you. Thanks for your kind words mate.
ALAN AND CHRIS – Can you let me know exactly what date you are cruising so I can start recommending some tours for you dependant on what itinerary you sailing on. Please don’t worry about bothering me with questions; it is after all what this blog thingy is all about. Hope to hear from you soon and I will wear Red Socks in your honour (spelt correctly) when I see you.
G COURINGTON – I am glad you are taking a few days in Rome before you sail. You asked about romantic restaurants in Rome. Well, Heidi and I love the Via Veneto area. We have eaten in the Excelsior Hotel’s pavemant restaurant and it was amazing. I also recommend a restaurant called Rivadestra Home Restaurant. It is on the west bank and is real home cooking Italian style – we loved it. I know my PA 007 has some friends who have just been to Rome and I wonder if PA 007 can recommend a restaurant accordingly. So, more information will follow from PA so stand by for more top recommendations. I will get back to you soon.
Now, I have just seen the tours you are interested in. Let me stick them here and I will make comments next to them.
Pompeii, Sorrento & Capri Naples, Italy Wednesday, October 17, 2007 – YES, BRILLIANT, THE 3 MUST SEE SIGHTS IN THIS AREA. IT IS A LONG DAY BUT YOU WILL NOT BE DISSAPOINTED AND IT IS EASY TO SEE WHY THI IS OUR MOST POSSIBLE TOUR.
Champagne Dinner & Evening Gondola Ride Venice, Italy Friday, October 19,…….THERE ARE NO WORDS OTHER THAN, ROMANTIC MEMORIES THAT WILL BE EVER LASTING – YES, TAKE THIS TOUR WITH OUT A DOUBT.
Murano & Burano Islands Tour Venice, Italy Saturday, October 20, 2007 – A GREAT TOUR BUT, YOU MAY WANT TO GIVE THE BANK ACCOUNT A BREAK AND JUST TAKE A VAPORETTO INTO VENICE AND EXPLORE ON YOUR OWN.
Traditional Konavle & Wine Tasting Dubrovnik, Croatia Sunday, October 21, 2007 – NO, ALTHOUGH OK, I WOULD SUGGEST THE BETTER AND CHEAPER TOURS OF BEST OF DUBROVNIK OR THE COUNTRY HOME.
Taormina & MT. Etna Messina,Sicily,Italy Tuesday, October 23, 2007 – YES, THIS IS OUTSTANDING. IF YOU PREFER MORE TIME SHOPPING THAN TAKE THE TAROMINA ON YOUR OWN TOUR – BOTH ARE EXCELLENT
Spanish Village & Barcelona Highlights Barcelona, Spain Thursday, October 25, 2007 – THIS ONE IS EXCELLENT BUT I ALSO SUGGEST THE WINE TOUR AND BARCELONA HIGHLIGHTS AS YOU SEEMED TO BE INTERESTED IN WINE TASTING IN CROATIA
The Colors of the French Riviera Cannes, France Friday, October 26, 2007 – SIMPLY THE BEST AGAIN…..NICE, EZE, MONACO
Beautiful Tuscany Livorno, Italy Saturday, October 27, 2007 – OUTSTANDING TOUR – HOWEVER DID YOU WANT TO SEE THE LEANING TOWER OF PISA?
So many things to consider but the only tours I suggest you book on line are the Champagne and Gondola and Colours Of the French Riviera as both these may sell out. For all the others, have a good think and come to my talk onboard and we can chat afterwards. All the best until then and write if you need more help.
MIKE – You asked if I will be the cruise director in February. At this time I have no idea what my schedule is in February and March but hopefully I will be with you. If not, I assure you and your friends that you will love Todd who although ugly will be a brilliant asset to your cruise. He is a brilliant CD and you will not be disappointed. However, hope springs eternal and I hope we meet in February. All the best to you and the friends who are sailing with you.
ROSCOE P COLTRANE – The Chinese lady you put in jail last night, she wasn’t holding a Mahjong Board was she. I think you should arrest Big Ed for “First Degree Refusal To Sail On The Bloggers Cruise.”
Stay safe and I will send you the information on the bar in Atlanta on the next blog. Don’t know about Roscoe as ship’s Godmother but Heidi would like the dog, what was it called in the show?
MR. GARY SMITH ESQ – ladies and gents, let me introduce an old friend of mine from the U.K. Gary and I have not seen each other for six or seven years, maybe more but our families have been friends for many years. How the heck did you find this blog and when are you going to take a cruise? Say hi to Tanya, Claire, the kids, Mum and Dad and Mr. Bullock and keep reading and I am sure the 400,000 readers will now be pestering you for stories about me however, remember I know lots about you as well! All the best, give my Mum and dad a call and they will give you my number. F.A.V.
LINDA THE MOUSE – How wonderful that you have carried on a new friendship with the people you met on your March cruise, I hope you will stay friends forever. Once again, that happens on ships and only on a ship………………..hotels, eat your heart out.
My ears were burning but it was, as you said, due to the ridiculous temperatures in Athens which reached way over 100 degrees. Let me know how your friend enjoyed her cruise. Thanks for reading the blog thingy and stay cool.
JO WADE – You asked “does the thought of you drowning someone make you fall asleep “………………ummmmmmmmmm…….NO. Does it you and if so why and who are you drowning? I try not to think about anything liquid when I am in bed. My ex girlfriend and I once bought a Water Bed but then we drifted apart!
Your reservation has been made as requested. Bon Appetit………………see you soon.
TERRI910 – Thank you for your photo of Katakolon as well, it is a small but oh so charming place. I will be posting lots more photos so I hope you continue to enjoy them as I enjoy your comments and support of the blog.
BRYAN – Thanks Bryan. All the reasons you listed are the main reasons I continue to right this blog and as I sit here at 1:04 am it gives me the energy and excitement to continue. So, thanks mate and please do keep reading.
S DOVER – The weather is indeed uncontrollable as most – well nearly most people seem to understand. I am sure that luck will indeed continue when you sail next year on the Carnival Splendor. My regards to you both and I look forward to meeting you in sunny Dover U.K. which you may have been named after………have you checked?
NANETTEALI – After reading your beautiful words I will not try and demean them with my bad Spanish but instead will say how touched I was by what you wrote and I send my warmest and deepest regards to you and your family as indeed does Heidi. We miss you.
DORTHE CALIMBAS – And, to save me writing it again, Dorthe the words I just wrote above apply to you as well. There really is no need to thank me, it’s my job and I am proud, so proud to be able to help all the readers and entertain them as well. Keep laughing and if your co workers ask why, let them see what they are missing. All the best to you and your family.
KAYENTAJANE…………….:) …………..BLOGGING ON AS REQUESTED.
JO MYERLY – You mentioned you watched the QVC Shopping Channel while you read the blog. That’s very interesting s I was once offered a job by someone from that channel. Actually, here are some more honest to goodness jobs I have been offered from people who have seen me on ships.
NEWS REPORTER FOR ABC CHANNEL 10 IN MIAMI FLORIDA
RADIO PRESENTER ON COAST 97.3 FM IN MIAMI FLORIDA
HOST OF THE WHO WANTS TO BE A MILLIONAIRE ATTRACTION AT WALT DISNEY, FLORIDA
AEROBICS INSTRUCTOR AT BIG EDS GYM AND GRILL
Anyway, I am still here, blogging away. Thanks Jo, have you ever bought anything from QVC?
NATE’S MOM – Be proud of your son, he has done a great job and I and all the girls will miss him. I hope you will keep reading the blog and let me know what ship he goes to next and I will keep an eye on him for you. Please keep reading the blog and I send you my best wishes for a great time with Nate when he gets home.
WENDY – I am glad you enjoyed reading Terry Thornton’s comments. He has a very important position and I will let you know when we can send questions into him on a special “Ask Terry” session………stand by for that. Thank you for supporting the blog and your kind words.

OK, I AM GOING TO STOP THERE. IT’S 2 AM AND I HAVE TO GO TO BED IN A MINUTE. I KNOW I HAVE MORE COMMENTS TO ANSWER AND I PROMISE TO DO SO TOMORROW WHEN I WILL POST A NEW BLOG.

One of my favorite shows to host are The Morning Shows. I average approximately 150 letters a cruise from guests. Most are dedications celebrating birthdays, anniversaries etc and occasionally I receive very special letters indeed. Here is such one that I have had permission to share with you from the guest. This is a special lady who I also interviewed on the show and I don’t think there was anyone onboard happier than this lady…..it was a cruise vacation she will never forget and as you will read in her words, one that she never thought she would ever get to do.

HERE THEN IN A NEW SECTION OF THE BLOG WHICH I WILL CALL “IN THEIR OWN WORDS” IS THE INSPIRING STORY OF MRS SHELLY FRENCH

And now, I have to confess my sins…………………………Bloggers, please forgive me because I have I have been unfaithful………………I have cheated……………….I have strayed off the path………………….I have done the unthinkable against the one I love…………………………I couldn’t help myself…………..I was weak………and I am sorry………………………………..what did I do………………………………I had thoughts that I should not have had…………………….and now I must come clean and tell you all about my indiscretions……………………………I am so sorry AJ……………………..I watched two movies with CATHERINE ZETA JONES…….ENTRAPMENT AND CHICAGO…………………and now, I can’t stop thinking about her.

I must remain on the pathway of righteousness knowing that AJ is the right choice to be Godmother of the CS ……………..but…………….now I ………….I have these nagging thoughts……………Catherine is British…………..she is beautiful and…………………stop it John, stop it NOW.

AJ, is the one………isn’t she?

Goodnight

Your friends

John and Heidi