Good Afternoon from Dubrovnik, Croatia.The good news, the tender operation was wonderful today even if I do say so myself. It is now 5:30pm and we only have 200 people left ashore and there has been no lines that lasted more than 10 minutes for a tender and the same for the shuttle buses.
I made lots of changes from last time and unlike Venice where I am still not happy with the service we provide, I am sure that today there will be nothing but happy faces and smiles of joy as happy memories of Dubrovnik and its majesty remain with our guests for a long time to come.
Time to follow up with regard to the incident I told you in yesterday’s blog, you know, the lady who screamed at me about my cigar even though I was off the ship, in St. Marks Square, and she was 40 feet away from me or more…………………and…………………..who I was rude to.
Anyway, I didn’t sleep well as I was so mad at myself for being rude back to her and after she said crew had no right to be in St.Marks and I had ruined her cruise, I said ” Am I Bothered “…………………..IDIOT !
So, last night Heidi and Charlie who were with me were on the lookout for this lady but they did not need to be because the Purser’s called me to say there was a guest trying to contact me, a Mrs. Charlene Stern of cabin 8297 who wanted to speak to the Captain and I together.
Sure enough, I called and yes, it was the lady. I asked if we could meet and she said that she would. Expecting the worst I met her in the lobby with her husband in attendance and sat down. Before I had a chance to say anything she said that she deserved a public apology and again said that she felt crew should not be allowed to be in the same areas as guests and that this would never have happened on another cruise line………..NOTE: I know of course that this is not true so I won’t even waste your time or mine writing the name of the cruise line here on the blog.
I explained that crew had every right to be ashore and I apologized for saying “I was not bothered ” but also defended myself saying that she had no right to shout across a café at me like that and indeed the management had felt the same way because they had asked her to refrain from doing so.
I asked Mrs. Stern what I could do to make her happy and she gave me a list of things that might make her smile again such as a free tour in Barcelona or a discount off her cruise. I explained that this was not going to happen but I did again apologize and also sent a fruit basket and some wine to her cabin and offered her dinner in the Supper Club which seemed to appease her. She also asked for a “PUBLIC APOLOGY ” from me not for being rude, which seemed not to even upset her as she never mentioned it, but for smoking my cigar.
I told Mrs. Stern about this blog and gave her the address plus I will print her a copy of today’s blog where she will note how sorry I am, not for smoking my cigar in an area where it was allowed, but for being rude to her……………..Mrs. Stern, I apologize for my rudeness and I hope you will enjoy the rest of the cruise.
Today, I had no chance to go ashore as I was busy with the tenders but at 1:00pm I went to have lunch with Heidi on Lido where we met a wonderful family from a place called Cave Spring in Georgia, population 975.
They were so overwhelmed by the cruise, the food, the service and the ports, well let’s just say that this family were having the time of their lives. They had just gotten back from the Best of Dubrovnik Tour and they showed me the souvenirs they had bought including a wooden cross for his mother who is 94 years old and still plays the church organ…………..OOPS………………..sorry………….forget to mention their names……………….the Casey family…mum, dad and three kids.
I was intrigued about what life was like in a town that had only 975 residents and amongst the things that Mr. O’ Brien told me was that he owned a supermarket, he was also the town’s fire chief and sat on the council as well. Now there is a man who needs a vacation.
I asked why he had decided to take this cruise and he told me that his family had sailed on the Holiday from Mobile last year and had enjoyed it so much that they wanted to come and cruise again. He also said that he wanted his three kids to experience life outside of Cave Spring and so here they are in Europe and having the time of their lives……………a great story and one I loved hearing.
I did a bit of Goggling (spelt correctly) and eventually found a photo of the main street of Cave Spring………..here it is……………and I want to go there.
Here are today’s other photos taken as we sailed from Venice by Heidi.
And now, today’s letters for the “IN THEIR OWN WORDS SECTION”
Just to comment on the one about buying fake goods. It is indeed illegal to purchase and sell them across Italy however I have to say that in Naples and Pisa I have never seen anyone being stopped for selling or buying. However, in Venice, we have had multiple incidents where people have been fined for purchasing fake handbags etc which is why I always warn against it.
Hooray, hooray its time for the Q and A.
So here I go while the sun still lingers – typing away with two bloody fingers.
MTSFPBLFTTNSFCF – Is it only 93 days to the crossing…………I better get my skates on then and get things organized. The tours for Rome will all be available onboard and as for the exclusive view of the Vatican you are correct that it is a ‘must see.’ I will tell you what, let me talk to the shore excursion department and I will list all the tours that will be available to book on board so that it is nice and clear for you mate. Stand by for that as it does get confusing because each day is different at the Vatican because of the non-regular opening hours. We will have a golf tour in Spain (Malaga) as well for you to look forward to.
I am sure your computer will work and we can blog to each other even though we will be only a few decks apart………….a little sad………..but it has to be done. Most of all, I am looking forward to shaking your hand, in of course, a NON-smoking bar. I am, by the way, looking forward to hearing your honest opinion of my incident with Mrs. Stern.
Wishing you and Mrs. MTSFP all the best.
LISA AND ELAINE – Glad you like the t-shirts so much and I am sure you will look the height of fashion wearing one. Is nobody worried that people are going to come up to you and say “Who the heck is John and what’s so good about his thingy?”
I am looking forward to seeing you on the Bloggers cruise and I am doing my best to get Big Ed to come as well but he is proving a tough nut to crack. As for meeting PA 007, well you will meet PA oo7 but you won’t know you haveThanks for the kind words about Heidi and we return those words to you and your family.
THE BEARS – BARB AND CAROL – Thank you so much for thinking about us both, you are true friends. I am looking forward to seeing you on January 19th for the Bloggers cruise. I am getting Roberto to sail and also asking Chris and Roger to come as well…………it’s going to be a wonderful week.
LINDA HERNACKI – It is hard keeping my sugar level between 5 and 7 which is where I like it to be but the no carb diet is certainly helping me lose weight despite the unpleasant side effects that Heidi and many others have to endure. I look forward to seeing you and Mike the Bulb in your t-shirts, I wonder if I will get a free one?
BJ BEAR – Your mum and stepdad are great people and I am happy to meet a third bear. Congratulations on the news that you are expecting a little cub and also on your thinking to do a Carnival Liberty cruise. Unfortunately, the baby will be charged as a third adult in the cabin unless Carnival is planning some child specials for that month. May I suggest that you call a Carnival Personal Vacation Planner for the latest deals etc. Then, if you can, would you let me know what he/she says so I can follow up some more for you. Do you know if it’s a man bear or a girly bear? By the way, do you all hibernate for the winter? Look forward to hearing from you soon. Many congratulations.
KAREN TESSIER – Sorry to hear about your broken ankle but I am sure that will not stop you from enjoying your European vacation next month.
If it is still painful have a chat with Heidi or I on board and we will help you chose the tours that would be suitable for you. Cabin 7205 is a forward cabin with an ocean view which backs on to the outside terrace on deck 7. This means you can walk out of your cabin, take 5 steps and have the largest balcony on the ship.
I have passed on your congratulations to Heidi and she is really happy that you enjoyed her blog and pictures. I congratulate you on the sterling work you do as a hospice nurse and I am sure you and your 6 friends will have a wonderful time on the Carnival Conquest. See you very soon.
LYNN AND MIKE SAGARA – Hello guys, you asked about the Bloggers cruise which you have booked and how we will know who has booked this as part of the Bloggers group. The majority of the ship will be full of Bloggers and nearer the time there will be a registration form posted here on the blog and mailed to every guest who is sailing to register for the big bag of free stuff, which will include a special edition t-shirt.
I am glad you like the t-shirts on the website, thank you for buying one.
Yes, the Grand Hotel is a beautiful and interesting place. In Holland you have the possibility to marry in church or in a town hall (registry office), most town halls in the small villages are very nice and special. The Grand, of course, has a special meaning as the Dutch Queen, Queen Beatrix got married there. Thank you for showing interest in our special day.
JOHN FRIEDMANN – John, I know deep down that your test results following your biopsy will give cause for nothing but celebration. Positive thought multiplied thousand of times by all of us here is now heading your way and I know I will see you on August 29th for a wonderful cruise vacation which you will take in good health.
You also asked about the webcam on Lido deck. It must have been in a bad position as, unless we are in port, the Lido deck is always full of people enjoying the sun, live music, games and movies. It should be repositioned now so all should be well. Once again, we are thinking of you.
CINDY56 – The t-shirts are for everyone not just the people booked on the Bloggers cruise. I am not sure if I will be back on the Freedom in March but hopefully we will meet some day soon. I am very happy to hear you enjoyed the interview with Heidi and I am indeed a very lucky man. All the best to you and your mum and your mum’s best friend.
HEIDI-BETH & KEVIN – Hello you three and thank you for your kind words about Heidi’s interview. I also see you like the t-shirts and I hope to see all three of you wearing one soon. All the best.
DOUGNEWMANATSEA – The Seabourn Cruise is a bit of a pipe dream although I can see a bloggers/friends reunited cruise happening sometime in the future and yes of course you are invited. I can understand your desire to cruise the Queen Elizabeth II before she is retired and we all look forward to reading your review. Wishing you a happy day. Cheers mate.
I&MSMON – I am glad you liked PA 007’s carrot cake recipe. If anybody else wants a recipe then please let me know and I will make sure that PA 007 supplies it for you. The t-shirts are great, aren’t they and Roberto and his team deserve a standing ovation and a free t-shirt.
Heidi says she is happy to hear that you enjoyed her interview and your kind comments towards us both are so lovely. Our kind regards to you and your family and please keep reading the blog-thingy.
NANETTEALI – Your comment in Spanish was fantastic and I think only Big Ed and I understood. I really wish I had taken the time to learn Spanish and Italian and one day I will. I see from your last comment that you found my black lacy g-string. I had wondered where that was? I need it back so I can put it in Big Ed’s cabin when he is on the Bloggers cruise. I look forward to seeing a photo of you and the kids in your blog t-shirts and a grande besmmier para usted.
SOUTHERNDREAMS – The problem with offering free internet time on the Bloggers cruise is, there are over 1,000 of you registered so far (we think).
So, that unfortunately will not be plausible. However, I am sure everyone will be happy with a goody bag that we will give each blogger plus we will be doing live blogs while we are all on board together. I am so looking forward to meeting you and I am learning to bow for when I meet your Prince.
KEVIN – I can just imagine now you and your Aston Martin doing tours of Miami for our bloggers. If I am not mistaken the Aston Martin Vanquish has a 0-60 time of 5.2 seconds and the only thing that is faster would be me after eating a packet of sugar free Jelly Beans. I totally agree about single cruisers and the charges they face. This seems to be an industry wide standard and please allow me to investigate what can be done.
One day soon we will sit and talk about the Vanquish S and you can tell me how it feels to drive such a beast. All the best mate.
IVANA – By the time you read this you should have received your pay check enabling you to buy the bloggers t-shirts. I am a little embarrassed though that you are spending your hard earnt money on a t-shirt that has Heidi’s and my name on it. Please don’t be sad that you are not on the Bloggers cruise there will be another one and this time I think we will do it on a shorter 5 day cruise to allow more people to come. Enjoy Harry Potter’s last adventure and thank you for saying that the blog is the best thingy ever. My kindest regards.
CARL HARMON – I am so lucky to have Heidi however, there are times when she does not feel lucky to have me and those times are sponsored by Russell Stover Sugar Free Jelly Beans. Thank you for your kindness.
FRANK C – Thank you for your kind words about the blog and I was happy to make your Supper Club reservations for you.
So I see you have a Porsche in the driveway, what model? I cannot believe you have sent me a case of New Orleans diet root beer. I am very much looking forward to this and it will be a special treat which I will enjoy. One day I hope we get to enjoy one together and talk about our passion for cars. Heidi and I send our best to you and Jennifer.
JO MYERLY – I am so excited to hear that you have booked the Bloggers cruise. I have no words to express my gratitude that I will now get a chance to meet you. I admit I did used to watch a late night shopping channel in the UK, called Auction World, but I am getting help for it. Congratulations and many thanks to you and Dave.
JIMNI – I wish my Dad had taught me that song when I was younger. However, I shall pass it down to generations of Healds to come.
BRYAN – I do the same when I write Bryan, I tend to answer my own questions as I go. However, I have never done an interview for the blog as such so maybe PA 007 can set some questions for me soon. Glad you had a chuckle at the last blog and hope there are many more chuckles to come.
TAMMY AND MIKE FROM NY – This is an easy one to answer. Yes, you can go ashore first, have a few hours in Cannes and eat lunch and all the afternoon tours including the Nice and Eze tour meet on the pier so you do not have to come back to the vessel. Hope this helps and you picked an excellent tour by the way………you must try the muscles in Cannes by the way………..not a muscle in a can……………muscles from Cannes. See you soon.
A CRUISE BY ANY OTHER NAME – Roberto, the request is to have the photos “captioned” I am not sure what she means – do you? I am sure if we can, we will……….let me get back to you as I want to make you happy.
BILL – ZYDECOCRUISER – AHHHHHHHHH , Bill wants the recipe for the warm melting chocolate cake. Let me put PA 007 on a mission……..stand by.
Ok, time to stop and I will continue tomorrow.
I thought I would show you that next week once again, we have quite the international ship with 1347 guests who are not from America. Here is the breakdown.
Argentina
Austria 4
Aruba 20
Armenia 1
Australia 56
Belize 2
Belgium 11
Brazil 4
Canada QUEBEC 37
Canada 304
Czech Republic 1
Cayman Island 15
Croatia 3
Colombia 5
Chile 8
Cuba
Costa Rica 2
Ecuador 1
Dominican Rep.
El Salvador
France 134
Gibraltar 4
Germany 33
Guatemala 5
Honduras
Iran 9
India 2
Ireland 4
Israel 3
Italy 67
Korea 17
Luxembourg 4
Jamaica 1
Japan 6
Mexico 16
Monaco 2
Martinique 9
Macau 1
Malta 33
Nicaragua
Netherlands 47
New Zealand 21
New Caledonia 1
Nigeria 2
Peru
Puerto Rico
Panama
Philippines 2
Poland 5
Portugal 11
Russia 33
Switzerland 2
Spain 109
South Africa 2
Trinidad 14
Ukraine 2
United Kingdom 262
Uruguay
Vietnam 1
Venezuela 5
TOT INTL. 1347
You will notice that we have 134 French people sailing so I have to be on my best behavior and avoid any French jokes. I decided to learn more about the French as I think I have been educated to make fun of them all the time without truly understanding their culture. I must learn to see that they are wonderful people who love the British. To achieve this re-education I decided to use the new version of the French equivalent of Googel called Le Googel You just type in the subject you’re interested in, and Le Googel refuses to look it up for you.
OK, maybe I need more time, forgive and forget John (talking to myself again).
Maybe I have ATCOCS SYNDROME. It could be possible that I need a vacation on a Carnival Ship instead of working here all the time. Talking to yourself is indeed one of the symptoms and I must be careful.
I do not want to end up like Norman Oates who had not cruised on a Carnival ship for a long time and decided to go to Las Vegas instead of a cruise and was arrested because the ATCOCS took over and he thought he was on a Carnival cruise and everything was included in the price. He refused to pay for the shows, the food and the activities and when he woke up in the morning and opened his hotel bedroom window he really did think he was in Venice on the Carnival Freedom and did not realize he was in a manufactured model of the real thing. He was led away buy security and he was he was heard to say “I know George Clooney, you’re next. Oceans 15″
Please everyone, keep an eye yourselves and see if you are developing early symptoms……….if you are, please call a travel professional.
One footnote before I go off (to do the show, that was not a reference to the jelly beans again).
I spoke to the lady tonight (letter posted in In Their own Words) who wanted us to pay for her transportation from the ship to St Marks Square and back again because the t-shirt she bought had a stain on it. I asked her why it was our responsibility and this was her exact, word for word answer: “You should have told the passengers that buying t-shirts from the shop I went to was not a good idea because there merchandise was not trustworthy.”
I replied “Which shop did you buy it from?”
She said “I can’t remember.”
I sent her a Carnival t-shirt today, not because hers was ruined but because of the wonderful laugh she gave me.
TICKET TO ST.MARKS SQUARE: 12 EUROS
PURCHASE OF T SHIRT WITH STAINS ON IT: 8 EUROS
EXPECTING THE CRUISE DIRECTOR TO BE A BLOODY MIND READER: PRICELESS
Filed under: Angelina Jolie, Tales from the Ship | Tagged: Splendor Godmother, Tales from the Ship
Dear Mrs. Stern: (via this blog)
I am so sad that your first experience with John was well, shall we say different than what we have experienced. If I may offer a different view, perhaps you will see what it only took us a moment to see:
John’s Top Ten Qualities:
#10 – only he can find a funny in jelly beans
#9 – only he can express his smile in words without us seeing his smile
#8 – only he sits down with even what we call the little people and make them just as important as the captain
#7 – only he can bring approximately 485,000 people (or hits on this blog thingy) to laughter or tears with a single comment
#6 – only he works endlessly to make sure everyone is having a good time and making memories everyday and every waking moment (and some sleepless moments too)
#5 – only he brings on children to his floating city for just one special day
#4 – only he acknowledges views from every part of the world (not just his)
#3 – only he reaches out to any hand extended
#2 – only he cares enough to apologize not for things done wrongly but for things viewed wrongly
and the number #1 thing – he doesn’t gloat for his many fans – he only wonders why him
Sorry you didn’t see through the smoke to see his most wonderful personality and warmth!!!!
Sincerely,
Vikki Till
Its a real shame that you have to 1) give this person a tshirt since she evidently doesn’t understand “buyer beware”, and 2) that you have to continue this charade with the guest about her behavior in St. Marks Square. What a joke. And the fact that she wants you to give her a free tour or a discount of the cruise? Are you kidding me?
Some people are givers and others are takers. John, you are clearly one of the good guys. These 2 people you mention: Nothing but takers. What a shame.
I personally don’t care if she reads this down the road since you gave her the blog address. They are both clearly wrong and should know better.
Le Google…I like it. Watch out though. I’m sure you know how much they like us Americans.
Oh well. Win some and lose some.
David
Hi John,
After reading the latest, I hope Mrs. Stern is indeed reading your blog thingy. SHAME ON YOU MRS. STERN. What gives you the right to say that crew members are not allowed to be in the same spot as passengers? You would probably be the first one to look for a crew member if you needed emergency assistance if you were off the ship.
John, I have a feeling nothing anybody says will get through to her. By the way, was the Captain there too when you had the meeting with her?
On a much happier note, I just read Anita’s review of her cruise on the Freedom. I hope you have seen it (it’s on MSNBC’s website). I cut & pasted the following – show this to Mrs. Stern:
“At the center of this entertainment circus is perhaps the best cruise director sailing the seven seas: the dynamic John Heald. His wry British wit enlivens everything from his live “Morning Show” to the silly passenger participation shows, with many moments that are laugh-out-loud funny.”
After reading about all these passengers you have been writing about, are the European cruises any different from being in the Caribbean? Do you still get the Mrs. Knee-Hi’s, and Sperm of the Devil, and Mrs. Stern’s, etc. on those cruises? Have you noticed a difference?
Waiting for the next blog thingy,
Regards,
Carol
First off actually I am a male not a she, but there was those times back at university where I could pass as a striking woman though I never mastered a very important process of the transformation. I will leave that to the imagination and TUCK that one for now.
What I mean by captions is that sometimes photos are just thrown up into the blog and the reader/viewer does not have any idea of the subject in the photos. As I continue living vicariously in the Med with you, I love to know what I am seeing when pictures appear. It is not often that it happens, but sometimes you will blog “Here are some photos from today or yesterday” and I (and others) do not know what we are seeing.
Try not to beat yourself up to much over being human and snapping at the woman. It sounds like nothing is going to make her happy if she wants a discount on her cruise or free tour because she saw a crewmember smoking. Maybe she will be so offended as to never grace your ships again and not be bothered. One has to wonder if she shouts at every smoker she runs across in her life. If so then I sort of feel sorry for her… NOT
By the way, would it be possible for you to also give the breakdown on numbers of children you are having on each cruise like you do for the non-Americans?
Thank you as always.
Yours,
A cruise by Any other name
John:
Don’t you worry about spending my money on the t-shirt. Trust me, I would not do it if I did not wanted to. I will get the first one – I love Jonh’s Blog Thingy. I cannot wait to answer questions of people who would be asking about it. I think it is a great promo for Carnival!
To your cigar incident: I think you were completely right about crew being “allowed” to go to all ports of call. The lady must have been out of her mind being bothered by it. She should issue you a public apology for her rude behaviour.
That is it for today and have a good night!
John, I just got an e-mail from one of your regular bloggers and she thinks she knows who the “Mystery Guest” is going to be on the Bloggers Cruise. She thinks it is me. She sounded so positive that she had figured it out. I told her no it’s not me.
I sent an e-mail to Roberto to ask you something. Did you get it?
“BIG” ED
Official Assistant to the Cruise Director (think)
Sorry this time I didnt understand your perfect spanish what does grande besmmier means??
Nanette
Vikki ;
Wow!! beautiful!!! Aplausse
Love it! And we can keep adding to that list.
Go John!! Te queremos!!
Hi John,
My goodness, you have a few high maintenance people onboard. You know it’s a full moon tonight? Maybe that explains a lot of things
Anyway, here’s a little something for you to read. My articles are up on MSNBC and Tripso. Enjoy!!
Carnival Freedom takes on the Mediterranean
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/20037391/
http://www.tripso.com/2007/07/freemed.php?page=all
Blog on!!
Best,
Anita
Hi John –
Wow, you must have tremendous restraint and patience to handle some of the situations you encounter. It seems travel can bring the worst out in people. The Arts & Entertainment station (US) has a reality show called Airline which follows customer service agents in the airline business and you may find watching an episode to be consoling; people can lose all sense of reality and logic when traveling.
We are continuing with detailed planning for our October 16 cruise with you on Carnival Freedom. I have a couple questions and requests.
- Could you kindly make a supper club dinner reservation for the second night at sea, Monday October 22, 7:30 PM, table of four under the name Cook from cabin # 6481?
- Despite the outrageous pricing, we are planning to have dinner at Harry’s Bar on Friday October 19. Is there a dress code at Harry’s? Do the water taxis operate all night or is there a ‘last call’ time for getting back?
Your help would be, and continues to be, appreciated!
Hi John & Heidie,
Thanks for your explenation about a scrapbook. After I read it, I asked my wife Angelique. Do you know what a scrapbook is?? Ready to explain it to her. “Yeah” she said that’s a kind of “veredeld fotoboek”…. Aaaggghrrr )-;
When I read your blog, I think it’s unbelievable how some people can behave. Like the “lady” at the cafe. Please, please don’t say sorry to her, she has to apologies to you, Heidie and your guests. ” No “personnel” overhere!! Where was she the last 50 years??. For the lady with the stained T shirt. Please tell her she hired a cabin not the whole vessel with all personel. I think in the future you must write a book:”A Cruise Directors Headaches” or something like that.(-; Sure best seller..
I told you before about my son( 28) who wants to work on a cruise ship very badly. He is very experieced as a professional bartender, waiter, serving food, bar manager, etc. He also did a course” working on a cruiseship”. He wants to start at a bar, as bartender, waiter, in the restaurants or that kind of jobs. Of course he can go to a cruise job agency here in The Netherlands but maybe you know where he can apply for a job with Carnival and what to do to improve his changes. Thanks in advance.
By the way, when during your holiday in december you visit The Netherlands and you two (maybe) visit Arnhem, please let us know, we perhaps can smoke a sigar together. (-: Thanks for your time and..keep up the good work.
PS; I am typing this on a remote computer without a spelling checker. Thus please don’t look at the mistakes…
John, keep on keepin’ on…don’t let the Sterns of the world faze you.
If she much prefers the crew/passenger separation in all areas, then maybe she needs to go elsewhere. Part of the thrill and fun of cruising is to meet **all kinds of people** from **all walks of life.**
Isn’t that what it’s all about???
John, I am so sorry that you were smoking your cigar and not eating jelly beans in St. Mark’s Square when Mrs. Stern noticed you from afar….If only you had blown some of that her way!
Good job with the transport efforts in the debarkation process for Dubrovnik and extra staffing the Venice ( sure is hot in Europe during the summer:) … We needed help on both those ports and the improvements may go unnoticed by the future guests but past guests know the improvements will be helpful. Again this is tribute to you an Heidi working so hard to improve on the Carnival Cruise experience.
I thought Big Ed would be “Mystery Guest.” Think I’ll wait for the lmt. editon t-shirt, but hen, I may have to have them all!
Good Morning Heidi and John,
Sorry I didn’t get this posted before your new blog entry but I just wanted to add our two cents in anyway.
I wish you were just joking about these two incidents but unfortunately I know you’re not.
First the t-shirt – what is that lady thinking? It’s her responsibility to check whatever she’s buying. I can’t believe she wants you to take her back to return it. Having said that – we just realized that after spending a week in Rome we forgot to buy a t-shirt there. We did in all the other ports. So, could you pay for our airfare so we can come back and buy a shirt? Just kidding!!
The female person (not lady) at St. Mark’s is an example of the kind of person we don’t want to meet. We’re proud to be Americans and try, especially when we’re out of the country, to act as good ambassadors. Sometimes we run into the “Ugly American” and we are so embarrassed. This female person is one of those. Please do not apologize to her (in private and certainly not in public) if you see her because that will just enforce in her own mind that she was right. I really get annoyed at cruise people that think the crew/staff are their servants instead of employees just at any other job. Please know that you were correct and she was wrong.
Hope you two had a great dinner and don’t let people like that ruin your time together ashore.
Linda (kicia) and George
John, Let me just say that I am happy Mrs. Stern will be gone by the time we get there….I would hate for her to sit next to us commoners at dinner…Enough about that…The package should arrive in 7-10 days regular post to your agent at Civitavecchia…It was heavy…So it might be slow…I am a proud owner of a Boxster (2006) a gift for myself, I mean my wife (in case she is reading this)..Thanks for asking…We are very excited, only 29 days till we embark on your wonderful Ship..Jennifer & I will be arriving with 4 other family & friends it will be a celebration…Besides I think they are tried of seeing our old vaction photos and want some of their own…I have posted our family website..It is a work in progress…
Calm Seas to You & Heidi,
Frank & Jennifer C
Dear Mrs. Stern,
I also hope that you are reading this blog. I am sad for you. To think that you actually believe that John had less right to be in a public place than you did is appalling! This man works 7 days a week in an industry that requires that he interact with the general public no matter where he is or what he’s doing. Do you really believe he wasn’t entitled to a few minutes to himself??? Considering all he puts up with I am impressed that he was able to put you back in your place with just three little words. Consider yourself lucky, I bet there are some people that could have done it in two.
John,
I am counting down the days for our trip on a white board. October is coming fast. It has been so exciting reading all the info etc. that is posted. It makes the planning of the trip seem so much closer. I am shaking from reading the latest blog on the woman screaming at you in the square about the cigar. I don’t think you could ever pay most people enough to do your job. I know the sailing around the world etc. sounds so exciting, but the price you pay and the fact that you must have to bite your tongue so many times a day, is amazing you can still speak. My hats off to you. I am looking forward to skaking your hand. Your diplomacy and customer service is beyond the call of duty. GREAT JOB!!!!!
PS. I hope this blog can help people see what a challenge dealing with the public and various cultures around the world must be like.
Keep up the good work, and all the laughter.
Looking forward to seeing you and Heidi in October.
Dayle & Grant, Victoria BC
Mrs. Stern you should be ashamed of yourself for being so rude to John. Just because they are crew of Carnival doesn’t make them any less important than you. If it had been a local from Venice I am sure you would have never yelled at them, so John should have the same respect. They had every right to be at St. Mark’s square enjoying his time off as you were enjoying yours. He deserves a PUBLIC APOLOGY from you for your horrible behavior to another human being. In my opinion John is the best cruise director on the seas and human being because he really cares about people. You need to take a long look at yourself and do some reflecting on how you treat people.
Sorry John that I went on and on but I hate it when people treat others as if they are better than others. She should think of the golden rule, treat others the way you want to be treated. Well have a good day and go have a good long smoke with your cigar outside Mrs. Stern’s cabin.
awww john, cave springs georgia, you will have to stop in podunk on your way, it is nearby. our town looks very similar. i am sure the guests are having a wonderful time flitting all over europe but soon they will be home watching leaves grow. you know. that’s just how it is here.
now i have a question and do not want to burst your bubble. don’t sugar free jelly beans have carbs too? just askin’… and this is taken from the jelly belly website:
“WARNING: Consumption of some sugar-free candies may cause stomach discomfort and/or a laxative effect. Individual tolerance will vary. If this is the first time you’ve tried these candies, we recommend beginning with one-fourth of a serving size or less.”
thought you might want to know why you are having some, er, uh, problems? (smiles) i’ll still bring you some though, don’t worry…
and thanks for checking on the internet on the bloggers cruise, that’s okay, don’t worry. it was just a suggestion. a thousand of us? wow! hey, i just realized i booked directly through carnival, not through the bloggers thingy on your sidebar. am i signed up as a blogger? cause i now have three blogs!!! and prince charlie has one!
have a great day and say hi to heidi!
smiles, bonnie and prince charlie
Ok let’s try another one.
There once was a lady named Mrs. Stern
From John’s Blog we were able to learn
This guest wasn’t about to adjourn
Before complaining about John’s cigar burn
Now across the cafe she yelled her concern
It was then he was at a point of no return
John cried out “I shall not be spurned!”
Afterwards they looked for her at every turn
An apology she requested but may not have earned
This guest she was a bit stubborn
Because it’s impossible to keep crew out of a tavern
Maybe the folks at the office will have some concern
But her opinion is out there just like Saturn
John,
I’m glad you directed the cigar offended woman to read the blog. I think she should take special note of the comments in the previous blog in reaction to her actions. Overwhelmingly they support you. If she thinks you didn’t represent the facts accurately, she could post her side of the story. If she thinks the facts are accurate, and she thinks her attitude is an any way defensible, she can post that as well.
Getting more and more excited about my cruise coming up. Not sure if Shawn will still be on board when I get there. I hope so, she’s a great CD too and she doesn’t smoke cigars unless 50′ or more away
… sorry couldn’t resist.
Hallo John,
Me being the history geek that I am, I must say that your joking attitude against the French is perfectly acceptable. I mean, up until about the 1900s Britain and France were mortal enemies. You’ve got the Hundred Years War, and the Seven Years War, and the Napoleonic Wars, and the all the colonialism back then…
Either way, your behavior is right on the norm. Just don’t get caught by one of the 134 guests
John….you should probably always keep a “cue card” on your person with, perhaps, the best apology ever given (on screen, at least!).
From Archie Leach (John Cleese) to Otto (Kevin Kline) in “A Fish Called Wanda”:
“All right, all right, I apologize.
I’m really, really sorry, I apologize unreservedly.
I do offer a complete and utter retraction. The imputation was totally without basis in fact, and was in no way fair comment, and was motivated purely by malice, and I deeply regret any distress that my comments may have caused you, or your family, and I hereby undertake not to repeat any such slander at any time in the future.”
Of course, HE was being hung by his ankles out of a second story window at the time….Hmmmmm.
Terri
John,
Isn’t it sad that people do not have a clue. It definately was your fault that the shirt had a stain on it. It could not have been her fault for not looking at the shirt when she bought it. This one of those just smile and wave. (And hope they are standing at the pier as the ship pulls away when you do this.) I think I need another cruise I am becoming to cynical again.
John,
The last sentence of this blog was hilarious. I spit Diet Coke all over the monitor! I must be a true blue blogger now!
Elaine
John -
>>>Is nobody worried that people are going to come up to you and say “Who the heck is John and what’s so good about his thingy?”
Actually, I am more concerned about wearing a T-shirt in public that proclaims “I like John’s Blog Thingy” – sorry, too many connotations to that statement. I remain, however, a member of Heidi’s fan club.
As for the aptly named Mrs. Stern, might I request that she purchase me a tour of Florence/Pisa on my upcoming cruise? I was offended by her behavior, even though I was a half a world away, so I believe that she owes me compensation.
As I write this response, I have eight minutes left in which to change my mind regarding the cruise – its 6:45PM EDT and my final payment is due at 6:53PM. I am conflicted – do I go on the trip of a lifetime with the world’s best entertainment duo (Just Du’et) and the world’s greatest assistant cruise director (Heidi). This debate has cost me three minutes, so now I only have five minutes to make up my mind.
Now, what other considerations come into this decision? The knowledge that I can spend two weeks away from anything that generates stress (one minute gone)? A chance meeting with a fellow Essex-man, even if he is from the wrong side of the pond (another minute gone)? Perhaps the chance to polka around the atrium at midnight for fourteen straight nights (ask John & Diane)?
I am torn –
To go, or not to go: that is the question:
Whether ’tis nobler in the mind to suffer
The slings and arrows of outrageous jelly beans,
Or to take arms against a sea of troublemakers,
Rats, I took too long to make this decision – now I am stuck for 14 days on a ship with the funniest, most enjoyable Cruise Director in the fleet, supported by the greatest staff afloat and entertainment galore. And, I get my greatest wish – a transatlantic transit. I do have one question that needs answering – the itinerary lists a five day transit (Sunday thru Thursday), but we do not dock until Sunday morning. Are we just going to anchor on Friday and Saturday or is it really a seven day transit (not five days).
See you in 90 days – BTW, ask the Shore Excursion if, by coming in early, we could get into the Exclusive Vatican tour?
Jon
Hi John, I have a comment/question on your
international list. Why: Canada Quebec and
another number for Canada??? Quebec is very
much a part of Canada and I think if you are
going to differentiate then it should be:
Canada New Brunswick
Canada Nova Scotia
Canada British Columbia
and so on.
We were with you on the April l7th cruise/back
to back April 29th. I especially enjoyed your
sneeze.
I am working on the t-shirts, I want to walk on the Glory with the 2 of us wearing them.
Now let us count that again I am 1 person with a frist name with 2 parts “HEIDI-BETH” is my first name, I am 1 person Kevin is 1 peson, that equals 2! the only adition are our 2 boy and then we are 4, not 3. Heidi would you help explain this to him please.
wishing you both my best
the one and only one
Heidi-Beth
JOHN!
Have a great day!
Also, crazy ppl are everywhere. Try not to mind them. The Lady in St. Marks Sq. was lucky you didn’t have your Jelly Beans with you as well!
You are a very kind and generouse person, i can’t believe you felt so guilty.
Good call on the T-Shirt woman.
*whew* I don’t know how you do it!
Say, I know you had trouble with “National Lampoon’s European Vacation”. How about showing “My Big Fat Greek Wedding”?
Tell Heidi we’re bringing the Jelly Beans!
See you Sunday! FST and crew
Hi John, Did mrs. stern think she was is Disney World? Did she think there are special tunnels for the crew to go from place to place so they won’t be seen and ruin the magic? She acted like she saw Mickey Mouse without his head on!!! lol Knowing the crew work every day without any days off I am glad to know the crew are able to enjoy the beautiful places the ship docks. And remember “life is too short to sweat the small stuff” and in my opinion mrs. stern is one very small minded person! A very big THANK YOU to all of the crew who made our 6/30 cruise great! Judi
Hi, John
We sincerely hope you are over Mrs. Stern’s sternness. PMS, perhaps? Tsk, tsk, tsk. We are rolling our eyes. Cheer up! Tomorrow’s another day, laddie! We PROMISE not to lambaste you, no matter how “rude” you might be. (C’mon, folks, lighten up—you’re on vacation!) We’ll see you this Sunday for the Eastern Med. run. Sure hope there’s going to be a special party for the Platinum Sailors like us!
Margaret & Ralph
Sorry to hear about your “dealings” with the lady not wanting you to have a life too. With all the troubles in the world, she decides this is the bumb in her road. My question: My wife and I are on the last sailing (16 October) before the Freedom comes back to the states. Do you think the crew is getting punchy, wore out, tired, spent, exhausted, easily ticked off or offended, slap happy, homicidal, or basically don’t care with this many days at sea? I don’t need the chef (or cruise director) giving me a mean eye because he or she is suffering from any of the above symptoms. We’re counting the days and can’t wait!!
Mrs. Stern owes you an apology! Why should she assume that anyone else doesn’t have the right to be anywhere . . . this is 2007. She is the one who interrupted everyone’s evening.
Go back and find that stress reliever I sent you a while back and read the last line carefully. As you read it, imagine it’s HER face that you see as you hold her under water. Laughter really is the best medicine!
HI John and Heidi
I have two questions.
1. Is there mini Golf on the Freedom?
Around here we call it put put golf.
I have searched all over Carnivals webpage and can not find an answer to #1 so if it’s a secret I won’t tell.
2. I plan on buying a soft drink pass can I bring my 52 ounce insulated mug and use it onboard?
Most people have to have there coffee I have to have my Coca Cola
Thanks
Danny
Happy good morning to you Mr. Heald. I’m feeling much better after yesterday. I do hope that you are also feeling much better today. Last night I was able to get two T – shirts, one for myself, the one about loving the blog, and the other shirt for my wife, the one about Heidi. The price was very fair so I think all of the bloggers should be able to get one. Thank you for the idea. You said you would like to go to Cave Spring in Georgia, well why not come her to Amherstburg, Ontario since my town is a very historical one that was involved during the War of 1812. I need something clarified for me. You stated that on the ship was an international group of people. I saw Canada QUEBEC 37 and then Canada 304. again. Quebec is just one of the nine provinces of Canada. Canada also has British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland, as well as the Yukon and North West Territories. Why separate one province from the other? It does confuse me a little. Canada should have totalled as 341. To me, my country is together why make Quebec something separate? Each province has many special qualities in them. Just wondering. Also,I was wondering, other than jelly beans, what else do you enjoy to nibble on? Think about it and let me know. Ciao until later.
Paul F. Pietrangelo
What a shame that she thinks she is better than the crew. Guess, that just proves that she isn’t. It’s too bad that she cannot live up to the fact that her behaviour is what ruined her night. Please don’t let her ruin anymore of yours.
Nate’s mom, I have no idea what those two words would be, ROTFLM*AO
Paul F. Pietrangelo, do you think it might be shown seperate because Quebec speaks mostly French and the rest of Canada speaks English?
“BIG” ED
Official Assistant to the Cruise Director
Dear John
My husband and I are taking our grandkids on a Caribbean cruise on December 17th on the Triumph. We had a lovely time on the Freedom in May and were wondering if there is anything we should be aware of when travelling with them. They are 11 and 13 and quite mature. Should we place them in the Carnival camp?? Will there be enough for them to do in this camp. We intend taking tours of course but also need downtime when we are “at sea”. If you have any ideas on how we should entertain them please let me know.
We are also taking the “Splendor” on July 25th 08, will you be part of the team ??? I am currently working on my husband to entice him on the “Brazilian” portion of the South American Tour. Any chance of your being there?? We had such a marvelous time with you on the Freedom that we want to travel where we know you will definitely be on board!!! we’ve realised that this is our way of ensuring a great time. Thanks John and keep up the great work. Carnival is very lucky to have someone like you working for them.
Hi Heidi:
About the pix from Venice (I read the story too and not just look at the pix so I KNOW without closed captioning): Does this mean that the azipods aren’t allowed in the Venetian Canals and you use the old fashioned tugboats?
I just love to be on a balcony and look down to see our big ol’ boat parallel parking, it is boggling. I hadn’t even thought they wouldn’t be used at the pier/dock in Venice.
Hi John,
I think Mrs. Stern was unreasonably rude to you! Sounds like a person who believes the world owes her something.
Now about those t-shirts…I must have one! I want people to ask me who John is and what’s so special about his “thingy”. I will tell them that they are so “out of the loop” and if they really want to know what is so special about his “thingy” to just ask Hedi.
My husband says he would be honored to sit down and smoke a cigar with you…I think they are the most disgusting smell I know of…but still would not deprive my hubby of one every once in a while.
We still can’t decide what night to book at the Supper’s Club for dinner, my mom and me agree, but my husband and dad want another night…LOL…that’s not such a bad idea..I found my room number, it is 8342. Now I just need a night.
Oh my gosh John! How do you keep from wringing some of these passengers necks?? There’s not much I can add that other blog thingy readers haven’t already said, but I believe Mrs. Stern owes YOU a public apology. I get so fed up with some folks holier than thou attitude, it just chaps my cheeks! Actually, she’s probably just mad cause you didn’t blow your cigar smoke up HER skirt. Keep on keepin’ on and don’t let the bastards get you down!!
Hi John,
As someone who has been reading your blog thingy since the beginning I can honestly say you are by far the most caring human being I have ever known.
You can see from the comments the last two days you have hundreds of thousands of loyal friends from everywhere around the globe. We have become very protective of you and Heidi. That’s why we are so outraged when inconsiderate people treat you badly.
As with anyone we love, family or friends, we want to fix this for you. Somehow change the behavior of the offender and make it right, but we can only be here for you. That is one of the wonderful things about this blog thingy. You, as always, are here for us when we need you, and we are also here for you John.
You were not wrong, but you still did what you felt needed to be done. I admire you for that. It makes you the wonderful person your parents raised. I know they are very proud of you.
As for you Mrs. Stern….You are obviously either just trying to start trouble to get free stuff or you feel that you are superior to the working people of this world. I’m not sure which is worse, but let me assure you that noone that works hard for a living is beneath you. Shame on you for making someone so wonderful feel that way. You wouldn’t have a ship to cruise on or a crew that takes such good care of their guests without these hard working men and women. Like “Nate’s Mom” said, you should do unto others as you would have them do unto you!
Unfortunately, John, like so many others have already said, there is probably no getting her to understand that her attitude is wrong, but it is over and you should have no quilt about it.
Sorry this got so long. I don’t post often, unless I have a question, because I know how much time this takes away from you & Heidi, but I just wanted you to know how loved you both are.
Thank you for the shore excursion info. It’s very late now so I’ll get back to you on it tomorrow.
Much love to you both, Mary
PS Bravo Vikki!!!! Like nanetteali said, the list could go on and on!
Hi John
I know how you feel (ei Mrs. Stern…& many other rude people that you encounter every day.) I was a hair stylist for 25 years!!! I think these people figure they can get away with this behavior because we are suppose to be polite at all times & put up with it (customer is always right). Most of the time it is not even anything you have done wrong…they are just mad at the world & you are there for them. I hope you are not using their real names…if you are maybe you should start sleeping with one eye open!!! I would be interested in knowing how many of these people are Americans.
By the way…I am from B.C. Canada & I am glad you separated us from Quebec, been waiting a long time for that!!!
See you on Aug. 29th.
Marlene
John,
I had a quick question. I really like the blogger tee shirts. My question is would it be possible to custom design the back with the name of the ship(Spendor) and the date (July 13, 2008). I was just curious. I had played around with it some and it did not look like I could change anything but the first line on the back. Please get back to me on this because we will go ahead and get the shirts even if we can’t customize the entire back.
Oh, I almost forgot. I loved the pictures included in the most recent blog. They were truly incredible.
Could it be Deja Vu? Does Mrs. Stern have a dog? Any relation to the woman with a dog on a double decker bus story of a few days ago?
Longin2cruise:
I noticed you posted this: “For the South American cruise I’m in cabin 2212 ”
Interesting, because I know someone else with that cabin booked – at least for the Around the Horn portion, and it ain’t Angelina.
John:
All that rude lady deserved from you was an apology (and that only because you felt it necessary). People like her who are always looking for extra compensation are despicable.
While I have your attention I have two suggestions to pass on to you. First, I would suggest that the time is right for a separate “Past Guest” gathering for Platinum members only. I think it would be a nice addition to the existing perks. The current Past Guest parties are too crowded (not a bad thing for Carnival), and we rarely go anymore because of that. I remember when cruising on our second cruise on the Destiny that there were probably less than 50 people in the room and it made us feel special…not so any more.
Second is a pet peeve I have with one of the Platinum Perks, Priority Debarkation. In some Ports it exists (Tampa, Port Canaveral), but in others it does not (Ft. Lauderdale, Miami) In the latter ports if you leave your luggage out at night to be collected you have to wait until ALL self assist passengers disembark (and that can be a significant number)…That is not Priority Debarkation. I have raised the issue twice with Ms. Martha Colon at Guest Relations, with little more than a “we are looking into it”. In the other ports mentioned, we are indeed amongst the first off the ship and on our way. If some can do it, all should be able to. Just thought that with your clout (ahem!!) you might be able to straighten this out.
Looking forward to seeing you again on the 24 Nov sailing,
Regards,
Tim Kriebel, MCPO USN (Ret).
Ruth Jamison,
you can change all 3 lines, I did.
“BIG” ED
Official Assistant
To The Cruise Director
You can change the color and size of the print too.
“BIG” ED
Official Assistant To The Cruise Director
John,
I really admire your patience. As I said before I know that I could never do it. You should give Mrs. Stern the web address of the blog thingy so she can see what we all think of her.
Tammie
I have been reasding your Blog since you started writing and enjoy it very much. My day can’t start until I have read the latest posting.
My wife & I ahe been on 9 cruised with the Princess line and once booked a Carnival cruise, but it was cancelled because of a hurricane.
You have made the bloggers cruise so inticing that we decided to see if we can book passage even thou we have another Princess cruise booked for April.
Julian
Dear John-John:
You are welcome; but nothing was needed. I may not be an “Official” anything and may not be any of chosen few but I am someone who stands beside my friends and when I hear a confrontation that you would never of engaged in, I will stand up each and everytime. You are in a rare category of “friend” with us and we hold those close.
thank you friend~
Vikki
thank you for your help and my apologies on being so late getting back to you. We arent going to find out what the little cub is going to be. My mom said she would send lots of pics. As for hibernating. I am the only one that hibernates all winter. Or at least i would rather hibernate all winter. Not a big fan of the cold!